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ISSUE 1 SPRING 26

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welcome

ISSUE ONE – SPRING 26

elcome to the very first issue of northsider magazine created especially for Lane Cove, Greenwich, Hunters Hill and the surrounding suburbs! You’ll find free copies every quarter in cafés, hotels, pubs, clubs, shops and more. As north shore locals, Belinda (a proud Lane Covian!) and I have been independently publishing locally-focussed editions of northsider magazine for the North Sydney, Willoughby and lower and upper Ku-ring-gai areas for over eight years now. We’re so excited to head to Lane Cove to celebrate the inspiring people and special places in these vibrant and iconic neighbourhoods.

See you in Summer!

Anna Gordon EDITOR hello@northsider.com.au ART DIRECTOR: Belinda Spillane ACCOUNT MANAGER: Megan Ratcliffe Advertising enquiries: megan@northsider.com.au

@northsidersydney PROUDLY PRINTED LOCALLY ON THE NORTH SHORE BY

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We proudly acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which we live, work and share these stories. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. Published by contented media (ABN 28 892 978 911) contentedmedia.com.au. Privacy policy and competition terms and conditions can be found at northsider.com.au. All content ©2026 contented media, all rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. All prices and information are correct at the time of going to press. All material sent to northsider (whether solicited or not) will not be returned. Due to the number of submissions we receive, we unfortunately cannot reply to everyone.

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D I S C OVER E XCE P T IO N A L B O U T IQ U E AGED CA R E A N D P R EM IUM LI F ESTY L E A M E N IT IE S AT T H E H E A RT O F T H E CO M M UN IT Y

or over 50 years, Pathways Residences have been caring for older Australians based on harmony, respect and trust. These foundation principles are reflected throughout every aspect of the new Pathways Longueville residence, from the thoughtfully designed private suites to the warm, welcoming atmosphere created by its dedicated team. A community to call home Whether it’s sharing a meal with friends, enjoying a film in the onsite cinema, participating in organised lifestyle activities or spending time with visiting family in the landscaped grounds, every part of Pathways Longueville fosters connection. For families, that brings something equally valuable the peace of mind knowing a loved one is supported by compassionate professionals while continuing to enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle. Designed for living Located alongside Lane Cove Golf Club, Pathways Longueville combines premium accommodation with outstanding lifestyle amenities, including convenient access to

The Village Longueville Health & Wellbeing Precinct, featuring a medical centre, pharmacy, allied health services, physio and Pilates, a hydrotherapy pool, fully equipped gym, gourmet grocer and café, all within one connected community. Pathways Longueville’s premium residential aged care community features: • 122 beautifully appointed private suites • 24/7 personalised care • Chef-prepared dining and café • Cinema, wellness facilities and a hair and beauty salon • Landscaped indoor and outdoor spaces • The Village Longueville Health & Wellness Precinct incorporating medical and allied health services. After six months of almost daily interaction with the team at Pathways Longueville, I can confidently say its greatest attribute is its staff. Without exception, they are kind, compassionate and capable. – Jill G, Family Member & Community Advisory Board Member

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It takes a village...

LOCAL LEGENDS

t’s still dark when Sarah* leaves the house with her little boy. There’s no neatly packed suitcase, no time to decide what to take, what to leave behind. Clutching her son’s hand and his favourite teddy bear, they escape with almost nothing, except each other, and the hope that there will be somewhere safe to go... For northsiders like Sarah and her son who are impacted by domestic and family violence, Mary’s House Services is that safe place. Founded ten years ago by a group of locals who recognised the gap in essential support for women and children on the north shore, the charity has provided more than 20,000 safe room nights, as well as

“It affects people from all walks of life, regardless of age, culture, education, profession or postcode” 6

countless hours of specialised support and wellbeing services, to help families in trauma begin building their futures. Now, as Mary’s House reaches its 10th anniversary, it will be able to save more lives with the imminent acquisition of a second refuge property in Sydney’s northern suburbs. Expected to welcome its first residents in 2027, this new property will more than double the organisation’s accommodation capacity. It will also be the only refuge in the north shore area offering self-contained apartments to provide crisis accommodation for women and children of all ages, including families with pets. Despite Prime Minister Anthony Albanese declaring domestic and family violence a national crisis, Mary’s House receives no government funding for its refuge services. Instead it continues to rely on the generosity, skills, time and commitment of individuals, businesses, philanthropists, volunteers and

*NAME HAS BEEN CHANGED WORDS: ANNA GORDON

As Mary’s House Services prepares to open a vital second refuge for women and children escaping domestic and family violence, we meet some of the people helping the charity make room for hope

*NAME HAS BEEN CHANGED WORDS: ANNA GORDON

The Volunteers

Andrea Taylor, Vanessa Green, Samantha Crawford and Jenny Kent all live on the lower north shore Domestic and family violence doesn’t have a postcode. It can affect all ages, all demographics, anywhere, at any time. It’s important for us to support each other, to come together to stand up for what’s right and engender a sense of safety throughout our community. Each of us knows of people who’ve been supported by Mary’s House, from young mums through to women in their 70s and we do whatever we can to help out, from selling raffle tickets and volunteering at events to attending dinners, fundraising and spreading the word near and far to rally people to get involved.

The annual Mary’s House Walk in October is such an important event for raising awareness and we’d encourage everyone to take part. It’s a really visible way of showing that the community is behind this incredible charity. We want to give women and children hope, to show that good people are out there and that good things can happen.

“Someone helped me when I was younger and when I asked them how I’d pay them back, they told me to pay it forward instead. That’s what I’ve tried to do ever since” - Samantha Crawford

LOCAL LEGENDS community groups who refuse to look away and share the founders’ belief that everyone has the right to live free from abuse and violence. “The new refuge is a relief,” says Mary’s House Services’ CEO, Yvette Vignando. “It’s an opportunity for our team to say yes to more women and children. I’m deeply grateful to our supporters, who understand that families in trauma should be offered hope, healing and housing.” As well as providing safe accommodation, Mary’s House runs a Community Programs Centre which provides tailored services and practical pathways to independence. There’s access to pro-bono experts from a range of professional services including trauma informed counselling and safety planning, legal and financial advice, employment support and more. A specialist tech team is also available to remove trackers from mobile phones, tablets, laptops and even children’s toys. Mary’s House Services CEO, Yvette Vignando

“Domestic and family violence is one of the most significant social challenges facing Australia today,” Yvette says. “It affects people from all walks of life, regardless of age, culture, education, profession or postcode. There’s often a perception that communities like the Lower North Shore are somehow immune from it but the reality is very different. Behind closed doors, many women and children are in just as much danger, physically and psychologically, as those in other areas. Locals have increasingly understood that gap in services and want to be part of the solution.” “We don’t receive a cent from government to operate our existing refuge and refuge casework services,” she continues. “Community support is the reason why Mary’s House Services exists. It’s our origin story and will always be part of Mary’s House DNA. If it hadn’t been for those founders who decided to take a risk and start something, we wouldn’t be where we are today and so many women and children would have stayed in dangerous, damaging situations and lost their lives because support was not available. We are very proud, encouraged and motivated to be community supported and we’re not stopping here. We’re determined to provide more crisis housing for women and children in Sydney’s northern suburbs to meet the ongoing increases in demand that we’re experiencing.” That determination is echoed throughout the snapshot of the Mary’s House supporters we meet over the next few pages, from sewing quilts to fundraising, local businesses offering services, sporting teams speaking out and community members showing up. “Behind every woman who finds safety, every child who experiences stability and every family that begins to rebuild their future is a community of people who have chosen to stand alongside them,” Yvette concludes.

“The new refuge is a relief. It’s an opportunity for our team to say yes to more women and children.”

The Northbridge Quilters with one of the beautiful quilts they have made and donated to Mary’s House

The Quilters

The Supporters General Sir Peter Cosgrove and Lady Lynne Cosgrove When we found out about Mary’s House, we thought, right, we’ll help in whatever way we can. We’re pretty enthusiastic recruits and whenever fundraisers come along we’re delighted to be invited to participate and spread the word. If you get the opportunity to contribute to Mary’s House, its upkeep and its plans, do so. You’ll be expressing some of the most marvellous Australian characteristics: rolling up your sleeves and having a generous heart. It all helps women and children reach safe shelter and receive compassionate, practical support. This goes beyond simply providing a place to stay. It’s about giving them the chance to feel that sense of safety and belonging we all need and deserve.

Carolyn Matthews is the Community Quilt Organiser for The Northbridge Quilters We’ve always had a tradition of making quilts for charity and we’ve been involved with Mary’s House for the best part of seven years now, donating around 14 quilts each year for adults, kids and for babies. I think all of us can imagine the fear of being in a situation where you need to leave your home for your own safety and the safety of your children, not knowing who to turn to or where to go. We want women and children arriving at Mary’s House to know that their community is thinking about them and for them to have something that belongs to them. They can take their quilt with them when they leave Mary’s House, too, if they wish. There are hundreds of hours of time, care and love poured into every quilt we make. We hope they feel like a big hug, something these women and children can wrap themselves in at a time when they need comfort, safety and a reminder that they are not alone.

“We want women and children arriving at Mary’s House to know that their community is thinking about them” If you or someone you know is affected by issues in this story, contact Mary’s House Services on 1800 002 111 or the NSW Domestic Violence Hotline on 1800 65 64 63. If there is an immediate safety risk, call Triple Zero.

LOCAL LEGENDS

Mary’s House Patron, Her Excellency Sam Mostyn, centre, with some of the charity’s original founders, including Roger Williams OAM, far left, and Emma Rossi, second right

The Founders Northwood local Emma Rossi and Roger Williams OAM from Mosman are two of the original founders of Mary’s House Services Mary’s House began with an idea that the community turned into reality. A group of us from The Parish of Our Lady of the Way in North Sydney came together and wanted to do something practical to help women and children on the north shore who were escaping domestic and family violence. We put a notice in the parish bulletin inviting locals to a meeting about starting a refuge. Almost 30 people came, bringing skills, connections and a determination to make it happen. The energy and passion we had was palpable and we put in hundreds of hours alongside our full time jobs. We were very privileged to have a group of people with expertise and connections that meant

we could get things moving in record time. We identified a property, negotiated a discounted lease and rallied an extraordinary network of supporters from architects and builders to businesses, community groups and individuals who all contributed their time, money and skills. Things really took off when Mary’s House was adopted by the wider community, from north shore leagues clubs and Rotary groups to locals of all religions, backgrounds and ages. As well as fundraising, people donated furniture, offered pro bono services, cooked meals and even organised birthday gifts for children in the refuge. We’re very proud of what we’ve achieved with Mary’s House, but the demand still outstrips the resources. Domestic violence is a crisis. Ongoing community support is vital and it’s that spirit of generosity that’s at the heart of Mary’s House.

“As Patron I acknowledge Mary’s House Services tenth year of operations and reflect on the gift of refuge, safety and care they provide women and children in the community impacted by domestic and family violence” - Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia

Coby Thomas, centre, and The North Sydney Bears with their signed pledges

The Sports Team

Merri Southwood, second right, with the Mayors of Willoughby, Mosman, and Ku-ring-gai at Mary’s House Hope Lives Here 10th anniversary event

The Mayors Merri Southwood, Mayor of Lane Cove Mary’s House is an important part of the Lower North Shore’s support network for women and children experiencing domestic and family violence, including those living in Lane Cove. Having access to specialist support, advice and a safe place to turn can make an enormous difference. Domestic and family violence is an issue that affects every community and local government has an important role to play in creating safer, more connected communities and supporting organisations that provide vital services. By working collaboratively across councils and with services like Mary’s House, we can strengthen the network available to those experiencing violence and ensure no one feels they have to face it alone.

Coby Thomas is Captain of The North Sydney Bears I stand united with my teammates against domestic and family violence. We do not condone abuse in any form - physical, emotional or psychological - and we’re committed to showing respect to women, children and others around us, on and off the field. If we see or hear anything that isn’t right, we will not stand aside. We will stand up. Silence is not an option. In April we became the first New South Wales Rugby League team to introduce a Captain’s Code pledge against domestic and family violence. We’ve supported Mary’s House as a community partner for the past two years and attend their events, raise money and engage in conversations about the charity and their work. As athletes, people look up to us, especially kids, and we want to be strong role models in the community. We’ve got a voice we can use to help foster safe communities and be part of breaking the cycle of family violence.

“If we see or hear anything that isn’t right, we will not stand aside. We will stand up. Silence is not an option.”

northsider 11

LOCAL LEGENDS

The Next Generation Eighteen year old Charlotte Humphreys is a volunteer I first became aware of Mary’s House when I was the 2025 Service Captain at Redlands Cremorne. We started a relationship with the charity and organised fundraising events throughout the year. I think a lot of people my age know domestic and family violence is an issue, but don’t realise how much it relates to us. We see it in movies, but it happens where we live and involves people our age. Our understanding of relationships is still being shaped, so it’s important we learn to recognise when something is becoming unhealthy. I’m now a volunteer for Mary’s House, assisting with events, fundraisers and more. It’s fulfilling to know I’m playing my small part in helping women and children change their lives.

“I think a lot of people my age know domestic and family violence is an issue, but don’t realise how much it relates to us”

Step out for Mary’s House this October!

Bill Kagaras, second left, and his team from last year’s Mary’s House Walk

Put your best foot forward on Sunday 25 October for the 2026 Mary’s House Walk, an 8.8km walk from St Leonards Park through Balls Head Reserve and Lavender Bay, finishing at North Sydney Oval. This annual, family and dog-friendly event brings the community together to stand against domestic and family violence while raising vital funds for Mary’s House Services. Among those getting behind the event is Bill Kagaras and his team at On Path Physio in McMahons Point. As well as putting together a team for the Mary’s House Walk, Bill also organises a fundraising Mother’s Day raffle each year. “We’ve been taking part for three years now,” Bill says. “What Mary’s House do is so important and the walk is a great way for us as a community to show that we say ‘no’ to domestic and family violence.”

Scan the QR code

to find out more and join over 1000 locals in stepping out for Mary’s House at the 2026 event. maryshouse.org.au

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De Bortoli Limoncello Spritz, $17.10 Chambers Cellars Greenwich and Lane Cove or online at chamberscellars.com.au

Cinta Hoop Gold Plated on Sterling Silver, $149 Iris & Lin Shop/10 Burns Bay Rd, Lane Cove or online at irisandlin.com

Ryusui Sakura Black Bento Box Set $79, Made in Japan Majime Life Japanese Lunchware 28 Elizabeth Street, Artarmon or online at majimelife.com.au

Wildly Wonderful Bouquet, from $135 The Village Florist Cnr Ferry & Alexandra Sts, Hunters Hill or online at villageflorist.com.au

BBQ by Jamie Oliver, $65 The Burns Bay Bookery 4/50-54 Burns Bay Rd, Lane Cove or online at burnsbaybookery.com.au

Marble Bowls, medium, $69 The Lost & Found Department 37 Alexandra St, Hunters Hill or online at thelostandfounddepartment.com.au

Jumbuck Portable Pizza Oven, $199 Bunnings Warehouse 71 Reserve Rd, Artarmon or online at bunnings.com.au

Porter Green Silicone Unbreakable Wine Glasses Stemn Pavone, $34.95 Be.U Natural Shop 10 Lane Cove Arcade, 115-119 Longueville Rd, Lane Cove or online at be.u.co

Glenys Gibson Napaltjarri. c1970. ‘Women’s Ceremony’ 96x88cm Stuart Leal Gallery 1/161 Burns Bay Rd, Lane Cove

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MADE IN LANE COVE

PHOTOS: LANE COVE COUNCIL

LOCAL HISTORY

Moments in time F

or more than 70 years, Lane Cove Library has been at the heart of village life, evolving from a modest public library into a much-loved community hub. The story began in 1945, when Lane Cove Municipal Council became the fifth metropolitan LGA to adopt the NSW Library Act. The Public Library officially opened in 1955 in the former Lane Cove War Memorial School of Arts building. It quickly proved popular: by November that year, 4,600 borrowers had access to 9,000 books,

PHOTOS: LANE COVE COUNCIL

Read all about it! Did you know that Lane Cove Libraries are home to NSW’s biggest bookworms? In the 2023/24 NSW Public Library Statistics, Lane Cove ranked No.1 for loans per capita, a position it has held across state and metropolitan libraries since 2002. Residents borrowed an impressive 635,195 items in the last financial year. Talk about a page turning result!

with around 500 items being loaned each day. As the community grew, so did the library, moving to a bigger building in the former Council Chambers in 1962, before undergoing further extensions including the 1975 addition of a Junior Library. The 90s saw the collection embrace new technology with audiobooks, CDs and DVDs added to the lending list. After years of planning, a major redevelopment culminated in the opening of the new library extension in July 2010. ●

A d v e r t i s i n g Pa r t n e r

FAMILY-OWNED AND OFFICIALLY FEAR FREE!

WHERE PETS C

Vets on Falcon in Crows Nest delivers exceptional veterinary care right on Lane Cove’s doorstep

or pet owners looking for a veterinary clinic that blends expertise, cutting-edge technology, and first-class care, Vets on Falcon in Crows Nest is the place to be - an independent, family owned practice with a big heart and modern know-how. Owned and operated by North Shore locals Dr Jo-Ann Chan and her husband and fellow vet Dr Eugene Ong, Vets on Falcon was created to provide exceptional veterinary care in a calm and welcoming environment. The team sees plenty of locals from Lane Cove, Greenwich, Artarmon and neighbouring suburbs, who make the short trip to Crows Nest for their pets’ care. “We treat every pet as if they were our own and deliver a modern, proactive approach to medicine,” says Eugene. “Our experienced team combines the latest medical advances, diagnostic technologies and preventative care to support your pet at every stage of life.” ●

A North Shore first Vets on Falcon is proud to be one of only 12 Australian Veterinary Assoication accredited Veterinary Hospitals of Excellence in NSW, and the only one on Sydney’s Lower North Shore.

Onsite diagnostics The clinic is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, including digital radiography, in-house blood testing, ultrasound imaging and dental x-rays. This helps deliver accurate results quickly, often while you wait.

Preventative health and wellness Every animal visiting Vets on Falcon has access to tailored wellness plans, vaccinations, parasite prevention and regular health checks to ensure they stay happy and healthy at every stage of life.

Extra cuddles!

Jo-Ann and Eugene’s four kids can often be found handing out treats and offering pets pats in the waiting room.

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“We’re so proud to be one of only four animal hospitals in Australia who are officially Fear Free accredited,” Jo-Ann says. “Our Fear Free certified team is trained in gentle handling and calming techniques to help pets feel safe and relaxed and we create a calm, positive, low stress experience every time, so your pet can receive the compassionate care they deserve.”

A purr-fect visit Vets on Falcon is also a Cat Friendly Clinic offering gold standard care, with dedicated spaces designed to keep cats calm and comfortable. A cat-only waiting area, private consult room and quiet cat ward ensure your feline friend always feels purr-fectly safe.

First-class care Behind the welcoming waiting room atmosphere is serious medical capability. Vets on Falcon boasts modern facilities that support comprehensive diagnosis and treatment, including surgery, so pets can stay close to home while receiving quality care.

A helping hand Jo-Ann, Eugene and the team are proud to give their expertise to support animals in need of their fur-ever home at North Shore Dog Rescue. They’re also an approved vet for Guide Dogs NSW, supporting the pups who play such an important role in our community.

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“WE TREAT EVERY PET AS IF THEY WERE OUR OWN AND DELIVER A MODERN, PROACTIVE APPROACH TO MEDICINE”

VETS ON FALCON CROWS NEST OPEN! 1/12-14 Falcon Street, Crows Nest PHONE 9127 5678 vetsonfalcon.com.au

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4-page

● MARKETS ● SPORT ● THEATRE ● ART AND MORE!

WHAT’S ON LANE COVE FESTIVAL @ SYDNEY FRINGE

PULL OUT!

Spring

● COMMUNITY EVENTS ● LIVE MUSIC ● EATS & DRINKS

From 1–30 September the Lane Cove Festival transforms the area into a buzzing hub of creativity with a jam-packed lineup of events and activities for all ages. Expect a full Sydney Fringe Festival season at Pottery Lane Performance Space, live music, art exhibitions, open days and a few surprises along the way…Lots of events are free too! Highlights include the Festival Launch on Friday 4 September, the Big Day Out at The Canopy on Saturday 12 September, and a Best of Fringe Encore Week from 24–27 September. For the full program, dates and bookings head to lanecove.nsw.gov.au/lcfest26

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W H AT ’ S O N • S P R I N G 2 6

SEPTEMBER 12TH SEPTEMBER THE BIG DAY OUT AND MADE IN LANE COVE MARKETS @ THE CANOPY, 10AM-4PM

13TH SEPTEMBER LE MARCHÉ FRENCH MARKET @ WOOLWICH DOCK, 9AM-1PM FRIDAY NIGHTS MEAT RAFFLES, TICKETS ON SALE FROM 5.30PM, DRAWN AT 7PM @ HUNTERS HILL CLUB 13TH SEPTEMBER POLPERRO WINE TASTING @ HUNTERS HILL WINE ROOM, FROM 2PM 25TH SEPTEMBER FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE MUSIC @ WOOLWICH PIER HOTEL, 8PM 26TH SEPTEMBER FLEETWOOD MAC RUMOURS TRIBUTE SHOW @ THE CANOPY, LANE COVE, 6PM

LANE COVE FUN RUN Participate in a 2km or 5km fun run to raise funds for Sydney Community Services and Lane Cove Public School P&C. A great way to support your community and get active. Kingsford Smith Oval Longueville, 7-11am. To register go to lanecovefunrun.com.au

27TH SEPTEMBER MOOCOOBOOLA FESTIVAL HUNTERS HILL Bring on a day of community fun at the Moocooboola Festival! Head to Boronia Park Ovals for rides, live entertainment, market stalls, food, roving performers and the crowd-favourite dog show. 10am - 4pm, Ovals 1 & 2

16-19 SEPT ALGORITHM OF US What happens when AI, corporate jargon and romance collide? Algorithm of Us, by independent North Shore Sydney company BCD Theatre, is a sharp, satirical rom-com about work, ambition and an unlikely office romance. Catch it at Pottery Lane Performance Space in Lane Cove as part of the Sydney Fringe Festival and Lane Cove Festival. sydneyfringe. com/events/algorithm-of-us/

ALL SPRING VEUVE CLICQUOT IN THE SUN ONBOARD THE JACKSON See the northside from a new perspective and kick start Spring onboard luxe superyacht The Jackson. Enjoy sophisticated sun-soaked moments with Veuve champagne, Clicquotinspired canapes and a deluxe oyster bar while dancing the afternoon away with a top Sydney DJ. $149pp, selected Saturdays throughout Spring, bookings essential thejackson.com.au

16 SEPT - 3 OCT

LANE COVE ART AWARD Celebrate Australian artistic talent at the annual Lane Cove Art Award, one of Sydney’s longest-running community art prizes. Discover bold, beautiful and thoughtprovoking works at this free exhibition, which opens at Gallery Lane Cove on Friday 18 Sept. Free entry. Follow @lanecoveartsociety on social for sneak peeks and event updates. gallerylanecove.com.au

SAV I N G HT

4T H

L ST A RT O F DAY

OCTOBER 11

SUSTAINABILITY LANE 2026 Sustainability Lane is a fun family friendly event promoting sustainability and eco-friendly lifestyles for the whole community to come and enjoy. The Canopy, Lane Cove, 9am-4pm. For info go to lanecove.nsw.gov.au

K-POP DEMON HUNTERS VS THE BESTIES: HALLOWEEN GLOW PARTY Get ready for the ultimate Halloween party as K-Pop Demon Hunters and Taylor & The Besties bring two incredible live shows together! Dress spooky. Glow bright. Sing loud. Dance harder! The Canopy, Lane Cove, 6.15-8.30pm. Head to lanecove.nsw.gov. au for tickets

10TH OCTOBER HUNTERS HILL MUSIC GALA EVENT Enjoy an evening of beautiful music featuring soprano Siobhan Stagg and pianist Jonathan Ware, followed by a post-concert supper curated by Simon Sandall and the Boronia Kitchen team, with wines from Savannah Estate. huntershillmusic.com.au

TUESDAYS PUB TRIVIA NIGHT @ LONGUEVILLE HOTEL, 7PM 17TH OCTOBER FREE CROQUET OPEN DAY @ HUNTERS HILL CROQUET CLUB, 10AM-2PM 22ND -25TH OCTOBER YOUNG IN ART EXHIBITION @ HUNTERS HILL TOWN HALL, 10AM-4PM 18TH OCTOBER CROWS NEST FEST Join over 50,000 attendees and 200+ stalls for a day filled with family-friendly activities, live music, delicious food, captivating entertainment and more! 10am–5pm Willoughby Road, Crows Nest. For more info head to crows-nest.com.au

3RD OCT OKTOBERFEST AT THE DIDDY Raise a stein or two at The Diddy at the annual Germaninspired extravaganza. The Longueville venue will be transformed from midday with 10 beer tents serving a range of brews including Yulli's, Grifter and Young Henrys, Germaninspired food and live music from Sydney indie rockers Highline, high-energy funkrockers Lambros and Oktoberfest favourites Masters of Oompa. Head to moshtix.com.au/v2/ event/oktoberfest-atthe-diddy

MARY'S HOUSE WALK The Mary's House Walk is an annual 8.8 km community charity walk to stand against domestic and family violence. Organised by Mary's House Services, the event raises vital funds to support local refuges and community programs for victim-survivors. The scenic, easy-grade loop begins and ends at St Leonards Park. Head to p12 to scan the QR code and register maryshouse.org.au

W H AT ’ S O N • S P R I N G 2 6

NOVEMBER 1

2026 HUNTERS HILL SPRING GARDEN COMPETITION OPEN GARDEN DAY Step into some of Hunters Hill’s most beautiful private gardens at this popular annual day out. From 10am, you'll begin your garden adventure at the Hunters Hill Town Hall Forecourt before wandering through lush green spaces to discover planting ideas and have a rare glimpse behind the garden gates. A wonderful way to explore Hunters Hill at its blooming best. huntershill.nsw.gov.au

SYDNEY SIXERS WBBL GAMES Catch all the WBBL action at North Sydney Oval this season with the Sydney Sixers taking on Sydney Thunder on 8 November, Melbourne Renegades on 15 November, Perth Scorchers on 21 November and Melbourne Stars on 26 November. For game times and tickets head to sydneysixers.com.au

14TH NOVEMBER GIN & JAM NIGHT WOOLWICH PIER HOTEL Get your weekend groove on every second Saturday of the month at this lively night of live music and great vibes. Sip on $18 Four Pillars gin cocktails, settle in for dinner and dance the night away woolwichpierhotel.com.au

SUNDAY ARVOS BAREFOOT BOWLS @LANE COVE BOWLO, FROM 2PM EVERY SATURDAY WILLOUGHBY PARKRUN @ ARTARMON RESERVE, 7AM

7&8

GREENWICH VILLAGE ARTS TRAIL Stroll through the streets of beautiful Greenwich, visit local artists in their open studios and discover the work of the suburb's award winning contemporary painters, illustrators, sculptors, ceramicists, jewellers, photographers and textile artists. The trail is open from 10-4 pm Saturday and Sunday. greenwichvillageartstrail.com

ALL WHAT'S ON INFORMATION CORRECT AT TIME OF GOING TO PRESS.

GIDDY UP FOR MELBOURNE CUP Spring racing celebrations on the northside always sell out fast, so get in quickly to book your spot. Hunters Hill Club Experience all the excitement of the big race with delicious food from Lozzi, great company and live coverage throughout the Club. The Longueville Hotel Start with a glass of Moët & Chandon NV on arrival, then sit down to a special three-course spring menu. Big screens, sweepstakes, best-dressed prizes and plenty of Cup Day buzz.

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UNITY THROUGH DIVERSITY

Foodie news Discover these tasty little nuggets of newness from around the northside

Local eats and treats

Spring is served! The new season has officially sprung at the Woolwich Pier Hotel and this fresh, colourful salad is bringing a splash of sunshine to the menu. Combining San Daniele prosciutto with creamy whipped ricotta, juicy seasonal melon, golden honey and punchy pickles, there's plenty of contrast in every forkful. It's gluten-free

and delightfully delicious, especially when paired with a crisp rosé or chilled glass of white wine. Set on the waterfront in Woolwich, the much-loved local pub is the perfect place for lingering over a long lunch, with outdoor spaces and water views. Sample the Spring menu, settle in and let the afternoon stretch out.

>> northsider 29

NEW in the hood! Legendary Woolwich restaurant Cucinetta is entering a fresh new era to mark its 20th anniversary with a menu that’s lighter, brighter and unmistakably Italian. Expect handmade pasta, vibrant seafood, stone-baked breads and dishes cooked over a new volcanic rock grill all at the iconic waterside setting.

PHOTO: NIC WALKER

A NEW ERA FOR CUCINETTA

A POWERHOUSE CHEF Owner of Hunters Hill's much-loved Boronia Kitchen, Chef Simon Sandall, is sharing his talent with the west, having been named as the food and beverage lead at the Powerhouse Parramatta. He'll also be continuing to run his garden-to-plate northside venue.

BOTTOMLESS MARGS AND MARGS

GALUWA DINING

A new foodie destination is coming to Lane Cove with Galuwa Dining set to open at the Galuwa Recreation Centre. Run by hospo group Lusso Kitchen, who are behind the kitchen at The Diddy, the venue will offer relaxed all-day dining, quality coffee, grab-and-go options, tapas, cocktails and a bar, with space to seat up to 300 guests.

Friday nights are getting a double glow-up at Dodici, the new Italian restaurant at Newgreens in Chatswood. For $69pp you can enjoy bottomless margaritas cocktails AND a selection of pizzas! For two hours, you can sip, slice and repeat, with classic, spicy and fruity margs to choose from. So round up your crew and let the good times pour. Head to newgreenschatswood.com.au for more info and to book.

Sunset sips

DESTINATION ROLL

Destination Roll has landed in Lane Cove, bringing its Vietnamese bánh mì and Asianinspired eats to the hood. Freshly baked bread comes out of the oven every 15 minutes, ready to be packed with vibrant fillings. Perfect for a quick lunch or takeaway feast, it’s a fresh new addition to Lane Cove’s food scene.

Clock off and head to the Sunset Diner at The Canopy for happy hour Monday to Friday, 4–6pm, with schooner-priced pints, regular-priced large wines and $12 Garden Spritzes. Thursdays bring $10 cocktails. Cheers to that!

FOODIE NEWS

WELL BREAD SANGAS Celebrate National Sandwich Day (yep, it's a thing!) on the 3 November at Stoneground Bakery in Hunters Hill. Check out the Stoneground seeded Turkish roll with rocket, sliced tomato, tomato relish and 150g sliced scotch fillet steak, finished with caramelised onion, melted cheese and honey chilli drizzle.

THREE OF THE BEST

Local eats and treats

Burger s!

IRONWOOD CAFE, WOOLWICH Ironwood Fish Burger with panko crumbed barramundi fillet on a milk bun, with lettuce, cheese, gherkin and house tartare, served with chips. LONGUEVILLE HOTEL, LANE COVE Wagyu Beef Burger with bacon, lettuce, tomato, American cheddar, McClures pickles and longy special sauce. CAFE ARCHIE'S, LANE COVE NORTH Deluxe Chicken Burger with homemade chicken schnitzel, fresh cut tomato, mixed leaves, smashed avo and chipotle mayo on a milk bun.

Take your tastebuds on tour Discover a different corner of the wine world every Saturday from 2-5pm at Hunters Hill Wine Room. Hosted by Adrian Filiuta, one of only six Master Sommeliers in Australia, the complimentary tastings are a chance to meet winemakers and uncover wines you may not find elsewhere. Head to huntershillwineroom.com.au for more info.

The sweet spot Mark your calendar for a very civilised weekend of tea, scones and beautiful surrounds at Carisbrook Historic House in Lane Cove. Taking place once a month, you can enjoy a traditional Devonshire tea, coffee and cakes in the pretty courtyard with a complimentary glass of bubbles, house tour and garden walk. The next high tea dates are the 19 and 20 September. carisbrookhouse.com

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LOVE LOCAL

THE PERFECT B The Lane Cove café where community is always on the menu

f you’ve ever lingered over brekkie at Brewmance in Lane Cove village or queued for a table outside the popular café’s sister venue of the same name in Crows Nest, you’ll already have experienced the magic created by co-founders, Davide Crespi and Hoky Michael. While the coffee is exceptional and the menu is packed with generous dishes, it’s the atmosphere that makes these bustling venues extra special with every customer welcomed like a regular - even on the very first visit. “The local community is everything to us,” says Brewmance co-owner, Davide Crespi. “People who came through the doors on day

“WE FOCUS A LOT ON CUSTOMER SERVICE BECAUSE WE WANT EVERYONE TO FEEL WELCOME AND THAT THEY BELONG” 32

one still come back in every day and you get to know them like friends. It’s really special. We focus a lot on customer service because we want everyone to feel welcome and that they belong. That’s what it’s all about.” Lane Cove North local Davide met business partner, Hoky Michael, over a decade ago while the pair were working together in a Potts Point coffee shop. Newly arrived in Australia from Italy and Indonesia respectively, the pair became good mates, united by a shared passion for hospo and making people feel at home. “We built a really good connection and customers would always ask if we’d like to open a coffee shop together,” Hoky remembers. “Eventually we thought… why not?!” The idea simmered and in 2022, Brewmance was born, the name suggested by Davide’s wife to perfectly capture both the pair’s friendship and love of coffee. Their Crows Nest venue on Willoughby Road came first with Lane Cove opening in 2025.

From left: Brewmance’s famous chilli crisp, available to take home; housemade miso banana bread; the cafe’s signature personalised latte art and Bacon and Egg Roll; co-founders, Davide and Hoky.

T BLEND The Brewmance menu reflects the team behind it, blending Italian, Indonesian, Asian and Australian influences into dishes designed to be comforting and just a little unexpected. Seasonal selections keep things fresh, with customer feedback shaping new ideas. One of the signature dishes is their famous Bacon and Egg Roll which sees crispy maple smoked bacon layered with free-range egg, cheese and spicy mayo on toasted ciabatta. For extra punch, you can add housemade chimichurri or Brewmance’s cult chilli crisp, which is so popular, it’s soon to be available to buy in jars to take home. Other crowd favourites include the Teriyaki Chicken Toastie - sticky buffalo teriyaki chicken, melted cheddar, coleslaw and spicy mayo on toasted sourdough – a range of vibrant Asian inspired brunch bowls and a Build Your Own Breakfast option, which allows diners to customise every item on their plate. Sweet treats include a ricotta pancake stack and a decadent Tiramisu French Toast made from thick brioche topped with berries, housemade espresso custard and fluffy mascarpone.

“Everything is made to order,” Hoky says. “We hate food waste and we think that if you decide to go out to eat, it should be quality ingredients and dishes you wouldn’t necessarily make at home. We want everybody who comes to Brewmance to leave saying, ‘That was delicious and I’m full.’” When it comes to the beverage menu, whether it’s a perfectly balanced flat white, a Melbourne inspired Magic – a double ristretto topped with steamed milk and served three-quarters full – a cold drip or an iced matcha, every cup is crafted with care and often comes with personalised latte art too. Looking ahead to further potential Brewmance venues, the pair have plenty more ideas percolating, with a dream to one day give long-time staff the opportunity to become business partners themselves. “In the future, we’d love our core staff to become co-owners,” Davide says. “We had the opportunity to build something and we’d love them to achieve their dreams and grow with us.” l

northsider 33

RECIPE

HAPPY

FRYDAY!

Pioneer of scale-to-tail seafood cookery, chef-restaurateur and northsider, Josh Niland, shares his take on fish and chips

FISH, CHIPS AND CONDIMENTS SERVES: 4 4 x 140 g (5 oz) boneless rock flathead fillets 150 g (5½ oz) rice flour, for dusting BATTER: 215 g (7½ oz) self-raising flour 400 g (14 oz) rice flour 10 g (¼ oz) baking powder 45 g (l½ oz) honey 345 ml (11½ fl oz) vodka (37 per cent alcohol) 550 ml (18½ fl oz) beer CHIPS: 3 kg ( 6 lb 10 oz) sebago potatoes 5 litres (169 fl oz) cottonseed oil TO SERVE: Yoghurt tartare sauce (page 54) 4 dill pickles 2 lemons, halved METHOD: • For the chips, scrub the potatoes thoroughly, leaving the skin on, and cut into index-finger width and length batons. Soak in cold water overnight to remove some of the starches that can sometimes cause colour inconsistency when deep-frying. (If you want to cook the chips in this way, the recipe needs to be started 3 days ahead.) • Decant the soaked chips from the liquid then transfer to a large heavy-based pot, cover with cold water and season the water with salt to taste (this will make your chips tastier

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID LOFTUS

ithout question, fish and chips is one of the most challenging dishes to execute. It was the first non-negotiable inclusion on the menu when we opened Saint Peter, and for the first six months we also offered it as takeaway. This was quickly removed from the menu once we opened Fish Butchery, where it found its new home. For so long, fish and chips has been a vehicle to carry aesthetically and texturally compromised fish. The presence of odour and the absence of flavour in a bleached, skinless centre cut of unidentifiable fish are quickly resolved by a crispy golden exterior. If we continue to celebrate the mediocre, however, then the quality that the rare few continue to labour over will quickly become lost. Today, fish and chips sits proudly on the Saint Peter bar menu. It was and still is today a priority to communicate exactly where the fish is from and who caught it. It would be far simpler and more profitable to turn out the super fries and defrosted basa, but there’s no joy in that. Instead, we believe in the potential that fish and chips has to create something special – the memory of a moment. l

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID LOFTUS

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RECIPE in the end). Bring to the boil over a medium heat and cook for 10 minutes or until the chip is moments from collapsing but still holding its form. This stage is absolutely imperative to the condition of the final chip, as not enough cooking here will result in a dry, slightly chalky chip. Too much cooking, however, and the result will be chunks of potato rather than chips. • Remove the chips carefully from the water to wire racks and place uncovered in the freezer. Allow to dry overnight. • The next day, preheat the cottonseed oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 140°C (285°F). When the oil is at temperature, place the frozen once-cooked potato chips into the basket of the deep fryer or on a slotted spoon for a saucepan and submerge in the oil, allowing them to cook for 5 minutes or until a blistered skin has fully formed. Being patient and waiting for the skin to blister is so important as this stage determines how crispy the chip can be. • Remove from the oil and allow to cool, then return the chips to the freezer on a wire rack to dry overnight. • The next day, increase the temperature of the oil to 180°C (360°F) and fry the parcooked chips again until very crisp and golden, about 5-6 minutes. Drain well on paper towel and season with fine table salt. • To make the batter, whisk the self-raising flour, rice flour and baking powder together in a large bowl. Combine the honey and the vodka in a jug and pour into the flour mixture, ensuring all of the honey is scraped out from the bottom, then add the beer and whisk well. Like any batter, it is in its optimum condition the moment it is made, but keep refrigerated if needed to be stored.

• For the fish, preheat the oil to 180°C (360°F). Dip the fillets in the batter, then dust them lightly in rice flour then carefully lower into the oil and fry until very crisp, about 2 minutes. You may need to turn the fish over midway through the cooking for even colouring. Remove from the oil, season liberally with fine salt and rest for a minute before serving. • To serve, tip the chips evenly across four serving plates then top with the fried rock flathead fillets. Place a generous spoonful of the Yoghurt tartare sauce alongside a dill pickle and half a lemon. Finish the flathead fillets with a sprinkle of sea salt flakes.

YOGHURT TARTARE SAUCE MAKES ABOUT 500G (1 LB 2 OZ) 375 g (13 oz) plain yoghurt 3 large French shallots, diced 1 tablespoon small salted capers, rinsed, dried and finely chopped 60 g (2 oz) coarsely chopped cornichons 2 tablespoons finely sliced flat-leaf (Italian) parsley leaves METHOD: • Stir all the ingredients together in a bowl. This is an edited extract from Saint Peter Chapter and Verse by Josh Niland, published by Hardie Grant Books. Available in stores from 1 Sept. RRP $80

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ISSUE 1 SPRING 26

YOUR INSIDE R ’ S GUIDE TO T H E A R E A’ S B E S T B I T S

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THE SPICE

IS RIGHT

Discover the flavours of South India in the heart of Lane Cove

ove over butter chicken. At Atti’s on Longueville Road there’s a world of Indian food to be discovered that goes beyond naan bread and tikka masala. Owner Varsha Venkataramanan is putting the spotlight on the Southern Indian dishes she grew up with in Chennai. “I want everyone to try this food,” Varsha says. “It’s a taste of home, our comfort food, and I want to take it to mainstream Australia, not as a cuisine, but as a product.

“I WANT PEOPLE TO START RECOGNISING SOUTHERN INDIAN DISHES, TO START SEARCHING THEM OUT” 38

India is so vast in terms of food. It’s not fair to just say Indian food. Sushi’s a classic example. I don’t say I want to have Japanese food, I say I want to have sushi. And I want people to recognise this food in the same way.” Whether you know your podi idli from your vadai and dosai or you’re completely new to the dishes, Varsha wants her South Indian menu items, which are all vegetarian and gluten-free, to become everyday favourites. Varsha started her foodie adventure running a market stall, as well as catering for festivals, parties and corporate events. “The markets were fantastic,” Varsha says. “People loved discovering the food.” After two years, she was ready for a new challenge. So when the opportunity arose to share space at the I Love Pizza store on Longueville Road, she jumped at it. The result

Where locals meet From far left: Varsha at work making idlis in Atti’s Lane Cove kitchen, which is tucked at the back of I Love Pizza on Longueville Road; at her market stall; a selection of Atti’s dishes, including idlis, medhu vadai and masala vadai; Atti’s owner Varsha Venkataramanan.

is a clever, collaborative setup, with Varsha cooking from a separate kitchen inside the venue. Diners can settle in and eat Atti’s food at the tables or order takeaway. “Having the support of Robin from I Love Pizza is amazing,” she says. “And Lane Cove has been so welcoming. Everyone’s really into food!” Every Atti’s menu item is created with Varsha’s housemade fermented batter and there’s plenty of vegan-friendly options, making it an easy local choice for plant based diners and anyone looking for wholesome food that’s packed with flavour. The thin, golden and beautifully crisp masala dosai is a rice-and-lentil crepe wrapped around a spiced potato filling. It comes served with coconut chutney and a hot sambar – a lentil-based vegetable stew. Then there are the idlis - soft, steamed

rice-and-lentil cakes also served with chutney and sambar; and podi idli, where these fluffy little morsels are coated in a fragrant spice blend. There’s also vadai, a savoury lentil fritter that looks like a doughnut. Varsha offers a choice of flavour combinations, including garlic peanut and spicy chilli, that allow diners to customise their meal, a twist she developed after noticing how much people enjoy choosing flavours and spice levels. The name Atti means a local hangout spot in Tamil - the kind of neighbourhood place where you regularly catch up with friends or family. It’s also a fitting description for what Varsha hopes to create. “I want people to start recognising Southern Indian dishes, to start searching them out,” she says. “And I’d love for there to be Atti’s all over Australia.” For now, Lane Cove has a pretty delicious head start. l

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PUZZLES with Quizmaster Clay SUDOKU Slot the numbers 1 to 9 into every horizontal line, vertical row and 3 x 3 square.

The Village Quiz

2 9

1. How many runways does Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport have? 2, 3, 4 or 5?

1 3 7 2 8

2. In which year was The Woolwich Pier Hotel first established? a. 1865 b. 1885 c. 1901

Wordsearch

6. Who is the current Mayor of Lane Cove Shire?

Find the below local parks in the grid. Words may be found going forwards, backwards, up, down or diagonally.

7. In which country and year will the next Rugby World Cup be held?

M W

8. What is the official fauna emblem of New South Wales?

W W N D

VILLAGE QUIZ ANSWERS: 1. b) 3 2. b) 1885. 3. Nicole Kidman 4. 2110 5. b) Orange 6. Councillor Merri Southwood 7. Australia in 2027 with the final to be played at Stadium Australia in Sydney 8. The Platypus

Solutions

2 3 5

3 2 5 6 4 7 8 2 3 9 6

5. The design of the Sydney Opera House was allegedly inspired by which food? a. Custard Danish b. Orange c. Orecchiette d. Mango

3. Which famous Australian actress grew up in the north shore suburb of Longueville?

4. What is the postcode of Hunters Hill?

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#TEDWALKS

Ted the puggle, northsider’s ‘rover’ reporter, meets Lane Cove Shoodles Chester and Chase, the adorable Shih Tzu-Poodle crosses

T: Hi Chester and Chase! You’re local pup-fluencers on Instagram, do you get recognised when you’re out and about in the area? C+C: Hi Ted! Yes, we do get recognised a lot, especially ‘cos we stand out as there’s two of us - double trouble in our matchy matchy outfits - and we ride around in a doggy stroller with our mum Stephanie. Chase is always hanging out over the handlebars because he’s always so excited to see everyone! T: I’ve seen on the socials that you love going out to lots of cool local places in your stroller. C+C: We got our stroller a few years ago when Chester got injured and couldn’t walk for three months. We still like wheeling around for lots of reasons. When our little

legs get worn out after a long walk, it means we can hop in and take a well deserved nap and when we’re out and about snacking and shopping with the family we get to sit up high and join in on the fun at the cafe. There’s lots of room to stash treats too. T: You’re Lane Cove locals - what are some of the best things about living here? C+C: Lane Cove is officially one of Australia’s most dog-loving neighbourhoods and you’ll get lots of people saying hello just walking down the street. It’s like a giant playground! There’s pawsome patios at Lane Cove Plaza and The Canopy. It’s such a big place and covered too so it is good for walks at all times and even if it’s raining. We’ll always see friendly faces, particularly at Sunset Diner. Garcon and Sugarlane are also regular stops when we’re out and about. When Mum needs to do a bit of shopping, we’re always happy to tag along. We love helping her pick up fresh bread from Bakers Delight, and there are plenty of places to stop for a bite along the way, from Fourth Fish and La Piazza to Thimble Café, Story and KIN. Brewmance even make

Here’s us out and about in our stroller with our mum, Stephanie. We star on her Instagram too, appearing in pics for her 36k followers @stephtee

INSTAGRAM: @THEBLACKSHOODLE

“We think we’ve got our Dad well trained!”

Animal MATTERS with Vets On Falcon’s Dr Jo-Ann Chan BVSc Providing veterinary care with love and compassion.

INSTAGRAM: @THEBLACKSHOODLE

Off to The Canopy in our stroller, left. We always see some furry locals for a chat when we’re there, above.

latte art with our names on it! Pet-O is our favourite shop of course. They give out the best treats and our photo is even up on their photo wall with all our local furriends. We love the smell of the freshly fired dough at Zapparelli’s Pizza and no Lane Cove outing is complete without a little something sweet. At Yo-Chi, vanilla is our flavour of choice. Yum! The ultimate zoomie zone is Blackman Park. It has so much space and best of all, it’s right next to Puppy Tail Café where you can get the yummiest organic lamb mince woofles. T: I’ve seen you’re nervous doggos – so am I! What would you tell people about that? C+C: We’re smaller dogs so everything looks so much bigger and we can get a lil’ spooked sometimes by loud or fast moving people or other furriends. If you see us out and about, give us some space, go slow and speak softly. And don’t make us say hi straight away if you see us shaking. Chester is especially nervous and isn’t so brave meeting new people. We love our forever family because they always make us feel safe and give us the best cuddles and that makes us feel better. T: What’s your favourite food? C+C: Chicken Sticks! Dad makes us do tricks for them, like sit and shake paws, but then we get too excited and impatient. He gave up on teaching us any other tricks (we think we have trained him well hehe). ●

Free dental checks! By age three, most dogs and cats have some form of dental disease that often goes undertreated. Behind that happy face may be sore gums, a cracked tooth or an infection developing beneath the surface. Pets can’t tell us when something hurts and they instinctively hide pain so dental problems can go unnoticed for months or even years. After treatment, families often tell us their pet seems brighter, more playful and more affectionate, simply because that hidden pain has finally been relieved. This Spring, we are offering free dental checks every Tuesday and Thursday at Vets on Falcon and Pet Medical Milsons Point. Finding problems early allows us to talk through the options and create the right plan for your pet, helping them keep eating, playing and enjoying life by your side. Call us today to book your pet’s free dental check - we’d love to see you and your furry friend this Spring! SCAN FOR BOOKINGS VETS ON FALCON CROWS NEST PHONE 9127 5678 vetsonfalcon.com.au

LOCAL LEGENDS

Community

MATTERS

northsider talks all things community with Greenwich Village Games founder, Tom Lawson

etermination is etched on the brows of the two groups of locals facing off in Greenwich’s Bob Campbell Oval. Impassioned shouts cut through the air as each side hunkers down - determined not to give an inch. But this isn’t a stand-off over a parking spot on St Vincents Road or a boundary dispute that’s spilled over into the street. What looks like a community divided is in fact the exact opposite. These northsiders are digging their heels in - literally - to compete in the tug of war at the Greenwich Village Games. It’s just one of over 30 events that make up this weekend of good, clean - well, apart from the mud flat race - neighbourhood fun, that takes place every four years. The man behind this sporting extravaganza is long-time local Tom Lawson, who was named Lane Cove Citizen of the Year in June for his commitment to community building. As well as his involvement with The Games, Tom has served as President of the Greenwich Community Association,

“BEING A PENINSULA, WE’VE GOT A REAL IDENTITY. IT’S AN AMAZING COMMUNITY” 44

advocated for the preservation of Greenwich Baths, contributed to, and campaigned for the community in, many local matters and also served as a Lane Cove Councillor between 2004 and 2008. Through decades of dedication, Tom has helped shape the character of Greenwich and enriched the lives of generations of residents. “I’ve lived here since 1976 and Greenwich is a very special place,” Tom tells northsider. “People have a strong sense of belonging here.” Tom’s contribution to the area spans decades and The Games have been bringing the community together since 1988. “We needed a special event for the Bicentennial and I said well, I might have an idea,” Tom remembers. Inspired by the Highland Games in his native Scotland, the Greenwich Village Games were born. Locals split into eight teams - the Anarchists, Builders, Commerce, Engineers, Guardians, Heroes, Natives and Tribe - to compete in fun events including paper plane flying, slow cycling races, a gumboot throw,

Clockwise from top left: The 2025 Greenwich Village Games team captains; local legend Tom Lawson; Tom receiving the Lane Cove Citizen of the Year award from Mayor Merri Southwood

canoe relay, golf, jigsaws, trivia and lots more. There’s even a caber toss - a Highland Games event which sees contestants throw a tall wooden pole - as a nod to The Games’ Scottish roots. With participants aged from two to 100 years old, there’s also a Micro Games designed for pre-school children featuring bubble play, colouring in and non competitive wheelbarrow races and relays. In recent years, Tom has stepped back from organising The Games, with a passionate committee of locals now leading the event. Over 2000 people took part in 2025, with many more in the crowd cheering on their neighbours and team colours proudly on display around the suburb. As well as taking part in the competition, last year locals were also able to train in CPR and sign up as NSW Ambulance GoodSAM responders over the duration of the event. The GoodSAM App alerts CPR-trained local

volunteers when someone nearby suffers a cardiac arrest and Triple Zero is called, allowing chest compressions to start during those critical minutes before paramedics arrive. Over 675 members of the community signed up, meaning that Greenwich now holds the highest density of CPR-trained residents in the Southern Hemisphere. Not bad for a weekend built on three-legged races and friendly competition. “Community has diminished over the years,” Tom observes. “Everyone’s active online but not as much locally. The Games bring people together and are all about having fun. That’s the best thing about them. People who took part as kids are now bringing their kids and I’m really proud of the event.” “I think it could really only happen in Greenwich,” he concludes. “Being a peninsula, we’ve got a real identity. It’s an amazing community.” ●

northsider 45

Local’s last word. Haylee, Dan and daughter Penny have lived in Lane Cove for six years

Our favourite place for coffee is…Story on Birdwood Lane. Dan will have a classic cap, I’ll get an English breakfast tea and Penny loves the hot chocolate. The best meal I’ve had in the area was at…Kosuke Ramen. We have their classic pork and chicken ramen with extra corn, edamame and gyoza. Always delish. If we want to enjoy a drink after work we go to… the Sunset Diner for happy hour margaritas or French rosé. Penny loves running around in the water feature. It’s bliss! Our fave local takeaway is…Lane Cove Chinese Kitchen to get our fix of childhood 90’s Chinese faves. We’ll order their combination chow mein soft noodles as well as some beef and broccoli.

The secret spot I love to go to locally is…a tiny

harbour beach in Longueville near the North Shore Rowing Club. The perfect place for a swim on a hot day. It’s full of veggies that Penny loves so it feels less naughty. Our top three favourite local shops or services in the area are…First up is Lane Cove Dance Academy. Penny is obsessed with ballet and dances five days a week. We frequent the Hot Dollar for anything and everything and M.S Wine Cellars is great for a special bottle of wine.

If we’ve got guests in town, we’ll take them to… Via Napoli for a crowd pleasing Italian meal. Our ideal day in the area would consist of…discovering a new bush walk, seeing what’s on at Gallery Lane Cove and having neighbours or friends over for dinner. Our top kid- friendly spots include…The Diddy for casual dinners and get togethers and any of The Canopy restaurants. The kids can play on the grass or enjoy the events on stage. The thing we love about living in this area is… the people! As well as young families, there’s locals who’ve been here for generations and new Australians making their own roots. It’s very special.

Three words I’d use to describe this area…

Lively, community, convenient.

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