Interesting that policies aimed at addressing housing affordability are being released in the major parties final push. Too little, too late perhaps?
We’re not the only ones looking at housing affordability. In the UK, the Queen’s Speech (basically, the Government’s agenda) included a proposition by which local authorities require commercial landlords to hold rental auctions of properties which have been vacant for 12 months. Do you reckon something like that could solve our empty shop problem?
One of the great things about our area is the creativity of its residents.
We saw it on show recently, where local talent performed at the drop of a hat for independent candidate, Dr Sophie.
Sons of The East, Lime Cordiale and Angus & Julia Stone are amongst the best known of a range of home-grown talent.
And, just a reminder, there are plenty of places to enjoy live music.
The ‘Bowlo’ has regular Wednesday night Jazz sessions (now with pasta by Alfonso!) as well as Friday night music and Sunday night sessions, all great fun.
The ‘Rissole’ (Avalon RSL) has band sessions too…check out their website.
Leonardo’s and Bookoccino in Avalon, both host evening musicians regularly. And don’t forget the Newport talent too – La Vida Loca, the cocktail bar and grill that invites you to “drink like a fish, eat like a horse and dance like no one is watching”. This isn’t all of them, I’m sure, but you get the drift…there’s lots of music out there to brighten up our souls…
And of course, there’s the Election this Saturday. Don’t forget to vote if you haven’t already. If you’ve never voted before – or you’ve forgotten how to – this may help:
Also on Saturday, the Avalon Community Garden plant sale is on at Barrenjoey High from 8am. Pick a plant, then pick a politician…
In case you missed it, and are still undecided, or even just want to hear what the local candidates are all about, here’s the link to the Candidates Debate held recently, organised by Bookocinno…
How lucky we are to have businesses like Bookocinno engaging with – and for the community, on issues way beyond their brief. It takes a lot of time, effort, and enthusiasm. And to Avalon Cinema too – who donated the space for the debate…
Sadly, the much-loved (by us at least) Whale Beach Deli closed last weekend. This time, a decision prompted by an imminent redevelopment of the site. Following on from local legend Alfonso’s closure a couple of weeks ago, fingers crossed no more. However, worth noting that Alfonso has gigs on Sunday night at the Avalon Surf Club, Wednesday night’s at the Bowlo’s Jazz Night, and Friday night pizzas there too..
On a much more positive foodie note…Did you know that our very own Oliver’s Pies in North Avalon was voted the maker of the best fish pie in AUSTRALIA about 5 years ago? Well, their smoked fish pie is back on the menu this week. Worth trying, trust us, it’s fantastic!
It’s encouraging to see some new shops in Avalon and Newport – with new players emerging and adding to the vibrancy. Retail is tough, so let’s hope this trend continues!
One of the newest retailers, in Newport, is by Mitch & Mark, of ‘The Block’ fame, whose permanent homewares shop is now on Barrenjoey Road, having tested the market with a pop-up in Robertson Road. Well, where else have they popped up? In the Archibald’s at the AGNSW.
Scroll down for details of our winning listing for the week: 60 The Serpentine offers a rare Bilgola Beach view that stretches all the way to Manly. It’s a ripper! Please call 0414 997 328 to make a time to view it.