News Brief

Apple apps share Christmas spirit

Last Wednesday celebrity chef Margaret Fulton and her team unveiled her new iPhone app at the Sydney Apple Store. The app Margret Fulton – Christmas, was launched by Ms Fulton and Maeve O’ Meara, producer and presenter of SBS television’s Food Safari. Ms Fulton delighted the packed store and street with some tips and a brief cooking demonstration.

Pyrmont parks unleashed

Three parks were declared suitable for off-leash zones during Monday’s Council meeting last week. Councillors unanimously voted to allow dogs off-leash in Giba Park in Point Street, Metcalfe Park on the wharf at Pirrama Road and Waterfront Park in Bowman Street.

In her e-news letter Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the City supports responsible pet ownership and head developed the Companion Animals Policy to promote it.

“Pets play a vital role in peoples’ lives, providing support and companionship,” she said.

City honours heroes

Last Wednesday Lord Mayor Clover Moore presented three Certificates of Commendation to Council workers who risked their lives to help rescue several people from a house fire.

Street sweepers Leslie Ellis, William Kennedy and Graeme Jones were finishing their night shift at 4:30am when they noticed a terrace in flames during a drive on Crown Street in Surry Hills.

After calling the fire brigade the trio feared there would be people asleep inside the house and attempted to wake anyone inside by kicking and by pounding on the door.

Their actions resulted in several people escaping to safety.

“I commend the City workers for their extraordinary act of bravery and community concern,” Ms Moore said.

The three also received Region Commander Commendation Awards from the NSW Police.

City supports Kings Cross community choir

The City of Sydney has approved a grant to the City East Community College to establish a Community College Choir in the Kings Cross and city east area. Council approved the $4,000 grant and concessions for venue use at last Monday’s council meeting.

The Choir will begin in 2011 and enrolments are now open with two courses on offer for novices and more experienced choristers for 8 sessions beginning Thursday 10th February, 2011, 6:15 pm to 7:45 pm [novices] and 7:45 to 9:15pm [experienced], Reginald Murphy Centre, Greenknowe Avenue, Kings Cross.

The Choir is under the leadership of Ms Pru Holloway, a conservatorium-trained musician with many years experience.