Why I love my suburb: John Alexander on Putney
WHY I love my suburb is a new series written by Sydneysiders giving their personal account about their patch. Former tennis champion and federal member for Bennelong John Alexander shares his favourite places to visit.
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Why I love my suburb is a new series written by Sydneysiders giving their personal account about their patch. Former tennis champion and federal member for Bennelong John Alexander shares his favourite spot.
When I’m in Canberra, Parliament typically finishes for the week on a Thursday afternoon, so I then hop in my car and drive home. Three hours later it became a tradition of mine to drop into Putney’s Da Bruno Pizzeria to collect one of their delicious pizzas to eat when I got home. This was a sure fire way for me to reconnect with the real world and leave all that Canberra business behind me, and get a fill of brilliantly prepared pizza!
What I love about Putney is its central location, yet relaxed feel. You can stroll along the serene Parramatta River (partly federally funded pathway!) and enjoy your local parks and back yards, yet at the same time be up at Top Ryde Shopping Centre within five minutes to catch a movie or get the car washed; or be on the 507 bus whizzing into the city not having to worry about parking or enduring a long commute.
Coffee or tea will always be worthwhile at Putney’s Dolcini Café. I have enjoyed many a beverage at Dolcinis and I recommend this excellent local cafe to anyone interested.
Of course close by is the successful Next Gen fitness and lifestyle centre near Ryde Aquatic Leisure Centre. I founded that company so it always gives me a nice feeling seeing it there and knowing it’s doing well, serving locals, and making their health better for the future. Bennelong the man lived at Putney’s Kissing Point in the final years of his incredible life, where he rests there now. When walking past I contemplate the incredible life and difficult experiences he had, and I am thankful for his efforts in commencing the reconciliation process between aboriginal and non-aboriginal Australia that continues to this day.
More recently my three children have left the Putney nest, so I’m now seeking a downsized abode. Being the Federal Member for Bennelong I know well the many fine suburbs that our area comprises, so I’m experiencing quite the challenge deciding where to resettle!
All the suburbs of Bennelong are wonderful places to call home. The reason is because of the supportive and diverse community that lives in these suburbs.
From Ermington to Gladesville, Putney to North Epping up in the crook of the Lane Cove River, and Eastwood in the middle, there is a place for everyone here in Bennelong.
The Italian, Chinese, Korean, Armenian, and other communities have made our area such a rich cultural destination and place to live. In fact West Ryde of all places is now fast becoming a foodie destination, wonderful!
Above all else though, the thing I love the most about the suburbs of Bennelong is the incredible generosity of the many local volunteer community groups. It’s truly humbling supporting these many organisations. It’s these wonderful community groups that make living in Bennelong the absolute privilege that it is.
