Renown author Hugh Mackay has written a book called "The Art of Belonging ' identifing community behaviour such as Herding and Hubs like our neighbourhoods where we as social animals are able to build social capital.
My friend of over 70 years Bill and I find that this is a theory which does not always work in practice.
We arranged to meet with another friend of long standing at the Rose Bay Hotel,located in the centre of Rose Bay for xmas drinks and lunch. I arrived early with my book and iced coffee purchased at the Super market next door,and sat in the bar with the only other two customers, waiting for my friends.
After five minutes I was approached by a male bouncer, he did not identify himself ,but he told me I could not drink in that bar, I attempted to explain that I was waiting for my friends, but he persisted.
So I moved out of the bar to the entrance steps , as not to miss my friends , but five minutes later he
threatened me with "blocking the entrance "which is three meters wide, and other customers were entering and exiting .
When my friends arrived I explained what had happened and suggested we move our venue to the RSL club 300meters down the road , which we all agreed .to.
Now Rose Bay has a number of trendy outdoor eating venues, as well as an extensive range of cafes, so there must be intense competition for the dining dollar.
In the RSL club bar are floor to ceiling glass windows facing north so the space is flooded with light and harbour glimpses.Also the prices are cheaper .
There were six tables of diners about 30 people enjoying the hospitality.
The question is why drive customers away ?
Hugh Mackay points out other thriving hubs,such as the local library , which provides books,videos,computer,and volunteers to aid elderly computer users and kindergarten services for the very young
No comments:
Post a Comment