Celebrating the Real Redfern

Sue, author of the oral history, We Never Had a Hotbed of Crime, interviewed residents of Redfern and Waterloo, Alexandria, Erko and Newtown for the book, which was published some years ago. Sadly, this invaluable and irreplaceable archive has been transcribed but has not yet been made available though the library system.

However, with the creation of the Redfern Waterloo Authority and urban renewal again on the agenda, Sue told her audience that it was important to remember the continuity of life in these "urban villages".

Families over generations successfully created their own villages and communities and it was important for the planners and newcomers bent on "making over" these areas to understand how much these places have been valued and loved.

"There was a rich social and cultural life here, even in the worst of times," she said. "These were mixed neighbourhoods in terms of socio-economics...The key was diversity and acceptance."

Neighbourhood shopping was a vital ingredient, ensuring a constant flow of women and children on the streets, "doing the messages" and knowing "who was who". Cheap and efficient public transport ensured that the "urban villages" were not isolated – from each other, from the central city or from places further afield.

Her interviews proved to her, she said, "the point and value of listening to the community – as Margaret Barry always said".

Another historian, Mark Dunn of the locally-based heritage consultants Godden Mackay Log-an, is about to reprise his successful Redfern tours of last year. The tours – entitled Nothing to Be Afraid Of– will run on September 19 and September 24, during History week

"Its reputation precedes Redfern, not always in a good Way," he said. "But we look at the many layers that make up its 150 year history and dispel some of the myths of its rough reputation."

The tours cost $20 and booking is essential. Phone 9319 4811 or email Mark at md@gml.com.au

[South Sydney Herald September 2006]