Neighbourhood Media _ Marrickville Magazine _ February 2026 by Neighbourhood Media

The Curious Case of Casey the Chimp

Hey Neighbour,

Welcome to our first issue of the year - and this one’s jam packed. From arts and culture to history and local community initiatives, there is so much happening right on your doorstep, and we’re excited to tell you all about it.

Our cover star is local artist Fintan Magee, whose striking work The Island can be spotted on the corner of Addison Rd and John St. We celebrate Marrickville’s mosaics and the completion of Henson Park’s $20 million transformation. We also highlight the Addi Road Writers and celebrate Flight Path Theatre’s seventh year in Marrickville.

Still want more? Meet the team at Sydney Vintage Dance, dive into our local What’s On guide and check out our Marrickville Business Directory - because shopping local always wins. Grab a copy, settle in and find out what’s happening in your neighbourhood.

Local Artist - Fintan Magee

Marrickville’s Mosaic Art

Henson Park $20m Upgrade

PUBLISHER - Neighbourhood Media

DESIGNE TEAM - Robert Everett, Jen Keates

CONTRIBUTORS - Matt Abotomey, Gerii Pleitez, Alec Smart, Rita Bratovich

COVER IMAGE ARTIST: Fintan Magee

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY - Linda Cairnes

ADVERTISING - Georgie Pengelly - 0416 972 081

If you have any thoughts, feedback or questions about the 2204 Magazine, please reach out to: info@neighbourhoodmedia.com.au

Check Out What’s In Store

New Return & Earn Depot

Celebrating Flight Path Theatre

Marrickville’s New Sustainable Cafe, SIT

Sydney Vintage Dance Studio

Restyle Your Home Into A Haven

The Best Local Arts & Entertainment

Do You Have All The Answers?

HISTORY

By Matt Murphy

ICasey the performing chimpanzee brings chaos and tragedy to Marrickville streets in 1914

IN May 1909, an entrepreneur named Ellis Joseph brought a male chimpanzee to Australia. Casey, as the chimp was called, made his first public appearance in Brisbane. Casey knew how to entertain a crowd; he smoked pipes and cigars, played the harmonica and piano, clapped, did somersaults and poked out his tongue. Billed as the ‘manmonkey’ or sometimes referred to as ‘the missing link’, he was a hit wherever he went and the media often reported on his appearances and what tricks he performed. Great excitement was had when he and Joseph caught a taxi in Melbourne in 1910 from which Casey waved to people they passed. By the time of his appearance in Adelaide it was excitedly reported that he had learnt a new trick – eating sago pudding out of a bowl with a spoon. Joseph was asked what he intended to do with Casey after the tour to which he replied he would sell him, but would not accept less than £1000. Joseph also knew, it is believed, that Casey’s time as a performer was limited. Once chimps outlive adolescence they are no longer interested in doing tricks for scraps of food. Worse still they are strong and sometimes violent.

In March 1911, Joseph found his buyer, selling him to another fortune seeker, Thomas Fox, while touring New Zealand. Though it quickly became apparent that Casey didn’t like his new owner. The New Zealand press wrote that Casey had ‘given his new proprietor several maulings.’ However, Casey kept performing and entertaining crowds throughout New Zealand, completing the tour with Fox that Joseph had previously organised. But after touring both Australia and New Zealand, nothing much is heard of Thomas Fox or his chimpanzee for almost

a year. Casey next reappears in the zoo in Sydney’s Moore Park in early 1913. Fox then took him on a short tour around regional New South Wales, but by this time Casey was not interested in performing. It’s here that Fox made a grave mistake – he took Casey to his home in Meeks Road, Marrickville.

The Sydney Morning Herald reported on 7 December 1914:

Probably the most exciting incident in the history of Marrickville was witnessed in Meeks Road last night, when the huge performing chimpanzee made his escape into the street and, for a couple of hours, refused to be captured, either by his keeper or two policemen who came hurriedly upon the scene.

The adventure, however, had a very sad sequel, resulting in the death of Mrs Russell, who lives in Meeks Road and who apparently dropped dead from fright.

Between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m., Casey, a performing chimpanzee well known to

the Sydney public, made his escape. The chimpanzee is always kept chained up, but he succeeded last evening in freeing himself from his chain and slipping out through the front gate.

Casey is a big animal, standing about five feet in height and weighing about 12 stone, and is an excellent boxer, a fact of which he apprised his keeper, who received a severe injury to the eye, besides several lacerations about the face, while endeavouring to effect a capture.

It was not until the arrival of Sergeant Wearin and Constable Toobey, of the Marrickville police, that Casey was taken into custody. Before finally being captured, the chimpanzee charged Sergeant Wearin, catching him by the collar of the coat, and the Sergeant found it necessary to fire two bullets into the beast’s foot before it released its grip.

During the excitement, the chimpanzee rushed at a group of women, and it was then that Mrs Russell was seen to fall to the ground. When she was picked up, it was found that she was dead. In trying to capture Casey, Thomas Fox lost an eye.

“The adventure, however, had a very sad sequel, resulting in the death of Mrs Russell, who lives in Meeks Road and who apparently dropped dead from fright.”

Emily Russell was 42. Her husband, John, took Fox to court, suing him for negligence and demanding £1000. In court, Fox pleaded not guilty and insisted that Casey was a docile creature. The court, especially seeing the state of Fox’s face, disagreed. He was ordered to pay John Russell £450.

Not to be outdone, Fox then bought another chimp, a youngster called Bismark, and with his wife and Casey left for America where the animals became part of a circus side show. It was reported that Casey died of appendicitis in 1922.

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COVER STAR

By Gerii Pleitez

FFrom Marrickville to Europe.

FOR Fintan Magee, painting was never a sudden career decision. It developed naturally from an early love of creativity.

“I started out as a graffiti writer when I was about 13 or 14,” Magee says. “I’ve been painting ever since.” Raised in a creative household, he admittedly was fortunate to be encouraged very early on. His father worked as a sculptor and his mother as a landscape architect, so making and designing were part of daily life. That environment gave him the confidence to pursue art seriously, even in the early days of graffiti.

“It’s usually people I meet. I try to absorb as much of the world around me as possible and just paint what I see.”

Over time, spray cans on suburban walls evolved into large public murals, gallery exhibitions, and international projects.

While his work has grown in size and ambition, Magee says his approach has remained consistent. He focuses on capturing everyday life and human faces, turning ordinary moments into striking visual experiences. When asked what inspires him, he admits it can be hard to explain.

“It’s usually people I meet. I try to absorb as much of the world around me as possible and just paint what I see,” he says. “I know that’s a boring answer that most artists give, but it’s kind of all I’ve got.”

His response is deceptively simple as he’s able to capture the essence of his subjects at scale as though he was working on an easel at home, quite the logistical task.

“It’s always different,” Magee says of choosing subjects.

“Often I just paint my friends and people close to me.”

The faces that appear in his work often belong to people he knows personally, capturing a wonderful dichotomy of intimacy and public life. That personal connection is part

of what makes his work feel approachable, even when it’s displayed on a large public wall.

One of his most significant local works was created for Marrickville Metro. The mural highlights women’s roles in the arts and industry, a theme chosen specifically for the site. The building is on a former textile manufacturing plant that employed a lot of women, it was a hub for female participation in the union movement, this led to Newtown having the first female Mayor in Australia, Lilian Fowler.

“I found that history really interesting,” Magee says. “I wanted to explore how that connected to creative industries in a modern context.”

By linking the area’s industrial past with its contemporary arts scene, the mural recognises the women who helped shape the community while reflecting its ongoing creative spirit. The mural combines historical awareness with a modern celebration of local creativity, making it a work that resonates with both residents and visitors.

Travel has become an important aspect of Magee’s career. While exhibitions are important, he says the opportunity to work in new environments stands out most.

One highlight was travelling to Iran to work on a major project for the Australian embassy alongside muralist Guido Van Helten. The project was a large-scale mural commissioned by the embassy. The collaboration allowed both artists

to contribute to a high-profile international project and experience working in a very different cultural context.

“That was exciting,” he says. “I’ve been lucky to travel a lot for my work. It’s rewarding when you visit somewhere new.” Looking ahead, Magee is preparing for a show at Backwoods Gallery in Melbourne later this year. He also has several mural projects lined up, including his first time working in Romania and additional locations across Europe. These opportunities allow him to continue expanding his work.

“I’ve been lucky to travel a lot for my work. It’s rewarding when you visit somewhere new.”

james_powditch

nandahobbs.com/artists/james-powditch

From graffiti writer to globally recognised muralist, Fintan Magee’s career has unfolded steadily, shaped by curiosity, community, and a commitment to capturing the world around him.

COMMUNITY

By Matt Abotomey

Three years following strong support for their restoration, Marrickville’s mosaics are still falling apart.

IIT was summer, 1993. IOC president Juan Antonio Samaranch had just turned the city on its head, announcing Sydney would host the first Olympic Games of the new millennium.

In Marrickville, Olympic fervour was being funnelled into an ambitious public artwork - the Marrickville Road Footpath Stories project. The plan was to install 30-odd mosaics into the pavement of the suburb’s main street. Each work, designed by a different artist or community group, would provide a snapshot of life and culture in Marrickville. Looking to involve as many people as possible, Marrickville Council sent out flyers in six different languages requesting submissions from the community.

Maria Tsakalos didn’t receive a flyer. She had no idea about the Council’s plans. In those days, she was working as a shop assistant at a deli in Marrickville Shopping Centre. Walking home one afternoon, she saw people working in the church rooms next to St. Clements Anglican and went inside to look. When she was told about the project, she immediately joined as a volunteer.

Maria had no experience in design or masonry. But for six months she returned to the rooms every day after work, watching how other volunteers approached the task and piecing together her own contribution to the project. She was excited about the Olympics and wanted to show what it meant to her that an ancient Greek tradition was arriving on Australian shores. Her mosaic is entitled ‘Olympia’ and depicts a young woman crowned with a laurel and surrounded by olive branches and the Olympic rings. Her inspiration, she tells me, came from a picture on a tin of olive oil she had at home.

On 24th September, 1994, 39 mosaics were officially opened to the public. They were detailed, vibrant and unique. One shows a crowded tram running on an old line past Seymour’s Corner at the intersection of Victoria and Marrickville Road. Another depicts ‘Blondini’ an Australian copycat of Charles

Blondin, the 19th century French daredevil, walking on a tightrope and breathing fire. Some are works of protest“Tenants have rights!” screams one. A few, like a smiling elliptical sun, seemingly have no connection to Marrickville and simply please the eye.

Thirty years later, the mosaics and their messages are no less arresting. But there is an unmistakable sense that time is catching up with them. Large cracks have erupted in some. Others have tiles missing. A few have been hacked at by souvenir-hunters or vandals. The worst punishment has been meted out by utilities companies whose workers rip out segments or whole mosaics to get at pipes and wires underneath. Some have been put back, but many have simply been destroyed.

Local historian Rod Aanensen walks Marrickville Road most days. Over the years, he’s witnessed this destruction and, on a number of occasions, intervened to try and stop it. In 2022, he began photographing the mosaics and sharing them on the Marrickville Heritage Society Facebook page. He approached the Inner West Council about preserving the mosaics and in April 2023, they voted unanimously to investigate the cost of a full restoration.

That was almost three years ago. In July of 2024, the

mosaics were mentioned in a Council report of resolutions that had yet to be fulfilled. Of the five stated aims for the mosaics, two stand out: to “work closely” with the Marrickville Heritage Society in preparing the restoration, and to “consult and where possible, prioritise working with the original artists of the mosaics…” Rod has been part of the Marrickville Heritage Society for years and is keen to be involved with the restoration, but he’s barely heard from the Council. Maria hasn’t even been approached. Meanwhile, the cracks in the Marrickville Road pavement are only getting wider.

In 1993, Community Arts co-ordinator Susan McHattie said

“Local historian Rod Aanensen began photographing the mosaics and sharing them on the Marrickville Heritage Society Facebook page.”

“involve people in the creation of their environment.” Sitting in Maria’s compact, well-tended garden barely 100 metres from where Olympia sits, it’s clear Maria lives by these words. She is still immensely proud of her work and says she looks at it every time she walks past. She wants the mosaics preserved for “years and years and years.” “When I am dying,” she says, “I know I left something behind. I left my kids behind, but I left something for Marrickville.”

Marrickville

Mosaics can be spotted along Marrickville Rd.

COMMUNITY

By Gerii Pleitez

IHenson Park’s upgrades mean easier access and better facilities for everyone.

IF you’ve strolled past Henson Park lately and wondered what’s been happening behind the scaffolding, here’s your answer, the $20 million upgrade is officially complete.

Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne unveiled the revamped ground and was joined by players from the Greater Western Sydney Giants, Sydney Swans AFLW sides and the Newtown Jets. Beyond the photo ops, the big question for Marrickville locals is simple, what’s actually changed?

Henson Park has always had a certain charm, the hill, the heritage grandstand, the winter footy atmosphere. The good news is that the character hasn’t gone anywhere. What has changed is everything behind the scenes. The grandstand has been repaired and upgraded, including improvements to first-floor seating and new lift access to make upper levels easier to reach. Even longtime footy fans will notice the difference, and for families or older supporters, getting around the stadium is now much more convenient.

“For locals, that could translate to more major games landing in Marrickville and more visitors discovering what many already know, that Henson Park is one of Sydney’s great suburban sporting venues.”

One of the biggest shifts is in the player amenities. The upgraded facilities now include female-friendly change rooms, accessible toilets, and more storage for equipment, a move that reflects the rapid growth of women’s sport and the increasing use of the ground for AFLW matches. It’s a big win for young girls playing footy locally, who now have top-notch facilities to inspire the next generation of athletes. There’s also a brand-new multi-purpose building tucked behind the grandstand. Inside, you’ll find additional change rooms, toilets, a gym, and a community function space. That last addition could mean more local events, club functions, and community gatherings happening at the ground throughout the year, not just during footy season. Families haven’t been forgotten either, with accessible

public toilets and baby change facilities now part of the mix. Even casual visitors coming for weekend sport or a stroll through the park will notice the fresh, modern touches. Henson Park has become a key venue for AFLW fixtures and remains the spiritual home of the Jets. The upgrade includes modern coaches’ boxes and improved broadcast facilities, meaning the ground is better equipped to host high-profile matches and larger crowds. For locals, that could translate to more major games landing in Marrickville and more visitors discovering what many already know, that Henson Park is one of Sydney’s great suburban sporting venues.

While the official unveiling gave the first glimpse of the upgrades, locals will really get to judge when the stands fill up again, friends and families grab a spot on the hill, and the footy action kicks off in full swing. There’s something special about returning to a familiar ground and noticing the small changes — from smoother pathways to better seating and more welcoming amenities.

After months of work and a $20 million investment, Henson Park is ready for its next chapter. And if early impressions are anything to go by, Marrickville’s favourite footy ground has managed to modernise without losing the character that makes it special. With improved facilities for players, fans, and the wider community, it looks like Henson Park will continue to be a hub for local sport, social gatherings, and weekend fun for many years to come.

Henson Park Sports Ground 32 Centennial St, Marrickville

Image: Amyl and the Sniffers (Alec Smart)

This Easter, the Symphony Chorus, Sydney

Orchestra and conductor Brett

bring you the St

–Bach’s vivid and dramatic telling of the Easter stor y Bach’s masterpiece has a theatrical power that feels utterly real and immediate Don’t miss it! Saturday 4 April | 1.30pm | Sydney Opera House Exquisitely serene colours and

Fell Hand by Carl Vine

Philharmonia Baroque

Weymark

John Passion

COMMUNITY

Can 31,000 new homes help communities grow stronger?

IIS it possible to add 31,000 homes to already busy suburbs without losing the soul that makes people want to live there? That is the question being posed around the Inner West Council right now.

The council’s plan aims to deliver 31,000 new homes over 15 years, far exceeding the 7,800 dwellings the NSW Government requested by 2029. In the middle of a housing crisis, that ambition alone is impressive. What has really caught the attention of planning professionals, however, is not just the scale. It is the approach. Instead of relying on the state’s transport oriented development model, where density spreads in circles from train stations, the Inner West has taken a more tailored, neighbourhood-based approach. Growth is focused along busy high streets, near schools, and around bus and light rail routes. Sensitive heritage areas are carefully protected, sustainability bonuses reward better water and energy performance, and feasibility testing ensures projects can actually get off the ground. Shops and small businesses are also a big focus. In Marrickville, for example, many of the beloved Vietnamese shops would be preserved through careful street setbacks, while allowing for extra housing nearby. The goal is to keep the local flavour alive even as new apartments go up. The message is clear: density should follow the character of a place, not override it. At a packed community meeting, more than 400 residents voiced concerns about overcrowding, loss of open space, and rising rents. But there is optimism too. Planning experts and council leaders believe this approach can deliver housing while respecting what makes the suburbs special. If the Inner West gets it right, it could become a model for other councils—a place where new homes, thriving local shops, and strong community bonds grow together, showing that thoughtful density can actually make a neighbourhood stronger.

High-capacity recycling hub makes container returns easier for Marrickville locals.

MMARRICKVILLE has added another sustainability win to its name with the opening of a new Return and Earn depot, making it easier than ever for locals, charities and community groups to recycle large volumes of drink containers.

Located on Smidmore Street, the Marrickville Return and Earn Depot is the first full depot and the 13th return point in the Inner West Council area. The opening was marked with a community celebration attended by local organisations, including long-standing creative reuse centre Reverse Garbage.

Designed with convenience in mind, the staffed depot can process up to 100 containers a minute and is ideal for anyone returning 500 or more bottles, cans or cartons at a time. There’s no need to pre-sort, and a drive-through layout makes it simple for those arriving with cars, trailers or trucks. A ‘tag and drop’ service is also available, while a separate machine in the car park caters to smaller returns. Users can choose how they receive their 10-cent refund, with options including vouchers redeemable at Coles, cash, e-vouchers, or direct payment to a bank account or PayPal via the Return and Earn app. Locals can also donate their refunds to one of more than 400 registered donation partners, including Reverse Garbage and Maggie’s Rescue, supporting sustainability education and animal welfare programs.

Member for Summer Hill, Jo Haylen MP, said Inner West residents have returned more than 235 million eligible containers since the scheme launched in 2017, helping to keep local parks and waterways cleaner while supporting the circular economy.

Network operator TOMRA Cleanaway CEO James Dorney described Marrickville as a natural home for the new depot, while Exchange for Change CEO Danielle Smalley highlighted the program’s wider social impact, noting that more than $82 million has been raised for charities and community groups statewide.

MMARRICKVILLE residents now have access to free, walkin medical care for urgent but non-life-threatening health issues. The Marrickville Urgent Care Clinic is part of a growing national network making it easier for people to get timely care without needing to visit a hospital.

Located in the heart of Marrickville, the clinic is open 7 days, from 8am -10pm (including public holidays). No appointments or referrals are required, and all services are fully bulk-billed for patients with a valid Medicare card. These clinics are designed to treat conditions like minor fractures and sprains, cuts and wounds, infections, burns, minor allergic reactions and other common urgent health concerns. It’s staffed by qualified doctors and nurses, and supported by access to diagnostic services like pathology

At IGS, we’ve been embracing bilingual learning and unity through diversity since 1984.

Upon one single dream, a thousand beautiful traditions have been built.

The newly opened Medicare Urgent Care Clinic offers bulkbilled, walk-in urgent care seven days a week.

and imaging, allowing many patients to be assessed, treated and discharged in a single visit.

Local health providers say the new Medicare Urgent Care Clinic will play an important role in improving access to healthcare across the Inner West, particularly during evenings and weekends when traditional medical services may be limited. It also supports the broader goal of strengthening community-based healthcare and easing pressure on hospital emergency departments.

The Marrickville Medicare Urgent Care Clinic joins recent openings in Burwood and Rouse Hill. Reflecting continued investment in accessible, community-focused health services across Sydney and New South Wales.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

By Gerii Pleitez

Marrickville’s very own hub for storytelling, risktaking, and community engagement.

YYOU don’t have to head into the city to experience incredible theatre. Right here in Marrickville, Flight Path Theatre has spent the past seven years quietly creating remarkable work, offering a space where artists, audiences, and the community come together. The theatre champions independent productions, telling bold, unique, and diverse stories that reflect local voices. It’s a place where creativity thrives, risks are welcomed, and everyone from seasoned performers to first-time visitors can feel part of something special.

Flight Path Theatre began as a home for the teaching arm of Inner West Drama, which was founded in 2013. Co-founders Siobhan and Katie had been looking for a physical space to run their classes when a historic theatre on Addi Road became available. Both have backgrounds in performance and a lifelong love of storytelling. They wanted a welcoming space where everyone could explore theatre and the connections it creates. “We work hard to provide a space where people feel immediately welcome and open to the possibilities of theatre,” they say. Over the past seven years, that space has grown into a vibrant hub for independent theatre in Marrickville.

The journey has not been without challenges. Siobhan admits, “Running a theatre wasn’t part of our plan.” Just six months after opening, COVID-19 hit, followed by the cost-of-living crisis. As an independent venue, resources are tight, and there are always more ideas than time or money to bring them to life. Despite these obstacles, Flight Path continues to move forward. “We continue applying for funding, growing our audience, and building stronger ties with the community,” they say. Supporting theatre makers and helping them bring their stories to life has been one of the most rewarding aspects of the journey.

Marrickville has shaped the theatre in unique ways. The

“Flight Path Theatre began as a home for the teaching arm of Inner West Drama.”

Foster Carers

suburb is vibrant, creative, diverse, and full of people eager to connect with stories that matter to them. Flight Path curates productions that speak to a wide range of locals while welcoming storytellers from across Sydney, sometimes interstate, and even international. Many of the performers and creatives involved have strong Inner West connections themselves. The theatre actively invites locals to stop by, chat, and share the types of stories they want to see on stage, ensuring the work feels rooted in the community.

Community is at the heart of Flight Path Theatre. Its teaching arm, Inner West Drama, runs programs for all ages, giving people a chance to step into the spotlight simply for the joy of it. Creative workshops, wellbeing programs, and initiatives like “Worthy,” a drama program for adults living with disability, provide space for connection, skill-building, and expression. These programs give Flight Path a sense of warmth and inclusivity, making it more than just a place for performances. It’s a hub where people come together, experiment, learn, and grow.

Looking ahead, 2026 is set to be an exciting year, with 16 main stage productions and family shows every school holiday. The season includes world premieres, classics, and experimental works, all reflecting Flight Path’s commitment to bold storytelling and community engagement. After seven years in Marrickville, the theatre has become a true local gem, showing that excellent theatre doesn’t have to be confined to the city. It’s right here, for locals, by locals, and ready to be discovered.

We want to work with you to make a positive and lasting difference to the lives of children in your community.

As a Key Assets Australia foster carer we’ll provide you with 24/7 support, a dedicated social worker and on-going training. If you’re looking to provide love, safety and care for a child we’d love to hear from you.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

By Isabella Edwards

By Gerii Pleitez

A decade of dance and reinvention at Sydney Vintage Dance Studio.

HHow does a passion for creative expression begin?

For Sheena Barnes, performer and founder of Sydney Vintage Dance Studio, it has always been part of her life.

“That is a difficult question,” she tells neighbourhood. “I have never known a life without creativity.”

Dance classes started at the age of three, and from then on concerts, choreography, and costumes were part of growing up. Performing was never reserved for special events. Living rooms became rehearsal spaces, and family gatherings often turned into impromptu showcases. Movement felt instinctive long before it became a profession, carrying storytelling, rhythm, and emotion.

That early love of dance grew into Sydney Vintage Dance Studio. What began as a dream became a space that blends vintage glamour with disciplined technique. “It is a place where vintage style meets a sense of technique,” Sheena explains, “and where everyone, from beginners to experienced performers, can feel like they belong.”

Over time, the studio has become known for both strong training and a culture that encourages confidence and individuality.

The journey to building it was far from straightforward. In 2019, Sheena opened the studio, and within a month she was diagnosed with breast cancer. The timing was overwhelming. “Treatment changed my body and required me to rethink identity, artistry, and approach to performance,” she says. The experience demanded strength she had never needed before. Instead of stepping back, she focused even more on her work. “I had to dig deep and find ways to reinvent myself and my art with a bald head and a flat chest,” she shares. The challenge shifted her perspective. “Having cancer taught me to be more adventurous with my art and really tap into my heart to create more than ever.” That honesty and courage now shape the work created in the studio.

When asked what inspires her, she answers without hesitation. “Life inspires me. Culture, people, smells, sounds, and of course music. Without that we do not have art at all.” Those experiences flow into choreography, music choices, and the studio atmosphere. Dancers are encouraged to draw from their own stories rather than imitate someone else’s.

Sheena also reminds her students, “You only have one body. You cannot step out of it and be in someone else’s, so you have to use what you have.” Strength, softness, age, and experience are tools rather than limitations. The studio welcomes adults from 18 to 80, many without any formal background in dance. “It is never too late to start. We have got you,” she says. For many, stepping through the door is an act of courage.

Last year, the studio celebrated its tenth anniversary, marking a decade of dedication and community. Expansion into Level 2 introduced GODDESS LOUNGE, a cabaret venue that brings performance and entertainment together. “This is not just about more space,” Sheena explains. “It is about evolution, reinvention, and celebrating expression in every form.”

After ten years, Sheena’s approach is simple. Creativity thrives when it is nurtured, even through challenges. At Sydney Vintage Dance Studio, that philosophy guides everything, from classes to performances, encouraging students to explore, take risks, and discover their own movement. The studio remains a space where individuality is valued, and each person can grow at their own pace, finding confidence and enjoyment in the process rather than in any predetermined outcome.

Visit:

generation of festivals, performances, and community celebrations at the iconic venue.

Located within easy reach of public transport, the Club is ideally positioned to draw audiences from across Sydney, helping to further cement the Inner West as a vibrant hub of live entertainment and cultural life.

For decades, the venue has been a hub for Portuguese culture, food, sport and community gatherings. Now, with the ability to host larger outdoor events, its role is expanding well beyond its established base.

The Sydney Portugal Club

Marrickville’s new festival destination.

THE Sydney Portugal Club is set to become one of Marrickville’s most exciting cultural and entertainment destinations after Inner West Council approved the venue to host large‑scale outdoor events, marking a significant shift in both its community role and Marrickville’s cultural calendar.

Under the new approval, the club can hold up to five major outdoor events each year with crowds of up to 5,000 people, along with ten smaller events for up to 3,500 patrons each capable of hosting outdoor stages, pop‑up food stalls, and bar precincts. This expansion opens the door for a new

Addi Rd Writers Festival celebrates diverse voices, storytelling, and creative expression across genres.

MARRICKVILLE will once again be home to one of the city’s most vibrant community‑driven cultural events when the Addi Road Writers’ Festival returns on Saturday 16 May 2026. Hosted by the Addi Road Community Organisation at 142 Addison Road, Marrickville. The annual festival celebrates storytelling in all its forms — from literary panels and poetry to music, conversation and ideas. Now in its sixth year, the festival has quickly become a highlight of Sydney’s arts calendar, blending serious

Sydney Portugal Community Club Director Paul Goncalves says the venue aims to support live music, performances and community creativity, bringing “great events that will become high points of Marrickville’s vibrant cultural life for years to come”.

As Marrickville continues to be one of Sydney’s most culturally diverse and dynamic suburbs, the Sydney Portugal Club’s transformation has added a fresh, exciting chapter to the area’s growing reputation as a live music and entertainment hotspot.

discussions with spontaneous creative expression and grassroots engagement. In 2025 the theme was “Free Expression”, capturing the festival’s commitment to diverse voices and open dialogue among writers, performers and audiences alike.

Across Gumbramorra Hall and the Greek Theatre, visitors can expect a day packed with literary panels, spoken word performances, live music and insightful conversations that bridge genres and perspectives. Panels in past years have featured award‑winning authors, poets, journalists, and songwriters. Discussing topics from ecological writing and political expression to identity, community and the writing life itself.

But the Addi Road Writers’ Festival is more than a series of talks, it’s a celebration of community. With food stalls, outdoor green spaces and a relaxed, family‑friendly atmosphere, it invites festival‑goers to connect with both ideas and each other. All profits support Addi Road’s broader humanitarian work, including food relief and community services, reinforcing the festival’s roots in social justice and cultural inclusion.

Whether you’re a seasoned reader, an aspiring writer or simply curious about the power of stories to shape conversation and community, this festival offers a rich, welcoming space to explore the written and spoken word in all its vibrant, transformative forms.

at:

Road Community Centre 142 Addison Road, Marrickville

STORIES THAT TAKE US SOMEWHERE

16 bold productions. 16 independent companies. 1 stage. From Shakespearean romance to world premieres, outrageous musicals, and immersive new works, Flight Path Theatre brings passionate storytelling, unforgettable performances, and fresh voices you won’t see anywhere else right here in Marrickville.

Coming Soon:

As you like it - Shakespeare’s sweetest romantic comedy. Contest - Sport, rivalry, and the endurance of women. A Succulent Chinese Musical - back by popular demand.

SEASON 2026

Experience the incredible energy of the human voice – in the audience or singing on stage. Pure joy!

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SYDNEY Philharmonia Choirs’ 2026 concert season celebrates sublime music, from beloved Baroque favourites such as Bach’s St John Passion to awe-inspiring masterpieces like Britten’s War Requiem, alongside thrilling works by today’s composers. Whether an exquisite baroque program with the Chamber Singers at Pier 2/3, the youthful sounds of VOX at White Bay Power Station, or the wall of sound that comes from the

IIN 2026, Sydney Dance Company ignites a year of bold artistic collaboration, presenting powerful choreographic ideas in a season defined by empowerment, curiosity and fearless exploration. Reflecting the Company’s rich legacy while forging new creative pathways, 2026 celebrates the evolving landscape of contemporary dance across major stages, intimate spaces and ambitious programs supporting independent artists.

Season One launches in June at the Sydney Opera House with Engine, a striking triple bill uniting three extraordinary choreographic voices. Artistic Director Rafael Bonachela premieres The Journey Itself is Home, featuring a score by Grammy Award-winning composer Bryce Dessner and inspired by the poetry of Matsuo Bashō. The program also marks the Australian premiere of The

400-voice Festival Chorus in the Sydney Opera House, the Choirs presents music that will excite every musical taste. And you needn’t just enjoy it from the audience seats: make 2026 the year you sing in the choir yourself. ChorusOz is your opportunity—whether you’re a shower star or a curious can’t-sing-a-note—to join 999 others on stage at the Sydney Opera House. Perform with a real orchestra and world-class opera stars in Verdi’s grand tragedy, Aida. Past participants call the experience “life-changing,” and many return year after year.

Later this year, you could join our Christmas Choir and sing in Handel’s Messiah at the Opera House. Hallelujah! 2026 is also the year our young adult choir VOX turns 25, the average age of its members. Renowned for its contemporary choral sound, virtuosic a cappella harmonising, and themes of spirituality, environment, and community, VOX will mark the milestone with World O World, a gorgeous anniversary concert in November at White Bay Power Station.

If you’ve never experienced the Choirs before, the season opening concert Gloria! at Pier 2/3 in Walsh Bay is the perfect introduction. Hear Vivaldi’s brilliant Gloria in D, Handel’s fiery Dixit Dominus and JS Bach’s radiant Cantata No.12 right on Sydney Harbour as the sun sets over the water. Could there be a better setting? And after the concert, join the choristers for a drink to celebrate the beginning of the season.

A fearless season of collaboration, innovation and contemporary dance at its most powerful.

Mass Ornament by Berlin-based Spanish choreographer Fran Diaz, set to the music of Henryk Górecki, and the return of Melanie Lane’s viral sensation Love Lock . A reimagined folk dance of the future, Love Lock features costume design by Akira Isogawa and a pulsing score by UK electronic artist Clark.

Across August and September, the Company celebrates 40 years at Walsh Bay Arts Precinct, culminating in Season Two’s Current at the Neilson Studio. Featuring new works by Raghav Handa, Jenni Large and Azzam Mohamed, alongside Bonachela’s E2 7SD, Current offers an intimate, electrifying portrait of contemporary Australian dance.

The year also sees the fifth edition of INDance, reaffirming Sydney Dance Company’s commitment to nurturing independent dance and connecting adventurous ideas with curious audiences.

FFLIGHT PATH THEATRE’S 2026 season is all about ‘Stories That Take Us Somewhere’, and it promises an exciting mix of drama, music, and bold storytelling. Showcasing some of Sydney’s best independent theatre companies, the season shines a spotlight on diverse voices and fresh perspectives from our community. These are stories you truly will not see anywhere else.

The season opens in March with As You Like It (March 4 to 14), bringing new energy and live music to the Forest of Arden. Expect romance, comedy, and a cast full of spark. Later in March, Contest (March 17 to 28) transforms a netball court into a poetic and physical exploration of connection, resilience, and the fierce endurance of women. April and May deliver two powerful contrasts. The Roaches & The Boot (April 22 to May 2) premieres as a gripping drama set on an Australian construction site. Then Ordinary Days (May 5 to 9) celebrates the beauty hidden in everyday moments through a heartfelt contemporary musical. In June, A Succulent Chinese Musical?! (June 17 to 27) returns by popular demand, packed with sharp humour and

GGET ready, theatre lovers—New Theatre’s 2026 season is shaping up to be one for the books! Packed with bold classics, sharp comedies, and thrilling premieres, there’s something to surprise and delight everyone.

Kicking off the year with a bang is the Mardi Gras+ production Perfect Arrangement by Topher Payne. Ever wondered what happens when the Red Scare meets a lavender marriage? This one’s clever, funny, and definitely not to be missed. Next up, Tony Award nominee Sarah Ruhl

inventive theatrical flair. July brings the Australian premiere of A Very Very Very Dark Matter (July 19 to August 1), a darkly witty exploration of the secrets behind Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales from playwright Martin McDonagh. August rounds out the season with the world premiere of People Inside Me (August 5 to 15) by Katie Pollock, followed by Ride the Cyclone (August 20 to 22) and Magic and Sphen: The Unofficial Story of Sydney’s Gayest Penguins (August 25 to 29).

It is a season full of heart, imagination, and stories that truly take you somewhere.

Later in the year, Popular Playhouse returns with their brand-new Biblical spoof, the world premiere of Oh My God: A Comedy of Biblical Proportions! (October 15–31), promising outrageous laughter and chaos, while November features The Husband Stitch, Twisted Violet, the Katie Lees Fellowship Performance 2026 - supporting emerging female theatre makers to tell their unique stories for the first time , and a return from the much loved theatre company, Clock & Spiel Productions.

16 bold stories. 16 independent theatre companies. One local stage. With something for every taste, Flight Path Theatre invites audiences to explore a season that champions independent theatre, amplifying bold, diverse voices and stories from our community. Join us on a journey of stories that take us somewhere, together.

blurs the lines between reality and fiction in Stage Kiss, before we dive into the award-winning classic Dancing at Lughnasa by Brian Friel, a touching exploration of family dynamics in a small Irish town.

Mid-year promises plenty of laughs and surprises too. Continuity by Bess Wohl is a biting, hilarious take on climate change, while Jay James-Moody’s fresh adaptation of The Day of the Triffids will make you look at your houseplants in a whole new way. And for fans of timeless classics, Arthur Miller’s A View from the Bridge offers a fascinating look at identity and immigration that still feels incredibly relevant today.

The season continues with the world premiere of Next to Godliness by Alastair Brown, an award-winning, violent comedy of errors that asks just how far you’d go for public holiday rates. And finally, the year closes with some spooky fun courtesy of Noël Coward’s ever-witty Blithe Spirit. Whether you’re a devoted theatre-goer or just looking for a brilliant night out, New Theatre 2026 has something to keep you entertained, thinking, and laughing. Don’t miss the chance to experience bold storytelling, support local artists, and be part of a season that promises surprises at every turn.

Book your tickets now—it’s your front-row pass to unforgettable performances and local theatre at its very best!

SSET to open in early 2026 at 387 Illawarra Road, Come SIT is the latest venture from the team behind Marrickville favourite Baba’s Place - a local favourite celebrated for its vibrant, multicultural take on suburban cuisine. This time, they’re turning their attention to daytime dining, taking over the ground floor of the affordable Nightingale Housing precinct with a project that feels purpose-built for the Marrickville neighbourhood.

Come SIT is going to offer much more than your average café. Developed in collaboration with NSW not-for-profit Fresh Hope, it will operate as a social enterprise, pairing thoughtful hospitality with meaningful community impact. The ethos is simple but considered: seasonal, produce-led food, approachable prices and a space designed to foster connection.

Where Baba’s Place leans into maximalist nostalgia and playful storytelling, Come SIT promises something softer and more pared back. Expect a calm, welcoming room shaped by local creatives - a departure from the warehouse energy many Baba’s regulars know and love - where coffee, breakfast and lunch are given space to unfold slowly. In a suburb synonymous with bold flavours and late nights, Come SIT carves out a different rhythm. It’s a place to meet, to linger and to reset - a café grounded in community as much as cuisine, inviting locals to quite literally, and figuratively, pull up a seat.

Image: David Jenkins

AFTER a decade of shaping Marrickville’s craft beer culture with its quirky wild ales and community vibe, Wildflower Brewing & Blending will close its Brompton Street taproom on Sunday, 31 May 2026.

ALaunched a decade ago by co-founders Topher Boehm and Chris Allen, Wildflower built a reputation in the beer scene unlike anything else in Sydney. Famous for barrelaged, mixed-culture brews fermented with native yeasts and bacteria foraged from Australian flora. Housed in a converted warehouse with oak barrels lining the walls, Wildflower became a beloved station on the Inner West Ale Trail, where locals and visitors alike came for adventurous flavours and a relaxed taproom atmosphere.

In a heartfelt announcement, Boehm said the decision to close wasn’t sudden, but a deeply considered one tied to his desire to relocate with his family and return to the original vision of a rural, farmhouse-style operation. While the Marrickville site will shut its doors, the team plans to rebirth the brand in a regional setting in time, with details yet to be finalised.

There’s still time to sip some of Wildflower’s distinct pints - owners have brewed months’ worth of beer leading up to the closure, and fans are encouraged to visit before the end of May. For many locals, Wildflower wasn’t just a place to drink - it was a destination, a conversation starter, and a creative spark in the Sydney craft beer scene. Its farewell marks the end of an era, but also the promise of something new on the horizon.

Make sure to grab your last pints before 31 May!

M a r l i r o s e

H A I R D R E S S I N G

T h e I n n e r We s t ’ s

D e s t i n a t i o n S a l o n

F o r o v e r a d e c a d e , w e ’ v e b e e n t r u s t e d b y

I n n e r W e s t l o c a l s w h o w a n t m o r e t h a n

j u s t g r e a t h a i r , t h e y w a n t a s a l o n t h a t

f e e l s w e l c o m i n g , p r o f e s s i o n a l a n d

p e r s o n a l .

J u s t m i n u t e s f r o m M a r r i c k v i l l e , o u r t e a m

s p e c i a l i s e s i n e f f o r t l e s s c o l o u r , p r e c i s i o n

c u t s a n d l i v e d - i n s t y l i n g d e s i g n e d t o s u i t

y o u r l i f e s t y l e .

C o m e i n a n d e x p e r i e n c e t h e c a r e , c o m f o r t

a n d r e s u l t s y o u d e s e r v e .

“ C e l e b r a t i n g o v e r 1 0 y e a r s o f b e a u t i f u l h a i r i n t h e I n n e r We s t C o m m u n i t y ”

E x c l u s i v e O f f e r

I n c o l l a b o r a t i o n w i t h N e i g h b o u r h o o d M e d i a , e x c l u s i v e o f f e r :

E n j o y a c o m p l i m e n t a r y L I V A N I L u x u r y T r e a t m e n t a t t h e b a s i n w i t h

y o u r f i r s t a p p o i n t m e n t .

S i m p l y m e n t i o n “ N e i g h b o u r h o o d M e d i a ” w h e n b o o k i n g t o r e d e e m

S h o p 3 / 6 5 E r s k i n e v i l l e R d , E r s

your appo i n tment

HOME & LIVING

Restyle your space, reimagine the story.

AAT RESTYLE HAVEN, “restyle” is more than a design service, it’s a considered philosophy. The practice centres on working with what already exists and viewing it through a different lens. Its founder, whose professional journey has spanned Singapore, India, and the USA, developed this perspective after observing the vast quantity of furniture and homewares discarded in pursuit of changing trends. Time and again, functional, well-made pieces are replaced rather than reimagined, prompting a quieter and more sustainable ethos. Restyle Haven emerged from that awareness. Instead of stripping a property back and starting anew, the process begins with what you already have in place. Existing furnishings are rearranged, layered, and given new life. Attention is given to flow, proportion, texture, and colour, often revealing potential that had previously gone unnoticed. The emphasis is on extending the life of materials and reducing unnecessary consumption.

The studio undertakes single-room and multi-room restyling across a range of contexts, from compact apartments to expansive family residences. Private homes, Airbnb and short-stay properties, investment residences, newly completed developments, and homes preparing for sale all form part of its portfolio. In each case, the intention remains consistent: to enhance warmth and function without indulging in excessive new purchases. When additional elements are required, they are introduced with care. Salvaged wood, recycled glass, ceramics, clay, jute, linen, and other biodegradable or organic materials are prioritised. Artisans and durable craftsmanship are favoured, supporting both environmental responsibility and long-term value. Pre-loved décor frequently forms the foundation of these transformations, resulting in low-waste, cost-conscious updates designed for longevity rather than short-term effect.

At its core, Restyle Haven reflects a shift in mindset. By reconsidering what already exists, a space can evolve meaningfully while still honouring the story it carries. And that story matters more than we sometimes realise. A home is not a showroom; it’s a collection of lived moments. The dining table where birthdays were celebrated. The armchair that’s travelled across cities. The slightly imperfect vase picked up on holiday. Restyling is about drawing those pieces together in a way that feels intentional and fresh, without erasing the character that makes a space personal. Often, the transformation is surprisingly simple. A rug repositioned to anchor a room. Artwork rehung at a more thoughtful height. A forgotten sideboard moved from a hallway into a living space where it can truly shine. Cushions are swapped between rooms, lighting is softened, and negative space is embraced rather than filled. These subtle adjustments create clarity and cohesion, proving that impact doesn’t always require expenditure.

Clients frequently describe the experience as seeing their home for the first time again. There’s a quiet confidence in knowing that the beauty was already there, waiting to be uncovered. Restyle Haven doesn’t chase trends; it refines what feels authentic. The result is a home that functions better, feels lighter, and reflects the people within it more truthfully.

Because sometimes, the most sustainable choice isn’t buying something new. It’s learning to see differently.

Contact Restyle Haven today: prerna@restylehaven.com info@restylehaven.com

BEFORE AFTER

T he ar t o f Tra di t ion a l C hin ese Me di c in e is a c knowledging t he sign s and s ymp t om s whi c h pa t ien t s presen t s while unders t anding t he di s harmon y o f t he bod y.

At Tun Yun Tong , we help wi t h dige st i v e i ss ue s , pregnan c y suppor t, bod y a c he s, st re s s and anxie t y, long co v id s y mp t om s, ar t hri t i s, mens t rual di s order s an d menopau s e and many more

I n Tun Yun Ton g, we st rongly ob s er v e t he pul s e and pa tt ern , recogni s e t he damage o f whi c h di f f eren t pa t hogens can c au s e , t hen t rea t a c cordin g t o t he s y mp t oms .