The barber in the carpark

I can’t quite recall exactly when my haircuts went from $10 or $15 to $40 or $50, though it happened sometime around COVID, I think. For the last couple of years, I’ve been going to some nicer barbershops in Surry Hills where that seems the standard price for a clipper cut and beard trim. Maybe the price went up, or maybe my tastes just changed—I’m more inclined to go for a more pampering experience these days, in comparison with when I was younger and always in a hurry to get somewhere.

I recently discovered a new barbershop tucked away in the underground car park at the new Surry Hills Shopping Village (previously known as Surry Hills Mall, and before that, Redfern Mall, though locals sometime call it the “Murder Mall” or the “Methadone Mall”).

I asked the barber when he opened, and he said three months ago. It seems like he’s been building up a steady clientele, but I was able to walk right in this morning and only had to wait a short while. It only cost $35 for a beard and hair combo, which I think is pretty good. Actually, I’m quite happy with it!

The shopping centre is starting to see some new life with restaurants opening up. Last night, my friend Andrea and I went to a new place called “Island Radio.” As you might guess, the name drew us in—we’ve both worked in radio for a long time. But we were also attracted to the food and drink menu. “It’s like being back in rooftop bar in Vietnam”, my friend said, remembering that she, her and I husband had travelled there last year, and really loved trying cocktails in rooftop bars at the end of the day. We were really impressed. The staff were terrific, the drinks were wonderful, the food was great, and it wasn’t outrageously expensive. Sure, it’s not cheap for a couple of drinks after work on a Friday, but it was reasonable.

As we sat there, catching up, we noticed that other restaurants and bars are starting to open in the centre as well. It’s an encouraging sign, in stark contrast to what we used to have with the Surry Hills Mall and its two-dollar shops.

Best of all, I think I’ve found my new go-to barbershop. The thing I like most about QMAN (which stands for “Quitessential”) is that I was able to get a haircut without having to wait too long. The barber did mention their online booking system, which is good to know about. I also appreciate they weren’t overly talkative. You know how some barbers want to chat your ear off about their life and yours? I much prefer to sit quietly, enjoy the atmosphere, and relax while getting my haircut.

Because it’s tucked away in the car park, it was quiet and peaceful. The music was lovely, and the atmosphere was great. I can imagine on a hot day it’ll be a nice escape. So, there it is. I’ve found my new spot!

In other exciting news, I took delivery of my “wet leg” this week. This is a prosthetic which is water proof and doesn’t rust, so theoretically I can wear it in the shower, swimming or at the beach. I’ve been advised it’s still important to rinse the prosthetic after being in salt water. And for the most part, I will probably still remove the prosthetic when I have a shower so I can clean myself thoroughly.

Armed with my new leg in a tote bag. along with my first socket which can now be a “spare”, I struggled for a moment to find room for much else. But then I suddenly realised the solution.