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Getting better

Getting better

By Rhonda Dredge

Laneway culture is still evolving at Southbank. A narrow passage between two buildings has been fitted with cafes and a few hardy individuals are assessing their options.

The riverbank is more alluring but on a winter day the winds come in from the port and they’re icy.

Two men are making up their minds about lunch.

The men are hipsters with a twist. Their clothes are made of microfibres that repel moisture and wind particles.

Some might call them pioneers. They’ve learned how to fictionalise their lives and enjoy a bit of drama.

Both are standing outside the Thai café. It has the usual menu. Pad Thai is looking good.

The sun comes out and beams down a lane that points due north towards the river.

On a cold day Southbank has it over the city because of these shafts of light and the men move over to a sunny spot while they wait.

Across the lane is a pho shop. There is a large fire in a metal cone outside, where you can warm the cockles of your heart while waiting. The mood is pleasant. The two diners are supporting each other in their vision.

Two steaming cardboard containers arrive soon after. Perhaps they aren’t pioneers after all, even though they feel like it.

A woman approaches wearing a padded thermal jacket from Japan. She nods and smiles as she passes.

Architects have been clever to create some shelter and the sunlight bounces off the nearby towers in pleasing patterns.

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