northsider pays tribute to shoemaker Jim Saad and his legacy of craftsmanship, smiles and friendship in Milsons Point
This article was first published in northsider North Sydney, Summer 2021/22 edition
From servicing the shoes of former prime minister John Howard to keeping the Luna Park clowns’ footwear in step, highly skilled cobbler, Jim Saad, helped the local community put their best foot forward for almost 60 years. Much loved Jim sadly passed away in August 2021 from a heart attack after contracting Covid-19.
Born in Lebanon, a 20 year old Jim arrived in Sydney in 1962. He started work at Milsons Point Shoe Repairs and Key Cutting when he was 22, and two years later, he bought the business. The talented repairman continued to work there six days a week until he was 80.
Locals knew and loved Jim’s warm and cheeky grin and sense of fun. Stopping by his workshop meant having a chat and a joke and leaving with a perfectly repaired pair of shoes. Even when people moved from the area, Jim remained their go-to cobbler, with former North Sydney residents flying their shoes to him from as far afield as Dubai.
Local photographer and Kirribilli resident Lloyd Gledhill spent time with Jim in 2020, capturing these images of him at work. “Jim had no thought of retiring,” Lloyd says. “He had such a great love for this area and the people he met here every day. There’s a real sense of loss in the community,” Lloyd continues. “Jim really made a mark.”
When the community learned of Jim’s passing, many touching tributes appeared around his workshop (pictured). A permanent memorial to the much loved craftsman is set to be built.
Jim enjoyed a raki once his work was done, sharing a nip with photographer Lloyd in these pictures. Cheers Jim and thank you for your years of hard work, your sense of humour and community spirit.
PHOTOS: LLOYD GLEDHILL @lloydgledhillphotography
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