Councillor Tony Pooley

Deputy Lord Mayor

If you had one wish for Australia in 2008, what would it be?

That the Federal Government acts on its inspirational apology to the Stolen Generations last week and takes serious steps to improve the lives and welfare of Indigenous Australians.

If you had one wish for South Sydney in 2008, what would it be?

That the Rabbitohs win the NRL Premiership in their centenary year and bring the trophy back to the refurbished Redfern Oval for a week-long celebration.

What would have to change to make your wishes come true?

A genuine commitment to action on resolving issues surrounding Indigenous disadvantage; the Rabbitohs would have to win a few more games than they did last year!

Leanne Fraser

Appetite Cafe, Redfern

If you had one wish for Australia in 2008, what would it be?

My wish for Australia in 2008 would be for us to embrace the change of government and for us to feel a return to fairness and decency in our national life. There was a wonderful feeling of decency in Redfern on Sorry Day and it would be great if that feeling were here everyday.

If you had one wish for Redfern in 2008, what would it be?

My wish for Redfern in 2008 would be for all the empty retail shops to be occupied, to create a "village" atmosphere for the community and the public to visit; to keep the shutters raised at night so there is activity and light, for Redfern to be a safe place.

What would have to change to make your wishes come true?

The perception of Redfern being an unsafe place needs to change. People need to trust the area and come and open up a business. I am an advocate of the village atmosphere for Redfern. But if developers get in and access Frank Sartor’s high-rise zones, Redfern will become just another Chatswood.