WE CAN HANDLE THE TRUTH' - MUSICIANS AGAINST DETENTION - South Sydney Herald
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MUSICIANS AGAINST DETENTION ARTISANS ENLIVEN THE GARDENS
SOCIAL JUSTICE — PAGE 5 THE REVIEW — PAGES 9–10
NUMBER ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY-THREE ~ NOVEMBER ’16 ~ CIRCULATION 22,000 ~ALEXANDRIA BEACONSFIELD CHIPPENDALE DARLINGTON ERSKINEVILLE EVELEIGH GLEBE KINGS CROSS NEWTOWN PADDINGTON REDFERN SURRY HILLS WATERLOO WOOLLOOMOOLOO ZETLAND
‘WE CAN HANDLE THE TRUTH’
LEON BATCHELOR
WITH the redevelopment of the
Waterloo Estate yet to enter the 12-
to 18-month master planning stage,
local residents are little closer to
understanding what life will be like
in Waterloo in the coming decades.
Leading the redevelopment, with
the support of UrbanGrowth NSW,
is the NSW Land and Housing
Corporation (LAHC) Communities
Plus team. Preliminary community
engagement over the master plan
may commence as soon as November.
In a written response to questions
by REDWatch the Communities Plus
team emphasised the redevelopment
will be staged over a 15- to 20-year
period and “a great deal more
consultation and planning [is]
required”. The master planning
process will determine key aspects of
the redeveloped site, such as the mix
between social housing, affordable
housing and private housing.
Family and Community Services
(FACS) is currently preparing a
“community engagement strategy” as
part of the master planning process.
Information gathered through
community engagement, including
on options for density and human
services support, will form part of a
brief presented to key government Ronda Graham (pictured here with her dog Mitzy) has lived in the Waterloo Estate for 30 years. Along with other estate residents, she faces an uncertain future. Photo: Bec Lewis
agencies (including UrbanGrowth
NSW). The brief will consider the Community housing providers in the mix The difference between FACS and as part of the socially “mixed”
merit and feasibility of these options To date, the government Community housing providers CHPs is important. Tom McDonald, redevelopment, tenants are
as part of a “whole of government” has made four informal (CHPs) are a primary feature of Acting Coordinator of the Tenancy concerned the new arrangement
approach to the master plan. commitments to the Future Directions in Social Housing Team at the Redfern Legal Centre, will mean diminished rights and
In its statement to REDWatch, community: in NSW, the government’s blueprint points to the wide variation a stressful relationship between
LAHC has said the redevelopment of for reforming social and affordable in policies developed by CHPs tenants, owners and CHPs.
the estate provides an “opportunity Existing tenants, who do not housing across the state over the compared to the government’s own WHPAG’s Richard Weeks points
to better plan and provides (sic) relocate until instructed to next decade. Roughly a third of provider, FACS. “FACS policies are to large rental bonds required by
support for the high needs of social the state’s public housing will be more detailed and they’re going to some CHPs as one issue needing
by FACS and wish to return
housing residents”. Tenants can transferred to non-government cover a larger range of situations,” to be addressed by government
expect community engagement over will be able to. organisations in the next four years. he explains. “Policies that are in the relocation process.
the master plan to look specifically There will be no loss of The management of Waterloo’s threadbare can leave tenants in Changes to the Residential
at their needs as part of the redeveloped social housing stock the dark about their rights when Tenancies Act that came into force
planning and relocation process.
social housing in the will likely be undertaken by CHPs. it comes to critical issues like in 2016 increase the discretion
The master planning process redeveloped site. Most CHPs are not-for-profit transfers, rental subsidies, repairs CHPs have to take disciplinary
itself is yet to be fully articulated. organisations which manage social and absences,” McDonald warns. action against tenants under the
Residents will be able housing stock owned by LAHC (or
Some in the community are calling CHPs are also not subject “three strikes” system. FACS
for more openness at an earlier to move directly into other landlords). For-profit CHPs do to the scrutiny of the NSW policy is to issue a strike notice for
stage about decisions that will new tenancies on the exist and may have a role to play Ombudsman. The Ombudsman alleged anti-social behaviour only,
affect them in the coming months redeveloped site (some in Waterloo. The UK-owned global is a helpful counteragent for whereas the law permits CHPs
and years. “We can handle the residents will need to be outsourcing giant Serco, which “systemic issues,” says McDonald, to issue a strike notice for any
truth,” says Richard Weeks of the operates Australia’s onshore detention who witnessed one Ombudsman alleged breach of their tenancy.
relocated temporarily).
Waterloo Public Housing Action centres, was named in a Sydney enquiry into the enforcement of In the statement to REDWatch
Group (WPAHG). “We might The redevelopment will be Morning Herald article in August as old debts by FACS lead to positive LAHC has said, “the government’s
not like it but we can handle it.” having made a “secret pitch” to the results for FACS tenants. expectation is that public housing
staged over 15 to 20 years.
The November date for community Baird government to manage some With thousands of tenancies tenants agreements and obligations
engagement to start is yet to be set. of LAHC’s social housing portfolio. up for grabs by prospective CHPs are maintained.” S
2 NEWS NOVEMBER 2016
PUBLISHER
Sydney says welcome at Walk Together 2016
South Sydney Uniting Church
Raglan Street, Waterloo
The views expressed in this newspaper are
those of the author and the article and are not
necessarily the views of the Uniting Church.
NEWS SSH
news@ssh.com.au
Phone Lyn 0400 008 338 THE exciting children’s African
dance troupe AfroKidz delighted
ADVERTISING
Contact – adverts@ssh.com.au
the crowd at the Walk Together
Phone Duncan 0402 525 061 festival on October 22.
MAILING ADDRESS: Close to 1,000 Sydneysiders braved
PO Box 3288
the rain to march from Belmore Park
Redfern NSW 2016
in Sydney’s CBD to Victoria Park
LETTERS in Camperdown for the family-
Please send letters and emails to: friendly festival and to show their
The South Sydney Herald. support for a more compassionate,
Email: editor@ssh.com.au
Supply sender name and suburb.
inclusive and welcoming Australia.
Size: 150 words or less. The Sydney arm of the national
We may edit for legal or other reasons. diversity celebrations, hosted by
Settlement Services International
FOUNDING EDITOR (SSI) and Welcome to Australia,
Trevor Davies (25.5.1956—14.6.2011) promoted unity, respect and
inclusion. Speakers included
Welcome to Australia ambassador
Mariam Veiszadeh, NSW Labor
Party MP Jihad Dib, Greens NSW
MP Mehreen Faruqi, and Racial
Discrimination Commissioner
MANAGING EDITOR FEATURES EDITOR Tim Soutphommasane.
(Acting) Marjorie Lewis-Jones Dorothy McRae-McMahon SSI Chairman Kamalle Dabboussy
said events such as Walk Together
were an opportunity to remind the
wider Australian community of the
importance of having a culture of Afro-Kidz have backgrounds from all over Africa. The group celebrates African music, dance and culture and performed at Walk Together 2016 Photo: Stephen Webb
welcome – something that was an
NEWS EDITOR ASSISTANT EDITOR extension of the country’s traditional another. We’ve got to love the kids The Deputy Leader of the friendship and show welcome.”
Lyn Turnbull Louisa Dyce
values of mateship and a fair go. and look to their future,” he said. Opposition, Tanya Plibersek, said SSI said the day was a resounding
Lawyer and former refugee Deng “I want you to ask yourself, what what really made a difference to her success, as demonstrated by the
Thiak Adut encouraged the crowds would my children think one day? parents when they came to Australia diverse crowd that turned out to
to respond with love when faced What will we tell them when we’re in the early 1950s as migrants show Australian can be a nation
with xenophobic and racist actions. old? Will we say, ‘I wish I could have from Slovenia was the friendship known for its compassion, generosity
ASSISTANT EDITOR SUB EDITOR
“If they hate you, love them back done that’? That’s the most cynical and welcome they received. and welcome. S
Kris Shalvey Miriam Pepper because love is more powerful. For thing to say – you can’t ‘wish’ you “And that’s something that every
this country and for us to move could have done it; do something single one of us can do; every single See www.ssi.org.au and
forward, we’ve got to love one right now. Let’s welcome each other.” one of us can extend the hand of www.welcometoaustralia.org.au
DISTRIBUTION
distro@ssh.com.au
DESIGNER
Robert Young
www.theloop.com.au/rdfy Kevin’s Collectables WITNESS TO MOTOR SCOOTER ACCIDENT
PRINTER Furniture, Glass & China Wares, Books & Records
Spotpress Pty Ltd
www.spotpress.com 33 Botany Road Waterloo
0419 111 944
On Friday 24 June 2016 at approx 5.12pm a motor scooter
was involved in an accident with a taxi on Bay St, Ultimo
REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS
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volunteer contributors and distributors
Redress Recycled Clothing between West End Lane and Glebe St travelling north.
who make this publication possible.” For fashion-forward individuals
If anyone witnessed this incident please contact Ben
David Angell Erin Links fifi.redress@gmail.com
Ben Aveling Vangeli Kollias 0438 250 163 of Personal Injury Support Australia on 0404 681 502.
Gabriel Azzi norrie mAy-welby
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33 Botany Road Waterloo
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NOVEMBER 2016 NEWS 3
TRIPOD CAFE
262 ABERCROMBIE ST, DARLINGTON
PH: 9698 8677 OPEN 7 DAYS
MON-FRI 7AM-5PM SAT-SUN 8AM-4PM
Physios Steve Velovski and Eddie Farah with dietitian Chloe McLeod Photo: Supplied
Local physios committed to the community
KRISINDA MERHI team includes a dietitian – Chloe just about winning; elite sports
McCleod – and a great group of and competitiveness aside, their Sydney and Melbourne
STEVE Velovski and Eddie sports and remedial massage main focus is the long-term
Farah are all community. That
is why they have embarked on
therapists. If this isn’t enough, Farah
and Velovski have plans to expand
wellbeing of their patients.
“We want to ensure that our
1300 769 389
their latest venture – Redfern their services to include podiatry and players don’t have a relapse or
www.goget.com.au
Physiotherapy & Sports Medicine. a sports physician in the New Year. recurrence of their symptoms.
Their mission is to improve the Both Steve and Eddie have played This is one of the key determinants 24/7 access to cars parked nearby
health and wellbeing of their local a huge part in the turnaround and of the success of our rehabilitation
community by providing best success of the Rabbitohs over the programs,” Steve says.
practice and elite health services. past decade, which culminated This ability to assist people with
in the 2014 grand final victory. their injuries and follow them on
Steve and Eddie head up the Having come on board in 2007 their rehabilitation journey is what
team of physiotherapists who have after Russell Crowe took over the makes Redfern Physiotherapy
been leading the South Sydney club, they were involved in the unique. The focus is fully on
Rabbitohs in the NRL for the past huge advancement towards the getting patients back to what they
ten years. They have decided to elite training and rehabilitation love most – whether it be walking,
take their unique skill to the wider services now available at the club. swimming, netball, tennis, playing
community by setting up a brand The demands and pressure of with the kids, yoga or even their
new clinic in the heart of Redfern. professional sport continue to grow daily work and demands.
But their strong ties to their with every single season. Sports So many people suffer from
local community go well beyond medicine providers have to be at the chronic pain. But Redfern
their connection to the Rabbitohs. cutting edge of sports science and Physiotherapy doesn’t just treat
Steve Velovski resides in the heart rehabilitation. Quite often, the ability the pain, they educate you: long-
of Redfern since purchasing an to keep the players on the field results term success is about constant
apartment in the area three years in the difference between winning management. In addition to
ago. Eddie was born and raised and losing. Critical to the success of prescribing a detailed home
in Redfern before relocating the Rabbitohs is the ability of Eddie exercise and management program,
further west with his family. and Steve to meet these demands the clinic has a fully equipped
“My first memories as a child are
of the red and green seats at Redfern
and excel in this environment.
“The pressure of having to get a
rehabilitation gym, which is always
available to any of their patients.
Need ‘access’ to transport?
Oval from the days when games player back on the field following As well as having advanced We are a not for profit community organisation
were still played there. I will never an injury is a challenge that we skills and knowledge in sports
forget the excitement and atmosphere really enjoy. It involves us not only rehabilitation, the team also caters providing affordable transport options
of going along to these games with providing regular treatment for our for a wide range of musculoskeletal for local residents.
my dad and brothers,” Eddie says. players but also taking them through and orthopaedic complaints, and to
Having these strong connections a specific and individually tailored people of all ages. S
to the area, and fuelled by a constant exercise program,” explains Steve. - Medical Transport
demand from friends and colleagues “The exercise component is To meet the team at Redfern
to rehabilitate their injuries, Steve really the key – this ensures that Physiotherapy & Sports Medicine, or to
- Shopping Transport
and Eddie decided it was a great not only are the players ready to make an appointment, phone 8068 5158, - Social Outings
opportunity as well as ideal timing get back onto the field but that they visit www.redfernphysio.com.au or find
to set up their own clinic. are ready to compete at the highest them on Facebook and Instagram. - Private Hire
The boys behind the clinic level and help the team to win.” – Krisinda Merhi is a freelance
have been working hard to build But the boys also know it’s not writer and media student.
relationships and networks in the
local community. Their aim is Call us on 8241 8000 or visit our website
to partner with local groups and accesssydney.org.au for more information.
businesses to not only provide a
standout service but help improve
health in the area. They have
already established strong ties with
the National Centre of Indigenous
Excellence by offering free services
onsite and are excited to be
02 8068 5158
involved in a great initiative by
one.five.six gym, which is hosting
a 12-hour treadmill challenge to
raise money for pancreatic cancer
research (see www.facebook.com/ info@redfernphysio.com.au
events/1096622343758459). www.redfernphysio.com.au
“We are really focussed on having
a strong community involvement Ground Floor, 140 Redfern St
and to continue to be involved
in initiatives such as the 12-hour
Redfern NSW 2016
treadmill run,” Eddie says.
Redfern Physiotherapy & Sports CONNECT WITH US @ REDFERNPHYSIO
Medicine is a multidisciplinary
health and injury clinic. As well as
experienced physiotherapists, the Head physiotherapist Eddie Farah assisting Greg Inglis from the field following an injury Photo: Supplied PHYSIOTHERAPY . DIETITIAN . MASSAGE
4 NEWS NOVEMBER 2016
Jacaranda to live on
SPONSORED
GREG ROBINSON
Vale Ross WE are saddened to advise that the
beloved jacaranda tree, which has
thrived in the University’s Main
It is with great sadness that last month we Quadrangle since 1928, collapsed
on October 28.
lost our friend and comrade Ross Smith. For many years our students
have lived by the folklore that
any undergraduate who fails to
There is no simple way to describe Ross that study before the tree's first bloom
appears will fail their exams.
will do him justice. Ross has been at the heart The tree has also been the
backdrop for thousands of
graduation and wedding photos
of our South Sydney community for years and over its 88-year lifetime.
In 2014 the University advised
I’m sure there will be no shortage of reflections that the jacaranda was nearing the
end of its natural life and hired a
on his impact over the coming months. specialist jacaranda grower to take
cuttings. Grafted onto the base
of other jacarandas, the cuttings
have produced two clones. This
Ross was a loyal Labor member, a fierce means that the University will
be able to replace the jacaranda
advocate for his community and a hard- with genetically identical stock.
Students are reminded that the
working activist for many years. From his work current tree had begun to bloom
and we wish them all well for their
with groups like REDWatch or organising his final weeks of study for 2016.
There is a great deal that
local Labor branches, to delivering the South continues to take place on campus
outside of our teaching semesters
Sydney Herald (SSH) each month, his passion and we invite our neighbouring
community to enjoy our
grounds, facilities and events. The beloved jacaranda tree had started to bloom – but collapsed on October 28.
and convictions always drove him. In the Quadrangle you can visit It will be replaced with identical stock Photo: Supplied
the Nicholson Museum. Australia’s
oldest university museum, it is campus, and on our Indigenous The University’s Sports and
Of his many passions and many years of hard home to the largest collection Tour, you can explore the ways the Aquatic Centre continues to provide
of antiquities in the Southern land that the University is built on a range of programs and facilities
work, what was perhaps most special about Hemisphere. There’s currently was used by local communities for everyone all year round. There
even a Lego model of Pompeii before European settlement. are kids’ camps and swimming
for the children to delight in. Wandering the campus, you lessons, personal training and group
Ross was his consistent and unwavering On the opposite side of the can learn more about the myriad fitness, seniors’ wellness programs,
Quadrangle, you’ll find the of different plants you can see first aid courses and our 50-metre
advocacy for the social housing community. University Art Gallery, inside the by downloading the “Campus indoor pool. Our campus is open to
War Memorial Arch, while from Flora” app. It provides details of everyone and I hope you will enjoy it
For years Ross argued, petitioned, campaigned there you can cross Science Road more than 1,000 individual plants over the coming days. S
to visit the Macleay Museum, on campus, including botanical
and spoke up for the many different residents which holds the oldest natural details and interesting facts.
history collection in Australia. Later in November, Ben &
of South Sydney. As we look around our All of our museums are free and Jerry’s Open Air Cinema will
open to the public Monday to Friday return to campus, on Gadigal
10am–4.30pm and the first Saturday Green. The cinema will show a
community today, we can see a special of the month from 12–4pm and our variety of new releases and old Greg Robinson is Director, Campus Infrastructure
exhibitions are constantly changing. favourites from November 25 to and Services. Authorised by Michael Spence,
community connection that embraces diversity You can also take a guided tour December 20. Relax beforehand Vice‑Chancellor of the University of Sydney.
of our campus. On our Heritage with some of the best local live Contact Details – Security & After Hours:
and is a testament to Ross’s work. Tour you can learn about the music, including sets from the 1800 063 487 (24/7). Enquiries: 9114 0523;
architecture of the Camperdown most exciting emerging musicians. local.community@sydney.edu.au
Earlier this year, he wrote for the SSH that we
needed to “acknowledge that housing is not Justin loves to chat about the world
a commodity for short-term speculation or THE BIG ISSUE I think that’s to do with the lockout
laws, but there are a lot of friendly
a vehicle for wealth accumulation. Rather, it SAMUEL CLARKE people around the area, there are
always people walking past.
is the place for people to raise a family and IT has been over a year since “I have some very friendly people
Justin first walked into The Big who come and say hello. We have
the base from which they can be part of a Issue office in Redfern to sign up a chat about the world and all that
as a vendor. Originally selling stuff. It’s pretty good, very enjoyable.
now and then Justin has become “Before I joined The Big Issue I was
community – that is, a home.” more regular as his confidence has a store person and forklift driver at
grown. He can be found selling a few companies but I was unable
the magazine outside Kings Cross to continue because of my back; I’ve
It’s true, and this community was Ross’s home station many mornings. got a bulging disc which pushes on
my nerves. That affects what kind
and his family. He is sorely missed. “I got told about The Big Issue of work I can do. I’m very happy
through a mate of mine, Scott, who selling The Big Issue and turning
has done it for a couple of years. it into a full-time role though.
“It was pretty challenging for me “I’d like to thank all my customers
Tanya Plibersek at first because I’m a shy person and for their support, even those people
it was hard to acknowledge people who come up and ask me how I’m
as they walked past. It got easier as going. I really appreciate it.” S
I pushed myself out of my comfort
zone by approaching people and If you or anyone you know could benefit
saying ‘hi’ to them. Eventually I felt from becoming a vendor for The Big
a lot more comfortable out on pitch. Issue, please contact the Sydney office
“It’s been pretty good and I’m for more information: 125-127 Little
in a good spot. Kings Cross has Eveleigh St, Redfern; phone 8332 Justin overcame his shyness and now enjoys vending
changed a bit since I first started and 7200; email sydney@bigissue.org.au Photo: Supplied
NOVEMBER 2016 SOCIAL JUSTICE 5
Government must
take a lead in building
housing affordability
STAFFORD SAUNDERS and community groups – has
been meeting with NSW cabinet
THE Uniting Church and its partners ministers and key MPs across
in the Sydney Alliance are urging Sydney to urge the adoption of IZ
the NSW Government and its Greater to help address Sydney’s worsening
Sydney Commission to take a lead in housing affordability crisis.
setting housing affordability targets Lack of accessible affordable
in all major new developments. housing in the NSW rental market, NSW Planning Minister Rob Stokes meeting on September 5 with Uniting Church NSW and ACT Moderator
especially around the major cities, Rev. Myung Hwa Park, Helen Wood from Uniting and David Barrow of Sydney Alliance Photo: Supplied
A key tool in tackling has reached crisis proportions.
affordability, experts believe, Sydney Alliance Lead Organiser of rentals in major new developments IZ has been endorsed by a Sydney Commission over the
is the adoption of Inclusionary David Barrow says: “Thousands should be set to be affordable for wide range of housing, planning, coming months as it compiles its
Zoning (“IZ” or “value sharing”): of people, including some of the people on lower incomes; and the social justice and equity, package of recommendations to
setting district-wide minimum most vulnerable in our community, target could be more like 30 per cent church and other community the Baird Government on best
percentages of housing in major can’t find or keep a stable home in larger developments with major organisations and researchers – planning options for the city.
new developments whose rents – undermining their ability to government holdings, especially and by an increasing number of Meanwhile, Uniting’s Social Justice
are set at levels affordable to hold jobs, raise kids, educate in urban expansion zones. politicians of all persuasions. Forum is encouraging supporters
people on lower incomes. or train themselves, and stay “This can and should be done,” Former NSW Liberal Premier to email their own state MP for
IZ is central to a campaign by physically and mentally healthy.” says David Barrow, “as it has Nick Greiner says IZ should better affordable housing policy,
partners in the Sydney Alliance Uniting and the Alliance are been in at least nine countries, in be a key priority for the Baird including IZ. S
– including the Uniting Church in calling on the government, through cities like London, Rotterdam and Government as it offers “significant
Australia Synod of NSW and the the Greater Sydney Commission, to Galway, in over 200 communities in economic and social benefits http://socialjusticeforum.good.do/housing/
ACT and its social justice agency establish district-wide IZ targets in the US – with no harm to housing which cannot be ignored”. emailyourlocalmp-3/
Uniting. The Alliance – including partnership with local councils. They prices or supply, and consistent Sydney Alliance partners are Stafford Saunders is the Campaign
social justice, faith, church, union say a minimum of at least 15 per cent with healthy developer returns.” making submissions to the Greater Director of Uniting Justice Forum.
Musos say ‘no more’ to offshore detention
MARJORIE LEWIS-JONES
SYDNEY-BASED composer and
performer Ruth McCall released
a music video on October 12 to
say “no more” to the cruelty of
Australia’s offshore detention of
asylum seekers. One hundred
and seventy musicians, and
an award-winning filmmaker,
donated their time and talents
to help create the video. Why?
What compelled you to undertake
this creative project?
I made this music video to enable
us as Australians to reconnect with
the heart of the offshore detention
issue, which is compassion, and to
add to the growing push to find a
humane resolution to the worldwide
refugee crisis. It was important
that we as musicians used our
talents to speak for us. Together.
Why did so many musicians
donate their time and talents?
There was a lot of concern among
my professional colleagues over
the issue of offshore detention
– and we all know the arts can
express things in a different way
to speeches. The Solidarity Choir Images of protestors (pictured) are interspersed with other footage and images in the music video to engender compassion Photo: Martin Brady Photography
(Erskineville), The Acca-Pony Choir
(Marrickville), the St James Choir Charlie must travel through the musicians with other images, mostly What makes you confident that scheme some years back. Australia
(Sydney city) and the Sydney Gay wild seas of political and physical of protestors from the Town Hall music and video can engender took significant steps to improve
and Lesbian Choir (Glebe) were turmoil to a place of safety. Will this rally on August 27, representing a compassion where words and our society and to solve current
among the choirs that joined in this little boy make it? The additional wide range of community groups. protest marches may have failed? and potential problems. There was
protest in the hope of encouraging Latin Mass text is about unity – I I don’t believe that words and a general sense of achievement and
Australia to do better as a nation. chose it because of the reference The images and music work powerfully protest marches have failed, but rather pride after the implementation of
to one baptism (through water) together – how have people responded? that Australia is at a moral crossroads that policy, and I believe we can do
What’s the project in a nutshell? and the idea of one humanity. It has been fantastic to see the at this point in history and that many it again by rising to the challenge of
I drew together Sydney musicians response from the wider community. voices are needed to help guide us looking after displaced people, and
and choirs horrified by the atrocities What about the music and Australia’s treatment of asylum towards a more heroic response. that Australia will be better for it.
perpetuated against refugees at filmmaking process? seekers has become somewhat
Australia’s offshore processing Once I’d adapted the song for bogged down in political fear. I What might an honourable response What would you most like people to do
centres. We recorded these musicians piano, strings and six vocal parts, doubt that anyone is really happy from Australia to the worldwide after they have watched the video?
singing and playing an arrangement I collaborated with good friend and with how things are. Now is the refugee crisis look like? Share it! S
of Speed Bonnie Boat, the Scottish award-winning filmmaker Denning time to be more creative and I remember what it felt like to
folksong. In the song, Bonnie Prince Isles. We interspersed footage of the generous with our solutions. participate in the gun buy-back See Skyeboatsong.ozmedia.com
This page is sponsored by Uniting, the Board of the NSW and ACT Synod of the Uniting Church
responsible for the work of community services, chaplaincy and social justice advocacy.
www.uniting.org ... to inspire people, enliven
communities and confront injustice
6 NEWS NOVEMBER 2016
Jenny Leong MP
STATE M EM B E R
FOR NEWTOWN Frankie gets blessed
MARJORIE LEWIS-JONES
I’M super excited to be on a play
date with Frankie. It’s like he’s the
Public housing for private profit? human and I’m the dog – skittish
and yappy.
For more than 100 years, government funded public housing has
Leash in hand, I’m wrangling
been available to low income earners in NSW.
the most enthusiastic Jack Russell
Government owned estates provided working class people, the bitsa in Australia. My neighbours
warn me not to take him.
elderly, new immigrants, young families, and working people on low- “He’ll probably burst into flames
income, essential services the opportunity to live in our cities and when he’s blessed. He’s so naughty!”
I don’t believe them.
regional centres, and participate in their local communities.
To me, he’s the purest bundle of
In recent decades we have seen a shift. Successive governments joy. The way he jumps into the air
to nuzzle my hand each and every
have under invested in maintaining safe, secure, affordable housing time he sees me makes me wonder,
for low-income earners. Many public housing tenants suffer long- “Why are humans so often restrained
around the people we love?”
standing issues around maintenance and safety.
To be honest, I don’t know what to
Public housing is now only available to those with expect as I enter the Uniting Church
in South Sydney on Sunday October
the greatest need. And even then, it’s in extremely 2 for its service in praise of creation.
short supply. It’s definitely not the vicar
of Dibley with farm animals
There are now more than 100,000 people on the waiting list for honking and bleating.
public housing in NSW, with many waiting for more than ten years It definitely is animal friendly
– and having a dog by my side
for a home. makes chatting before the
service begins quite relaxing.
The Baird Liberal government is selling off and redeveloping public In fact, I’m so chilled by the time
housing. They intend to shift the management of thousands of public it starts I forget to panic when a
housing properties – about a third of all public housing in NSW – parishioner passes the microphone
to people who’ve brought pets (or
to the control of the community-housing sector. photos of them) so we can share our
experiences. When it’s my turn to
Community housing providers have traditionally been not-for-profit speak, I say Frankie is such a blessing
organisations that provide important support services for tenants and to me – I wanted to bring him to the
service to have him blessed back. Frankie primed for his next adventure Photo: Marjorie Lewis-Jones
play an essential role in the provision of affordable housing in NSW.
This is my first date with my
The big concern about the recent changes is the potential neighbours’ dog and I find myself
trying to guess what Frankie’s
risk it opens up for big corporations to enter into the thinking as the dogs Rango, Frances,
“business” of supply and management of public housing. Lucy, Finnegan, Jenny, Bobbie,
Ebony, Sammy and Horace; the
As a way of honouring the work of the late Ross Smith, a staunch cats Carrington, Esky and Augie;
public housing advocate, I took up the concerns he raised in last the canary Jasper; and the axolotl
Lotty are introduced or spoken of
month’s newspaper that the British corporation Serco had “made in absentia during the service.
overtures” to the NSW Government in regards to the management I also wonder what Frankie makes
of public and community housing, by asking a question of the of the preacher, Alison Clark, who
says God’s good news is about
Treasurer about this. bringing freedom for all creatures:
“Freedom from whatever it is that
Shamefully the Government has failed to rule it out. prevents us living in the fullness
of what we were created to be.”
Serco became infamous in Australia through their operation of Clark speaks of how the animal-
detention centres. They have been criticised by the Australian loving St Francis of Assisi believed in
Human Rights Commission and been the subject of numerous “preaching the gospel to all creatures,
using words when necessary” – and
complaints by detainees in those centres. Serco have also run a of how she had seen the power of
number of Australian prisons. words in her “pat and chat” sessions
with her dog Jenny. “When I talk
In the UK, Serco have held contracts to deliver housing services, about God, and how much he cares
including settlement services for asylum seekers, as well as prisons. for her and how much he loves her,
her demeanour changes and she gets
Many of those operations have been the subject of scandal. a completely different look in her
eyes. She’ll often just reach out and
Despite Serco’s international reputation, the NSW give me a single lick on the nose, as
Government has made it clear that the door is wide if to say, ‘I understand what you’re
open for Serco to step in to the public housing sector saying Mum – God’s really good.’”
Robyn Vazey has brought her dog
in NSW. Sammy to South Sydney to be blessed Pip Clark with dogs Jenny and Frances Photo: Marjorie Lewis-Jones
for the last four or five years. She says
Regards, Clark’s words have made her think deserve our respect and protection died sweating buckets despite her
of all of the unfortunate animals in and not our domination and cool character and snowy name.
the intensive-farming system that destruction. Count the species that It’s hopelessly anthropomorphic
have no freedom, and spend their are disappearing each year – and I of me to say this, but I think Frankie
whole lives just waiting to be killed. suspect you’ll say amen to that. loved hanging with me and the other
Jenny Leong, MP for Newtown “I think pets today are very As Frankie’s nose twitches, his eyes pooches at church – and I’m sure he’d
lucky,” she says. “But there are a twinkle and his stocky little body come with me again if I asked him.
Can we help? lot of animals in the world that yanks me towards his next feverish I’m still caught up in his animal
are very unlucky – and my prayers adventure, my heart surges with enthusiasm when I return home and
If you are concerned about a local issue or if our office can assist and thoughts are with them in gratitude. Not just for him but for say I think we should get a dog.
you with a specific matter, please get in touch. their raw deal. If we can eat less all the world’s creatures that crawl, My husband looks at me, slit-
meat, that’s really the best thing run, swim, float and fly around us. I eyed, like a sleepy crocodile.
we can do without words [to free think of the hippopotami in Kruger, “Let’s not,” he says. “We want
animals]. Eastgardens’ pet shop the puffins in the Faroe Islands, and to travel again, remember.”
Authorised by is now selling vegetarian dog the dopey Red Setter I loved but I stick a note on the fridge that
Jenny Leong MP food. So yeah: Eat less meat.” who went missing 30 years ago (and says, “Organise play date.”
State Member for Newtown Once the animals have been I haven’t had a dog since). I think Yes, it’s with Frankie: Such a
blessed and we’ve each received of the bees that swarmed around a divine little dog. S
383 King St, Newtown, NSW 2042 a banksia-echidna and a “Thank friend’s gumtree as we relaxed in her
You God” card for our pets made garden, the bat babies that the WIRES Visit http://www.wires.org.au/donate/
T: 02 9517 2800 F: 02 9230 3352 by the children, I’m eager to get volunteer, Meg Churches, rescues ways-to-help to donate to WIRES and
Newtown@parliament.nsw.gov.au Frankie outside. As we’re leaving, from the bellies of their electrocuted http://www.wires.org.au/rescue/become-
I consider how all creatures mothers, and our cat Aspen who a-rescuer to become a WIRES carer.
NOVEMBER 2016 COMMENT & OPINION 7
The plebiscite,
the referendum
and the church
FAITH marriage equality from their
principles? I am a Christian so
PETER MAHER I will offer my comments from
a gospel perspective, although
IT seems the plebiscite on marriage many religions share basic
equality will not pass the Senate values such as love each other as
and therefore will not go ahead you would wish to be loved.
but much damage has already While Christians may have
been done. The fallout affects certain views about marriage in
not only LGBTI people, but also their own religious contexts, the
Indigenous people as we prepare bill before the people of Australia
for the referendum on Indigenous is a civil marriage bill to preserve
recognition in our Constitution. the rights and dignity of all
Australians. Religious bodies may
What role are Christianity need to educate their adherents
and other faiths playing in this? about the meaning of marriage
cartoon: norrie mAy-welby
Can religious principles inform in their own denominations and
us on a way ahead that values faiths and to explain how this
diversity, or are religions falling differs from the Marriage Act.
into the trap of colluding in ways However, religious bodies also
Ross Smith, South Sydney Herald’s Volunteer Coordinator and distributor, was a prominent and loved member that exclude and discriminate? regularly comment on national and
of South Sydney who contributed years of service to the community. Ross passed away suddenly on October 4. While the risks to vulnerable civic issues for the common good.
This was Ross’s last letter to SSH, and is characteristic of his concerns for justice, accountability and a LGBTI people may be lessened How might they proceed here?
flourishing society. We run it as our November editorial to pay tribute to him. without a plebiscite they are I suggest Christians begin by
certainly not gone. Damaging demanding respect for the dignity
remarks about parenting of each person irrespective of race,
Industry-speak, bureaucracy competences will continue. We
know from the tenor of the debate
that it is a debate about gay and
creed or sexual orientation. While
this seems self-explanatory, we
must ensure that comments are
and other catastrophes lesbian people, rather than a
dialogue with them. The majority
of the population are making
not only factual (for example it is
disingenuous to cite out-of-date,
academically discredited research
decisions about a minority. LGBTI such as the Regnerus research on
G U E S T E D IT O R I A L The two have entirely different healing the problems caused by people and their children find gay parenting) but also respectful.
characteristics and should never the actions of the government. this threatening and intimidating. This might be achieved by dialogue
ROSS SMITH be regarded as interchangeable. Today the government has Australia’s top health professionals with LGBTI people to find language
NSW’s Department of Housing, succeeded in denying itself the have noted the risks for gay and that includes and respects rather
TAKE a look at the loaded term for example, embraced the concept benefits of forming a functional lesbian mental health, and are than offends and hurts. Many LGBTI
“community participation”, of social capital in 1984 at the two-way relationship with their suggesting that the money saved Christian groups would willingly
among other semantics, and direction of its Minister, the late electorate. The government has by abandoning the plebiscite be assist church leaders in this task but
ask: “Have you ever heard of Frank Walker. The “bridging social isolated itself from those it is meant redirected to LGBTI mental health. they mostly have been excluded,
‘government participation’?” capital” concept – overlapping of to be serving and the very cause of its What has all this got to do ignored or vilified by church leaders.
social networks – was included existence – the community of NSW. with next year’s referendum for Gospel values of love, equality,
The relationship between the in the guiding principles Whether the rejection of the constitutional recognition of care for the voiceless and respect
government and the community underpinning the department’s community arises from fear on the Indigenous Australians? Marcia for the dignity of all could
should be productive for tenant participation activities. government’s part of losing absolute Langton and other Indigenous support and inspire Australia’s
both the community and the Social capital comprises control is yet to be explored. leaders have noted that a negative, LGBTI and Indigenous people.
government, while residing within participation, trust, reciprocity, The imposition of rigid divisive debate on marriage Christian leaders might commit
a framework of mutuality. and relational networks. It’s government programs that reflect equality brings out the fear of to a discourse of deep respect
The participatory process an almost intangible concept, the priorities of politicians and change in people. Just as with and listening to marginalised
engaged in by the government is underpinning the social fabric that bureaucrats – rather than those of the Brexit vote in the UK, a spirit voices and indeed amplify those
commonly referred to as “community holds the community together. the local communities they represent of rejection of change could voices that are crying out not to
participation”. This expression One description of social capital and serve – creates barriers to follow on to the referendum. be strangled by the majority.
implies that participation is a process is the ideology used by governments achieving a productive mutually Religious bodies have by and We religious people have much
applicable to the community and to place responsibility for social beneficial relationship between the large remained silent on marriage to learn about how to contribute
places obligations on the community. problems in the hands of the community and their government. equality or have actively opposed constructively to the new world
There is no element of mutuality in community, that is, avoidance The government has yet to it such as we have seen from the emerging around us. It is about
the term. For the engagement process of government responsibility for answer the question of whether Australian Christian Lobby. This being a leaven in the communities
to deliver its full potential, both problems caused by injustice and they want such a functional two- has led to some fairly dubious to which we belong without
parties must actively desire to be in inequalities within society. way relationship. Perhaps the claims in an effort to scare people. compromising our uniqueness and
a genuine two-way relationship with This has been the government’s reason for the delay is tied up in For example, marriage equality is sustainability as one voice within
an overall neutral power balance. demonstrated approach to community the government’s reluctance to be not going to change the parenting a multicultural, multi-faceted and
There also needs to be recognition participation – the community is accountable and transparent in their patterns of gay couples, nor will multifaith society learning to live
that participation is not consultation. responsible for identifying and then dealings with the community. S the marriage bill affect how sex in harmony and peace for the good
education is taught, or anti-bullying of all. S
programs are run, in schools.
Social mix: mantra masking reality
How might religious bodies Fr. Peter Maher is the parish priest at
contribute to the discourse about St Joseph’s Catholic Church in Newtown.
COMMENT talking about it in relation to public such projects have shown some and you had to have your current public housing was separated by
housing renewal, we would be positive outcomes. As my son house inspected to show you could a wall from the private housing
GEOFF TURNBULL seriously discussing affordable put it in a recent meeting with look after a government property. with its private green space. If one
housing. We would be asking how UrbanGrowth: “What about social Today we have a growing building has its own facilities and
“SOCIAL mix” is the current mantra those who work in the city can mix in Double Bay, mate?” concentration of people with the other does not, where will the
the NSW Government mantra uses also live in it. We would be asking But there is no discussion high needs in public housing, mix occur? Statistically everything
to justify its model for redeveloping how we can increase the amount about these issues. Social mix not because of some natural will look better, but will there be
public housing. of social housing to address the is just the latest mantra. phenomena, but because a functional mixed community?
growing waiting list. We would In fact, our social housing estates government policy decides to What needs to happen to create
Rather than talking about be looking to house the homeless are very socially mixed with allocate this housing to people social mix from tenure mix? How do
developers selling off 70 per cent and provide appropriate housing, people from many backgrounds, with higher and higher needs we get resources committed upfront
of a development on the private and the services they need, for nationalities and religions living without adequate support, rather so social mix actually results?
market to build 30 per cent of the people with high needs. We would side by side supporting one another. than build more housing stock To do this we need a discussion
development for public housing, not be selling off public housing This social cohesion is under threat to maintain the earlier system. about the complexities of social mix
the government dresses up the in the inner city or deciding that from the redevelopment proposals. The concentration government not a continual repetition of the
economics and politics of public some places like Millers Point If people are moved out they will says it wants to mix is entirely current mantra. S
housing redevelopment in the are too good for public tenants. lose their homes, their support of its own policy-making.
respectable garb of social mix. If we are really concerned networks and their community. Finally, government is talking Delivered August 12, 2016 at University
If we were really having a about social mix, where are the When public housing started it tenure mix, which does not of Sydney Social Justice Learning
discussion about social mix in programs to move poor people was affordable housing. You had necessarily lead to social mix. In Lab Glebe. See further literature and
Sydney we would not just be into rich suburbs? In the USA to have a stable job to pay the rent a Melbourne redevelopment the discussion on social mix online at SSH.
8 FEATURE NOVEMBER 2016
My journey
with epilepsy
LYN TURNBULL seizures, which result from abnormal
activity in both hemispheres of
I sat down today to write about the brain simultaneously and where
epilepsy, only to discover that consciousness is lost at the onset
the language used to describe of the seizure (there are many
the different types of seizures I types of generalised seizures); and
experience has changed to reflect unknown, where the origin of the
major scientific advances in the field. seizures can’t be determined.
I’m part of the about 60 per cent
What has not changed is that many of people with epilepsy who have
people with epilepsy still face social focal seizures (formerly known as
isolation and stigma. This is why partial seizures). These seizures
as a former teacher I do all I can to can often be subtle or unusual. My
educate and raise public awareness of childhood comments to my mother
the condition I’ve lived with for most that I could taste blood were not Jem Computer Systems’ team ran in the City2Surf in support of their managing director’s son who has a rare form of uncontrolled epilepsy Photo: Epilepsy Action Australia
of my life, although it wasn’t formally recognised as epilepsy, although
diagnosed until I was almost 30. these episodes probably were focal the roof of the car crushed down daughter, but fortunately before pain to a very healthy 4.1kg baby.
According to the World Health seizures with awareness retained I was slumped in the seat and the I was discharged from hospital, Now, the workings of hormones
Organisation, epilepsy is the world’s (formerly simple partial seizures). damage to my head was minimised. I had my first focal seizure that in the brain are better understood.
most common serious brain disorder. The focus, where my seizures Back in the mid-1980s the influence evolved to a bilateral convulsive It is well accepted that oestrogen
It is more than three times as common begin, is my right temporal lobe so of hormones for women with seizure (formerly secondarily is an “excitatory” hormone, which
as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s it is my senses that are affected. epilepsy wasn’t well recognised, generalised tonic-clonic seizure). means that it makes brain cells give
disease and cerebral palsy. Unlike many who grow out of and the links suggested to me by I also had a prolonged focal off more of an electrical discharge,
Seizures and epilepsy are not epilepsy at puberty, my seizures an alternative health practitioner dyscognitive seizure during the birth so for some women seizures spread
necessarily the same. Seizures changed, so at high school my were dismissed by neurologists I of my son, but fortunately it didn’t when oestrogen levels are high.
involve a disruption of the normal best friend became accustomed to saw at the time. However, the onset become convulsive. My last memory Progesterone, on the other hand,
electrochemical activity of the explaining to teachers why I was of my focal dyscognitive seizures is of warning my husband Geoff is an “inhibitory” hormone, which
brain. While about ten per cent of slumped unresponsively on the floor. with awareness altered (formerly that I was having a “turn”, not a means that it calms those cells down.
the population may have a seizure Again no connection was made and complex partial seizures) coincided contraction. The midwife at the birth My journey with epilepsy has
during their lifetime, epilepsy is the assumption was that “Lyn just has with when I discontinued the centre at RPA who was caring for me been more complicated than many,
only diagnosed when a person a tendency to faint”. Possibly these contraceptive pill. This was when had nursing experience at the epilepsy but neuroscience is making progress
has recurring epileptic seizures. were generalised atonic seizures as my epilepsy was first diagnosed. unit of another major teaching in its understanding, diagnosis
Australian Bureau of Statistics I would usually feel a bit odd, so lean I have been taking various hospital. She reassured Geoff that no and treatment. S
estimates over 250,000 Australians against a wall that I would slide down. antiepileptic medications (AEDs) intervention was needed as long as I
are living with epilepsy. A couple of years later on a road since then, but unfortunately I’m co-operated by following instructions In much of the world November is
Seizures can be divided into trip with friends from uni, I lost not part of the approximately 70 and she was able to monitor that epilepsy awareness month. Epilepsy
three major groups: focal, where control of the car I was driving, per cent of people who gain full the baby’s heart rate continued to Action Australia has launched E-Tea so
seizure activity starts in one area rolling it four times. This time seizure control with treatment. be normal. A couple of hours later I people can put on the kettle and have a
of the brain and may spread to epilepsy came to my aid as I lost Hormonal changes were regained awareness, although at that cuppa with family, friends or colleagues
other regions of the brain (there are consciousness when I realised I also involved when a couple stage no sense of pain, so I had the to raise funds and to generate awareness
three presentations); generalised couldn’t prevent the accident. When of days after the birth of my joy of giving birth naturally with no of epilepsy. See www.epilepsy.org.au
Change a life, keep culture strong.
Aboriginal carers needed now!
Threads of love for
those who suffer
SSH traditions, including a poignant opening
Help make a difference. song by Gumbaynggir-Wiradjuri musician
Determined to lead the way to survivor Tim Gray and a musical interlude from
Become a Foster Carer. recovery, representatives from combined the Baha’i Community Choir, as well as
faith traditions united on Sunday October a reading from the Royal Commission
To find out how you can help contact our 24 at Pitt Street Uniting Church to light into Institutional Responses to Child
Carer Recruitment team: candles and offer prayers of hope. Sexual Abuse public record, a play excerpt
p: 02 8782 0300 e: newcarers@kari.org.au from Alana Valentine and a remarkable
Jewish, Buddhist, Muslim, Christian, testimonial about recovery by Simon Cole.
Baha’i and Hindu people of faith The ritual closed with participants weaving
participated in a respectful ritual of blue threads through a Melissa Carey
lament and memorial for survivors of artwork to symbolise “that threads of love
childhood trauma and abuse. This bold will be woven into the lives of all who
step forward in unity and collaboration suffer”. The event was held in support of
www.kari.org.au Changing Lives. Keeping Culture. featured music from several faith the Blue Knot Foundation. S
The Review November ’16 9
threat posed to the female by male assumptions more than a fear of passing males but rather
The
about a woman’s role. In particular, the stories the fear that Joe’s disappearance will be noted,
all entitled The Drover’s Wife by Murray Bail, and have consequences. The ever-present and
Barbara Jefferis and Mandy Sayer emphasise ominous axe poised in the chopping block
the strength and capability of woman, and the references her terrified state, which proves
Drovers’
inability of the male to reconcile female needs justified by the sexual vengeance wreaked
and desires with their “standard” of womanhood. upon her female body by Joe’s mate.
In Bail’s story, the middle-class townie Purcell’s version also begins with a siege.
Wives
narrator who has been deserted by his wife for a However, the perceived threat, an injured
drover and bush life reflects on, and condemns, Aboriginal man, proves to be not her enemy but
changes in his wife’s conduct. Hazel began to do her salvation. Black, as she calls him, as she shares
“unfeminine” things like chop wood (and sweat!) the colonial prejudice against Aborigines, reveals
and he is completely traumatised when she kills to Molly that her mother was Aboriginal. At
a snake at the beach. Mandy Sayer’s story gives first, she slaps him but eventually his revelation
Hazel’s perspective on events. In this version, brings a new understanding of herself, and
Hazel’s husband leaves her after she displays of her husband’s brutal treatment of both her
an unseemly passion that does not accord with and his children. This knowledge gives her the
his “standards” of feminine behaviour. Jefferis’s strength to endure the loss of children stolen
A magnificent Leah Purcell plays the wife in the recent production of The Drover’s Wife at the Belvoir Theatre Photo: Brett Boardman
story is critical of Lawson’s story, as the female by the state and faith in her ability to get
narrator sees the anonymity of the wife as them back. Leaving the white world, she takes
Catherine Skipper Nevertheless this resolute woman still takes objectifying the woman. She wants her readers the path described to her by Yadaka, Black’s
pleasure in reading the Young Ladies Journal. to know “about how women have a history too”. real name, and which will lead “to the cave,
WHEN I heard Henry Lawson’s The Lawson’s own contemporary Barbara Baynton Leah Purcell’s staged version of The Drover’s supplies and in the spring … (our) people”.
Drover’s Wife being dismissed by an arts reacted strongly against Lawson’s perspective Wife wants her audience to know that Aboriginal We might feel comforted by the vision of
commentator as “old hat”, I was surprised. in her short story The Chosen Vessel. Her central women also have a history. While Purcell’s this woman, resurrected by the knowledge of
First published in The Bulletin on July 23, character, a shearer’s wife, lives with her child re-imagining reprises many of the details her Aboriginality, but for the closing passage.
1892, the story was groundbreaking. At a in the bush, and is alone for long periods of from Lawson’s story – the death of a child, the Embracing her son in a reversal of the Lawsonian
time when acknowledgement of gender time. While she doesn’t like the bush it is not gallows-faced swagman, a stray Aboriginal, conclusion, and clutching her rifle, she says
equality was unimaginable, Lawson’s story the desolate land that presents a threat to the mad bullock, the protective son – they are “And when ya’re old enough … I’ll introduce
puts forward the idea that a woman could her survival, but rather how she is perceived reworked in a radically different context. you to Robert Parsen and John McPharlen”. It
equally represent the newly emerging by the males with whom she has contact. In some ways Purcell’s story is closer to seems that Molly is dedicating her son, and the
Australian identity of the noble bushman. When the story opens she, like the drover’s Baynton’s version. Her drover’s wife, one heavily future, to exacting vengeance for her rape and
wife, is dreading what the night may bring. pregnant and fearful Molly Johnson, lives alone thereby perpetuating white masculine violence.
Lawson’s story begins at sunset when the A swagman is camped not far from her home in the outback with her eldest son, her other There are yet other versions of Lawson’s
drover’s wife, who lives alone with her four and is waiting for the dark to attack her. children away as birth is imminent. She is story than those discussed, for instance,
children in an isolated, inhospitable environment, She thinks of going to her husband but he subjected to abuse by an array of conniving or Anne Gambling’s The Drover’s De Facto, and
sees a snake slipping under the house. While would only dismiss her trepidation with brutal white males despite the single shot Martini another by Frank Moorhouse, and more
she sees the snake as a danger at the same time contempt. When her fears eventuate she flees Henry rifle she relies on for protection. Like may still lie ahead. Far from being “old hat”
she calmly sets about securing the safety of her into the night but her appeal for help from a Lawson’s wife, Molly tries to bluff strangers into the drover’s wife seems to be a figure upon
children and prepares to spend the night awake passing horseman is ignored as the young man believing that her husband will be back soon, a whom Australian writers choose to inscribe
in the company of her dog Alligator, in case the thinks he is having a vision of the Virgin and pretense that underscores a woman’s vulnerability. socio-cultural conflict over inclusivity.
snake reappears. During her vigil she remembers her child. Her femininity not only makes her However, it is later revealed that Molly has The Drover’s Wife, written by Leah Purcell
other threatening situations she has faced vulnerable but also brings about her destruction. killed her husband in self-defence and buried and directed by Laticia Caceres, was recently at
without her husband – flood, drought, bovine Several other later stories recycle the image him under the woodheap. This circumstance the Belvoir Theatre, with a magnificent Leah
pleuro, a menacing swagman – and survived. of the drover’s wife, each one exploring the causes us to reconfigure Molly’s fearfulness as Purcell taking the role of the drover’s wife.
Eclectic mix draws crowds
to Artisans in the Gardens
Marjorie Lewis-Jones are. They’re so creative. Look at these scarves
by Zoe Wall. So beautiful and versatile.”
“IT’S my dream job,” says Lucette Moore, Robin McBride also happily gives her time to
curator of Artisans in the Gardens at botanic garden events like Artisans, Botanica and
the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney Treecycle, because it’s such a gentle and relaxing
– a nine-day exhibition that showcases place. “I got married here five years ago at Lion
Australian art and craft, and continues Gate Lodge – so I have happy memories.”
to pack in the crowds in its 16th year. Ceramicist Katherine Mahoney has
exhibited three times in Artisans and used
“Artisans is a lovely mix [of emerging this year’s theme of nature and the garden to
and established artists] and quite eclectic. extend her range of hand-thrown pieces.
That’s what’s fascinating about it. Finding “My inspiration came from the local
these amazing people. It’s just terrific.” sandstone and the beautiful rocks you find
Katherine Mahoney used this year’s nature theme to extend her range of hand-thrown ceramics Photo: Marjorie Lewis-Jones
One find was Jim Hamilton who crafts with the little speckles of gold. I’ve introduced
agapanthus and cactus out of iron wire. some new shapes and some gold into the
“Jim’s a sheep farmer who wouldn’t class range – so that’s a big, new step for me.” can serve the strawberries and the coconut “Different artists come at different
himself as an artist or an artisan and, all of a Mahoney says one huge benefit of cream in a cloud of liquid nitrogen – and times but there’s no pressure for
sudden, he’s become one overnight. He’s done being at Artisans is getting feedback then he’s putting a blackcurrant veiling them to be here because we have
so well – and is absolutely pleased as punch.” from customers about her tableware. on top of that … It’s a big challenge!” sales people on the job. So it’s a
In curating the exhibition, Moore volunteered “I work in isolation – and I’m in my little Moore is excited by the work of the many lovely atmosphere for the artists.
time over ten months to visit galleries, trawl workshop all day. Here I can communicate emerging artists featured this year and mentions “I don’t think there’s anything like it.”
Instagram and negotiate with more than 45 with the people who are buying the pieces or Holly Macdonald’s quirky hand-painted
artisans to secure their involvement. She and looking at them. I get some really valuable pottery, Kate O’Farrell’s acrylic and ply bowls, Proceeds from Artisans in the
the volunteer committee also managed the feedback as to how people look at the colours, Kai Wasikowski’s 3D photographs, and Pamela Gardens go to the artists and to assist
logistics for more than 2,500 artworks to how they like to put things together.” Pudan’s ceramic orbs with fine wafers. Foundation and Friends of the Botanic
be displayed from October 15 to 23 at the When Mahoney’s not helping customers The diverse mix of contemporary art, Gardens in its support of horticulture,
Lion Gate Lodge for visitors to purchase. she’s mulling over a baby-pink plate she’s sculptures, ceramics, textiles, bespoke conservation, scientific research and
Ann Robinson has volunteered for 12 of the making for Troy Rhoades-Brown from homewares and jewellery has attracted good education programs within the gardens.
16 years of Artisans because she enjoys it. “I Muse restaurant in the Hunter Valley. crowds in 2016, and Moore has enjoyed – Front page banner photo of artist
love coming here and seeing how clever people “I’ve got to get it right for him so he watching its creators bask in the Artisans’ oasis. Jade Oakley by Carolyn Price.
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