Perth Voice Interactive

THE dysfunctional Newcastle Street/Carr Place intersection has an upgrade on the cards to turn it into a mini piazza.

Just near the busy Leedy hotel, the area’s a mess of intersecting streets clogged with a quagmire of taxis, buses, cars, delivery trucks, bikes and pedestrians.

Vincent council’s plan aims to make the area a little more people-friendly, since currently pedestrians have cars coming at them from four directions and every crossing is a roll of the dice.

It’s up for public comment until April 3 (plans on the Vincent council website or 9273 6000) and if it gets the go ahead works would kick off later this year.

by DAVID BELL

THE future of the Cool Breeze Cafe is secure after more than 1000 locals signed a petition calling on Bayswater council to let the cafe keep going in Riverside Gardens.

The future of the popular coffee van had been in jeopardy after the council rejected a request from owner Georgia Johnson to continue using the city’s power supply (Voice, February 26, 2015).

The council rescinded that rejection Tuesday and voted to allow Ms Johnson to continue using its power for another year (she has paid for electricity since opening in 2013).

“We are happy that the avalanche of public support forced the council to change their decision,” Ms Johnson says.

Since the tussle started, Cool Breeze’s Facebook page has been liked by thousands and Ms Johnson has been inundated with support.

Cr Alan Radford doesn’t care about the public support, however. He says Cool Breeze has not abided by the council’s food van policy (which came into force more than a year after the van started business).

“I find it offensive it doesn’t apply by the rules,” he says.

“It’s not a level playing field with other operators.”

Cr Terry Kenyon says the policy needs amending or the council will be forever granting special dispensations.

The meeting descended into farce after a councillor spotted a typo in the agenda, sparking several minutes of bickering and grandstanding.

“This is embarrassing in front of our ratepayers,” former mayor Kenyon told colleagues. “We have made a bunny out of a kangaroo court.”

The council also voted to look into building a permanent cafe at Riverside Gardens.

by STEPHEN POLLOCK

CARVED from 500-year-old jarrah, Neil Turner’s work isn’t simply exquisite, it’s a once-living organism, influenced over aeons, long before white settlement.

The exact age of the timber is unknown, he tells the Voice. “[It] could be older than 500 years. It’s from an old logging coupe.”

He cut down to the core of the virtually rotten trunk, digging through years of decay to find solid timber, the rich red-brown black-flecked due to a fungal disease.

“It was a pristine piece for my vase…the flecks give it character,” Turner says.

The “vase” is an elaborately carved tangle of twists and turns representing fire, and is the result of countless hours of intricate carving, and slow, careful polishing to achieve a soft finish to the hard timber.

It’s part of a collection at Linton and Kay Galleries, that includes a coral-inspired bowl, and Rush of Life coffee table, the carved lines representing the fast pace that differs from his life on a farm to a small acreage near Bunbury.

Sheoak timber inspired the coral bowl, while other pieces are timbers sourced from the goldfields, but there are also pieces using American rock maple: “Chosen for its pure white tone, not found in Australian timbers,” Turner says.

Decades on the land, 180km east of Perth, didn’t prepare him for city life: “Farming is a pedestrian mode at best. I found it hard for the first 12 months to get out of slow saunter to slow jog.”

The 57-year-old first tried his hand at wood turning aged 18/19: “Lathe bowls—and they weren’t very good,” he reflects. Moving to Bunbury, he did a couple of workshops, which led to a shift in direction and style: “They were doing different stuff, not turning. I thought, ‘there’s more to this than rolling pins’.”

A two-year stint at the now defunct Dwellingup fine furniture college turned him from artisan to artist—and led to his first exhibition, which was so successful works were sold to the US, where he was invited to a nine-week artists’ residency in Philadelphia.

Coalesce is on at Linton and Kay Galleries, 137 St Georges Terrace, Perth, till March 31, Mon-Sat 10am–5pm, Sun 11am–4pm.

by JENNY D’ANGER 

DESPITE a gruelling battle with cancer and the collapse of live music venues in Perth, Graham Wood is still wearing a Louis Armstrong smile as The Ellington celebrates its sixth birthday this month.

Co-owner Wood will celebrate but not indulge in any Charlie Parker-style debauchery: in 2013 he underwent a 13-hour “high-risk” operation to remove a rare form of cancer from his bile ducts.

He shed 20kg in two-and-a-half-weeks, as well as half his liver.

Doctors had been reluctant to operate due to the high risk of death.

“I certainly have a different lifestyle approach now, including no alcohol, no tobacco, a healthy diet and plenty of sleep,” Mr Wood says.

“I don’t play late shows, as a pianist, at The Ellington anymore—my rest is more important.”

A spate of live music venues in Perth has recently closed, including The Bakery, Ya-Ya’s and Deville’s Pad.

Mr Wood says the key to survival is keeping the line-up fresh and being financially prudent.

“Live music venues are always marginal propositions from a commercial perspective and so it’s important to be prudent with how much money gets spaced around,” he says.

“The biggest challenge for the club is keeping the venue moving forward, featuring new and interesting things, 600 shows a year.”

by STEPHEN POLLOCK

Speaking in tongues-in-cheek
I HAVE a serious question for David Bell who wrote last week’s article in the Voice about US atheist Matt Dillahunty visiting Perth.
In the last sentence it was stated the Voice contacted God for comment and the Voice was waiting to hear back. Now, everybody knows the Voice is a newspaper and newspapers do not pray because they cannot pray. This tongue-in-cheek frivolity was unnecessary. Added nothing to the story. Was not amusing and in fact disrespectful.
Putting that aside did anybody really do any praying to God about Dillahunty or his visit? If so who was it and to whom did they pray? Or is it just plain untruth? Did anybody at the Voice seriously expect to hear back from God? It seems the article was intended to promote atheistic ideas. Given there is no such thing as an atheist or atheism the whole thing is more ridiculous.
If you were to believe that God does not exist you would not even use the word God. Believing in God is one thing. Believing God is the author of every religion under the sun is something else again. God is God and religion is the vain imagination of man who is looking to the adversary rather than to God. You can pray to Allah the moon god of Arabia, Buddha, Krishna, Blessed Virgin Mary or anybody you like. And it is all in vain because there is only One True God—who is the Father of Our Lord Jesus Christ. That is the factual information which comes out of Scripture (Holy Bible). Anything other than Jesus Christ and Him Crucified is fake and a total waste of time, effort and attention. It is impossible to be atheist because human beings are created by the God above all gods and share the same DNA if you like. So atheists (if you want to call yourselves that) get on track and know you are and who you belong to.
Raymond Conder
Central Ave, Inglewood

Academic heights
THERE is nothing new in either the acknowledgement of the need for new inner-city schools, as families seek to move closer to where they work, or in the inability of education and school planners to respond to the blindingly obvious (Voice, March 21, 2015).
As long ago as 2005, myself and fellow-Vincent-councillor Noel Youngman raised precisely this issue, which should have been apparent even when the WA education department closed the Leederville primary school. But, as planners are now finding, there is no way to retrieve a lost asset to create a 21st century primary school —the land is simply too expensive.
Several times, when a Vincent councillor, I drew attention to the potential of the Leederville redevelopment to incorporate a new primary school that could serve both the families who lived around Leederville and those who work in Leederville.
This could be achieved quite simply with a podium development of one of the carparks owned by the City of Vincent. The school could be built into a tower immediately above the podium, with the roof of the podium being the activity space for the school.
With appropriate development incentives, developers might well fund the school component. So here’s my challenge to the City of Vincent—stop simply talking about the Leederville redevelopment and get on with it. Use ownership of the land to leverage private sector funding for development, including community facilities such as a school. There is an opportunity here for a totally new model of public-private partnership that will benefit all parties, including the community.
Ian Ker
Mt Lawley

Bravo Bell
BRAVO David Bell, in handling a tricky situation during the monthly meeting of City of Perth council (Voice, March 21, 2015).
From Mr Bell’s impression of exchanges he had with the city’s communications manager, Louise Scott, Peta Credlin comes to mind before Julie Bishop.
Mr Bell obviously adhered to the legendary advice offered to young reporters: never fall out with anyone outside a newsroom. It can become embarrassing not to be on speaking terms with someone who might make news – as Ms Scott has.
How I miss my own anonymous times in the PCC gallery to scribble a chamber “sketch” of which the Voice usually chose to publish at least a part. As for what councillors’ need to know and see? Space, the tyrant here, denies venture. Less bravo. Ok, nutshell time: Perth the “nation”—Mr Bell’s vision outstrips even LM Lisa’s.
Ron Willis
First Ave, Mount Lawley

Sports scourge
ALL this sporting drug abuse that’s constantly haunting every code of game, can’t have this, can’t take that. Yet there are alcohol advertisements on their uniforms, guernseys, grounds, fences, TV ads before during and after the game. So everyone should freely swill the worst social drug we’ve ever known.
Darryl Kippe
Menora Village

Still an outpost
WHEN I visit Canberra again I will make sure to go and see the Museum of Australian Democracy.
I do think though it should be renamed the Museum of Australian Government because until we have the right to elect our head of state we cannot seriously call our country a democracy.
Gordon Westwood
Coode St, Maylands

WE’RE all climbing Jacob’s Ladder, and it’s annoying the locals, don’cha know. For years neighbours in ritzy apartments have complained about sweaty exercisers who use the King’s Park landmark to noisily grunt up and down hundreds of step. The NOMBS (Not On My Back Steppers) want Perth city council to close the steps after-hours and remove stretching equipment. PCC staff aren’t keen, advising that residents are divided over the issue and “a number of residents are supportive of healthy and active living in their local area”. The PCC will consider erecting signs asking joggers not to be jerks.

MAYLANDS Labor MP Lisa Baker will move a motion in state parliament supporting marriage equality. Ms Baker says most  WA folk support equal rights for same-sex couples to marry and the motion will call on the federal parliament to get on board. Premier Colin Barnett’s allowing a conscience vote for Liberal MPs.

NEIGHBOURS. Can’t live without them (unless you’re rich and can afford massive walls), so get to know them down at the Neighbour Day street party on the Oxford Reserve. Run by Vincent council and a friendly organisation called Befriend, the idea is to make connections in your community. Food, music, games and a zoo to break the ice over a baby lamp. Sunday March 29 at 3.30pm.

by DAVID BELL

Advertisement: See all the latest properties for sale from Acton Mount Lawley below

 

A PERTH VOICE PROMOTIONAL FEATURE:

Beaufort Realty
When it comes to real estate, experience counts, which is certainly the case at Beaufort Realty – a progressive, independent real estate company led by Pam Herron, Christine Kirkness, Jon Adams and Donna Buckovska, who together share almost 100 years’ of real estate experience.
The Beaufort Realty team believes the process of selling, investing, renting or buying a property should always be a positive experience, something the team aims to achieve for every client.
“It’s the way we deliver these services that sets us apart. We have deliberately shifted away from the ‘large multi-office’ mentality in favour of a more personal, hands-on approach,” said Pam Herron.
“Whether it’s selling, leasing, or providing general advice, our primary focus is always on you, our client.  And just like you, we value professionalism, ethics and quality service,” she continued.
Beaufort Realty
580 Beaufort Street, Mt Lawley
Beaufortrealty.com.au
info@beaufortrealty.com.au
92270887

Branches
Branches on Fitzgerald St is WA’s best supplier of the highest quality artificial trees, plants and floral arrangements. In business for over 25 years, Branches is going strong and about to open a second store located in Erindale Road, Balcatta.
Sourced from the best producer in the world, Branches’ trees have natural stems (made from real wood), so they look as authentic as you can possibly get. It’s a great option for a low-maintenance, water-free alfresco or balcony setting. And perfect if you travel a lot or work away.
Branches carries a wide range of stunning trees, greenery, beautiful flowers and floral arrangements. Trees and arrangements are also available for long-term corporate hire. The talented in-house florist creates all the arrangements for the showroom, as well as bespoke florals for customers who want something unique and a bit special – perfect for the dining table
Branches
334 Fitzgerald Street, North Perth
9328 9001
sales@branchesperth.com.au
http://www.branchesperth.com.au

Festival Fish
For more than 30 years Festival Fish has been supplying North Perth with fresh fish, straight off the boats. “And we’ll be doing it for the next 30 too,” laughs founder and owner Gavin Glauert.
The popular family business sells fish supplied daily from its licensed fishermen, who ply WA waters for the best produce available. “We’re just coming to the start of the snapper season so if you’re after the best snapper, now’s the best time to head in,” says Gavin, who also highly recommends the Tasmanian salmon and Darwin barramundi.
“All our fresh fish is absolutely fresh, straight off the boat every day, never thawed,” Gavin says. “Frozen fish is in the freezer.” Festival Fish North Perth is staffed by the familiar and friendly faces of Alcino, Amol, Marylyn and kae, it is open 7 days (8am to 7pm Mon–Fri), 8am to 5.30pm Sat and 11am to 5pm Sun.
Festival Fish
Shop 1, North Perth Plaza
391 Fitzgerald St, North Perth
9228 1109

Golden Ravioli
In 1951, Carlo Lenzarini stepped off the boat at Fremantle, to start a new life in Australia. Carlo was later joined by brothers Stefano, Florindo and Narciso. The brothers spent many long hours working the land in WA. In 1958 their hard work paid off and they fulfilled a long held dream to open their own restaurant in Northbridge – the Romany, which quickly gained a huge following for its authentic Tuscan dishes and warm hospitality.
Seeking to build on Australia’s growing love affair with fresh pasta, the brothers purchased Italian machines to make ravioli and tortellini, and in 1964 opened a retail outlet next to the Romany, called Golden Ravioli. Golden Ravioli soon became renowned for its superb range of artisan pasta and sauces.
Celebrating 50 years in business, Golden Ravioli is still going strong under the guidance of 86 year old Narciso Lenzarini, (the only surviving brother) who imparts his passion, knowledge and work ethic to the next generation.
Golden Ravioli
Romany House, 256 Fitzgerald St, Perth

Open Arms Fellowship
Open Arms Fellowship, the only welcoming and affirming Pentecostal church in Perth. The fellowship started two years ago, with the aim to provide a safe and welcoming space for everyone including gays, lesbians, bisexual, trans, and intersex people to express their love and worship for Christ.
Over the past two years, many people have been through the doors; some to stay; some only for a while; others to get back to being connected with the God they thought had rejected them.
Unlike other churches, Open Arms accepts you, in the same way that God Does – Just as you Are!
This year from Good Friday to Resurrection Sunday, Open Arms Fellowship will provide an opportunity for you to come and join in on the most significant moment in the Church calendar:  Good Friday 3.00pm and Resurrection Sunday at 3.00pm. Come and celebrate the life and healing of the risen saviour and be welcomed into His Open Arms.
Open Arms Fellowship
0405 285 233
pastor@openarmsaustralia.org

Power Living
Power Living Australia Yoga (or P.L.A.Y) is now well and truly part of the Perth Yoga scene. Their Yoga focuses on developing a person’s spiritual wellbeing as much as their physical and mental health, and the modern day teachings are accessible to all.
There are many benefits associated with Yoga. Movement is medicine and moving our body on the mat can be extremely therapeutic physically. Mentally, Yoga allows us to temporarily still the mind and gain a sense of inner peace.
Offering Hot Yoga, Vinyasa and Yin Yoga, it’s the combination of the three styles that brings the best results and keeps the body healthy and firing on all cylinders. The energetic styles of Hot and Vinyasa challenge the entire body with strong movement and dynamic flow, while Yin targets specific areas with longer holds and slower movements.
For new students, Power Living Perth offers an Intro Pass for $39 for 30 days unlimited yoga.
Power Living
powerlivingperth.com.au

Property Selection
Licia Santoriello is the principal and licensee of Property Selection Realty located in North Perth at the corner of Charles and Scarborough Beach Road. Licia is delighted to be working in this dynamic inner city suburb as it offers a fantastic mix of character homes, iconic buildings and modern apartments.
The ongoing gentrification of North Perth and the construction of new apartments will provide many more first home buyers with an opportunity to move into this sought after area.
Licia has a wealth of experience, having been in the industry many years and has sold everything from one bedroom units to luxury homes North of the River. If you are thinking of selling, please contact Licia on 0416 195 602 for a free market appraisal or simply pop into the office for a friendly, confidential chat.
Property Selection
Suite 6/1 Scarborough Beach Rd, North Perth
0416 195 602
licia.propselect@bigpond.com
http://www.propertyselectionrealty.com.au

Top Design
Hair and Beauty
It’s a new season – time for a new look?
If your hair looks and feels a little dull after the summer months, head to Top Design Hair and Beauty. As a family owned and operated business, you’ll receive friendly services in a relaxed environment.
With over 18 years experience in all aspects of hairdressing and beauty, you’re in good hands at Top Design.
Top Design is committed to using the highest quality ammonia-free hair products (no strong fumes!) and all natural skin care products (no harsh chemicals!).
Book now to receive 20% off all hair colouring services and selected beauty services.
Come in today to claim your offer and book an appointment. We’re happy to help with anything you require.
Top Design Hair and Beauty
9444 0819
Shop 7/265 Walcott Street,
North Perth

Trenz
Are you constantly salon-hopping in the hope of finding ‘the one’? Lilla Corvaia and Tony Gorgone, owner/operators of Trenz in North Perth, believe the key to a really great salon lies within the ability to combine a high level of skill and extensive experience to create a style that suits the individual. “It takes workmanship, talent, precision and an eye for detail to design a great look,” said Tony. “The ability to ‘style’ only comes once you’ve mastered cutting hair,” he continued.
Being a family owned and operated business, Trenz is proud to offer a ‘generation of hairdressing’ and with over 20 years of experience cutting hair in North Perth, has become part of the local DNA. Trenz also specialises in spray tanning. Using the best paraben and alcohol free tanning solutions such as Technotan, your skin will be left with a beautifully natural sun-kissed glow.
Trenz
30 Angove Street, North Perth
9328 8595
info@trenzhairandbeauty.com.au
http://www.trenzhairandbeauty.com.au