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UTS Community in Ultimo Recognised in King’s Birthday Honours

Several members of the University of Technology Sydney UTS community in Ultimo have been acknowledged in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours list for their significant contributions to education, science, and philanthropy.

UTS Community Achievements

The King’s Birthday 2024 Honours list recognised the outstanding contributions of individuals associated with the University of Technology Sydney, including esteemed educators, a pioneering lawyer, and a dedicated philanthropist. UTS Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Andrew Parfitt extended his congratulations, noting the broad impact of their work in fields ranging from Indigenous history to forensic science.

Educational and Social Impact

Professor Heather Goodall, Professor Emerita of History in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, received the Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her significant service to tertiary education and the Indigenous community. Goodall, who served at UTS from 1989 until her retirement in 2014, has been recognized internationally for her research on Australian Indigenous history and environmental history.

Legal and Medical Administration Excellence

Robert Kelly, a long-time member of the UTS community and former Pro-Chancellor, was also awarded an AM for his significant contributions to law and medical administration. His extensive career includes roles with the Law Council of Australia and the NSW Medical Board, reflecting his impact on both legal practices and healthcare governance.

Dr Robert Kelly UTS — *Photo Credit: UTS*

Philanthropy and Support for Education

Dr. Laurie Cowled was honoured with an AM for her significant service to philanthropy, particularly in the arts, education, and health sectors, and for advancing women’s education. Cowled, a champion for equitable access to education, established the Laurie Cowled Scholarship at UTS, which supports women from rural, regional, and Indigenous backgrounds.

Dr Laurie Cowled UTS — *Photo Credit: UTS*

Advancements in Forensic Science

Dr. Jodie Ward, UTS Adjunct Associate Professor in Forensic Science, received the Public Service Medal for her leadership of the Australian Federal Police’s National DNA Program for Unidentified and Missing Persons. Her work has been crucial in using forensic science to solve complex cases and provide closure for families of the missing.

Contributions to Microbiology

Dr. Damien Stark, awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), has been recognized for his service to medicine in the field of microbiology. A UTS alumnus, Dr. Stark is a principal scientist at St Vincent’s Hospital and has developed new diagnostic tests for parasitic infections.

Significance of the Honours

AO (Officer of the Order of Australia): This is a higher level of recognition than the AM and is awarded for distinguished service of a high degree to Australia or to humanity at large. The recipients of this award have had a significant impact through their contributions and leadership.

AM (Member of the Order of Australia): This award is given for service in a particular locality or field of activity or to a particular group. It is lower than the AO but still recognizes significant achievement or meritorious service.

OAM (Medal of the Order of Australia): This is awarded for service worthy of particular recognition. Recipients of the OAM are usually those who have made valuable contributions at a local community level or whose achievements have a significant local impact.

Significance of the King’s Birthday Celebration

The King’s Birthday honours list is part of a longstanding tradition where the birthday of the reigning monarch is celebrated not on the actual date of birth, but rather on a designated day that ensures broader participation and favourable weather for ceremonial events.

For King Charles, who was born on November 14, the official celebration occurs in June. This tradition aligns with the UK’s historical practice of observing the monarch’s birthday during a time of likely good weather, enhancing the grandeur of public festivities like the Trooping the Colour parade.

In Australia, the King’s Birthday provides an occasion to acknowledge and reward the contributions of its citizens through the Order of Australia honours. These honours are an integral part of the celebration, recognizing outstanding achievements and service across various fields, as demonstrated by the distinguished members of the UTS community this year.

The recognition of these individuals highlights their exemplary service and aligns with the national celebration of leadership and commitment.

Published 13-June-2024

Camperdown Scientists Pioneer AI Technology to Revolutionise Multiple Sclerosis Treatment

Two researchers from the University of Sydney in Camperdown have launched a groundbreaking AI project that promises significant advancements in multiple sclerosis treatment.

Professors Michael Barnett and Chenyu Tim Wang are the innovative minds behind this new AI-driven endeavour, aimed at enhancing the diagnosis and management of multiple sclerosis (MS). Their technology focuses on analysing MRI scans to identify markers of MS progression well before symptoms manifest, a critical development in a field where early intervention is key to effective treatment.

This research is powered by a substantial grant from MS Australia, underscoring the project’s potential to reshape the future of MS therapy.

At the Brain and Mind Centre of the University of Sydney, Mr Barnett and Mr Wang are developing MRI biomarkers that could soon be integrated into clinical settings through AI. This integration is expected to allow for more precise and efficient analysis than currently possible, providing detailed insights within seconds— a process that would traditionally take days in specialised labs.

Multiple Sclerosis Treatment — *Photo Credit: PX Here*

The teamwork between Mr. Barnett, an experienced clinical neurologist, and Mr. Wang, an expert in computational neuroimaging, demonstrates the interdisciplinary approach needed to address complicated medical issues. They emphasise that their AI tools are intended to assist, rather than replace, radiologists by improving accuracy and efficiency within current clinical processes.

AI is valuable for managing the large amounts of data from MRI scans due to the shortage of radiologists in Australia.

The AI tool currently in development aims to support existing treatments and is expected to be a crucial component in future therapies. As drugs that target the progressive phase of MS are currently being trialed, the ability to monitor changes in brain pathology with high precision is becoming increasingly important. This could greatly improve the quality of life for individuals with MS, providing new and more effective ways to manage the disease.

MS Australia is crucial in funding and supporting research initiatives like this one. The organisation is dedicated to ensuring that people with MS receive the best possible care from the onset of their condition. AI technologies are seen as a critical component in achieving this goal.

Published 10-June-2024

Surry Hills to Benefit from New Push for Skinny Apartment Developments

Previously undevelopable narrow blocks of land, in areas like Surry Hills, are set to become prime sites for skinny apartment developments following a push to alleviate the city’s severe housing shortage.

These sites, located on street corners or nestled between detached homes, are now seen as viable options for new housing under a new plan.

Often neglected due to their challenging dimensions and strict development approvals (DAs) from many councils across New South Walkes, this innovative project demonstrates the potential of these small lots.

Surry Hills already hosts a notable apartment complex on a former substation site, developed by Hill Thalis Architecture, which has garnered architectural acclaim.

Surry Hills Skinny Apartment developments — *Photo Credit: Hill Thalis*

Additionally, a new development on Elizabeth Street has successfully converted a narrow block into a 12-unit complex, further exemplifying what can be achieved with smart design.

As part of broader planning reforms to be finalised by mid-year, the Minns government advocates for councils to relax restrictions and approve more skinny apartment buildings. These developments must meet specific Planning NSW design guidelines, which include requirements like adequate sunlight in communal areas and appropriate building setbacks.

State Government Architect Abbie Galvin emphasised that narrow lots offer unique architectural creativity and efficient land use opportunities. She noted that architects have long embraced the challenge of designing for slim sites, achieving high-quality living environments that respect neighbourhood character and provide adequate sunlight and privacy. Ms Galvin stressed the importance of effectively using every parcel of land, especially in sought-after areas.

Planning and Public Spaces Minister Paul Scully criticized past restrictions that have hindered the development of terraces, townhouses, and low-rise apartments in many parts of Sydney. He advocates for a resurgence of diverse housing types, pointing out that slim sites as narrow as traditional terraces built over a century ago should not be overlooked. Mr Scully argues that it is nonsensical to persist with outdated planning restrictions when there are numerous successful examples of such developments throughout the city.

These forthcoming changes are poised to significantly impact Sydney’s urban landscape, particularly in neighbourhoods like Surry Hills, by increasing housing options and helping to address the ongoing affordability crisis.

Unlivable Surry Hills Terrace Given New Life

Photo Credit: bresicwhitney.com.au

An unlivable Surry Hills terrace has been given a new lease on life. Philip Corlette, a 67-year-old Sydney native, took on the challenge of renovating a property that many would have considered beyond saving.

The terrace, located at 518 Cleveland Street, was acquired by Corlette in 2019 for $1.53 million. At the time, it was in a state of severe disrepair, with missing ceilings, non-functional plumbing, and what Corlette described as “disgusting” conditions throughout.

Over the course of four years, Corlette single-handedly transformed the unlivable three-bedroom home into an architecturally redesigned living space. The renovation not only restored the main house but also added a studio above the garage, enhancing the property’s versatility and appeal.

The project showcases the potential for revitalisation within Surry Hills, a suburb known for its Victorian-era terraces and vibrant community. Corlette’s renovation preserves the heritage character of the area while introducing modern amenities and design elements.

One of the most significant additions to the property is the studio above the garage. Despite initial objections from some neighbours, the local council approved the design, recognising it as a positive contribution to the area. This addition not only increases the property’s living space but also offers potential rental income, a valuable feature in the competitive Surry Hills real estate market.

The renovation process faced numerous challenges, from structural rebuilds to the logistics of delivering materials through Surry Hills’ narrow streets. However, Corlette’s determination and DIY approach, bolstered by his experience in audiovisual installations, saw the project through to completion.

The transformed property now boasts modern bathrooms with heated floors, a kitchen that opens to an entertaining area, and state-of-the-art security features. These improvements reflect the evolving expectations of Surry Hills residents, who increasingly seek properties that combine historic charm with contemporary comforts.

Nick Gill from BresicWhitney Inner East, the agent handling the sale, emphasised the property’s appeal in the current Surry Hills market. “The integration of period details with modern design is exactly what buyers in this area are looking for,” Gill stated. “The addition of the north-facing studio is particularly attractive, offering flexibility for homeowners or investors.”

With the renovation complete, the Cleveland Street property is now listed for sale with a guide price of $2.5 million.

Published 2-June-2024

Man Charged Over Suspicious Surry Hills Unit Fire

A 32-year-old man was charged with intent to murder after allegedly setting fire to a unit in Surry Hills in April, causing serious injuries to three people.

Around 3.30 a.m. on the 7th of April 2024, emergency services responded to reports of a fire at a unit block on Devonshire Street in Surry Hills. Upon arrival, officers from the Surry Hills Police Area Command found a second-floor unit ablaze. Fire and Rescue NSW extinguished the fire before it could spread to neighbouring units.

Two people, a 39-year-old woman and a 40-year-old man, suffered serious burns and were treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to the hospital.

The woman remains hospitalised, while the man, though released, continues to receive ongoing treatment. A second woman, also aged 39, was hospitalised for leg burns but has since been released.

Police established a crime scene and commenced an investigation into the suspected arson, dubbed Strike Force Wyomee.

Suspect Extradited

As part of the ongoing inquiries, a 32-year-old man, Nathan Kovesy, was arrested in Brisbane with the assistance of Queensland Police around 9.30 a.m. on the 22nd of May 2024.

Kovesy appeared at the Brisbane Magistrates Court, where Surry Hills detectives applied for and were granted his extradition to Sydney.

He was escorted to Mascot Police Station, where an outstanding warrant was executed, and he was charged with destroy/damage building by fire with intent to murder.

The Surry Hills man was refused bail and is scheduled to appear at the Downing Centre Local Court on the 23rd of May 2024.

As Strike Force Wyomee continues its inquiries, anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Surry Hills Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Information will be treated confidentially.

Published 24-May-2024

Vivid Sydney Crowds Urged to be Wary of Pickpocket Gangs

Visitors to the Vivid Sydney festival are being reminded to keep a watchful eye on their valuables amidst concerns of pickpocket gangs preying on unsuspecting crowds.

Vivid Sydney will run from 24 May to 15 June 2024. Authorities have sounded the alarm after a professional syndicate of at least five Nepalese nationals from Sydney was caught red-handed targeting patrons during last year’s event.

The Surry Hills Police Operations Centre, staffed by personnel from ambulance, fire brigade, and transport agencies, will be closely monitoring live camera feeds across the city to ensure public safety.

Modus Operandi of the Pickpocket Gangs

According to NSW Detective Superintendent Martin Fileman, the pickpocket gangs operate by milling around victims, overcrowding them, while one member distracts the target by bumping into them, and another swiftly steals wallets or purses from handbags or backpacks.

Mr Fileman warned that the pickpocket gangs were very opportunistic, advising people to keep a close watch on their valuables.

The gangs were caught on camera lurking around chokepoints and congregating areas, such as the Opera House forecourt and Circular Quay, as visitors attempted to find vantage points to enjoy the light spectacle. Mobile cameras have been strategically positioned along the foreshore to aid surveillance efforts.

Previous Arrests and Sentencing

Last year’s operation led to the arrest of the five-member gang, with 18 victims coming forward and another 35 reporting stolen property. However, only Vinoth Kumar, 30, of Blacktown, pleaded guilty to obtaining financial gain by deception and was sentenced to a 15-month corrections order.

Despite the incident, Mr Fileman assured that Vivid remains a spectacular and generally safe event, particularly for families and visitors from interstate or overseas.

He highlighted the collaborative efforts among emergency services, with the Surry Hills Police Operations Centre playing a pivotal role in monitoring and coordinating security measures during the festival.

As Vivid Sydney prepares to dazzle crowds once again, attracting an expected 3.5 million visitors, including peak crowds of 200,000 at Circular Quay, authorities urge festival-goers to remain vigilant to ensure an enjoyable and secure experience during the event.

Published 24-May-2024

Australia’s First Greek Orthodox Church in Surry Hills Reopens Following Restoration

Australia’s first Greek Orthodox church, the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Surry Hills, is set to welcome worshippers once again after completing a series of restorations.

Archbishop Makarios of Australia will attend the Thyranixia, also known as the reopening ceremony, on Sunday, the 2nd of June 2024.

Constructed in 1898 and consecrated in April 1899, Holy Trinity was not only the first Greek Orthodox church in Australia but also in the Southern Hemisphere, earning its State Heritage Status from the New South Wales Government.

Originally, it served both the Syrian Orthodox and Greek Orthodox communities, under the guidance of Father Seraphim Phocas, who was proficient in Greek and Arabic.

Restoration Efforts

Over the decades, the church’s condition had deteriorated significantly, affected by water damage and severe structural issues caused by major tree root invasions. To address these challenges, the Board of the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW (GOCNSW) along with the Holy Trinity Restoration Committee initiated the 125th Anniversary Restoration Appeal in June 2023. They aimed to return the church to its original splendour.

The comprehensive restoration project, divided into four stages, began in May 2023. It is projected to extend over three years and exceed $1.1 million in total cost.

The ambitious plan encompasses various critical repairs and enhancements, including concrete repairs to the Bell Tower, replacement of side windows, and installation of a disabled access ramp off Bourke Street.

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Surry Hills — The Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, before restorations
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Final Stages and Funding

The fourth and final phase of the restoration is scheduled for completion between 2024 and 2025 and is estimated to cost $304,537.00. Funding for this phase is expected to come from cash donations, in-kind contributions, and fundraising activities supported by the Greek community and government sources.

This phase will also see the installation of Honour and Donors Boards, and a marble plaque commemorating the restoration efforts and contributors.

The restoration of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church preserves a significant piece of religious and cultural heritage and revitalises a historic landmark in Sydney’s Surry Hills for future generations.

Published 21-May-2024

Sydney Pioneers Dedicated Housing for Transgender Women in Darlinghurst

Photo for illustration purposes only | Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

The first dedicated community housing project for highly vulnerable transgender women will take shape in the inner-city suburb of Darlinghurst as the City of Sydney sells seven properties at a significant discount to a housing cooperative.

The landmark initiative will see Common Equity New South Wales collaborate with All Nations Housing Co-operative to create affordable housing options for transgender women, a group often marginalised and at high risk of homelessness.

Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore expressed pride in the Council’s ability to provide safe and affordable housing for this community, emphasising their need to feel confident and accepted in society.

Social worker Aurora Green, who is also transgender, highlighted the difficulties transgender people encounter when seeking housing because of discrepancies in their documentation. She elaborated that despite legal protections against gender-based discrimination, conflicting information in electronic applications often results in rejection, providing minimal safeguarding.

A dedicated housing service would alleviate these hurdles and foster community and understanding.

House for Transgender Women — *Photo Credit: Unsplash*

Under the council’s excess land program, unused or underutilised properties are identified and sold to organisations working to provide housing for those in need. The proceeds from these sales will be channelled back into the city’s affordable and diverse housing fund, supporting future housing projects and addressing Sydney’s homelessness crisis and tight rental market.

In addition to the Darlinghurst project, the Council is also selling two properties in the upscale Potts Point neighbourhood to the B Miles Women’s Foundation, catering to women with complex needs. This comprehensive approach underscores the city’s commitment to providing inclusive and equitable housing solutions for all vulnerable groups.

Published 12-May-2024

For Most Canva Staff, Australian Dream Means Homes Over New Ventures

Most employees at the $40-billion online design and publishing platform Canva plan to use the proceeds they earned from selling shares to buy property or pay down mortgages, rather than invest in new start-ups, an online survey reveals.

Read: Canva HQ in Surry Hills Enters Exhibition Period for Planned $56 Million Transformation

A poll of 119 current and former staff found just 3 percent intend to start their own company with the cash windfall. The top response, from 53 percent of those surveyed on the anonymous workplace forum Blind, was to purchase a home or pay off an existing mortgage.

With the design unicorn headquartered in the expensive suburb of Surry Hills, the soaring cost of housing appears to be the main draw for employees cashing in a portion of their equity. The current (May 2023 – April 2024) median house price in Surry Hills is a lofty $2.23 million according to realestate.com.au.

Whilst Canva allowed staff to sell up to 20 percent of their shareholdings – a typical limit to keep them motivated before a public listing – the opportunity to get a foot on Sydney’s property ladder has proven irresistible. One respondent commented that whilst they would love to start a business, the funds wouldn’t stretch far enough in an overheated market for tech investment and talent.

Canva co-founder Cliff Obrecht acknowledged the company’s share sale was a “net positive” for the start-up ecosystem, even if much of the proceeds get ploughed into real estate rather than new ventures. “It’s definitely money being distributed and money breeds more opportunities,” he told a financial magazine.

Read: Searching for a Home in Surry Hills: Navigating the Challenging Rental Market

But in Surry Hills where the median house price tops $2.2 million, entrepreneurial dreams may have to be put on hold for Canva’s workforce. Securing housing appears the priority for now.

Published 9-May-2024

Surry Hills: Stitching Together the Past and Present of the Rag Trade

Photo Credit: St UTS/State Library of NSW

What do the vibrant streets of Surry Hills and the intricate stitches of fashion’s past have in common? This suburb not only clothes the city but also tells the tale of New South Wales’ rich rag trade history, a narrative woven with the threads of innovation, migration, and transformation.

The Birth of a Fashion Hub

The tale begins in the 1860s, with the hum of Isaac Singer’s sewing machines setting the rhythm for prosperity.

As Sydney grew, so did the demand for fashionable attire, and Surry Hills, with its strategic location next to the bustling Central Station, quickly became the centre stage for clothing production.

The Ballarat House/ Singer Sewing Machines
Photo Credit: City of Sydney archives

The neighbourhood thrived as tailors, seamstresses, and designers clustered in its streets, turning bolts of fabric into the latest fashions. Ready-made clothing became a staple of Australian wardrobes, reflecting both the growing economic prosperity and the evolving social landscape.

Surry Hills’ factories buzzed from dawn till dusk, filled with the sounds of stitching and steaming, as garments were pieced together and pressed, ready to be shipped to shops nationwide. This thriving hub was not only a place of work but also a lively community where fashion was both a means of living and a passion.

The Golden Era of Surry Hills

The early 20th century saw Surry Hills buzzing with activity as electric machines from 1914 onwards, and the establishment of David Jones’ 8-storey garment factory in 1915, with an extension in 1935 boosted local production. The streets of Surry Hills were lined with factories and workshops where men’s and women’s fashions took shape, filling wardrobes and fueling the local economy.

By the 1940s, Surry Hills significantly contributed to Sydney’s identity, with half of the city’s women employed in the manufacturing industry, specifically in sewing, stitching, and designing. These workers were the backbone of the local economy. Many were skilled artisans who had learned their craft through apprenticeships that were as demanding as they were rewarding.

View showing pedestrians and terrace houses were factory workers lived.
Photo Credit: City of Sydney archives

The close-knit nature of the community and the constant demand for new, innovative designs created a dynamic environment where creativity flourished. Garments produced here set trends that reverberated through the alleys of Surry Hills to the world’s fashion capitals. Despite the hard work, there was a sense of pride and accomplishment in being at the forefront of fashion manufacturing.

New Threads in the Old Fabric

Government housing, circa 1960s. Photo Credit: City of Sydney Archives [SRC14390]

Post-World War II brought a new chapter to Surry Hills with waves of migrants arriving in Australia.

These newcomers quickly established small factories and workshops, becoming entrepreneurs and employers, leveraging their skills and cultural knowledge to introduce European-inspired designs, which appealed to the Australian market’s growing desire for sophistication and variety.

The Decline of a Manufacturing Giant

The once-thriving factories saw a steep decline as cheaper imports flooded the market and local production dwindled, marking the end of an era for Surry Hills’ bustling rag trade.

The threads began to loosen when tariffs were slashed in 1973, aiming to streamline national industry but inadvertently exposing local manufacturers to fierce international competition.

The prevailing environment made it possible for overseas manufacturers to undercut prices, making it difficult for local factories to compete. Many businesses were forced to close, others downscaled, and the once-vibrant streets of Surry Hills began to quiet.

As manufacturing jobs disappeared, the social landscape of the area shifted. The community of skilled workers that had defined the suburb for decades began to disperse, sparking a significant economic and cultural shift, with long-term implications for the local economy and the identity of Surry Hills.

Surry Hills Today

Despite the decline in traditional manufacturing, the spirit of Surry Hills’ textile past lives on in its architecture and cultural fabric.

The area’s old garment factories have been reimagined as trendy commercial and lifestyle spaces, blending historical charm with modern chic.

The area was known for its manufacturing industry in the past, but now it has become a hub for fashion, design, and media.

These buildings have been repurposed to preserve the physical remnants of Surry Hills’ manufacturing past whilst injecting a new vibrancy into the area. The new spaces attract a diverse new generation of creatives and entrepreneurs. These repurposed buildings bridge past and present, offering spaces that honour their industrial origins while fostering contemporary innovation.

Legacy Amidst Ashes

A devastating fire at the former R.C. Henderson Ladies Hat factory along 11-13 Randle Street — once a symbol of Surry Hills’ manufacturing might—serves as another poignant reminder of the area’s transformative journey.

Developers Hanave have submitted an amended development application (D/2023/1170) for the site to the City of Sydney. This application aims to reconstruct the former heritage building, preserving its original brick facade and architectural details.

The redevelopment project was initially approved in 2018 to transform the Randle Street site into a hotel, with a deferred commencement approval granted in 2020. However, no construction had started when the fire occurred in May 2023.

As plans to convert these heritage sites into modern hubs progress, Surry Hills continues to weave its historical threads into the fabric of Sydney’s future.

Editor’s Note: Some significant historical details appearing in this article were sourced from an article on The Conversation by Peter McNeil, Distinguished Professor of Design History, UTS, University of Technology Sydney. You can read the original article here and click to listen to ABC Radio interviewing Prof McNeil.

Prof Peter McNEIL ON ABC RADIO SYDNEY

Published 9-May-2024