When you think about the Northern Beaches perhaps the last form of entertainment that would come to mind would be professional wrestling, however, as one young local found the region is flush with wrestling fans. Growing up in Dee Why Jackson Kelly was your stereotypical Northern Beaches "beach bum" who also loved his footy. As he grew up Jackson's passion for footy became his driving motivation, so much so that he was recruited to the Manly Sea Eagles development squad, where he played alongside the likes of Jake & Tom Trbojevic, Clint Gutherson & Luke Garner - all of whom have since gone onto become NRL superstars. Reflecting back on his time within the Manly Sea Eagles system Jackson remains incredibly humble, "It was a pleasure to be a part of that system because, in all honesty, I was just one of the guys who made up the numbers in the squad & always knew I was never going to make it to the top level." Although Jackson didn't ever feel like he could make it to the NRL his efforts certainly weren't helped when he suffered two very nasty shoulder injuries in quick succession, "I broke both of my shoulders & had quite major surgery on both shoulders within 3 months." Despite his football days coming to an early end Jackson still has a deep-seated love for rugby league & the Manly Sea Eagles. "I look back fondly on those days. I'm so glad I had those opportunities because it kept me fit & gave me purpose at that time in my life," explained Jackson. "I still love the game. I love seeing the Trbojevic brothers, Clint Gutherson, Luke Garner & a few other guys that I had the privilege of playing with now playing in the NRL & I still love going to Brookvale Oval to support the Sea Eagles." With his rugby league career over Jackson found himself searching for a new passion & direction in life. After a year travelling the world with mates, Jackson turned to his childhood passion, professional wrestling. "In 2015 I wasn't sure what I was going to do but I knew I had a bit of a desire to still remain athletic. I still wanted to train, be physical & use my body but I just needed a purpose," said Jackson. "As a fan of wrestling growing up, I always thought that maybe one day that could be me, so in 2016 I set out to make that the year I focused on becoming a professional wrestler." To embark on this journey into the world of wrestling Jackson ventured over to Iowa in the USA to train under WWE superstar Seth Rollins at the Black & Brave Wrestling Academy. Despite his rugby league background & the gruelling training in the Manly Sea Eagles system, Jackson explained that the transition to wrestling training was still far from easy. "I definitely had a leg up on some other students at Black & Brave. I also feel like rugby league helped me, but it still wasn't easy. I honestly compare the 3 months I did at Black & Brave with an intense 3-month pre-season with the Sea Eagles" Wrestling isn't simply physical though. As a pro wrestler, Jackson also had to develop a character, so rather than reinventing the wheel he tapped into what he knew - the Northern Beaches! "My hair is a bit shorter now but when I first started I had long blonde hair & a beard, so I was a caricature of the Northern Beaches, I was a beach bum! It has been super handy to be able to lean into the stereotype of the Northern Beaches. That character has pretty much written all of my wrestling stories for me in the last few years because whenever I'm outside of the Northern Beaches I get a lot of heat just because of how we're perceived." On the flip side whenever Jackson & his home promotion, International Wrestling Australia (IWA), return home to the Dee Why RSL he receives a thunderous reaction. "The crowd at Dee Why blew me away the first time we ran there & then each time since they have maintained the noise & passion for wrestling," Jackson said proudly. "Performing at the Dee Why RSL was super special for me because I grew up 5-10 minutes away. I grew up going to the Dee Why RSL when I was 18 & have had plenty of nights out there. So to be told that we were going to run a show there & that I was going to be featured as a large part of the show was super fun." In regards to what fans can expect from an IWA show at the Dee Why RSL Jackson explained that, "IWA is a really fun show... Our show will typically go for 2 hours & people will generally grab dinner beforehand... We get a lot of families coming along but there's also a lot of energetic young adults who are there to have a good time as well. As performers that allows us to have a really good time as well so it's an all round fun evening. When IWA does return to Dee Why RSL in the not-too-distant future I recommend everyone heads down there!" To stay up to date with Jackson you can follow him on Instagram @JacksonBootKelly. You can also follow IWA on Facebook at facebook.com/iwaaustralia By Jamie Apps

Sasy n Savy skincare range uses native Australian ingredients and 100% pure essential oils in their natural skincare products. This year buying Australian-made products has become more important in our way of thinking than ever before. Thankfully, there's one savvy lady we know in the Shire who’s championing the way for Australia-made, sourced and manufactured organic skin care products, and that's Samea Maakrun. Sasy n Savy Pty Ltd is the brainchild of Samea and is an Australian owned and operated organic skincare manufacturer. The name is derived from sassy, ‘meaning lively, bold and full of spirit’, and savvy, ‘making good judgement to achieve what you want out of life.’ Established 2003 in Sydney, Sasy n Savy produces a luxurious range of skin care solutions that capture the essence of Australian botanicals. These include: Kakadu plum extract - the highest source of vitamin C in the world; Bearberry leaf - a strong antioxidant; and Wild Rosella Flower - high in natural protein and nutrients. In Samea’s view, to stimulate skin cell growth and collagen production, and to hydrate, firm and tone your skin, you need the best Australia has to offer, while caring for yourself and your environment. Sasy n Savy has been recognized as a dynamic company for innovation, creativity and excellence and received numerous business awards over the last few years. They not only supply the local Australian market but export to 42 markets around the world. To ensure her customers at home receive the same amazing experience and appreciate the importance of provenance, Samea set up a showroom in her factory in Miranda. The design was based on an Apothecary concept – where you can shop in a garden environment, buying organic skincare and aromatherapy products, while, through a large window, you can watch and learn about the manufacturing process. Lighting, sound and aromas play a large part in the sensory experience. Samea gave us her tips on the top 3 essentials for skincare from her Sasy n Savy range: A good facial cleanser is a must. If you have oily skin the Spearmint and Lavender Sea Salt Foaming Cleanser has a deep cleansing and firming effect to improve skin elasticity. Whilst Spearmint and Lavender cleanser is ideal for normal to oily skin, our Pure Crème Rose Geranium Cleanser is ideal for normal to dry skin, which also improves skin elasticity. Both of these products make the skin look radiant and smooth. Secondly, apply our Anti-Wrinkle Luxury Crème, which contains high doses of Vitamin C, E, A and Rosehip oil to help your skin feel smooth, relaxed, hydrated and feeling radiant. And finally, use a Vitamin Enrich Rejuvenation Serum enriched in vitamin A,B,C , E & antioxidants, which prevents UV damage & age spots. The Vitamin Enrich Rejuvenation Serum stimulates collagen and skin cell growth, firms, tones and brightens your skin, and minimises fine lines and wrinkles, to promote a healthy-looking appearance. Visit Sasy n Savy’s website for information on their diverse range of skincare products made with 100 per cent Australian natural and ethical ingredients. To visit the Sasy n Savy showroom, you can make an appointment Monday to Friday – 8.30 am to 4.30pm. Sasy n Savy A: 30/205 Port Hacking Road Miranda New South Wales 2228 Australia P: +61 2 9522 9967 W: sasynsavy.com

Virtual book clubs, where you can have your cake and eat it too. By Corina Harvey Anna Loder is the founder of ReadAbook. A virtual book club that offers members an online community where they share their love of reading, discuss ideas and a space where they can forge solid, lifelong friendships. A few years ago, a number of events occurred which sparked Anna’s idea of an online community. At the time she owned her own shop, “Anna’s Shop Around the Corner”, which had 3 great book clubs running at the time Covid hit. Due to government regulations, the book clubs had to close. During this time, Anna’s dear friend had to move down the coast to a retirement village, and they both were lamenting the distance which would now be between them. They had built a solid friendship over the years and would miss their monthly meetups for book club. Anna’s idea grew as she pondered the idea of building an online community similar to the one she had at her shop – only bigger and more diverse. She contemplated how many book clubs around the country were talking about the same book at one given time. And what would happen if we made it one big book club? She imagined the great conversations that could be had and how many friendships could be formed over a shared interest. She also thought about how many more authors may be willing to come online and chat as they would be presenting to sixty people rather than six. And so, the dream of ReadAbook was created. Anna sees ReadAbook as a space where you don’t have to compromise between convenience and taste. Which is often the case with traditional book clubs. The beauty of the virtual book club is that you are not restricted to reading books that you are not interested in just because you are limited by what is happening in your local area. Rather, you can join someone, anywhere in the country that has the same taste as you. “It is just as easy to converse with someone in Coonabarabran as it is in Caringbah”. Anna describes it as a book club “Where you can have your cake and eat it too”. How Read-A-book works? ReadAbook is an inclusive space and is open to anyone who would like to join. Their current members span from nineteen to over eighty and meet via Zoom. When joining there are a number of membership options designed to suit the lifestyles and budgets of all people from all walks of life. From avid readers with a lot of time, to people who are considering joining their first-ever book club. Once you are a member, you are free to join in on as many book clubs as you like. “ReadAbook has a number of book clubs running simultaneously. At the moment The Hissy Fics are reading Horse, the TGIFs are reading A Gentleman in Moscow. The Bees Knees are reading Mary Ann and Captain Piper. The Wondering Women are reading The Tea Ladies of St Jude’s and The Busy People are reading Seth Godin’s The Practice… we are birds of a feather flocking together, and we are loving it! “ If you would like to get involved, you will be very welcome. All you need is a device to download Zoom, an internet connection, and a love of anything bookish. You will find Anna at www.readabook.com.au

It’s a big birthday year for the 1st Turramurra Scout Group, but, like so many other celebrations in 2020, they’ll have to postpone the party. The 1st Turramurra Scout Group turns 100 this year. It’s a significant milestone and the group had planned to mark the occasion with fun and fanfare, however, due to a certain party-spoiling virus, they’ve elected to postpone the celebrations until next year. The group was founded in 1920 - just 13 years after the creation of the Boy Scouts Movement in the UK. Obviously, a lot of things have changed over the years. For one thing, both boys and girls can become scouts. Also, the challenges, adventures and activities have broadened in scope, as have the skills and values that are imparted to young scouts. Joining a scouts group can be beneficial to a child in so many ways. Apart from an array of practical survival skills, kids develop confidence, courage, trust, and leadership. They learn to work in teams and will often make lifelong friends. Scouting teaches them discipline and responsibility, as well as encouraging ambition and rewarding their efforts. At 1st Turramurra Scouts, there are four divisions available to join or progress through: cubs (ages 8 - 10); scouts (ages 11 - 14); venturers (ages 15 - 17); and rovers (ages 18 - 25). To find out more, visit www.1stturramurrascouts.org.au

By Isabella Edwards Turramurra – try, taste, trail is concluding with the Try Turramurra Festival on March 18th! The Turramurra – try, taste, trail experience is coming to an end in the next few weeks with the exciting Try Turramurra Festival. Taking place on Saturday, March 18th from 12 pm to 6 pm at Cameron Park and the Seniors Hall lawn, this jam-packed one-day event is set to include live performances, workshops, food, and drinks stalls, and so much more! It’s set to be an excellent day out for the entire family. Turramurra – try, taste, trail has seen outdoor movie screenings, art installations, live music and edible planted flora, breathe fresh life and colour into Turramurra. Turramurra – try, taste, trail and the Try Turramurra Festival have received funding from the state government as part of the Streets as Shared Spaces Program. The programs sought to increase collaboration between local governments and community sectors as well as improve pedestrianisation throughout NSW. A feat that has certainly been achieved with Turramurra – try, taste, trail. Mayor Jeff Pettett has said of the festival: “We are thankful for the NSW Government's grant to host Try Turramurra. It’s a great way to invigorate and bring new life to the centre of Turramurra.” “It’s great to see local businesses getting involved, as well as community organisations having the chance to talk to people about what they do.” “We’re grateful to the state government for supporting Try Turramurra and providing funds for the new William Street pedestrian crossing and the art installations in the centre.” If you’ve missed out on the festivities, don’t fret! The Try Turramurra Festival taking place on Saturday, March 18th has plenty on offer! Festival Highlights and Schedule Create a Herb Pot 12 pm-1:30 pm, 2:30 pm-4 pm – Calling all green thumbs! Pop on down to Cameron Park to build your own mini-herb garden. Meet the Animals 12:30 pm – 1 pm – get up close and personal with some cuddly animal ambassadors from the Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden. Learn all about their habitats and behaviours down at Cameron Park. Qigong Class for Beginners 12 pm – 12:45 pm, 1 pm-1:45 pm – Ever thought of giving Qigong a go? All age groups are welcome at this free class at the Turramurra Seniors Centre. Chess, Cheer and Chocolate 2 pm - 6 pm – How does a game of giant chess and heaps of chocolate sound? Fun and delicious? We agree. Get yourself down to the lawn outside the Seniors Centre on Gilroy Road to take part! Circus Workshop 1 pm – 4 pm – Have kids aged 5 – 15 years? Bring them along to a fantastic circus workshop led by performer Nick Fury at Cameron Park. Bookings Essential. Net Zero at Try Turramurra Festival 12 pm – 6 pm – Passionate about climate change? Get together at Cameron Park with some local Net Zero champions and residents to discuss ways to reduce emissions in the community. Other events and activities include plant advice and discussion with Bushcare experts, speed painting, and live music in Cameron Park throughout the afternoon. In addition, there will be roaming entertainers and face painting for kids. There will also be many stores with delicious treats on offer, including food, ice cream, coffee, BBQ and even boutique beers and wines for the adults. There will also be stalls selling lovely goods supporting local businesses, from giftware to pottery. Be sure to pick up a bunch of gorgeous and tasty goodies to settle in for a picnic and soak up the sun and live entertainment. For many of the workshops and activities, bookings are essential. This is due to limited capacity; however, most events are free! For the full list of events and to book a ticket visit: krg.nsw.gov.au/tryturramurra Come along on March 18th for a day filled with family-friendly fun at the Try Turramurra Festival!

By Alec Smart Sydney’s Upper North Shore is renowned for its many grand Heritage-Listed homes in the distinctive ‘Federation’ style, especially in Ku-Ring-Gai. The 2074 postal district hosts a significant proportion of them, at least 34, which give the region character and charm, and is a factor people cite for why it is such a desirable area in which to live. 26 Ku-Ring-Gai Ave Turramurra. Photo: Alec Smart According to the Federation House website, “Ku-ring-gai Council has about 40 Heritage Conservation Areas, 26 State Heritage listed sites and 688 Local Heritage Listed sites.” Ku-Ring-Gai Avenue, Turramurra is among the most prestigious Federation-period streets in greater Sydney and a listed Heritage Conservation Area – “recognised and valued for its special historical and aesthetic character.” Indeed, do an online search for “suburbs with Federation houses in Sydney”. Ku-Ring-Gai Avenue automatically appears as a key locale to find Federation properties, alongside other prestigious addresses in the Eastern Suburbs (Woollahra, Paddington, Centennial Park), the Inner West (Newtown, Annandale) and the Lower North Shore (Mosman, Neutral Bay). This is because there are 21 amazing Federation houses on Ku-Ring-Gai Ave (see list below). 44 Ku-Ring-Gai Ave Turramurra. Photo: Alec Smart Federation explanation But what are ‘Federation’ style houses and how did the name come into currency? According to ArchiPro website: “The Federation architectural period evolved in Australia at the turn of the century when, in 1901, Australian colonies collectively became the Commonwealth of Australia. “A Federation home is an Australian version of the English Edwardian House. It drew on elements of Victorian style and Queen Anne revival period of 1895 to 1910.” Queen Anne houses were lavish and reminiscent of ye olde English village houses from the Middle Ages Gothic and Elizabethan Renaissance (late Tudor) period. They typically feature a steep pointed conical turret resembling a church steeple; cross-gable roofs (triangular roofed sections set at right-angles); balconies with decorative timber edging; and ornate balusters (lathe-turned spindles holding up parapets and handrails). ArchiPro continues, “Built mainly between 1900 and 1912, the Federation style was an ornate building featuring decorative motifs. Australian flowers, kangaroos and emus were all common on these homes… Federation houses were typically built in red brick or weatherboards. And usually, with a galvanised iron roof or terracotta roof tiles. They were mostly detached houses with gardens. “The ends of gable and roof eaves had detailed wooden fretwork and ornate timber brackets. But also lead-light glass in the windows were often a feature…” Springwood, Hastings Rd Warrawee. Photo: Alec Smart Other key distinctions of Federation homes are the ‘earthy’ colours (terracotta tiled roofs and brown or dark red exterior brickwork) and a verandah at the front entrance. However, at the onset of the First World War (July 1914 – Nov 1918), due to a shortage of tradespeople (sent into battle) and a worldwide economic recession that limited building materials and personal finances, people stopped building these ornate houses. Instead, a trend for plainer ‘bungalows’ was set in motion. Origin of the Federation description However, the term Federation didn’t come into common currency until the mid-20th century. David Saunders, Professor of Architecture at the University of Adelaide from 1977 – 1986, coined the expression in his essay Domestic Styles of Australia’s Federation Period: Queen Anne and the Balcony Style, which was published in August 1969 in Architecture in Australia. Thereafter the term ‘Federation style’ was popularised by other architects and historians referring to the retro-Anglo-meets-Australiana post-colonial housing, which featured value-added verandahs for the Australian lifestyle. For example, Art Historian Bernard Smith, Foundation Professor of Contemporary Art at the University of Sydney, used the term in his 1973-published book The Architectural Character of Glebe, Sydney, co-authored with his wife Kate (they both lived in Glebe). Shalimar, 12 Ku-Ring-Gai Ave Turramurra. Photo: Alec Smart Of course there are many sub-categories for the architectural anoraks who like to split hairs and draw deeper distinctions, such as Federation Queen Anne, Federation Filigree, Federation Academic Classical, Federation Free Classical, Federation Anglo-Dutch, Federation Romanesque, Federation Gothic, Federation Carpenter Gothic, Federation Warehouse, Federation Free Style, until, ahem, you experience Federation fatigue! We here at 2074 magazine recommend you undertake your own architectural adventure and experience these magnificent mansions from the footpath. Some of them feature amazing anecdotes about their origins and original occupants, but we’ll save those for another day… Ku-Ring-Gai Ave, Turramurra * 1 Ku-ring-gai Ave; * Mildura # 8; * Shalimar # 12; * Wychwood # 17; * Trelawney # 25; * 26 Ku-ring-gai Ave; * Boongala # 28; * Creighton # 31; * Ypriana # 34; * Illanscourt # 37; * Cossington # 43; * 44 Ku-ring-gai Ave; * Highfield # 51; * Erahor # 54; * Bellhaven # 55; * The Terricks # 60; * Cheppywood # 61; * Egelabra # 70; * The Grange # 73; * Talagon # 77. When strolling along Ku-Ring-Gai Ave, take a detour at the southern end by crossing over the highway to visit the now boarded-up Hillview (1890, plus its guest cottage 1913) at 1334 Pacific Hwy; and at the northern end check out Ingleholme (1886-1910) at 17 Boomerang St. Warrawee * Pibrac (1888) 11 Pibrac Ave; * Roseburn (1900) 23 Pibrac Ave; * Springwood (1919) 34 Hastings Rd; * Cheddington (1890) 52 Hastings Rd; * Kooyong (1894) 55 Hastings Rd; * Wirepe (1893) 69 Hastings Rd; * Rowardennan, 5 Warrawee Ave; * Maiala 7 Warrawee Ave; * 33A Bangalla St; * Audley 37 Bangalla St; * Bangalla 20 Harrington Ave Alight at Warrawee Station and walk the block clockwise. Start on Warrawee Ave and trek north to Bangalla St. Turn right then walk eastwards to Harrington Ave, then head south towards and along Eastern Rd. Turn right and westwards along Hastings Rd. Detour north through Pibrac Ave, before returning south to Hastings and turning right, to eventually re-join Warrawee Ave beside the station. Ingleholme, Boomerang St Turramurra. Photo: Alec Smart ===================================================== Further afield: Gordon Rochester (1886) 51 Werona Ave; * Tulkiyan (1913) 707 Pacific Hwy; * Aberdour (1901, previously Gortgowan) 23 Nelson St; * Theace (1901) 24 Nelson St; * Millthorn (1901) 38 Nelson St. Killara Woodlands (1884, formerly Inglewood) 1 Werona Ave; * Mooralbeck (1904) 29 Stanhope Rd; * Currawinya ​(1901) 27 Powell St; * Yilleen (1901-20) 28 Springdale Rd; * Fairlands (1903) 65 Springdale Rd; * The Oaks (1907) 517 Pacific Hwy; * Fane Edge (1901) 663 Pacific Hwy; * Goondee (1901) 33 Killara Ave; * Lange (1901) 49 Springdale Rd; * Poitiers (1901-20) 66 Springdale Rd; * Misrule (1904) 36 Greengate Rd. Lindfield Rathlyn (1901) 5 Ortona Rd; *​ Mignon (1901) 8 Treatts Rd; * Quiraing (1901) 25 Highfield Rd. Pymble Alister Brae (1904) 24 King Edward St; * Sandon (1908) 31 Telegraph Rd; * Caryina (1913) 35a – 37 Telegraph Rd; * Claremont (1897) 40 Telegraph Rd; * Redriff 53 Telegraph Rd. Clooneen (1901) 149 Livingstone Ave – destroyed Oct 2019, despite an Interim Heritage Order issued in May 2018 to preserve the property, to make way for 19 retirement villas Roseville Westover (1901) 26 Bancroft Ave; * ​Strontian (1904) 24 Bancroft Ave; * Wrendale 42 Bancroft Avenue, Roseville NSW Wahroonga Highlands 9 Highlands Ave; * The Briars 14 Woonona Ave; * Berith Park 19 Billyard Ave; * Craignairn 37 Burns Rd: * Coolabah 39 Burns Rd; * Hazeldean 14 Burns Rd; * Malvern 41 Burns Rd; * Matakana 28 Lucinda Ave; * Rippon Grange 35-45 Water St; * Westholme 1 Water St; * Water Street Wahroonga NSW Audley, Bangalla St Warrawee. Photo: Alec Smart Further reading Australian Residential Architectural Styles https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_residential_architectural_styles NSW State Heritage Map https://www.hms.heritage.nsw.gov.au/App/Item/SearchHeritageItems Federation Home https://federationhome.com Federation House https://www.federation-house.com/federation-style Australia Interestingness https://theaustralianinterestingness.wordpress.com/2016/05/05/federation-architecture-a-stylistic-motley/ ==============================

Experience the joy of dance in the heart of Sydney Harbour on Saturday 24 June. The day includes free classes, company rehearsal viewings, pre-professional year workshops, huge discounts and giveaways – it’s an unmissable experience for any dance lover. From hip-hop and jazz to contemporary and ballet, there will be free taster sessions running throughout the day with some of the industry's best dance teachers. These beginner-friendly classes are the perfect opportunity to try something new or revisit an old passion. Visitors will have the opportunity to step behind the curtain and witness a free viewing of Sydney Dance Company’s ensemble rehearsing with Artistic Director Rafael Bonachela for his upcoming world premiere Up Close: Somos. Meaning “we are” in Spanish, this new work will feature a cascade of intimate solos, duets and trios with a distinct Latin flavour. For those wishing to build strength and target challenging areas, Conditioning Studio Manager, Felicity McGee, is offering free 10-minute postural assessments in our state-of-the-art Conditioning Studio. As a trained Pilates instructor and former professional ballerina, our Conditioning Studio Manager Felicity McGee works directly with Sydney Dance Company’s professional ensemble, Pre-Professional Year dancers and now, the general public. Following your assessment, enjoy a free 15-minute tour of the Conditioning Studios to learn more about Pilates at Sydney Dance Company. Aspiring professional dancers can get a feel for Sydney Dance Company’s esteemed Pre-Professional Year program with insights from Head of Training Linda Gamblin in a special Q&A. Participants can delve deeper into their contemporary practice with a free Improvisation Workshop taken by Pre-Professional Year Course Coordinator Tobiah Booth-Remmers and choreographer Omer Backley-Astrachan. There will also be discounts and giveaways on the day, with exclusive savings available on tickets, memberships, flexipacks, short courses, Pilates and merchandise. “Open Day is such a fantastic moment for members of our community – new and longstanding – to celebrate dance together. It’s such a special, fun-filled day that gives visitors the rare opportunity to explore each part of Sydney Dance Company,” said Sydney Dance Company Classes Manager Ramon Doringo.

If someone told you that a group of Vandals were given free rein to redecorate parts of Sydney city, you might expect an orgy of graffiti, broken glass, arson and a little unrestrained looting. Yet these Vandals pleasantly surprised everyone – in fact, we chose one of their woven sculptures, by artist GabFZ, for the cover of our print edition of this magazine. By ALEC SMART The Vandals in question are the multi-award-winning Vandal collection of talented artists, based at 16-30 Vine St, Redfern. Their projects include animation, augmented & virtual reality, campaign films, graphic design, digital art, visual effects and cultural experiences. In what could be described as a Mission Statement, Vandal proclaim: “We transform physical places and spaces with digital experiences that change human behaviour… We love the creative use of technology to transform environments... We use the interplay between the physical and digital worlds to create unique, memorable and immersive experiences with real-world results.” Liverpool Lane, World Square, Sydney World Square, the southern city retail and residential tower blocks bounded by George, Goulburn, Liverpool and Pitt Streets, commissioned Vandal to create a ‘placemaking activation’ to complement five of their pedestrian zones. Tasked to enhance the commercial precinct with dynamic visuals and recycled materials, a group of Vandals rose to the occasion, impressing all with their stunning installations and artworks, titled A World of Colour. World Square was vibrantly decorated as pop-art murals and floor embellishments added splashes of colour to the arcades and stairways, whilst suspended ornaments and floor decals lined the dining district of Liverpool Lane. The centrepiece was the intricate woven sculpture that we’ve featured by GabFZ (artist Gabrielle Filtz), suspended between two high-rise buildings over a thoroughfare. Called Weaving Thru The World, and resembling an enormous psychedelic quilt, it consisted of recycled materials from discarded fabrics, ribbons and rope from former street banners and flags. The materials, purchased from Reverse Garbage in Marrickville, once belonged to City of Sydney and would have graced Sydney Festival, Mardi Gras and other public events. Weaving Thru The World by GabFZ from Vandal Arts Ms Filtz explained, “I wanted to not only create an oversized public art sculpture, but also ensure the artwork can be created in a sustainable fashion. I’m very proud of the sustainable use of recycled materials.” World Square was built atop of Sydney’s historic Brickfield Hill, once renowned for brickmaking. Ironically, the term ‘brickfield wind’, to describe a minor dust storm, was coined from the former early 19th century brickworks, attributable to the dry dirt that swirled up from the quarry and was carried across the developing city. It’s no longer thought of as dusty, not even when the Vandals arrive; thankfully they stir up emotions, not dry clay. Lo Bueno Y Lo Malo by Skullavera from KRVNM for the Dia de Muertos exhibition Achievements The Redfern Vandals (who’ve never, to my knowledge, sacked Rome - or any other city - like their historic namesakes) worked on some praiseworthy projects in the past year, continuing 35 years of extraordinary achievements. Among the stand-outs: * Produced the campaign film In Support of You, by Breast Cancer Network Australia and Berlei Bras, to encourage all Australians to support those affected by Breast Cancer * Presented a Mexican-themed exhibition featuring 31 artists from KRVNM to celebrate the annual Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead), showcasing elaborate illustrations of skulls. * Supervised a Spotify music advert with Genesis Owusu, Peach and The Inspired Unemployed, which saw Genesis immersed in a bath tub filled with fruit loops breakfast cereal! Ghanian-Australian singer Genesis Owusu in a bathtub filled with fruit loops * Restored the iconic 1975 Australian film Sunday Too Far Away, starring Jack Thompson, for the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia. * Collaborated on the NFTree Xmas tree, featuring 8 artists whose works were displayed alongside translucent green pyramids in The Galeries fashion, art and dining hub at 500 George St, City. * Won three Silver awards at the international Animation and Effects Awards Festival from 9 nominations. * Assisted Animals Australia animal welfare agency with the animated campaign film Join the Evolution, to encourage people to respect farm animals (one of the aforementioned Silver award winners). * Worked on a Kit Kat chocolate advert for Nestlé, featuring quarrelling wizards and a crystal ball, with actors Miritana Hughes and Australian screen legend Michael Caton. So, there you are, Vandals can be seen in a positive light! Join the Evolution, an award-winning animal welfare advert for Animals Australia Vandal W: https://vandal.sydney/ Insta: https://www.instagram.com/p/CWpcnDsJ8Sq/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/vandal.sydney/ World Square sustainable sculpture https://vandal.sydney/portfolio/world-square-sutainable-sculpture/ Illuminated Xmas NFTree at Galeries https://www.thegaleries.com/nft-illuminated ======================== A History of Vandals The original Vandals from history were perhaps undeserving of their centuries-old reputation as cynics and wreckers of arts and culture. To sum up, they were a Germanic people who originated in the Vistula River region of what is now Poland. Around 120 BC, many made their way south to settle the Silesia region (in present-day Czech Republic) and, over the next four centuries, emigrated further south to the Mediterranean. And why not: seaside living, warm weather, and better soil for crops and livestock has a lot going for it. However, during that time, these Vandals were harried and constantly invaded and suppressed by a succession of brutal kingdoms, including the Franks, Visigoths, Huns and Romans. Eventually, in the early 5th century, by fair means and foul, they established their own kingdom, which included Sicily, Malta, Sardinia, Corsica and a former Roman province in North Africa. Perfect: beautiful islands, plenty of fishing and sailing, and easy to defend! However, the Romans, their old persecutors, were not impressed, and repeatedly tried to displace the Vandals from a region that they once brutally ruled as their own and to which still laid claim. No wonder the Vandals eventually retaliated. In June 455 AD, during an unrestrained fortnight of plundering, Vandals sacked the city of Rome, which subsequently earned them the permanent reputation as ‘barbarians’ and despisers of art and culture. And yet history fails to mention that the Visigoths also sacked Rome 45 years earlier, and no one today describes a looter or, ahem, a vandal, as a ‘Visigoth’, hey?! Liverpool Lane, World Square, Sydney ========================

By ALEC SMART Neighbourhood Media finds the best small inner-Sydney watering holes in the city’s buzzing YCK precinct – York, Clarence and Kent streets – at the heart of the CBD. Note: Most of these venues are small (less than 100 capacity) and may require advance booking. Baxter Inn What they say: “We like whisky here. And whiskey too, for that matter. A place where John Cheever and Johnny Walker might spend some time together. The lights are low, the blues are blowing, and the spirits are high.” Opening hours: Mon - Sun 4pm - 3am Where: Basement 152-156 Clarence St, City Contact: pretzels@thebaxterinn.com https://swillhouse.com/venues/the-baxter-inn Burrow Bar What they say: “A small boutique cocktails and spirits bar hidden in the heart of the Sydney city. Nominated for Australian Bartender Magazine's Bar of the Year, NSW Bar of the Year and Small Bar of the Year for 2019.” Opening hours: Tues - Sun 5pm - 12am Where: Basement, 96 Clarence St, City Contact: 0450 466 674 curious@burrowbar.com.au https://www.burrowbar.com.au/ Grandma’s What they say: “Tongue-in-cheek from design to drinks, the only thing taken with utmost seriousness is production of quality, specializing in fun tiki/rum style cocktails using booze of the boutique sort and personally sourced beer and wine for a more tailored approach.” Opening hours: Mon - Fri 3pm - late; Sat 5pm - late Where: Basement, 275 Clarence St, City Contact: 02 9264 3004 curious@burrowbar.com.au https://www.grandmasbarsydney.com.au/ Papa Gede’s What they say: “Infused with the spirit of witch-doctor apothecary, home-made herbal elixirs, plenty of classic & tiki cocktails, craft beers, a smorgasbord of absinthes traditionally served, great wine, funk, soul & rituals of relaxation.” Opening hours: Mon - Sat 5pm - late Where: Rear lane behind 348 Kent St, City Contact: drinks@papagedes.com http://www.papagedes.com/ The Rook What they say: “Our beautiful open rooftop bar is the best place in Barangaroo to sit on a dry day and soak up the harbour views and Sydney sunshine.” Opening hours: Mon 12pm - 10pm; Tue - Thur 12pm - late; Fri - Sat 12pm - 12.30am Where: Level 7, 56-58 York St, City Contact: 02 8322 2008 info@therook.com.au https://therook.com.au/ Since I Left You What they say: “Infused with the spirit of witch-doctor apothecary, home-made herbal elixirs, plenty of classic & tiki cocktails, craft beers, a smorgasbord of absinthes traditionally served, great wine, funk, soul & rituals of relaxation.” Opening hours: Tue - Fri 4pm - late; Sat 6pm - late Where: 338 Kent St, City Contact: 02 9279 2084 info@sinceileftyou.com.au https://sinceileftyou.com.au/ ------------------------------------------------------ YCK Laneways A consortium representing businesses in the York, Clarence and Kent Streets precinct. https://www.ycklaneways.com.au/ Other small bars in the YCK precinct that are highly recommended: The Barber Shop; Duke of Clarence; Esteban; The Lobo; Prince of York; PS40; Sammy Junior; Spawn Point Gaming Bar; Stitch Bar; The Swinging Cat; Uncle Ming’s ========================

Comedian Steph Tisdell brings a collection of the best First Nations comedians from around the country to the Sydney Opera House stage. Steph Tisdell is no stranger to the stage. Ever since she won the 2014 Deadly Funny National Grand Final, her award-winning shows always sell out and she’s a regular on mainstream television shows such as Hughesy We Have A Problem and The Project. After many years of successful shows, she’s now turned her attention to a new project — running a talent agency dedicated to First Nations talent. “I know blackfellas out there that are really talented and haven't had the opportunities, because they've not been seen by the right person,” says Tisdell over the phone. “I thought, let me, as somebody in this space, show you how good we are. Let's add that prestige. Let's get that excitement happening, because it needs to happen!” Tisdell explains that the idea for First Nations Talent Agency came about during COVID-19. “Everything stopped for me for a little while. I had time to really reflect on what it is that I was trying to do with comedy, who I wanted to reach out to, and who I saw my audience as. I recognised that people were desperate to have diversity on their lineups, but without really caring what that meant,” she reflects. She thought about what kind of stages she would like to see First Nations artists perform on, and landed on Just For Laughs. “I thought I’d really love it if we had one of the international festivals that come into the country really shine a light on First Nations peoples because I feel like that's a beautiful gesture,” she says. Just For Laughs “totally understood”, and thus First Nations Funnies was born. The event will also double as the launch of First Nations Talent Agency. “I'm pretty nervous, I'll be honest,” laughs Tisdell. “But I'm really, really, really excited.” Key to First Nations Funnies is the inclusion of a diversity of Indigenous perspectives, something Tisdell is a big advocate for. “On our lineup, we have Kevin Kropinyeri, who is this really staunch, cultural man who grew up speaking his language fluently, and grew up on a mission. Then you’ve got me and my experience, which is very different, where my mum and her mum wanted to make sure we had all the right opportunities, and we almost had to give up elements of culture in that pursuit,” she explains. Janty Blair, last year’s winner of Deadly Funny, was a midwife for 30 years and began studying drama in her 50s. Jay Wymarra is a proud, queer Torres Strait Islander that Tisdell describes as an “amazing conundrum of a person because he represents this intersection of queer, black living in a white world”. While the lineup may all be First Nations comedians, their differences are just as important as their similarities. “We're so committed to having these diverse voices,” says Tisdell. “Everything always comes down to lived experience at the end of the day. There is no one perspective in any space. And the more that we accept that, from all of the minority communities in Australia, the more that we understand we're all exactly the same. We're also beautifully different.” Tisdell has big plans for First Nations Funnies and beyond: “I want to take over the world!” She sees Just For Laughs Sydney as the launchpad for a bigger movement. “I was having a conversation with Jodie Choolburra, and I said to her, ‘I hate being tokenised’. And she said, ‘Well, what you need to remember is that tokenism is only tokenism until it isn't anymore’. That's what we’re trying to do. Celebrate these comedians in this space, and have people recognise that it's funny enough for it not to have to be ‘Indigenous humour’. It’ll just exist as ‘humour’.” First Nations Funnies will take place at Sydney Opera House on Wednesday 30th November as part of Just For Laughs Sydney. More details and tickets can be found at https://justforlaughs.sydney/portfolio-item/first-nations-funnies/.

Cherished regulars and new faces are invited to learn more about the hotel bar’s rich history Marble Bar at Hilton Sydney is proud to celebrate its 130th anniversary this October, marking over a century of unwavering commitment to hospitality, exceptional service, and an undisputed home of live music in the heart of the city. Since its establishment in 1893, Marble Bar has been a cherished watering hole where patrons across the decades have headed for a drink after work, or as the bar of choice to celebrate life's special moments. When Marble Bar opened in the Adams’ Tattersall’s Hotel in 1893 it was a bar for men. And more specifically, sportsmen – at least that is the impression acclaimed artist Julian Ashton was given when George Adams approached him to ‘do a series of decorative pictures’ for the new bar he was planning to build in his establishment. Why sportsmen in particular? It could be to do with Adams’ interest in horseracing where he made his fortune through running sweepstakes and was the originator of the Tatts lotto draw. A souvenir brochure, published when the bar opened in September 1893, proclaimed Marble Bar was ‘the handsomest marble hall in Australia, worthy of London or Paris’, while in the 1930s, one writer claimed that ‘nowhere in the world is there a saloon which equals the artistic beauty and architectural magnificence of the famous Marble Bar.’ The following years established Marble Bar as a Sydney landmark, and certainly not just for sportsmen. From its earliest days, businessmen and country visitors would frequent the bar. International stars, too, would drop in for a drink – in 1940, for instance, Noel Coward visited during his tour of Australia. It also provided respite during the Vietnam War. In a 1968 newspaper article, a barmaid claims, ‘The young Americans on leave adore the place. They’ve never seen anything like it. It has atmosphere and tradition, and the word has got around.’ The exuberant Victorian surroundings and rich history have also cemented the space as the focus of the music world with the likes of Liza Minelli, Cold Chisel, The Veronicas, and Adam Lambert all visiting. To commemorate this significant milestone, Marble Bar hosted a guest list of over 100 including winners of a competition who shared their fondest memories of nights out at Marble Bar on Instagram. Hayden Hughes, General Manager of Hilton Sydney revealed, “Marble Bar’s enduring legacy has all of the hallmarks of becoming one of the world’s most iconic hotel bars. Celebrating this remarkable 130-year milestone is a testament to a venue that I am sure we will again return to celebrate for decade’s worth of anniversaries to come.” As Marble Bar embarks on its 130th year, Hilton Sydney remains committed to providing exceptional service, fostering community connections, and creating unforgettable experiences for all who walk through its doors.

By ALEC SMART With a decent pair of hiking boots, or a mountain bicycle with suspension, Barra Brui Oval to Bungaroo and back through Garigal National Park makes an enjoyable return-trek of around 4km. Garigal National Park, the 2,202-hectare protected native bushland to the east of St Ives, features a number of pleasant forested paths, particularly in the ‘Cascades’ region between St Ives and Belrose. Here, at the Stepping Stones crossing between the confluence of three bush trails – Bungaroo, Governor Phillip and Middle Harbour walking tracks – flows Middle Harbour Creek. In the aftermath of rain, the creek transcends from a slow-flowing narrow stream, weaving around sandstone rocks, into turbulent, tumbling cascades. The Stepping Stones can be reached by following the fire trail known as Pipeline Track, which runs eastward from Barra Brui Scout Hall in south St Ives, adjacent to a large green pipe carrying drinking water. Approximately 800 metres from the start, Bungaroo Track (on the left) veers off to the north, then continues east, parallel to Pipeline Track (the latter safer for cyclists). The trail meanders 1.5km through the bush, passing a lookout over the valley, and eventually dropping down a steep descent reinforced with stone steps until it reaches a sandy beach beside Middle Harbour Creek. A sharp bend in the water course diverts the path left, west again, to meet at the Stepping Stones - approx. 8 flat sandstone boulders spanning the narrow creek. Crossing the creek – beware, it is treacherous and fast-flowing after heavy rainfall! – turning left joins the Cascades, but right, following Governor Phillip Track just 20 metres downstream, brings you to a natural freshwater pool. Approx 12m length, 5m width, and 2 metres deep at its centre, it is a refreshing oasis in which to swim and cool off on hot days. Now named ‘Bungaroo’ – a word derived from the Dharug-speaking Indigenous clans of Sydney – it is thought to mean either ‘resting place’ or ‘running water’. The pool, situated in a natural reservoir just above the upper tidal reaches of the saltwater Middle Harbour Creek, is where, on Wednesday 16th April 1788, Governor Phillip and a party of marines pitched canvas tents and camped overnight. We know for certain Governor Phillip’s party camped at Bungaroo, because he followed Middle Harbour Creek inland and described the campsite in his memoirs as where "the flowing of the tide ceased". This took place during the first of several treks exploring the region north of the new British colony of Sydney. Phillip sought arable land to establish farms to feed the 1000 convicts, marines and settlers that arrived in 11 ships just 11 weeks earlier. The treks across Sydney’s North Shore were unsuccessful. First Fleet chronicler Watkin Tench described a subsequent trek to Broken Bay/Pittwater: “…the adjacent country was found so rocky and bare as to preclude all possibility of turning it to account...”), the Middle Harbour Creek exploration is significant in Phillip’s journal. Surgeon General John White, who accompanied Phillip, was not impressed with the region, and described it as “...the most desert wild and solitary seclusion the imagination can form any idea of...” The day after the camp at Bungaroo, Phillip ascended the heights into what is now St Ives and from a vantage point he first viewed the Blue Mountains. He wrote in his journal: "a fine view of the mountains inland… A mountain between I called Richmond Hill and from the rising of these mountains, I did not doubt but that a large river would be found.” This was, of course, the Hawkesbury-Nepean, along which fertile farming could be established. After several attempts in April 1788, Phillip abandoned the search for arable land on the North Shore, much of which is dry Sclerophyll forest, a type of hardy vegetation that thrives in habitats not conducive to European farming practices. Instead, the new colony established agriculture in Rose Hill (Parramatta). Sclerophyll forests, including eucalypts and melaleuca species, feature tough, sun-facing leaves, unpalatable to most herbivores due to their toxic oils. The soils in which they thrive are typically poor in nutrients, particularly phosphorous, attributable to the Aboriginal practice of burning-back bushland to flush out game. Over the millennia, only Sclerophyll forest evolved to survive this regimen and ultimately dominated the North Shore region. . During the Great Depression (1929-1939), the natural waterhole at Bungaroo, then called ‘Cascades Pool’, was well known to residents of St Ives and the new suburb of Davidson as a popular picnicking and swimming spot. Unemployment relief workers in the early 1930s reinforced the reservoir with stone blocks (probably from nearby Davidson Quarry) to create a more insulated swimming pool. Paths wide enough for vehicles were hacked through the bush from Mona Vale Road and Belrose (Quarry Track) to the pool (now among several interconnecting fire trails), and during WWII, military troops stationed at St. Ives Showground travelled down them to swim. After the war, the stagnant pool became polluted, and Ku-Ring-Gai Council demolished the stone walls that contained the water, allowing the creek to flow naturally through again, cleansing it. Garigal National Park is named after the Indigenous Garigal clans that hunted, fished and gathered sea foods for millennia along Middle Harbour Creek and across the forested regions descending to the coast. There are 76 identified Aboriginal sites on the shores of Middle Harbour, including shell middens, rock overhangs and cave art. There are over 35 trails through Garigal Park covering 120km. The 4km hike from Barra Brui to Bungaroo and back should take under 2 hours to complete on foot. ====================================== Photos by Alec Smart