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This happened before I started this blog but I have decided it is worth telling the story as it shows how interesting it is to live here in Redfern and that it is not the scary place some think it to be.
On a late summer evening about 11.30pm I left a party at a friend's place - her name is Lovely, because she is - in Redfern....East (they do see themselves a little special you know) and I was walking  to my home in  Regular Redfern or maybe I should call it simply Downtown Redfern.

The night was balmy and I was wearing my favourite white loose fitted linen pants and a light white loose top. The rule I learned many years ago when walking alone at night is to always walk with your keys in your hand with the largest one protruding between the index and middle fingers to be used as a weapon if needed. The idea is to shove the key up the aggressor's nose which should give you enough time to escape. Good theory I have always thought.

Anyway, I was walking up Redfern Street, properly armed as it were, and as I approached the Tudor Hall pub I noticed a guy standing outside - the street was deserted, no cars, no police in sight. OK here we go, I thought. Do Not Make Eye Contact, Walk in a Positive Manner, Make Sure the KEY is in Position, Get your Running Shoes Ready.

As I approached the guy moved to block my path and said that I was a vision of pale beauty coming along the street. Would I mind if he kissed my hand in appreciation of my beauty. WTF, can't remember the last time someone had asked me that, so I graciously offered my hand which was duly kissed.
He then doffed his Akubra hat and asked if a small hug would be out of order - what could I say to that? So, I received a hug.
Go in peace lovely lady he said.
And off I went home, with a smile on my face.
Perceived danger, eventuating only in a lovely moment.
That's what I experienced in Downtown Redfern.