Julie Mc Crossin - My Sydney - Sun Herald, 10/12/00

(thanks to FR)

Former Good News Week star, and now ABC chat show host Julie McCrossin talks up our city.

How long have you lived here?

I loved living in Sydney for 45 of my 46 years. I spent 1987 on the midnorth coast, at Kempsey, on ABC rural radio doing talkback.

What are your first memories of Sydney?

My earliest memory is graduating from the learn-to-swim classes at the Watson's Bay baths. On graduation they gave you cloth water wings and sewed them on to your cossie. I can still remember feeling proud.

What is your favourite Sydney street and why?

My own street in Annandale. It is cut by an old aqueduct, so there's only local traffic. Digs sit and sun themselves in the middle of the Road. My neighbours sit on their front steps on warm nights and we call out to each other as we arrive home from work. It's a real "neighbourhood" to use a Yankee work I like.

What is your favourite restaurant and why?

The Bar Baba in Norton St, Leichhardt. It has great food, friendly family service that's quick and they let me sit as long as I like.

What is your favourite past time and place to hang out?

Walking around the headland at Camp Cove for the best view in the world; or taking my stepchildren to the movies at the mecca of the west, Penrith Plaza, or relaxing at the Coogee Ladies Pool, or walking my beloved kelpie through the grounds of the old Callan Park psychiatric hospital.

What's the best beach in Sydney and why?

Nielsen Park is a Sydney Harbour beach I adore. It's full of happy childhood memories and I still love nothing better than a picnic at sunset with a pack of kids and mates.

What do you find most appealing about Sydney?

The sea, the harbour and the magnificent Blue Mountains just on our doorstep-and it's the home of the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, which reflects a libertarian streak I enjoy.

What's your perfect Sunday?

Being at home with my girlfriend and the kids with no plans and lots of time together.