to the winter edition of Darling! Your seasonal guide to the best of Balmain and Rozelle.
In this edition, we’re excited to launch the Darling front cover photo competition. The inaugural winner stood out for its creativity and strong sense of local identity, perfectly capturing the mood and character of winter in the Inner West. With so many talented photographers in the area, both professional and emerging, we look forward to seeing the entries in future editions.
As always, Darling is proudly brought to you by the Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting a thriving, connected business community. Follow our socials to stay up to date with everything that’s happening in our neighbourhood. Happy reading!
Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee
Publisher: Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce
Front cover: Anzac Bridge
Photography: Mary Regan
Circulation: 20,000
All material is protected by the Copyright Act. No part of this publication may be produced without permission. Whilst every care has been taken in producing this information, it does not guarantee accuracy. All contributors and advertisers are responsible for their content and information. All prices and information are correct at time of print.
To enquire about future issues, please contact us on balmainrozelle@gmail.com
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land we live and work, the Gadigal and Wangal peoples of the Eora nation, and pay our respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Team
This magazine is driven by a passion for our community and the stories that make it so special. Each edition celebrates the local heroes, rich history, thriving businesses, and vibrant events that bring our Balmain and Rozelle to life. We’re incredibly grateful to our readers, advertisers, and contributors for their support.
Annelie and Belinda
A special thank you to our supporters and contributors who have donated their time and services:
Guest Writers
Mina Iacono, Christine Knight, Duncan MacAuslan, Niamh Olle, Chris Taylor
Our dedicated team of letterbox walkers
Thank you to Fiona Robinson, our art director, for bringing this issue to life.
All about Balmain and Rozelle
Balmain East is less than a 5-minute ferry ride from Barangaroo.
The Balmain Rozelle peninsula is home to 19 heritage pubs.
Australia’s oldest harbourside pool, Dawn Fraser Baths is here in Balmain. harbourside parks to explore. Buy some takeaway or pack a picnic and enjoy the views. 9
magazine is
WHAT THEY’RE WORTH PAY NSW NURSES AND MIDWIVES
Our community deserves a health system where nurses and midwives are valued, supported, and able to provide the care we all rely on. After years of campaigning, NSW nurses and midwives have secured a pay rise, but it doesn’t go far enough.
Despite this increase, NSW nurses and midwives are still paid less than their colleagues in Queensland and Victoria, and are still missing out on safer staffing, fair sick leave, and flexible working conditions. With more nurses leaving for better conditions interstate, the NSW Government needs to step up and deliver the pay and support they deserve.
Please sign our petition calling on the Premier to deliver fair pay and conditions for NSW nurses and midwives.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, I’m here to help
Image Credit: Morsa Images
An idea for council: let’s erect an honour roll for great moments in Balmain redevelopment. For all its reputation as an historically preserved enclave, the peninsula sure likes to get the wrecking ball out and take it for a swing.
Sometimes it’s swift and brutal. Other times, such as the renovation of the Unity Hall Hotel, the work can seemingly be endless, stretching on year after year with little evidence of any progress. I like to think of the Unity as Balmain’s version of the Sagrada Familia, the perennially unfinished cathedral in Barcelona designed by Gaudi. Both buildings share a love of incompletion, and both somehow manage to combine sacred ritual (Sunday Mass in Barcelona, greyhound watching in Balmain) with the ever-present risk of a falling scaffold.
The Unity has always had my respect for gallantly trading through its jackhammer years, when exposed wires mingled with gyprock dust to create Sydney’s most industrial-chic bar. The theme was further reinforced by the fact that many of the Unity’s patrons wear hi-vis; so, to the long-suffering bar staff, it was never completely clear which of the hi-vis wearers were punters, and which were just sub-contractors there to knock through a new wall.
Balmain Watch Tower
with Chris Taylor
But my all-time favourite Balmain redevelopment would have to be the turning circle for buses at the Balmain East ferry wharf. A short recap, for those coming late to the story: for years, the cul-de-sac turning circle at the far end of Darling St was an improbably tall order for motorists, and a life-sapping torment for bus drivers. Nobody took it on without understanding that the next 3 minutes of their life would entail pushing a steering wheel to its limits to affect a 3-point turn on the head of an asphalt pin. Bus drivers got hernias just thinking about it.
But in 2016, salvation was at hand. An upgrade was announced, ensuring the days of the 3-point-turn nightmare would finally be over. Bus drivers wept as they pictured completing the turn in a crisp, single arc. Not only would it be kinder on their bodies, but it would also make it easier for them to speed away from connecting ferry commuters who were hoping to get on the bus: nothing gives a 442 driver more job satisfaction.
So imagine their disappointment — indeed their utter desolation — when, on the day of the big unveiling, the new turning circle still required bus drivers to make a 3-point-turn. It was basically just the old turning circle, but with slightly nicer landscaping. The sound of bursting hernias could be heard for miles across the harbour.
But emerging as the victors in this mystifying venture were the bus commuters themselves, who had been needlessly gifted some extra paving at the bus stop. A perfect place to indefinitely stand, to watch our bureaucracy turn round in circles.
Five minutes with...
Most Australians know Casey Burgess as one of the beloved faces of Hi-5, but these days you’ll just as likely find her teaching Pilates, enjoying a coffee on Darling Street or chasing after her young family around Balmain. With deep ties to the local community and an exciting new project on the horizon, Casey shares what makes Balmain such a special place to live.
What sparked your love of performing?
Performing is in my genes and I’ve always loved it. My dad, Ray Burgess was a singer and TV presenter and had me singing on camera from an early age, and my mum Jenny was a dancer.
Hi-5 was a big part of Australian childhoods. What’s your fondest memory from that time? There are so many memories from that time that I’ll always cherish. Travelling and working with so many amazing people was fantastic. The charity work overseas with World Vision was also incredible and something I’ll never forget, along with all the amazing families and children who we were lucky enough to perform for.
What’s it like running into locals who remember Hi-5?
It’s amazing! I love hearing people’s Hi-5 stories and many still come and watch me sing locally which is lovely.
You’ve moved between television, music, and stage. Which area of performing do you enjoy the most?
Singing will always hold the most special place for me, but I absolutely love working in TV. There is something magical about live TV.
What first drew you to Balmain?
I moved to Balmain at age 12 with my mum and she made the move for me as all of my friends lived here. What a great mum! I have so many memories around Balmain and came back after a few years living east — the community here is so special.
What do you enjoy most about being part of this community?
I am a Pilates teacher at Balmain Bodies, and we’ve built a strong community. It’s the same across Balmain — we have each other’s backs, and you’ll always bump into someone you know on Darling Street!
Any favourite local spots that you find yourself returning to?
For coffee and bacon and egg roll I love RREES, it’s the best! For live music and a great pub lunch, I always choose the Native Rose.
How does living in Balmain influence your creative work?
There are always people around willing to have a conversation — other mums, artists, musicians. It’s a fantastic place to connect and collaborate!
What’s next for you, are there any creative projects you’re working on?
I have a very exciting project coming up which I’ll be launching soon but you’ll have to follow @binobubs on instagram to find out more.
On the cover
Local photographer Mary Regan has captured the heart and character of the Inner West, taking out the inaugural Darling front cover photography competition. Mary’s work beautifully reflects the people, places and atmosphere that make this area so special. Her winning photograph stood out for its creativity and strong sense of local identity, and capturing the season of winter.
How did you get into photography?
I’ve always been interested in design, art, and stories, always taken holiday snaps. When travel was restricted during the pandemic, I started exploring more of Sydney with my camera, out photographing almost daily, and my interest grew into a passion.
You capture a lot of local scenes, what do you love most about this area?
I love our bays, parks, maritime and built heritage, friendly people and the village atmosphere. I’m also involved with the annual Glebe Art Show in October, supported by both the Inner West Council and City of Sydney, and I really enjoy promoting the talent of our many local artists.
Can you tell us the story behind your winning photo? On any day as sunset
approaches, you’ll find me checking the forecast. That day, I looked out the window, quickly grabbed my gear, and rushed to this favourite location, just in time. The photo is a long exposure to emphasise the reflection and colours.
Tell us a moment when you just had to get a shot? I will never forget looking directly into the innocent eyes of a polar bear cub, three metres away, in northern Canada.
What inspires your photography?
Every day I notice views, patterns, stories, beauty in a sunrise or nature that I am compelled to share. I’ve become part of a great community of photographers, who’ve helped me learn, and constantly encourage and inspire me to try different things.
What does it mean to you to be on the front cover of Darling?
I love the Inner West, it’s been my home for 30 years, so to have one of my shots of the Anzac Bridge showcased locally is really special.
Dream location to photograph?
The Northern Lights in Scandinavia, hopefully in the next couple of years!
MARY REGAN reganmaryt glebeartshow.org.au
Are you a photographer? Darling is always looking for cover-worthy shots for our front cover. If you have a photo to submit, email us at balmainrozelle@gmail.com
The Balmain Bike Bus
The Sustainable Transport group of Climate Change Balmain Rozelle are behind the initiative and have seen a steady increase in riders since the first bike bus departed in November 2024. E-bikes has brought newer demographics to the group — particularly women and older riders. An e-bike turns the journey into a transit rather than as an exercise activity. What began as a response to heavy traffic during the train strikes at the end of 2024 has grown into a weekly bike bus, powered by pedals and propelled by a community of sustainabilityminded locals.
The Bike Bus meet at Loyalty Square every Wednesday and depart there at 8.10am, cycling single file down quiet back streets of Balmain, ending up along Robert Street in Rozelle. They make a brief stop at White Bay Power Station to pick up more attendees before crossing the Anzac Bridge to Pyrmont. The route after that is flexible and is dictated by the attendees. Sometimes the organisers help them get to their destination, other times they have time for a quick coffee before some attendees head off to work and others make the return journey to Balmain.
A core group of regulars has emerged, each drawn to the Bike Bus for different reasons. Some enjoy the camaraderie of riding to work together, while others value the chance to build confidence and skills in a safe, welcoming environment. Designed mainly for adult commuters, the Bike Bus helps people learn how to ride to and from the city with confidence. Safety is central, with one experienced organiser leading the group and another bringing up the rear. The route
sticks to lower-speed streets and separated or shared cyclist-pedestrian paths throughout. As Bike Bus Convener Rebecca Fernandez O’Shea explains, “We’ve had attendees with varying levels of experience, and it has been very rewarding to see experienced riders giving tips to newbies, and to see the progress of newer riders as they return over a few weeks. Sometimes when people stop joining, it’s because we’ve already taught them all they need!”
Local representatives Kobi Shetty MP, Councillor Kerrie Fergusson and Councillor Ismet Tastan frequently join the Bike Bus, giving riders the added benefit of chatting with their elected representatives on a relaxed ride to work.
When they’re not riding, the group is advocating for safer cycling conditions in Balmain and Rozelle. The rise of e-bikes has highlighted gaps in existing infrastructure, with many newer riders turning to footpaths because they feel unsafe in traffic, while bike parking, particularly for share bikes, is a growing issue. Their aim is simple — keep pedestrians, cyclists and cars safely separated and improve bike parking without compromising pedestrian access or amenity.
The Balmain Bike Bus is run by volunteers and they’re always looking for new members.
Still here for Balmain and Rozelle
Community is at the heart of everything Community Bank Darling Square does, and its ongoing support of Balmain and Rozelle continues to make a meaningful difference across the peninsula.
More than just a local bank, Community Bank Darling Square works closely with local businesses, schools, sporting clubs and community organisations to help strengthen connections and support initiatives that bring people together.
The bank’s commitment to the community also extends to grassroots sport through its sponsorship of Balmain & District Football Club — a much-loved local club that brings together thousands of children, families, volunteers and supporters each week both on and off the field. Beyond supporting local football, the partnership helps strengthen community connections, encourages participation in sport and creates opportunities for young players to thrive in a positive and inclusive environment. The bank is also excited to continue supporting the club with upcoming events connected to the FIFA World Cup, further bringing the community together through a shared love of the game, with fundraising supporting local charity Together2.
“This year, we’ve had the pleasure of connecting with so many people across Balmain and Rozelle. It’s been wonderful to hear about the exciting things happening locally, especially as many of our customers continue to share their stories with us,” said Community Bank Darling Square Director Vinh Van Lam.
Sydney Secondary College Balmain Campus, 50th anniversary celebrations
Education is another important focus, with Community Bank Darling Square also supporting Sydney Secondary College Balmain Campus P&C, including the school’s recent 50th anniversary celebrations.
The bank is proud to support the Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce, helping foster local business growth, collaboration and community engagement throughout the area.
As a Community Bank, the model is simple but powerful — when customers choose to bank with Community Bank Darling Square, profits are returned directly back into the community through sponsorships, local projects, events and initiatives that benefit local people. By supporting Community Bank Darling Square, residents and businesses are also helping support the future of the Balmain and Rozelle community.
Connected to the community and committed to making a positive impact, Community Bank Darling Square is proud to continue standing beside the people and organisations that make the peninsula such a special place to live, work and belong.
Join the newsletter and learn more
COMMUNITY BANK DARLING SQUARE communitybanksydney.com communitybanksydney
From Rozelle to the screen
The Artful Dodger is a sequel to Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist, set in 1850s Australia. It follows Jack Dawkins, who has built a reputation as a respected young doctor. When an old acquaintance, Norbert Fagin, reappears, Jack is forced back into the criminal underworld he once knew as London’s notorious pickpocket, the “Artful Dodger.” Season two was largely filmed in Callan Park and local milliner
Catherine Kelly from The Embellish Millinery Atelier created many of the hats featured in the series.
Season one or The Artful Dodger was filmed at several historical sites across Sydney, including Callan Park. For season two, Callan Park was used as the primary base and sets were built around the historical hospital grounds to create the 1850s colony “Port Victory”. If you’ve walked through Callan Park and watched the show, you’ll recognise some of the hospital buildings and grounds as the colony streets and hospital areas.
Rozelle milliner Catherine Kelly contributed a number of supplies and props for season one of the series, so acclaimed costume designer Marion Boyce was curious to visit The Embellish Millinery Atelier herself in the leadup to the second season.
Catherine says, “We were so excited to meet Marion in person and learn she was doing the costumes for season two. She loved our atelier and spent time absorbing everything. And she was so complimentary of all our hats! Marion came back a few days later with sketches and shared her vision for the season two costumes. We had such a wonderful time discussing styles, pulling down hat blocks, and choosing materials.”
Marion is a true master of her craft, and Catherine and her team followed her briefs closely. They worked to a tight schedule and had to adapt as the process began and be available for last minute changes. “Marion brought a clear vision as well as lots of materials and precious trims she wanted us to incorporate in the hats or add to pieces we had previously made. It was very exciting to see everything evolve.”
The team was on standby throughout filming to carry out running repairs and refurbishments, as well as add or replace grosgrain ribbons and adjust head fit and crown height on the men’s hats to ensure the look was just right.
The Embellish Millinery Atelier created many hats for the show, including most of the hats for Lady Fanny Fox, and Lady Jane Fox, as well as several pieces featuring in the ball scene.
Catherine loved every minute of working with Marion and being part of such a big
production. “I especially enjoyed the sourcing and choosing of fabrics and designs. We were a little sad that some pieces we made for Lady Belle Fox didn’t make the show as it was decided she wouldn’t wear many hats. I must admit I really enjoyed watching the series, and seeing our hats feature prominently in so many scenes. Marion’s vision really injected drama and elegance, and I loved seeing the characters really embrace the costumes. It’s a joy to see how everything comes together after hours
and hours of stitching and it was a great honour for our atelier to have been a small part of such an exciting production in our neighbourhood.”
You can watch season two of The Artful Dodger on Disney+.
THE EMBELLISH MILLINERY ATELIER
128 Victoria Rd, Rozelle embellish-hats.com embellish_atelier
THE DAY THE MAN IN THE SUIT HAD TO RUN FOR THE BUS...
Governments on all levels are pushing us to “be more green”— so here I am, doing my small part. A willing participant in the great public transport experiment. A man ready to do his bit for the planet. I had no idea what was about to be done to me.
I don’t normally catch public transport. I went to great lengths to download the apps, learn the routes, and work out the connections. It took genuine effort. I was here, I was trying, and I was green.
I patiently wait at Balmain East Ferry Wharf to catch the 442 up to Gladstone Park and I’m excited! Upon arriving at Gladstone Park, the 433 is sitting right there, engine running, doors closed, its driver lurking within. As the 442 slows to a stop, I ask the driver if the bus ahead is the one that will take me to the end of Darling Street. “Yes,” he says — a good and decent man.
I hop off and walk towards the 433, less than two feet away, clearly visible to the driver. And this is where our villain enters the story. She sees me coming. She knows exactly what I am — a transferring passenger, doing precisely what the public transport system was designed for. And in that moment, something stirs behind those beady eyes. A dark decision is made.
Just as I reach the double doors, she looks me dead in the eye... and closes them. I’m tapping on the glass — the bus hasn’t even moved yet — and she holds my gaze with the quiet satisfaction of someone who has just done something they cannot possibly justify. Then she slowly pulls away.
Have a burning question or an observation you’d like to share? We’d love to hear from you. Write to Dear Darling by emailing balmainrozelle@gmail.com
The 433 leaves Gladstone Park virtually empty. A known transfer stop. A bus was literally sitting beside the 442 that had just delivered its passengers. She left without a single one of them.
And so it came to pass that on this fine Saturday morning, a young man found himself in a full sprint up Darling Street — wearing a suit that took a craftsman the better part of a month to make, a tie that was hand stitched in a small atelier in Paris, and shoes that were hand welted by an artisan who almost certainly never imagined they would one day be used for this.
Yes, I know — I could have waited for the next bus. The point is, any reasonable driver would have seen passengers transferring from the 442 and held for 30 seconds. Our villain, however, is not any reasonable driver.
Here’s the kicker — I made it. As she opens the doors at the next stop and finds me standing there, the look on her face is priceless. The villain has come face to face with her nemesis — a slightly breathless young man in a handcrafted suit who absolutely, categorically refused to be defeated. She just stares at me and says... “Wow.”
M. Ross, Balmain
A. Dear M. Ross, Your story had us laughing, wincing and cheering all at once. We’ve all been there! While we can’t officially endorse sprinting up Darling Street in couture tailoring, we admire your commitment to public transport. Perhaps Transport for NSW needs to consider adding ‘bus transfer etiquette’ to their driver training. At the very least, a little patience might save a few well-dressed commuters from an unexpected workout.
Excellent progress for every student
— no matter their starting point
Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions a family can make.
At St Andrew’s Cathedral School, we support students to grow in confidence, develop their strengths and achieve their personal best throughout their educational journey.
A
school recognised for growth
We are proud that St Andrew’s Cathedral School has been recognised as the Secondary School in NSW showing the greatest academic progress between Years 7 and 9 and ranked fourth among all Primary Schools in NSW for progress between Years 3 and 5, based on NAPLAN data from 2023–2025.
While NAPLAN is just one snapshot, these results tell an important story. They reflect a school where students are consistently moving forward — building knowledge, gaining confidence and discovering what they are capable of achieving.
As Head of School, Dr Julie McGonigle explains, “Progress is one of the most meaningful measures of a school’s impact. It tells the story of where a student begins and how far they are supported to go.”
And that journey doesn’t stop in the middle years. It continues through to exceptional outcomes in the HSC and IB Diploma, preparing students not only for exams, but for life beyond school.
Personal and purposeful learning
At St Andrew’s, we know that no two children are the same. Each student arrives with different strengths, interests and aspirations, and we see it as our responsibility to help each one flourish.
By focusing on progress rather than attainment alone, we ensure that:
• High-potential students are challenged and extended.
• Students needing additional support are equipped with the tools to succeed.
• Every learner is known, encouraged and inspired to improve.
This personalised approach creates an environment where students feel both supported and motivated — where growth is expected, celebrated and sustained.
Teaching grounded in evidence
What underpins this progress is a carefully designed, research-informed approach to teaching and learning. Since 2017, St Andrew’s has developed a K-2 model grounded in cognitive science. Working in collaboration with Professor John Sweller at UNSW, the school has drawn on Cognitive Load Theory and insights from neuroscience to shape how lessons are designed and delivered. This means students benefit from:
• Clear, explicit teaching of complex ideas.
• Carefully sequenced learning that builds knowledge over time.
• Strong foundations that enable deeper thinking and problem-solving.
Just as importantly, our teachers are constantly growing too. Through coaching, collaboration, and professional learning, they refine their practice and share expertise — ensuring that every classroom reflects the best of contemporary education.
Strong writers, confident thinkers
Academic success is not just about what students know — it is about how effectively they can communicate and apply their knowledge. That’s why we have introduced a consistent, cross-curricular approach to writing. Students learn how to construct sentences, develop arguments and use subject-specific language with clarity and precision.
The result is greater confidence, sharper thinking, and stronger performance across all subjects. Alongside this, our Learning Skills programme teaches students how to learn. Drawing on cognitive science, it helps students develop memory strategies, study habits and
organisational skills that support independence and long-term success. Families are partners in this process, gaining insight into how their children learn and how best to support them at home.
More than results
Ultimately, academic progress at St Andrew’s is about more than data or rankings. It is about people. It is about teachers who know their students and care deeply about their growth. It is about students who are encouraged to persevere, take risks and aim high. And it is about families who are welcomed as partners in the journey. The outcome is not only strong academic results, but young people who leave with confidence, curiosity and a genuine sense of possibility.
See the difference for yourself
The best way to understand what makes St Andrew’s Cathedral School unique is to experience it firsthand. We invite you to join a Head of School tour, where you will see our classrooms in action, meet our passionate educators and discover how we support every student to thrive.
Join a Head of School tour and take the first step in your child’s journey of growth and discovery.
ST ANDREW’S CATHEDRAL SCHOOL 474 Kent St, Sydney
sacs.nsw.edu.au
Celebrating 10 years
Tucked away in the old Tilly’s building next to Rozelle Public School you’ll find The Studio. This year marks 10 years of serving the local community, providing physiotherapy, Pilates and exercise programs for all stages of life.
Back in 2016, when The Studio first opened, founder Petra Koenig’s vision of combining physiotherapy and group exercise under one roof was rather novel. Petra wanted to create a space that would see people through their recovery journeys, and into pain-free, progressive and enjoyable exercise. 10 years on, with a refreshed brand and website, The Studio still offers a welcoming environment that reflects the vibrant community we live in.
Since 2016, the health and wellness industry has evolved and we’ve seen a shift away from fixes and cures, towards prevention and self-optimisation. The pandemic was a major inflection point, with its surge of online health and fitness solutions and increased access to virtual healthcare. Wearable technologies have also brought a new focus on baseline health metrics and overall wellbeing.
Discourse around wellness and longevity has come a long way in the last decade, but the founding ideals behind The Studio remain the same. Petra says, “By combining physiotherapy, group exercise and massage services, we are able to support holistic,
Founder Petra Koenig supporting over 50’s clinical exercise
individualised healthcare that can meet the needs of anyone who needs support — regardless of their life stage, physical fitness or specialised needs.”
“As people have become more informed about health and wellbeing, it’s been increasingly rewarding to support them in ways that are personalised, progressive and enjoyable. Whether working one-on-one, in small groups or in larger classes, there’s nothing more satisfying than seeing people embrace
movement while building strength and confidence.”
While The Studio offers a broad range of services, Petra says she is especially excited about the opportunity to support the over 50s in our community to age well. The Studio runs daily strength classes tailored specifically for this age group, with circuit-style functional exercises designed to support bone health, muscle growth and tone, balance, and confidence. Led by a physiotherapist, the classes are enjoyable, welcoming and social, creating a nonintimidating environment where people can build strength and move well.
The Studio team is also continuing to expand its women’s health offerings to better support the community through every stage of life — from pregnancy and postpartum, to returning to exercise, pelvic health and menopause. With thoughtful, specialised care (and yes, a crèche), the team is here to help women move well and feel supported.
We’re helping families across the Inner West build their dreams – from small projects to new builds we’re taking the stress out of renovations.
Let’s get the conversation started, 0411 525 984 or info@apxbuild.com.au www.apxbuild.com.au
Whether you’re selling a property, buying your dream home, or securing an investment, it’s a big move – financially and personally. These milestones deserve timely expert advice, meticulous attention to detail and clear guidance you can trust, backed by strong local knowledge.
Clarity gives you confidence. I take the time to understand what matters most to you, safeguard your interests and keep you clearly informed throughout. The details are handled carefully, deadlines are monitored closely, and your matter moves seamlessly from start to finish.
Dear Bron
Feeling stuck after separation, co-parenting, dating again, or wondering what life looks like now?
Bron O’Loan, our local Family Lawyer, offers practical, compassionate advice for people navigating separation and changing family dynamics.
Q. Dear Bron,
My separation is legally sorted, but I still feel tangled. My ex has re-partnered and introduced her to our children, we message too much, and I feel guilty about dating. How do I move forward?
Tangled
A. Dear Tangled,
First, let’s gently retire the fantasy that once the paperwork is signed, everyone skips peacefully into the sunset with a colour-coded coparenting calendar. No. The legal ending and the emotional ending are not the same thing. You can have parenting arrangements in place, the financial settlement finalised, and still feel like your nervous system is sitting in the corner clutching a cup of tea saying, “Are we okay?”
What you are describing is common. Separation changes routines, identity, traditions, communication patterns and who turns up at Saturday sport. It is not just the relationship that ends. A whole version of life needs to be reorganised.
The key shift is this. Your relationship with your ex has changed form. You are no longer romantic partners. If you have kids together, you are parenting partners. That means the relationship needs new rules, not no rules.
Constant messaging about non-child matters is often the old relationship sneaking back
in through the side door. Familiar, yes. Helpful, no. Start with boundaries. Keep communication child-focused, calm and practical. You do not need to respond to every emotional spark. You are allowed to pause. Choose boring, sensible messages over dramatic ones. Boring is underrated. Boring is where peace lives.
As for your ex’s new partner, your reaction is very human. Often that discomfort you are feeling is not jealousy. It is grief, change and the shock of seeing your old life rearranged.
And dating again? You do not need to earn the right to move forward. Go slowly. Stay honest. Caution after heartbreak is not weakness. It is an experience wearing comfortable shoes.
You are not failing because you still feel tangled a year later. Separation is not one clean cut. It is the gradual untangling of family, identity and connection.
Be patient. Be boundaried. And remember, the goal is not to win the breakup. It is to build a life that feels calm, steady and yours again.
Warmly, Bron O’Loan
HAVE A QUESTION FOR DEAR BRON?
Bron can help. Get in touch by emailing info@oloanfamilylaw.com.au
Is your pet drinking excessively?
Dogs and cats may drink more water than usual for a variety of reasons, from environmental factors to underlying medical conditions. Increased thirst, known as polydipsia, can unfortunately sometimes signal a serious health issue. We spoke to Bianca Betros from Darling Street Vets to learn more.
Environmental heat and increased physical activity can increase fluid loss through panting and faster metabolism, so pets often drink more to regulate their body temperature and stay hydrated.
Diet can also play a significant role. Pets that consume dry food typically require more water than those fed wet or canned food, which contain a higher percentage of moisture. A sudden change in diet (particularly if there is an increase in salt), and behavioural factors such as stress, anxiety or changes in routine can also lead to increased thirst. This can be a coping mechanism and, while less common, can disrupt normal hydration balance. Some pets may drink more simply out of habit or boredom.
Certain medications can cause pets to drink more as a side effect. Drugs such as corticosteroids and diuretics alter fluid balance in the body, often leading to increased thirst.
However, excessive drinking can indicate serious underlying health issues which urgently need to be addressed. In general, drinking more than 100mls of water per kilogram of body weight per day is considered excessive.
Pet owners should monitor changes in water intake alongside other symptoms such as weight loss, lethargy, or changes in appetite. If excessive drinking persists or is accompanied by other unusual signs, consulting a veterinarian is essential to ensure early diagnosis and appropriate care.
COMMON HEALTH CONDITIONS CAUSING POLYDIPSIA
• Kidney disease is a common cause of excessive thirst in older pets. When kidneys are not functioning properly, they lose their ability to concentrate urine, leading to increased urination and a compensatory rise in water intake.
• Diabetes mellitus is another cause; high blood sugar leads to glucose being excreted in urine, and water is pulled with it, causing dehydration.
• Cushing’s disease (Hyperadrenocorticism) in dogs results in excessive cortisol production, which causes an increase in thirst and urination.
• Hyperthyroidism in cats may lead to increased metabolism, appetite, and water consumption.
• Infections such as urinary tract infections or uterine infections (pyometra) in female dogs and cats can result in increased water intake.
Just as we regularly check our eyes, teeth and general health, it’s important to check our hearing too. A baseline hearing test provides a snapshot of your hearing today, making it easier to identify changes in the future. Hearing changes often happen gradually, and many people don’t notice the signs until communication becomes difficult. Dr Annemarie Lindner from Hearlix explains why early hearing checks can make a real difference.
Baseline hearing test
A baseline hearing test provides a snapshot of your hearing today, making it easier to detect changes in the future. Hearing loss can occur at any age, and even young adults can benefit from having their hearing checked. Everyday noise from headphones, workplaces and traffic can affect hearing over time.
Common signs of hearing changes:
• Asking people to repeat themselves
• Turning the TV up louder than others prefer
• Trouble hearing in noisy places
• Ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Feeling tired after conversations
Sudden hearing loss
Sudden hearing loss is a medical emergency. If your hearing suddenly drops in one or both ears, seek medical attention immediately — don’t ‘wait and see’. Prompt treatment can improve the chance of recovery.
Signs of sudden hearing loss may include:
• Waking up unable to hear properly
• Sudden muffled hearing
• A blocked or full feeling in the ear
• Sudden ringing in the ear
• Dizziness with hearing changes
Hearing care for adults and children
Annemarie believes hearing care should be accessible to everyone, not just older adults. Hearlix supports both adults and children, including comprehensive paediatric hearing assessments. Early
hearing checks can play an important role in a child’s development.
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) APD affects how the brain interprets sound. Children and adults with APD may struggle to follow conversations, especially in noisy environments, despite having normal hearing. Common signs include difficulty following instructions, misunderstanding spoken information and problems listening in background noise. Assessment can help identify these difficulties and guide appropriate support.
Don’t wait until later in life
The earlier hearing changes are detected, the easier they are to manage. Whether you need a baseline test, are noticing hearing difficulties, or require a child’s assessment, Hearlix Audiology Clinic can help.
Rozelle’s newest movement studio, Rituel Movement, is redefining what a consistent practice looks like — and why the colder months are the most important time to show up.
Winter is the time of year when good habits can begin to unravel. The alarm goes off before sunrise, it’s cold, it’s dark, and hitting snooze makes a compelling argument. Before long, the practice that felt non-negotiable in March has disappeared, and by spring, you’re starting from scratch. It’s a pattern Alice Zikou, founder of Rituel Movement, wants to challenge.
A different kind of studio
Rituel Movement isn’t your regular Pilates studio, or a trend-driven fitness studio. The light-filled space is calm, community-minded and designed for people who want to move well, not just move often.
From Reformer and Mat to Barre, Stretch, Studio Equipment, and Prenatal and Postnatal Pilates, the offering is broad but carefully considered. Alongside these sits Rituel Strength — a progressive format centred on heavy weights and superset training. Small class sizes and personalised instruction ensure every session feels focused, with instructors who know your name, your goals, and how best to support them.
The Rituel Movement community reflects the area too with local professionals, everyday athletes, new mothers, and people returning to movement after injury all drawn to the space to make time for themselves.
How to beat the winter blues
Clients tend to share a common tension — they’re high-performing in every area of life yet often find their movement practice is the first thing to slip when the season changes and motivation dips. The answer is deceptively simple — design your ritual around your why. When that why shapes your practice, movement becomes part of your week — same time, same space, same community.
The Rozelle Rituel
There’s something fitting about a studio like this landing in Rozelle, a neighbourhood that understands the value of a good ritual. A morning lap of the Bay Run, a Saturday at the farmers market, even your Sunday roast at the pub. Rituel Movement slips naturally into that fabric. It’s the movement practice that makes the rest of the week feel better.
Results that outlast the season
By the time the warmer months return, Rituel Movement clients aren’t scrambling to get back into shape. They’re standing taller, moving with more control, performing better — whether that’s running without the aches, keeping up with the kids, or simply feeling more at home in their body.
Winter isn’t a reason to stop. It’s the best time to build the foundation.
1 What was the name of Balmain’s first public ferry service?
4 Who is the current State MP for Balmain?
7 Are dogs allowed at the Bald Rock Hotel?
2 What year did Leichhardt Council merge and become Inner West Council?
5 When did the Tigers last win the NRL Grand Final?
8 What year was Balmain Rowing Club formed?
3 Maureen has been the publican at Royal Oak for how many years?
6 What year was the Balmain suburb established?
9 Which bus goes to Balmain East Ferry Wharf?
Early Learning to Year 12
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Local rockstar joins pop sensation Go-Jo!
Last term, Rozelle’s own Toby Falkner traded the classroom for the camera for a day! The young guitarist is set to feature in the new music video for These Kids, the latest release from Aussie pop sensation and Eurovision star, Go-Jo.
The opportunity of a lifetime came through The Rockstar School of Music in Leichhardt when Director Luke Edwards gathered a group of his most dedicated students for a special project — joining Go-Jo at the Sydney Props Studios in Marrickville to bring his new hit single to life.
Toby spent the day immersed in the fast-paced world of music production, working together with a professional crew and his fellow Rockstar peers. Beyond just appearing on camera, he received an all-access masterclass behind the scenes, observing everything from the technical
Rockstar Founder and Director Luke Edwards (left) and Aussie super star Go-Jo (middle) with Rockstar kids (left to right) Louie, Nyah, Nova, Hazel, Arlo, Ripley, Jakob, Teddy, Toby and Cassidy.
The Go-Jo Kids Band (left to right) Louie, Teddy, Toby, Cassidy
precision of stage lighting and sound to the flair of costume design, and even taking creative direction from Go-Jo himself. For nine-year-old Toby, it felt like a front-row glimpse of the future, as he dreams of becoming a professional musician one day.
Director Luke Edwards said, “It gave the kids invaluable experience behind the scenes and in front of the camera. Go-Jo is a wonderfully talented, hard-working artist and a great role model for our young Rockstars.”
Go-Jo is an Australian singer, songwriter, and record producer who cemented his place as a global force when his viral hit Mrs Hollywood exploded online.
Following the global success of his Eurovision hit Milkshake Man, Go-Jo is launching a brand-new album and Variety Show spectacular with a bold new live show packed with new music, bigger visuals, and plenty of surprises.
Go-Jo’s Variety Show Tour kicks off at Sydney’s Factory Theatre on Friday 26 June. The event is all-ages, welcoming the next generation of rockstars to join the fun!
Our budget includes $3.5 billion in new measures that lower taxes for business and supports innovation and investment.
We are:
Making the $20,000 instant asset write-off permanent from 1 July, 2026. Small businesses with a turnover of up to $10 million can write off multiple assets.
Introducing a two-year loss carry back for companies with up to $1 billion in turnover.
Introducing loss refundability for start-ups with aggregated annual turnover of less than $10 million and capped to the value of tax remittances relating to employment, from 1 July, 2028.
Expanding tax incentives for venture capital.
Introducing a $250 Working Australians Tax Offset, benefitting around 1.5 million sole traders.
We’re also providing rollover relief to assist small businesses and others who wish to restructure out of discretionary trusts into other arrangements, such as a company or fixed trust. This will provide expanded
relief from income tax consequences, including capital gains tax for those who choose to restructure and will be available for three years from 1 July, 2027.
The four existing capital gains tax concessions for small business will remain, helping owners to reduce, defer or eliminate tax on capital gains from active assets used in their business.
We’re reforming negative gearing and capital gains tax because since 1999, housing prices have risen more than twice as fast as average fulltime earnings, and home ownership among young people has declined. The system overcompensated investment in fixed housing, undercompensated people for their work and undermined the Australian dream of owning a home of your own.
These changes will make our tax system fairer, and crucially will encourage longer term investment that will build a more resilient economy.
Where imagination runs wild
At Darling, we absolutely love receiving letters and feedback about our little magazine — they genuinely make our day. So, when Niamh, aged 9, wrote to us asking if she could write book reviews, we jumped at the opportunity to welcome a young voice to the team. A passionate reader, Niamh loves getting lost in stories and letting her imagination run wild through every page she turns.
MILLIE MAK THE MENDER
Alice Pung | Fiction
Millicent Mak has a superpower. Making things with a needle and thread. She can do almost anything! Her friends Rita, Visa and Shanelle call themselves the fru-gals. They’re a group who make and sell things. From making care packs to almost being famous. They stick together like glue.
MIXED-UP
Kami Garcia | Fiction
Stella Martinez is going into fifth grade this year, and with her two best friends, Emiko and Latasha, and the perfect teacher, Mrs Marin, it’s going to be great. That’s until she realises how much more reading she has to do. Everything gets worse when her favourite show Witchlins launches a new game. But when the guidebook comes out, Stella can’t read that either. But at least the new fifth-grade project will be great…right?
THE MAKING OF MARTHA MAYFIELD
Jo Dabrowski | Fiction
Martha is in year 5 with her best friends Sadie and Alfie. But lately she’s been feeling ignored. Maybe it’s just because she’s a quiet kid. So, when elections for new school captains come out, no one thinks she’ll run. But Martha decides that she will run, not just for a captain, but for school prime minister. Only when she writes her name down and slips it into the pigeonhole tragedy strikes.
THE
BABY-SITTERS CLUB
Ann M Martin | Fiction
It all started when Kristy Thomas saw how hard it was for her mum to find a babysitter for her little brother David Michael. So, she and some friends pulled together to create the BSC (Baby-Sitters Club). Claudia Kishi was the vice president, Stacey McGill was the treasurer, Mary Anne Spier was the secretary, and Kristy was the president. And from there the business just kept growing.
Books available at your favourite local bookshop.
Here’s your guide to shop local
Fashion
Balmain Boutique x Maurice
Blokes Balmain
Burrow & Be
Daisy.Kids+Life
Embellish Atelier
Hester Fleming Vintage
Monkeysee High Visibility
Ms Francis Gems
Styled By Lin — Intimo
The Foundation Lingerie
VENLA resell + relove
Hair and Beauty
A.H Salon Rozelle
AK Aesthetica
Canvas Skin Beauty Retreat
Hairlab by George
House of Terri Brows
Kirsty Bremner Hair & Make-up
SILK Laser Clinics Balmain
Suede Clinic
Gifts and Florists
Angel Aromatics
Bits of Australia
Fair Trade Gifts
FLATOUTBear
Global Conduct
Goods 4 Good
Mimi Floristry
Stories to Gather
Taraf Solid Perfumes
Two Baskets
Art
44 Gallery
ART Gallery on Darling
Artspark Studio
Kate Owen Gallery
Lara Scolari Gallery
Local Lines
Paper Rock Scissors Art Studios
The Genesian Theatre
Books
Hill of Content Bookshop
Fitness and Movement
Balmain Health Club
BodyEthos
FIT reflection
K2 Personal Training
Monday Club
Net
CLB
Rituel Movement
Soul Agenda Yoga and Pilates
Stay Active
Strong Pilates Rozelle
Stronger you with Victoria
The Growth Initiative
The Studio Physio and Pilates
Vision PT Balmain
Health and Wellness
Bailey Nelson
Balmain Community Pharmacy
Beattie Street Health Studio
Biomechanica
CalmBar
City Cave Balmain
Dentistry by Design
Elemental Chiropractic
Everyday Mindset
Hypnotherapy & Breathwork
Flight of the Phoenix
Holistic Therapy
George & Matilda Eyecare
Hearlix
Kirsten Jade Kinesiology
Nature’s Energy
Nriched Living
RedoHealth
Rozelle Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Centre
The Well Store
Wall’s Pharmacy
Markets
Balmain Village Markets
Rozelle Collectors Markets
The Makers + Shakers Market
Real Estate
Belinda Cassano
Real Estate Services
Clearer Conveyancing
Juliet Mutia Co. Real Estate
Laing+Simmons Balmain
McGrath Balmain
Parker Hadley Buyers Agent
Ray White Rozelle
Rozelle Village
Settled Advocacy
Sourced Property Buyers Agents
Home
Aleo Shop
APX Build
Ballast Point Architects + Builders
Benn + Penna Architects
Damask Bedlinen Collection
Darling Depot
Furniture Noir
Gro Urban Oasis
HDMD
Home Industry
Insidesign
Inside Traders & Co.
Libby Winberg Interiors
Madeline Street Interiors
Mayvn Interiors
M2 Styling + Interiors
Pepperwhites
Semble House
SLH Furniture
Soon After
That Plant Shop
The Heater Man
Three + One Heritage Consultants
Zander & Co
Schools and Childcare
Balmain Care for Kids
Inner Sydney Montessori School
Pets
Darling Street Vets
Harbour City Dog Gear
Ziippup
To learn more about these BRCC member businesses visit balmainrozelle.org.au
Pubs and Clubs
Bald Rock Hotel
Cat & Fiddle Hotel
Dick’s Hotel Balmain
East Village Hotel
Garry Owen Hotel
Gladstone Park Bowling Club
Native Rose Hotel
Red Lion Hotel
Royal Oak Balmain
The Cricketers Balmain
The Dry Dock
The London Hotel
The Merton Hotel
The Sackville Hotel
Unity Hall Hotel
Bars and Restaurants
Bar 26
Cantina Bar
Doki Doki Rozelle
Elliott’s
Johnny Gio’s Pizza Rozelle
Maysa Thai Restaurant Balmain
Mrs Pasta Balmain
Nacara Bar & Cellar
Rosso Balmain
Shila Kitchen Balmain
The Corner Bar
The Cottage Balmain
Tipo “00” Balmain
Food and Drink
Blackwattle Distilling Co.
Cheese Celebration
Eat at ROBs
Emma Townsend Cakes
Fabbrica Bread Shop
Lily Fields Distilling Co.
Otter Craft Distilling
Queen Pea
Red Mill Rum
Sydney Brewery Rozelle
The Balmain Barmaid
The Drinks Dept.
White Bay Brewery
Woolworths Metro
Zucchero Nero
Cafés
Big Tree House
Bertoni
Darlings Bistro
Holy Crepe Cafe
Hungry Bull Co. Balmain
Hungry Squirrel Cafe
RREE’s
Sandy Bake Shop
Teras Cafe Balmain
The Old Rosebud
Local Services
Amicii
Ausbarge Marine Services
Balmain Bicycle Mechanic
Balmain Bright Sparks
Balmain Rowing Club
Balmain Sailing Club
Beyond the Bell
Blue Water Expeditions
Brieley Cutting
Pianist & Piano Teacher
Community Bank Darling Square (Bendigo)
Dorian Blue Productions
Fredman & Son Photography
Global Village Travel
Julius and Kate Events
Kids and Cubs Clinic
Le Ray Gymnastics
Milk & Honey Photography
Pinnacle Learners
Romance Media
Rozelle Plumbing
Rozelle Presbyterian Church
State Soccer
The Peninsula Laundromat
Together2
TooUp Sailing
United in Sound Project
Warren Rivas Photo/Video
XTsea Catamaran Charters
Professional Services
Bespoke Investment Group
Boss Coaching
Crowd Studios
Decision Health
External Lawyers
First Class Accounts
GPS Finance Group
Helm Finance
Her Money Matters
Inline Partners
Kelly + Partners
Chartered Accountants
KU Legal
Marketing Buzz
Marshlandia
Marzy Management
MEK Bookkeeping
MKL Legal
Monday Studio
Morgan + English
Commercial Lawyers
Nadia’s Loans
Navigate Advisory
Nriched Living
O’Loan Family Law
Pass the Salt Studio
Penline Graphic Design
Productivity Bargain
RJC Insurance Brokers
Savvy Finance Group
Shellmade Studio
Simple IP
Simple Split Financials
Sourced Property Buyers Agents
Speer Finance
Stellar Finance Group
Stem Finance
TCBS Accounting & Advisory
The Business Boost
The Marketing Edit
Unmaze eCommerce
Urban Pathways Consulting
Yvonne Hilsz — Positive
Change Coaching
What’s on in Balmain Rozelle
From community events and live entertainment to markets, workshops and family fun, here’s what’s happening around Balmain and Rozelle in the months ahead.
AFTER HOURS
Jazz Open Mic and Jam Night
Balmain Uniting Church/Teras Cafe 3rd Thursday of every month, 7pm – 10pm
Experience the magic of live jazz as local musicians take the stage for an evening of spontaneous performances and great music. Everyone is always welcome to join.
TheJazzSalonBalmain
MARKETS
Rozelle Collectors Markets
Every Saturday, 9am – 3pm Rozelle Public School 663 Darling St, Rozelle
Visit Sydney’s favourite outdoor second-hand market with a huge range of fashion, pre-loved antiques, jewellery, art, books and music, all while being entertained by top-notch local performers. rozellecollectorsmarket.com.au
Balmain Village Markets
13 June, 12 Sept, 9am – 2pm St Andrews Congregational Church 214-217 Darling St, Balmain
Wander through the stalls and meet the makers in a beautiful outdoor setting. It’s a chance to shop local and support independent producers and businesses. balmainvillagemarkets.com.au
Rozelle Comedy Club
Native Rose Hotel
Last Thursday of every month, 7.30pm
In a New York style comedy club atmosphere with candlelit tables and friendly vibes, Rozelle Comedy Club showcases the best comedians in Australia and internationally.
RozelleComedyClub
John Watson Piano Man
Unity Hall Hotel
Every Friday night, 8pm – 11pm
John Watson has been delighting audiences for decades and now he is bringing his piano melodies, sing-alongs and timeless classics to the Unity. Grab a group for a fun night out.
johnwatsonpianoman
OUT AND ABOUT
Sing Out Choral Festival
Sunday 16 August, 12pm – 6pm
White Bay Power Station
A festival celebrating the choirs of the Inner West and beyond. A sea of voices will fill White Bay Power Station in Rozelle, exploring the power of collective voices. innerwest.nsw.gov.au/sing-out
The Bayrun Festival
Sunday 2 August
Sydney’s favourite family fun run brings together families, school kids and elite runners around the stunning Iron Cove Bay. There is something for everyone with the 7km loop for runners and walkers and the 2km kids run. bayrun.com.au
Balmain: Rust, Radicals and Razors
Check website for tour dates
Explore the turbulent history of old Balmain as you uncover forgotten crime scenes, gang conflicts, waterfront scandals, and the dramatic events that shaped this once-notorious peninsula. murdersmostfoul.com
CONNECT AND GROW
LinkedIn Workshop with Lucy Bingle
Thursday 23 July, 9:30am – 12pm
Balmain Rowing Club
Join this LinkedIn workshop with one of Australia’s leading LinkedIn strategists, Lucy Bingle. Learn how to build your visibility and credibility on the world’s most powerful business platform.
balmainrozelle.org.au
Brekkie and Biz
Last Thursday of every month Teras Cafe/Balmain Uniting Church 7.30am – 9.30am
Hosted by Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce, these monthly breakfast catch-ups have become a favourite way for local business owners to connect, exchange ideas, and spark new collaborations.
balmainrozelle.org.au
Dan Mullins Pub Test
Bald Rock Hotel
Every Tuesday night, 7pm – 9pm
A seriously fantastic night where you think hard and sing out loud with the combination of trivia and a singalong, with the legend Dan Mullins.
baldrockhotel
Friends of Balmain Library
For many locals, Balmain Library is far more than a place to borrow books. It is a meeting point, study space and cultural venue — a civic asset that reflects the character of the peninsula itself. Karen Wilson, Chair of the Friends of Balmain Library (FOBL), has seen it grow from a modest branch service into one of the area’s most valued institutions, and she speaks of it with great affection.
The Friends of Balmain Library was formed in 1998, driven by a conviction that the community deserved a library worthy of its readers. Karen explains that Balmain and Rozelle had no municipal library until 1975, when a branch opened beneath Balmain Town Hall. By the late 1990s, the suburb’s strong reading culture had outgrown that space. Community advocacy helped secure the upgraded library which opened in 2009. This was a testament to local persistence and public spirit.
That spirit of involvement still defines the Friends of Balmain Library today. Karen says the group play an integral role in supporting services, liaising with council and championing the library across the wider community. Their fundraising helps pay for extra books and special additions, such as the painting in the foyer installed after the Inner West Council renovation. They also work to make sure the library stays valued and supported by the community and council.
Like libraries everywhere, Balmain Library has evolved
Karen Wilson, President of FOBL with Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne
with the times. Digital resources now sit alongside shelves of well-thumbed novels, and the building functions as a true community hub. Karen sees libraries as hybrid spaces where digital literacy, lifelong learning and quiet enjoyment coexist. Libraries have developed into community hubs where people can study, access technology, learn new skills, attend events or simply read.
That sense of community is reinforced by the activities the Friends continue to curate. Author talks, especially with local writers,
remain a point of pride, alongside the Open Book Group, the annual literary quiz, poetry appreciation afternoons and visits to other libraries. Karen says residents have a deep attachment to Balmain Library and an expectation that it will continue to serve changing community needs.
The Friends of Balmain Library are always keen to welcome new members. Joining is a great way to meet like-minded locals, support a much-loved community space and help keep the library thriving for future generations. Karen says, “Being involved brings a sense of camaraderie, purpose and fun, whether you are helping at events, supporting programs or simply showing your support.” Her hope is that Balmain Library continues to be a vibrant community hub for residents of all ages, and new FOBL members can play a real part in making that happen.
FRIENDS OF BALMAIN LIBRARY 370 Darling St, Balmain fobl.org.au info@fobl.org.au
FIT reflection was born out of a desire to offer women a personalised approach to their fitness and health.
Our experience with women at various life stages and needs has helped us to cater to women who want an approach that will work for them.
Our mission is to offer you a fitness routine where you can build a stronger, faster and a more mobile body for life.
We offer small group classes because we know this is where you thrive, become accountable and get to have a great workout with like-minded women.
The smaller class sizes ensure all members get the guidance and attention they need to progress safely while training with other women in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
Our class offering: Strength, Tempo, Circuit, Elevate and Small Group PT. This combination of classes, gives you the perfect balance between, strength training, cardio, endurance and mobility.
SCAN THE QR FOR YOUR 14 DAY CLASS TRIAL ➡
A group training studio for women in the heart of Balmain. Find us: @fitreflection_balmain fitreflection.com.au
New kids on the block
Set within the heritage-listed, character-filled Institute Arcade in the heart of Balmain, Nacara Bar & Cellar blends moody heritage charm and timeless elegance with a warm, relaxed atmosphere. Expect to find European share plates, classic aperitivos, and an excellent wine list crafted by a former Aria sommelier. Defined by arched windows, ornate ceilings, ambient lighting and deep burgundy hues, the space feels romantic and timeless, with a nod to the old world. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 4pm.
Queen Pea is a boutique plant-based (gluten free by order) bakery in Balmain creating elevated desserts, specialty coffee, and indulgent treats designed for vegans and non-vegans alike. Built on the belief that plant-based food should never feel like a compromise, Queen Pea blends nostalgic comfort with modern flavour trends and a strong focus on quality ingredients and handmade baking. From loaded cupcakes and New York-style cookies to custom cakes and catering, every item is crafted to surprise, impress, and redefine what vegan baking can be.
Monday Strength Club is strength training reimagined for people aged 50 to 100. More than a gym, they offer safe, supportive programs designed to improve strength, mobility and flexibility — so you can stay active, independent and doing the things you love. Their science-backed equipment and proven programs make building muscle both safe and enjoyable. It’s also a place to connect with like-minded locals in a welcoming community environment. You’ll find Monday Club behind the yellow doors opposite the Balmain Post Office.
New businesses are adding more vibrancy to our wonderful neighbourhood, bringing exciting offerings and more reasons than ever to shop local.
Located in a quiet corner of Balmain, Hungry Squirrel is a cosy, dog-friendly neighbourhood café built around comforting breakfasts, specialty coffee, homemade treats, and a warm community feel. A relaxed local spot where people gather with friends, family, and four-legged companions alike. Alongside daily café service, Hungry Squirrel is growing into breakfast and brunch catering, offering beautifully curated brunch boxes for offices, celebrations, and private gatherings.
134/85 Reynolds St, Balmain
hungry._.squirrel
An award-winning concert pianist and doctorate graduate with over 20 years of teaching experience, pianist Brieley Cutting is now accepting students to her Forest Lodge Studio. Brieley has guided students to create strong foundations, achieve high results for AMEB/advanced examinations, and has supported them to be successful as performers, in concerts and competitions. Several lesson spaces are currently available for students excited to develop valuable skills and their love of music via the craft of classical pianism.
DR BRIELEY CUTTING — PIANIST & PIANO TEACHER brieleycutting.com | 0422 226 922
Holy Crêpe brings the charm of a Parisian crêperie to Balmain. Blending French-inspired flavours with warm hospitality, this locally owned gem invites guests to slow down, indulge, and experience a little taste of France. From rich sweet crêpes to savoury galettes, every dish is crafted to transport you to the quaint cafés of Paris. At the heart of Holy Crêpe’s authentic galettes is its premium gluten-free buckwheat flour, shipped directly from Lamballe-Amour in Brittany, France — the birthplace of traditional Breton galettes.
Meet Natalia, a clinical RTT hypnotherapist, breathwork and meditation facilitator. She founded Everyday Mindset to offer calm, practical support for those navigating anxiety, selfdoubt, confidence challenges and inner pressure by exploring the subconscious patterns that shape how we feel, think and respond. Through one-to-one sessions, group classes and workshops, Natalia shares tools for mindset, resilience and selfregulation, helping clients build inner calm, self-trust and lasting change. If you are interested in emotional well-being, book a free consultation or explore upcoming local and online events.
EVERYDAY MINDSET HYPNOTHERAPY & BREATHWORK
143 Beattie St, Balmain everydaymindset.com.au
After more than 6 years in the Balmain area, Anton Smilek opened K2 Personal Training to create the kind of gym he believes people actually need. Personal, supportive, and tailored to the individual. The sessions are capped at four people, so everyone gets proper coaching and attention. It’s a friendly space where you can train at your own pace and make real progress. Whether you’re new to fitness or looking to take your training to the next level, K2 focuses on helping you achieve sustainable results in a welcoming environment. Anton invites you to a complimentary session to experience it for yourself.
K2 PERSONAL TRAINING
0435 398 431 | antonsmilek@hotmail.com
Urban Pathways Consulting is a boutique, Birchgrove-based planning consultancy helping homeowners navigate their new home builds and renovations through the complex Development Application process with confidence. Founded by Asher Richardson, a registered planner with 15 years of experience, including over a decade at Inner West Council, Urban Pathways takes charge of the process from day one and prides itself on exceptional customer service. They work with top architects and specialist teams to achieve the best possible development outcome for every project, regardless of the size and complexity. Book an obligation-free consultation today.
For Heidi Kervinen at Global Village Travel, river cruising has long been a favourite way to explore the world. Having experienced many river cruises, she appreciates the gentle rhythm that makes these journeys so special — unpacking once, drifting between beautiful regions, and waking somewhere new each day without the hassle of changing hotels. This year, Heidi will experience AmaWaterways on journeys through Portugal and the European Christmas Markets. AmaWaterways has helped redefine river cruising. Unlike larger ocean ships carrying thousands of guests, its river ships host around 150 guests, creating a calmer, more personal experience.
Here, crew members get to know the guests and offer recommendations based on their interests.
The pace is different too. Rather than days at sea, river cruising keeps travellers closely connected to each destination. Vineyards, medieval towns, riverside villages, local markets and cycling paths unfold just beyond the ship. Spacious staterooms, many with twin balconies, bring the scenery into the journey.
One of AmaWaterways’ standout features is the choice of included excursions. On many itineraries, guests can select from up to six guided experiences per day, from walking tours and wine tastings to bike rides and active sightseeing. Couples, friends, and families can travel together while choosing different days ashore.
Guests are supported by experienced Cruise Managers who remain with them on board and throughout any
pre- or post-cruise land extensions, making the entire journey feel seamless, especially when adding extra time before or after a sailing.
Dining is another highlight, with menus reflecting the regions the ships travel through. Fresh seasonal ingredients, local dishes, multiple dining venues, and included wine with lunch and dinner all add to the experience, along with the daily Sip & Sail cocktail hour. The Lark Lounge & Bar offers light meals, drinks and destination-inspired entertainment.
Wellness is woven in naturally too, with Wellness Hosts, fitness classes, guided hikes, walking tours, and complimentary bicycles encouraging guests to stay active while travelling.
Across Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America, AmaWaterways offers thoughtfully designed itineraries in some of the world’s most memorable regions. It is currently offering savings of up to $4,500 per stateroom on select 14-night river cruises, and up to $3,750 per stateroom on select 7-night river cruises.
If you’re considering river cruising, drop into Global Village Travel to chat with Heidi about AmaWaterways, and which journey might be the right fit for you.
We sat down with Bibi Kasrai, the Harvard Cookin’ Girl and author of The Spice Whisperer. In 2009, after years at the top of corporate ladders, she packed up her awards, took her Harvard MBA diploma off the wall and donned an apron to launch the Harvard Cookin’ Girl, eventually growing it to one of the most successful cooking schools in the USA. In the last year, Bibi has moved to Balmain and shares her thoughts about her new home.
You left a corporate career and Harvard MBA path to start cooking professionally — when did you know food had to become your life’s work?
I think it was my midlife crisis that led me down that path. I had been toying with the idea of a food business for a long time because my house was always open to friends after work, and they always pushed me to open a restaurant. I knew opening a restaurant wasn’t for me and I wanted a small business that I could run solo.
The Aha Moment came when I asked my kids “Where do you think tomatoes grow?”, and they said, “At the supermarket”! I thought if my children thought that way, then their peers must be way behind, so I started toying with the idea of a food education business for children. Mostly under-privileged children in “food desert” areas where buying a coke and a bag of chips is cheaper than buying a banana. Harvard Cookin’ Girl (HCG), though it wasn’t called that yet, was born from there, with me running after-school activities, hauling a cart of food with a small toaster oven perched on top. Then Nickelodeon wrote an article about me and demand grew from there.
You describe your cooking as “grandma food” — what does that phrase mean to you personally?
My roots are Persian. We have one of the most famous yet under-marketed culinary traditions in the world. We are very hospitable people, and our love language is food. I never went to culinary school but since childhood, anywhere we travelled, I gravitated toward the kitchen, even at restaurants. When I studied in Moscow in the 80s, we had a communal kitchen where students from around the world cooked. These new smells and tastes stayed with me and became part of my cooking memory way before globalism. My book “The Spice Whisperer” is a memoir about my foodie journey.
Who surprises you most in the kitchen once they start cooking?
When I started summer camps for kids, some parents very shyly asked if their disabled children could attend. I decided to admit those who were not disruptive or dangerous around
the kitchen, and was really surprised by what I observed. The magic of food worked so well for them too.
Corporate groups are usually surprised by how much fun they have. I tell them if you don’t want to participate just watch and I see them like children being attracted around my beehive. It stems from the fact that I understand them. I created the world’s first corporate team builder program around food because I hated all the team-building events I attended.
You have more than 135,000 followers on your social media channels, did you ever think this would happen?
I had 150,000 and luckily there was a welcomed exodus recently because my page is a place where hatred and bullying are banished. On my page, we talk and exchange ideas, and we can be different, but we must talk like civilised people. My goal is not to have an army of followers; I have a curated foodie tribe, and I am honoured and humbled that they like my style.
What were your first impressions when you arrived in Balmain?
I must say that I chose Balmain because I wanted a community that resembled my home. Hillcrest is a beautiful, inclusive and progressive community with blue-collar roots in San Diego, California, where neighbours care about each other. It’s bustling with cafés, clubs and restaurants. I read that Balmain was the birthplace of the Labor party, that it had more pubs and pups than anywhere else in Sydney and I said: That’s it!
In my first 3 weeks here, I spoke with 86 people, and I made friends. Now the number is up to 123. I love to make human connections. I think the future is not AI, it’s all about soft skills and I am ready to bet on that.
Balmain did not disappoint, it is a real community — welcoming, buzzing and caring. I recently walked into Doctor Mak’s office who has served Balmain for 40+ years and was told he doesn’t take new patients. As I am explaining my situation, Doctor Mak, who overheard me, walks out and says he’ll accept me. What else can I say?
What makes this suburb stand out from other places you’ve lived?
I have lived and visited five continents, and have learned 8 languages, seen lots of beautiful and iconic pieces of art and architecture, but for me the key thing has always been the culture — how it feels when you walk around and talk to people. And Australians are the most unpretentious, friendly, easy-going people I have met. I eat at the Royal Oak and become friends with Maureen and Sophie and through them I meet Saba of Shila’s Kitchen, I get to meet Belinda Daly from the Chamber and David Fesq from Red Mill Rum and through my classmate of 30 years ago at Harvard, I meet the CEO of OzHarvest. Where else can these things happen so easily?
What is special about Balmain’s community, culture, and local dining scene?
I haven’t had a single bad coffee anywhere and that is a lot coming from me - I am a coffee snob! I love the cosy, homey culture of this beautiful peninsula. There are so many wonderful places, and the pubs are fantastic community hubs where nobody feels lonely. I love that people know each other’s dogs’ names. I feel safe walking at night, knowing the community looks out for one another. Having moved from a country with far more divisiveness, I hope locals cherish what they have.
What’s next for Harvard Cookin’ Girl?
I have never had a set plan and I wander through life like a tourist in a new town. Unfortunately, my life after age 17 has been defined by exile, yet I have been lucky enough to adapt and thrive. HCG is still alive in California. My goal is either to revive it by hosting my events at venues on days they are closed, or to get a position at a company aligned with HCG’s goals and mine. And if you want to organise a corporate event, contact me, I’d love to hear from you!
Winter soups should be easy, generous and packed full of flavour — the kind of cooking that makes you feel like you’ve put in more effort than you actually have.
In Sydney, winter gives us some great vegetables for soups — pumpkin, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, leeks, potatoes, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, spinach and peas.
The easiest way to think about soup is not with a strict recipe, but more like a formula. Start with a flavoursome base like finely chopped onion and garlic, then add something sweet, like carrot, pumpkin or sweet potato. Add body — potatoes, lentils or beans, then finish with something fresh or sharp, like herbs, lemon juice, yoghurt or chilli oil. Season with stock cubes, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, even fish sauce for that hit of salty, umami goodness.
Good soups don’t need to be complex, but they do benefit from layering. Cook onions or leeks down until soft and sweetened before adding anything else. Try roasting vegetables in olive oil and salt for extra caramelised flavour. Pumpkin, cauliflower, carrots and sweet potatoes all get richer and sweeter once roasted, and then you can simply blend them with stock.
For a creamy soup texture without adding cream, try blending potatoes, lentils or cashews — they thicken the soup naturally and help add texture. You can blend the whole soup for something smooth, or just half the pot for something chunkier.
Don’t be afraid to experiment a little — a spoonful of miso paste, gochujang, curry pastes, pesto, coconut milk, parmesan rinds, chilli crisp oil or a good stock can turn the most basic soup into something far more interesting.
The final touch matters. Lemon juice, a few scattered fresh herbs, toasted sesame seeds, fried onions, a dollop of yoghurt or sour cream can wake everything up. Contrast gives your soup that secret something that keep you going back for more.
The best soups are the workhorses of the kitchen — they’re made with what you have, what’s in season and what needs using up. Keep it simple, build flavour up and let the saucepan do the talking.
By Christine Knight
Ready in 30 minutes Serves 2-4
with
grapefruit and cashews
This simple salad highlights a winter favourite — the cauliflower! Season with cumin and coriander and serve with sour-sweet grapefruit and a punchy ssamjang Korean-inspired dressing. Add a handful of cashews for added crunch.
INGREDIENTS
½ cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground coriander
Salt and black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
½ ruby red grapefruit (or orange)
60 g rocket leaves
2 heads baby cos lettuce, roughly chopped
50g marinated goat’s cheese or fetta cheese, crumbled
¼ cup roasted cashews
For the dressing
1 tbsp grapefruit juice
2 tbsp ssamjang paste
1 tsp brown sugar
2 tsp rice wine vinegar
2 tbsp olive oil
METHOD
Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan-forced). In a medium bowl, toss the cauliflower with the ground spices, a generous pinch of salt and pepper and olive oil until well coated. Spread out on a baking tray lined with baking paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
While the cauliflower roasts, make the dressing. Peel the grapefruit (or orange), then cut away the citrus segments. Hold the remaining grapefruit flesh over a medium bowl and squeeze out any excess juice — you’ll need around 1 tbsp. Whisk in the ssamjang paste, sugar, vinegar, olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper, until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.
Once tender, remove the cauliflower from the oven and allow to cool lightly. Spread the rocket leaves and roughly chopped baby cos over a large serving platter. Top with the roasted cauliflower, grapefruit segments, goats cheese and sprinkle with the cashews. Drizzle with the dressing and serve.
Enjoyed a glass of Pinot by the fire at The Dry Dock
WINTER BINGO!
Walked the Bay Run at sunrise
Picked up a hat from Embellish Atelier
Sipped a mulled wine at Royal Oak Balmain
Watched a play at Genesian Theatre
Tried the Leichhardt Lager by Sydney Brewery
Picked up a good book from Hill of Content Bookshop
Run through the rain to catch the 441
Enjoyed a glass of wine at Nacara Bar & Cellar
Warmed up with an infrared sauna at City Cave
Watched the Tigers play at Leichhardt Oval
Enjoyed a hearty French meal at Bistro by Manu
Sydney’s
best pub crawl!
Our iconic Balmain Rozelle Heritage Pub Trail recently took centre stage on Channel 7’s Sydney Weekender. With cosy fireplaces, rich local history, and a pub to suit every taste, the cooler months are the perfect excuse to gather your friends and explore one of Sydney’s most character-filled pub crawls.
With 19 pubs and one brewery there’s something for everyone. How many can you tick off? 1.
As seen on Sydney Weekender Scan to watch!
The Merton Hotel
Native Rose Hotel
The Three Weeds
The Garry Owen Hotel
Red Lion Hotel
The Bridge Hotel
The Sackville
Cat and Fiddle Hotel
The Welcome Hotel
The Balmain
Dick’s Hotel
Unity Hall Hotel
The Riverview
Royal Oak Balmain
The Dry Dock
The Cricketers Balmain
The London Hotel
East Village Hotel
The Bald Rock Hotel
Sydney Brewery Rozelle
Made local with purpose
Since 2014, Micaela and her team at Bits of Australia have celebrated Australian made creativity through a curated collection of gifts and souvenirs sourced from local makers across Australia. Discover their store in Balmain East.
BITS OF AUSTRALIA
51 Darling St, Balmain East bitsofaustralia.com.au
Made for Change is a purpose-driven food brand creating chilli achar using Australiangrown chillies, olive oil, and ethically sourced spices. What makes the brand unique is its social impact model — 50% of profits support women affected by domestic violence.
MADE FOR CHANGE madeforchange.com.au
Local brand Balmain Barmaid have a range of Cocktail Infusions with six sachets per box. The infusions effortlessly transform ordinary drinks into delicious, chic cocktails and mocktails. They are sure to impress! Available in a range of flavours, from $59.
THE BALMAIN BARMAID thebalmainbarmaid.com.au
If you need a statement piece, something quirky or decorative, Inside Traders has a huge range of homewares and furniture. Take home a piece of Balmain with the only local Balmain Rozelle Heritage Pub trail tea towel; it’s handmade linen and yours for $29.99.
INSIDE TRADERS
499 Darling St, Balmain insidetraders
We’re lucky to have a huge selection of locally made products, making it easy to find meaningful gifts while supporting the makers and small businesses.
The ‘Florist’s Choice’ bouquets are intuitively designed using the best blooms of the dayhand-selected by their florist team. Leave it totally to them or share some simple words like ‘funky and sculptural’ or ‘pink and fluffy’, and they’ll make something beautiful. From $120.
MIMI FLORISTRY
229 Darling St, Balmain mimifloristry.com
Home Industry is the local destination for custom-made home furnishings. If you are considering an update to dining chairs or a sofa, their custom-made slipcovers are a stylish and practical way to achieve a new look without the need for new furniture.
HOME INDUSTRY
62 Darling St, Balmain East homeindustry.com.au
Temperance in Balmain
In Montague Street, Balmain, stand two halls with a common heritage; Temperance Hall and Chelmsford Hall. These are reminders of a period from 1860 to 1930 when the temperance movement advocated for moderation or complete abstinence from alcohol.
Temperance societies arose in response to excessive alcohol consumption, which was linked to poverty, crime, domestic violence, and supposedly declining public morals. In Balmain, with many heavy industries such as Mort’s Dock, the issues associated with excessive drinking were particularly acute.
On 31 May 1860, the Balmain Total Abstinence Society met in the Church of England schoolroom in Adolphus Street, chaired by Municipal Chairman Reverend Ralph Mansfield. Rowan Ronald, JP, announced that a Band of Hope would be formed and that a site had been offered for a Temperance Hall. The meeting agreed that “A vast amount of the moral and social depravity existing in the world arises from the use of intoxicating drinks”.
At the second meeting on 20 June, with 300 attendees, Ronald reported that 141 boys and girls had joined the Band of Hope, and each was given a temperance medal. It was hoped that the Society’s members would be unremitting in their efforts to rescue Balmain from a ‘fatal canker’ – another name for an ulcer.
In August that same year, a meeting advocated prohibition by closing all hotels. A speaker estimated that £1,250,000 was spent on drink at Sydney’s public houses. This amount could, amongst other things, build 50 churches, fund 100 clergymen, 100 parsonages, build and staff 200 schools and still give each ‘retired’ publican £300.
Temperance Hall now house luxury apartments
Photo Credit: Belle Property
The Band of Hope divided its younger members into the Sons and Daughters of Temperance. In February 1880, the foundation stone was laid for the Temperance Hall at a cost of £656. Proceedings commenced with a procession of members of the Sons of Temperance, Good Templars, Rechabites, Oddfellows and Australian Holy Catholic Guild, which marched through all the principal streets of Balmain, led by the Coldstream brass band.
The Band of Hope acted as a friendly society. For regular contributions of 11 pence to 1 shilling 1 pence a week, the Sons provided sick benefits of £1 1 shilling a week; Daughters contributed 9 pence a week and received benefits of 10s shilling a week. The organisations also assisted with funeral expenses.
The Temperance Hall proved inadequate, and the more substantial Chelmsford Hall, named after the State Governor, was built next door in 1912.
The movement’s successes were the 1882 Local Option poll in which voters could opt to veto any new licences in an electorate. This didn’t satisfy the movement’s demand to close
Sydney Morning Herald, 16 February 1880
The other historical building is being converted into apartments.
hotels. In 1905, a stronger Liquor Act amendment was enacted that could reduce the number of licences in an electorate or remove them altogether. The 1907 State election’s Local Option poll proved a success for the temperance movement, with reduction achieved in 64 of the 90 electorates.
In Balmain this eventually resulted in five hotels closing: Albion, Darling Street, closed 1911 Atlantic, Mort Street, 1908 Tribolet’s, 176 Darling Street, Balmain, 1909 Waterview, 135 Rowntree Street, 1909 Waverley, 147 Darling Street, 1911
The movement claimed success in a 1916 referendum when a six o’clock closing time was introduced. However, that did not reduce alcohol consumption but concentrated it into the ‘six o’clock’ swill and the rise of organised crime and bootleg alcohol. The movement’s last major campaign was the 1928 prohibition referendum, which failed badly. Changing attitudes to drinking heralded the movement’s disappearance.
The Temperance Hall was used for meetings and dances for many years before being converted to warehouse apartments. Chelmsford Hall was sold to the Freemasons in 1921 and converted to apartments in 2019.
By Duncan MacAuslan
BALMAIN ASSOCIATION
Balmain Watch House 179 Darling St, Balmain balmainassociation.org.au
Darling, let’s colour in
We’ve teamed up with Local Lines to bring you a special Balmain-themed colouring activity — plus the chance to win a Local Lines Prize Pack filled with books, colouring pencils, stickers, and a tote bag!
Simply colour in the iconic ferry and send your masterpiece to hello@locallines.com.au or share it on Instagram, tagging @local_lines_colouring and @darling.balmainrozelle, for your chance to win.
Open to kids 12 years and under. Entries close 31 August 2026.
Books available online at locallines.com.au
Join us at the Genesian Theatre
The Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce is proud to support the Genesian Theatre in Rozelle. A cornerstone of local arts and culture for more than 80 years, the volunteer-run theatre continues to bring outstanding performances to our community.
On Sunday 2 August at 5pm, a special locals’ performance will offer residents the perfect opportunity to experience the magic of theatre. Everyone is welcome!
Step into the world of wit, romance and regency-era charm as The Complete Works of Jane Austen arrives at the Genesian Theatre. This fast-paced and delightfully inventive production brings all of Austen’s beloved novels to life in one unforgettable performance. Six novels. Countless romances, scandals, and witticisms — all in under 90 minutes!
From spirited heroines and impossible suitors to meddling relatives and society’s endless rules, Austen’s world is lovingly sent up while remaining a heartfelt tribute to one of literature’s greatest storytellers.
Whether you’re a lifelong Austen devotee who can quote Mr Darcy by heart, or someone whose knowledge begins and ends with “the one with Colin Firth”, there’s plenty to enjoy. Packed with literary in-jokes, unexpected twists and affectionate nods to Austen’s enduring legacy, this is a celebration designed for fans and newcomers alike.
Smart, playful and unapologetically entertaining, the performance offers a fresh way to experience one of the most influential writers in the English language. Come discover why generations have fallen under Austen’s spell and why we’re still talking about her all these years later.
There’s never been a better time to support your local theatre and experience the incredible talent right here in our community. Nestled in the heart of Rozelle, the Genesian Theatre has been entertaining audiences for generations, offering intimate performances that place you right in the middle of the action.
Gather your friends, book your seats and discover why this theatre is one of the Inner West’s best-kept secrets.
To book tickets to this special performance on Sunday 2 August, at 5pm, visit our website balmainrozelle.org.au. Tickets are only $35 each, bookings essential.
GENESIAN THEATRE 2B Gordon St, Rozelle genesiantheatre.com.au
Raising curious, capable humans
There’s a quiet shift happening in the way many families are thinking about education. For years, conversations around school choice have often centred on academic performance, pathways and outcomes. While those things still matter, more and more parents are beginning to ask broader questions. Questions about confidence, independence, emotional wellbeing, curiosity, and adaptability.
Educating the whole child
In a world defined by constant change, what are the qualities that will genuinely help children flourish, not only in school, but in life?
It’s a question that feels increasingly relevant in modern childhood. Children today are growing up in a culture of busy schedules, heightened stimulation and ever-present technology. Many parents sense the pressure their children are under from an early age.
At the same time, there’s a growing recognition that some of the most important human skills can’t always be measured on a report card: the ability to think independently, to collaborate with others, to stay curious, and to understand responsibility, empathy and resilience.
These are qualities developed slowly, through experience, trust and meaningful engagement with the world around us. Increasingly, families are seeking learning environments that make space for this kind of growth.
Freedom with responsibility
The unique learning environment is part of the reason Montessori education continues to resonate so strongly with many parents. Developed more than a century ago by Italian physician and educator Maria Montessori, the philosophy was built on a simple but powerful belief: children are naturally curious and
capable, and they thrive when given both freedom and responsibility within a prepared environment.
“Children learn naturally through activity and their characters develop through freedom.”
Dr Maria Montessori
At Inner Sydney Montessori School, this philosophy comes to life in ways that can feel quietly different from a traditional classroom.
You might see younger children carefully preparing fruit for morning tea, independently selecting materials from classroom shelves or spending long periods deeply focused on a task without interruption.
Older students might be mentoring younger peers, collaborating on projects or leading aspects of their own learning with confidence and ownership.
Building confidence through experience
There is often a sense of calm purpose to Montessori environments. Rather than moving all students through the same task at the same pace, Montessori classrooms are designed to support independence, concentration and intrinsic motivation. Children are encouraged to follow their curiosity, make choices, solve problems and develop a genuine connection to learning itself.
Montessori environments are intentionally designed
to help children develop self-discipline, accountability and responsibility over time. The result is often children who are both academically capable and who also feel secure in themselves and confident in navigating the world around them. For many parents, that balance feels increasingly important.
Because while the future will undoubtedly require strong academic foundations, it will also ask more of the next generation, such as adaptability and emotional intelligence.
These qualities are difficult to teach through instruction alone. They are developed through lived experience, through being trusted, challenged appropriately, given responsibility and allowed the space to grow.
And perhaps that’s why so many families are reconsidering what meaningful education looks like. An education that supports capable, grounded and curious young people who feel connected to both themselves, and to the world around them.
For families seeking an education shaped by those values, Montessori continues to offer a thoughtful and deeply human approach to learning.
INNER SYDNEY MONTESSORI SCHOOL
44 Smith St, Balmain isms.nsw.edu.au
02 9555 7803
The perfect match
Perfect Match began in 2014 as a graffiti-prevention initiative by Inner West Council. Today, the program is one of the most successful public art initiatives in Australia.
The concept is simple: property owners offer a wall, artists submit portfolios and ideas, and the council “plays cupid” by matching artists with sites. To date, Perfect Match has produced more than 170 murals and street artworks across the Inner West.
The Portal by artist Peque is found on North Street on the wall of Forli restaurant. An old, reddish-coloured wall gives way to a different street view, with elements of past and present Balmain. In one corner, a man has written Mr Eternity in chalk. It’s a nod to Arthur Stace and his copper-plate Eternity script written in chalk on the streets of Sydney during the 1930s to 60s.
On Curtis Road, you’ll find White Plumed Honey Eater by artist Thomas Jackson.
Painted in exquisite, lifelike detail, the bird dominates the mural, stretching across almost two-thirds of the wall. The mural feels perfectly at home in Balmain, where the artist hopes to see this native species thrive once again.
Not all walls qualify for Perfect Match but that hasn’t stopped locals from commissioning artists directly. Several walls around the hood are adorned by murals including the colourful bees on Clayton Street and bright Waratahs on Curtis Road.
PERFECT MATCH innerwest.nsw.gov.au/ exhibitions-and-public-art/ perfect-match-street-art
Inner West Museum of Rugby League
Balmain is the cradle of Rugby League in Australia with the first ever game played at Birchgrove Oval in April 1908. Of the 8 teams that competed in the 1910 competition, 5 were from the Inner West: Annandale, Balmain, Glebe, Newtown and Western Suburbs.
The seminal role the Inner West has played in the birth, growth and evolution of Rugby League will be memorialised and celebrated for the first time ever in The Inner West Museum of Rugby League. The Museum will be established in the historic caretaker’s cottage across from the ‘Eighth Wonder’. The same cottage in which Balmain Tigers legend, Wayne ‘Junior’ Pearce grew up.
While the Museum will officially open in conjunction with the renovated Leichhardt Oval in 2028, there will be a pop-up exhibition in the cottage for the next couple of months. The cottage will be open on Leichhardt Oval game days until October.
To build the collection, we’re looking for the community to tell us their Inner West Rugby League stories or lend or donate their precious memorabilia. For opening times and to share your Inner West Rugby League story, scan the QR code above.
Darcy Byrne Inner West Mayor
Parenting teen girls: When friendship, belonging and becoming collide
Everybody warned me about the shift in teenage girls during years 8 and 9. Not because of the workload, the hormones or even the attitude. But because this is often the age when friendships become more complex, social dynamics intensify and belonging suddenly takes centre stage.
As adolescence arrives, friendship becomes intertwined with identity. Young teens are no longer just working out who their friends are; they are simultaneously working out who they are too.
I’m in the throes of it and while it hasn’t been as tumultuous as predicted, it has been a profound shift for me too. I’ve moved from helicopter parenting to receiving occasional
glimpses through the clouds. The child who once shared every detail of her day now edits heavily, revealing only what she wants me to know. It feels like this is the stage when they need us most, yet it’s often when we see the least.
Navigating the social map
The more mothers I speak to, the more I realise everyone is navigating similar terrain. As girls begin encountering the complicated side of friendships, not every story about belonging is an easy one.
One mother shared that her daughter avoided school for weeks after turning up to school one day to discover her ‘friends’ had quietly shuffled her out of the group.
Another talked about her daughter’s heartbreak after Snapchat locations repeatedly showed several of her friends were regularly getting together without her.
Several mums were concerned about their daughter’s experience within the revolving doors of a self-declared ‘elite’ group chat, where you were in or out depending on the day, and where belonging was conditional on not being friends with others on the outer.
Pre-party politics has become a thing for many adolescent girls too — who’s getting ready together, travelling together and appearing in feeds before the event has even begun.
The good news is that these girls ultimately move on and find new friends, but the sting of being ousted often remains.
What struck me most about these stories is that it reveals how so many teen girls are having to learn about social positioning, long before they have language for it. They start to notice who sets the tone, who controls access and who has the power to influence inclusion — and exclusion.
When peer orientation peaks
In one of my favourite parenting books, Hold On to Your Kids (by Dr Gabor Maté and Dr Gordon Neufeld), the authors describe the phenomenon of peer orientation — the stage where many adolescents stop looking to adults for cues about identity, belonging, behaviour and self-worth and start looking solely to their peers.
Their friends become mirrors. Their friendship group becomes the reference point. Their social standing becomes evidence of their worth.
When peer approval becomes the dominant force in a girl’s life, their sense of self destabilises because it’s being measured against people who are equally insecure, equally immature and equally concerned about their own social position.
This isn’t a new concept — peer influence is as old as time and every generation has experienced subtle social hierarchies. What has changed is visibility.
Previous generations often learned about exclusion after it happened. Friendship groups shifted quietly and underlying social dynamics were largely invisible. But with life now playing out in digital format, today’s teenagers can watch slights unfold in real time.
These years feel so high stakes because what appears to be friendship drama on the surface is often a teenager just trying to work out where they fit, who they are and whether they belong.
When belonging and becoming collide Parents spend years teaching their daughters kindness, empathy, inclusion and self-respect. The harder task is helping them recognise the moments when belonging and who they are becoming don’t pull in the same direction.
When belonging means they have to stay quiet because the social cost of objecting feels too high. When it means laughing along even when it doesn’t feel kind or distancing themselves from someone they genuinely like.
Adolescence is often the first time a girl has to choose between fitting in and staying true to herself. And in my experience, it’s precisely where the role of parenting shifts too.
We can often see the lessons long before our daughters do. We know that friendship groups will change, social hierarchies will shift and today’s gatekeepers will eventually lose their influence.
But we are no longer in the cockpit. The challenge for us as parents is stepping back enough to let experience do the teaching while remaining close enough that if they look back, they can still see us standing there.
Because ultimately, the goal is not helping our girls become more chosen.
It’s helping them become better choosers.
By Mina Iacono
Connecting community, supporting local businesses
In Balmain and Rozelle community always comes first, and the Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce (BRCC) is proud to help bring together the people, businesses and organisations that make our peninsula such a wonderful place.
Since 1993, the Chamber, run by a volunteer Executive Committee has been supporting the diverse mix of local businesses that give our villages their unique character. From favourite cafés and restaurants to local retailers, professional services and creative businesses, these are the people who help our community thrive.
But the Chamber is about much more than business. It’s about building connections, supporting local initiatives and celebrating everything that makes Balmain and Rozelle special. Through networking events, business workshops, community partnerships and local projects, the Chamber helps create opportunities for people to connect, collaborate and support one another.
One initiative that has become particularly close to the community’s heart is Darling Magazine. Launched in 2020 during the challenges of the COVID period, the magazine was created to support local businesses and share positive community stories. The response was overwhelming, and what started as a temporary initiative has grown into a much-loved publication. Last year, Darling proudly celebrated its fifth anniversary.
The Chamber has also led the Balmain Rozelle district through the NSW Government’s Uptown Program, working in partnership with the 24-Hour Economy team to showcase and strengthen the area as a vibrant destination for locals and visitors alike.
With more than 215 members and growing, the Chamber welcomes businesses of all sizes to join a connected, supportive, and passionate local business community.
BALMAIN ROZELLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE balmainrozelle.org.au balmainrozelle darling.balmainrozelle
