Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 14 of 30

Taylor Swift Dines at Pellegrino 2000, Leaves Generous Tip

Photo Credit: Facebook / John Michael Damian

Taylor Swift, the global pop sensation currently in Australia for her Eras Tour, made an unexpected appearance at Surry Hills’ popular Italian eatery, Pellegrino 2000, on Tuesday evening, February 20, 2024. The singer, accompanied by her tour’s support act Sabrina Carpenter, chose to dine among other patrons rather than booking out the entire venue.

Pellegrino 2000, which opened in 2022, has quickly become a local favourite, even claiming the top spot in the delicious. 100 list that same year. The restaurant is known for its exceptional Italian trattoria-style dishes and welcoming atmosphere.

Photo Credit: Instagram / @pellegrinos2000

According to reports, Swift and Carpenter enjoyed a meal consisting of focaccia, olives, pasta dishes, and sides, accompanied by wine. The bill for their dinner reportedly came to approximately $620. In a show of appreciation for the service, the pop star left a generous $300 tip for the staff.

The news of Swift’s presence spread rapidly, drawing local fans and press to the area. Eager Swifties gathered outside the restaurant, hoping to catch a glimpse of the record-breaking artist as she exited the venue later in the evening.

Pellegrino 2000 is one of several establishments run by the hospitality trio of Daniel Pepperell, Michael Clift, and Andy Tyson. The restaurant, located in the former Bar H space, has become a popular spot for Sydneysiders seeking quality wine, excellent food, and warm hospitality.

**Daniel Pepperell, Michael Clift, and Andy Tyson with the Pellegrino 2000 team.**
Photo Credit: Instagram / @pellegrinos2000

Swift’s choice to dine at Pellegrino 2000 marks a departure from the typical celebrity haunts in Sydney, such as Mimi’s, Icebergs, and Jonah’s. Her visit to this comparatively casual and affordable venue is likely to significantly boost its popularity, potentially making reservations hard to secure in the near future.

book a table here!

This public appearance in Sydney comes after Swift managed to keep a low profile during her stay in Melbourne over the weekend. Her visit to Pellegrino 2000 has sparked speculation about where else the star might be spotted during her time in Australia.

As Swift continues her Australian tour, local businesses and fans alike remain on high alert for potential sightings of the pop icon.

Published 22-February-2024

Heart Valve Disease Awareness Week: Free Heart Screening at St Vincent’s Private Hospital

St Vincent’s Private Hospital in Darlinghurst is joining other hospitals across Sydney in conducting a free heart screening session in observance of Heart Valve Disease Awareness Week.

Heart valve disease (HVD) affects more than half a million Australians, yet public awareness remains low. An estimated 250,000 Australians are unaware that they are living with the condition, and this number is expected to grow significantly.

If left untreated, HVD can damage the heart’s valves, leading to heart failure, stroke, and arrhythmia (an irregular heartbeat). Described by some researchers as ‘the next cardiac epidemic’, heart valve disease is on the rise due to an ageing population and under-diagnosis.

Early detection and timely treatment can increase longevity and improve the quality of life for those living with HVD, making education and awareness of the disease vitally important.

ABOUT HEART VALVE DISEASE

In the lead-up to Heart Valve Disease Awareness Week (26 February – 3 March), peak body hearts4heart, clinicians, and people living with heart valve disease are urging Australians to have a heart-to-heart about their heart health with their GP, and for those over 65 or experiencing symptoms, to get their heart checked.

On Wednesday, 28th February (8 am – 2 pm AEDT) and Thursday, 29th February (10 am – 4 pm AEDT), individuals can avail themselves of these screenings at St Vincent’s Private Hospital.

This initiative aims to facilitate early detection and intervention for heart valve disease, ultimately saving lives and improving cardiovascular health across the community.

Published 21-February-2024

Locals Split on Surry Hills’ Taylor Swift Mural

A massive mural of pop superstar Taylor Swift has appeared in Surry Hills ahead of her upcoming Eras tour in Sydney, but the artwork is dividing opinions among locals.

Read: 3 Things You May Not Know About the Adam Goodes Mural in Surry Hills

The large-scale portrait by street artist Scott Marsh is located at Rivareno Gelato on Crown Street. It depicts Swift with her eyes cast downward and wearing a red wrap dress.

Swift can be seen wearing an ’87’ necklace, instead of her signature ’89, her birth year, sparking speculation it could reference her boyfriend Travis Kelce’s jersey number for the Kansas City Chiefs.

Photo credit: Gay Sydney Australia/Facebook

Marsh is best known for his politically-charged murals, so some fans were surprised by his decision to paint Swift.

“Seems a little off brand for you. I know you’ve done pop stars before but they’ve tended to be queer cultural icons who have great sentimental and cultural meaning and now… Taylor Swift!?” commented one of Marsh’s Instagram followers.

However, others defended the mural. “Look y’all, tay tay brings so many peeps joy! Even though I love scotties more political art I think it’s nice to have murals of peeps who bring joy. As they say, let people have fun!” wrote another user.

This isn’t the first time one of Marsh’s murals has sparked debate online. The Australian artist’s provocative works have made headlines around the world, including murals like Saint George, Tony Loves Tony, and Merry Crisis.

Meanwhile, Swift will perform at Accor Stadium on February 23-26 as part of her global Eras tour. She recently wrapped up a record-breaking run of shows in Melbourne, where she performed for the biggest crowds of her career. Over 290,000 fans flocked to see Swift at Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Taylor swift — Photo credit: Taylor Swift/Instagram

As Swiftmania sweeps through Australia, the Surry Hills mural is the latest flashpoint for her devoted fans and critics. Regardless of its mixed reception, it has created a new selfie hotspot for the singer’s local supporters ahead of her concerts at the Accor Stadium.

Read: Art Exhibit at Hotel Hollywood Offered a Glimpse Into the Life of Sydney Legend Doris Goddard

Published 19-February-2024

Asbestos at Victoria Park Forces Cancellation of Mardi Gras Fair

The annual Mardi Gras Fair, scheduled to take place this Sunday at Victoria Park in Camperdown, has been cancelled just days before the event due to the discovery of asbestos contamination at the site.

Read: Uncovering The History Of Green Square: From Industrial Land To Thriving Urban Hub

The City of Sydney, organisers of the event, were informed earlier this week by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) of possible asbestos contamination in mulch at the park. Follow-up testing earlier this week returned positive results for bonded asbestos. Victoria Park is one of 22 Sydney parks found to contain asbestos-tainted mulch.

“On Monday 12 February, following advice from the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) about possible asbestos contamination in mulch, test results found bonded asbestos at Victoria Park,” the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras announced.

Photo credit: Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras/Facebook

According to Mardi Gras CEO Gil Beckwith, Fair Day is one of the festival’s most popular events, typically drawing over 70,000 attendees. Whilst it greatly saddens the organisation that they have to cancel the upcoming Sunday event, Beckwith stated that the community’s health and safety must remain the top priority in light of concerns over asbestos contamination at the planned venue.

“Our festival is still bursting with events ready to welcome and celebrate with our community. Oxtravaganza on 24 February is a free community event that shines a spotlight on our local Gaybourhood businesses, many of which were set to participate in Fair Day; and festival highlights, including Bondi Beach Party, Parade and Mardi Gras Party, remain unaffected,” said Beckwith.

Meanwhile, several parks across Sydney including Belmore Park in Haymarket and Harmony Park in Surry Hills, were also contaminated with asbestos.

Over the coming weeks, testing will occur at another 32 parks where the Council suspects the mulch product may have been used. Licensed removal crews are working quickly to clear contamination from these sites.

Read: Taylor Square Landmark in Surry Hills to Get a Vertical Addition

Asbestos Task Force

Photo credit: NSW Environment Protection Authority/Facebook

The NSW government has created an Asbestos Taskforce to coordinate efforts across agencies to prioritise testing and remediation of sites posing the greatest risk from contamination. The taskforce aims to secure affected areas.

EPA stated that recycled mulch cannot contain asbestos or other pollutants. The EPA regularly audits mulch producers and suppliers, maintaining zero tolerance for asbestos.

In addition to scheduled compliance checks, the agency may conduct unannounced inspections of recycling facilities. Businesses or individuals allowing asbestos into reuse or recycling streams could incur fines up to $2 million.

Published 16-February-2024

Leather Lingerie-Clad Motorist Hits E-Bike Rider in Moore Park

Photo Credit: Unsplash

A vehicle driven by a woman clad in leather lingerie who reportedly told Police she was a sex worker travelling between clients, allegedly ran over an e-bike rider in Moore Park. The e-bike rider bore visible tyre marks on his chest and pelvis, providing first responders with an idea of the nature and severity of the impact.

Emergency services rushed to South Dowling St, near the light rail intersection with Devonshire St, at 3:45 a.m. on Saturday, 3 Feb 2024. Paramedics attended to the cyclist, a 29-year-old man riding a Lime e-bike, at the scene before transporting him to St Vincent’s Hospital in a serious condition.

Injuries and Eyewitness Account

Eyewitness accounts suggest that the Subaru sedan may have run over the man following the initial collision. Dashcam footage from a taxi driver, submitted to the police, allegedly depicts the e-bike rider moving into the path of the car.

The driver of the car, identified as Cindy Pham, 26, reportedly confessed to being a sex worker en route to another job at the time of the collision. Clad in what appeared to be leather lingerie, Ms Pham allegedly returned a positive result on a roadside breath test and was subsequently taken to Surry Hills Police Station for further testing.

Legal Proceedings and Prior Offences

Pham’s history with the law reveals prior encounters with authorities.

In 2021, she was charged with drink driving, registering a blood alcohol reading of 0.08. Resulting in a ban from driving, she faced fines totaling $850 plus additional costs. Moreover, Pham received a one-year suspended jail sentence at Perth Magistrates Court for assault occasioning bodily harm, although details of the incident remained unclear.

In March 2022, she incurred further penalties when her good behaviour bond was breached, leading to an upgraded fine and costs. Subsequent infractions in 2023 for disorderly behavior and failure to provide police details saw Pham charged a total of $2500, alongside additional costs.

Despite her legal entanglements, Pham, recognised by a distinctive garter belt-style tattoo around her thigh, is known to operate independently as an escort, offering outcalls to clients’ homes. She was reportedly on a working holiday in Sydney when the accident occurred.

Pham faces charges of mid-range drink driving, with a scheduled court appearance set for 14 March 2024. However, authorities have yet to determine any charges directly related to the crash.

A crime scene has been established, with investigators from the Crash Investigation Unit probing the circumstances. Police urge witnesses or those with dashcam footage to contact Crime Stoppers via 1800 333 000.

Published 8-Feb-2024

Historic Surry Hills Terrace Home of Perkal Brothers, Shoemakers with Royal and Celebrity Connections, Set for Auction

A historic terrace home in Surry Hills will soon be up for auction. The Crown street home was once the creative hub of renowned Sydney bootmakers Morris and Adam Perkal, who crafted footwear for the likes of Queen Elizabeth II, the King of Tonga, the Beatles, Kerry Packer, and other celebrities.

A Rich History Beckons Auction Enthusiasts

Located on 386 Crown Street, the terrace will be up for bidding on 17 February 2024.

The terrace once housed the workshop of the Perkal brothers. Both of Polish descent, they survived the Holocaust and embarked on a new life in Sydney after World War II.

These renowned bespoke cobblers achieved fame for their craftsmanship, fashioning iconic golden slippers for Queen Elizabeth during her inaugural Australian tour in the 1950s. Their Cuban heel boots adorned the Beatles when the legendary band visited Australia in 1964, and media magnate Kerry Packer was among their most loyal patrons.

Perkal Brothers Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: Ray White Tuomo Group*

A New Chapter After the Perkal Brothers’ Demise

Tragically, the Perkal brothers passed away within a fortnight of each other in late 2013, and their cherished terrace at 386 Crown Street was sold to developers for $1.71 million the following year.

However, its story did not end there. In 2021, Brie Langley, co-owner of the renowned resort-wear brand Sara Fox, and her husband, Damien Langley, co-founder of Student Edge, Australia’s largest student membership organization, acquired the property for $3,695,500.

With their young son Ziggy, they are now bidding farewell to Surry Hills and returning to their hometown of Perth, intent on nurturing their respective business ventures.

A Revived Terrace and Promising Auction

The circa 1895 four-bedroom, three-bathroom terrace, which comes complete with parking, boasts a 5.5-meter frontage and sits on a 133-square-meter block. The property has been meticulously restored to its former glory and is generating considerable interest in the lead-up to its auction.

Charles Touma, principal of Ray White Touma Group, has placed a $3.5 million price guide on the terrace and has been delighted with the response thus far as the first open house became the “busiest open across inner Sydney” to kick off 2024.

Mr Touma also notes that the property market in his area is showing signs of growth, with a solid level of interest in open homes and an increase in listings. Furthermore, he believes that buyers have adapted to the stable interest rate environment, offering optimism for the real estate market.

As the auction date approaches, all eyes will undoubtedly be on this historically significant Surry Hills terrace, with its captivating past and a promising future in the hands of its new custodians.

Published 7-Feb-2024

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

The escalating rental crisis was evident one Saturday morning in Surry Hills as nearly 100 hopeful renters queued at an apartment above a local pub amidst fierce competition and a limited supply of properties.

The rental scene in Sydney has been fraught with challenges since January 2024, marking a distressing period for those searching for accommodation. The convergence of low property availability and competitive market conditions has thwarted people’s hopes for an early resolution to the ongoing housing dilemma.

Real estate insiders note a significant uptick in rental seekers, with some properties attracting over 100 hopefuls, particularly in sought-after locales such as Surry Hills. The scene on Cooper St in Surry Hills on 27 January 2024 proved this after a large crowd gathered to view two available units, priced at $975 and $875, respectively.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Argentinos en Australia (@argentinosenaustralia)

Among the crowd was 22-year-old student Rania Raiqa, who, after weeks of fruitless searching, considered upping her offer in a bid to secure a roof over her head. With the process being first-come-first-served, Raiqa felt her options narrowing down to divine intervention.

The surge in demand traces back to December 2023, when rental availabilities dwindled to near-historic lows.

According to Jeremy Wiesner, principal at Wiesner Property, the turnout for the Cooper St property’s first viewing was unexpectedly large, hinting at the pent-up demand during the holiday season.

Experts predict no ease in the rental market’s pressure, with trends like remote working, lifestyle changes, and population growth fuelling demand.

Published 2-February-2024

Sydney’s First Pop-Up Cooling Hub Triumphs in Surry Hills

Surry Hills has witnessed the city’s first pop-up cooling hub at work, offering a refuge from the sweltering temperatures.

As the mercury soared to 36 degrees on 25 and 26 January 2024, the initiative provided a welcome respite, especially for socially disadvantaged individuals.

The cooling hub was set up in Ward Park, Surry Hills, and staffed by healthcare professionals. The initiative provided cooling strategies, monitored health indicators, and offered support services.

Addressing a Health Issue

Many Sydney locals face heightened exposure to extreme heat, whether sleeping on the streets, in cars, overcrowded housing, or in tents. The need to address this challenge has become increasingly apparent for communities, health organizations, governments, and councils.

The concept of the cooling hub in Surry Hills was inspired by overseas case studies and recent local experiences. The project is a collaborative effort involving the University of Sydney, St Vincent’s Homeless Health Service, and the City of Sydney.

Homelessness and Heat Emergency Activation Team (HHEATeam)

Dr Timothy English, the project’s leader, envisions scaling up the initiative to provide more relief to vulnerable individuals in the face of rising temperatures.

St Vincent’s Hospital and its partners view the cooling hubs as a crucial response to immediate issues caused by increasing heat patterns. They also offer an opportunity to provide longer-term support to those at risk of homelessness.

Extreme heat is a major contributor to hospitalisations and deaths, causing significant strain on healthcare systems and budgets.

Climate change presents a health emergency, with people experiencing homelessness particularly vulnerable due to difficulty finding cool spaces and existing health conditions.

A Blueprint for the Future

The experience gained from this initiative will be used to create a blueprint for other services to replicate and address the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals during extreme heat.

This initiative represented a climate justice response by working with disadvantaged communities to meet their needs during the climate crisis.

Published 29-Jan-2024

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

The dynamic duo behind Canva, billionaire founders Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht, have unveiled plans for a remarkable transformation of their Surry Hills headquarters in Sydney.

Located on Kippax Street, just a stone’s throw from Central Station, their $123.25 million acquisition of a nine-level building in late 2022 set the stage for this ambitious venture. The project, set to receive a $56 million investment, has enlisted the expertise of Cox Architecture.

As of press time, the development plans (D/2023/1162) have entered the exhibition period, between 11 Jan to 13 Feb 2024, marking a significant step in the transformation of Canva’s Surry Hills headquarters.

Innovation and Creativity at Canva’s Core

In the development application submitted to the City of Sydney Council in November 2023, Cox Architecture underlines that innovation and creativity have always been at the heart of Canva’s DNA, driving their team to deliver their best work consistently.

This commitment to excellence earned Canva the prestigious title of “Best Workplace for Innovators” on Fast Company’s 2023 list, a global recognition of their dedication to fostering creativity within their workspace.

For 8-24 Kippax Street, the conceptual narrative revolves around creating a workplace that nurtures growth and culture, where the culture, in turn, shapes the environment.

A Redesigned Facade and Elevated Experience

The forthcoming redevelopment plans encompass an overhaul of the existing nine-level building facade, as well as an additional level that will house a new rooftop and terrace. This rooftop space is envisioned to serve as a hub for Canva’s employees, collaborators, and guests to congregate, connect, and celebrate the unique ‘vibe’ that defines the company.

Canva HQ Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: D/2023/1162*

In line with Canva’s commitment to being a “Force for Good” and doing more with less, the proposed rooftop additions maintain the integrity of the existing building while making strategic interventions to enhance functionality and sustainability, including the introduction of natural light.

Beyond the façade and rooftop transformation, the redevelopment project includes the removal of ground and underground parking levels. In their place, a new ground-floor café and lower-ground gym, studio, and community space will be introduced. Adding to the project’s artistic flair, Canva will also commission a mural on the eastern façade to complement the extended building height.

Canva’s Journey to Billionaire Status

Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht founded Canva during their studies in Western Australia back in 2013. Remarkably, Melanie Perkins became Australia’s youngest billionaire at just 36 years old, with their combined net worth estimated to be around $10 billion, as reported in The Australian’s “The List Richest 250.”

Recent news also indicates that early investors and employees of Canva are gearing up to sell approximately $1.5 billion worth of stock, as the company’s valuation continues to soar, currently estimated at a staggering $40 billion.

Published 16-Jan-2024

The Resilient Revival of Surry Hills Hat Factory: From Ashes to Heritage Hotel

Photo Credit: D/2023/1170

Following the devastating inferno that consumed a hat factory in Surry Hills, a developer has submitted a $42-million proposal to build a hotel in the area.

Despite the destructive fire that decimated the factory in May 2023, Hanave is committed to resurrecting the site, staying true to the original design approved back in late 2019. Salvaging existing bricks for future use and incorporating remnants from the fire’s aftermath into the hotel’s interior design, including charred timber posts and the original fire bell, adds a unique touch to the restoration.

Surry Hills Hat Hotel — *Photo Credit: D/2023/1170*

The amended plans for the hotel reveal a comprehensive vision for the site’s transformation. Within the heritage-listed hat factory building, a nine-storey hotel will emerge, offering 123 rooms, providing a blend of modern comfort and historic charm. Alongside the guest rooms, the hotel will feature two restaurants and a bar and cafe, providing a range of dining options for visitors and locals alike.

Plans for the “Hat Hotel” are currently open for public exhibition until 6 Feb 2024, inviting the community to engage and offer input on this ambitious restoration project.

History and Significance of the Hat Factory

Built in 1912 for R. C. Henderson, a renowned ladies’ hat manufacturer, the hat factory is special in local history, having contributed significantly to the Australian production of felt and straw hats. The factory’s closure in the 1950s marked the decline of the millinery industry in Sydney, symbolising societal changes and women’s emancipation. Restoring its brick facade, proportions, patterns, and detailing will honour its historical importance.

Frank Howarth, Chair of the Heritage Council of NSW, commends the adaptive reuse of old buildings into hotels, citing successful examples like the Capella Hotel and Kimpton Margot. Such projects, when executed well, contribute positively to heritage preservation.

The Tragic Fire and Legal Proceedings

In August, two 13-year-old boys were charged for the fire that engulfed the abandoned Surry Hills building, creating a spectacle visible on national TV networks. Legal proceedings are ongoing.

Situated near the new Central Metro station’s eastern entry point, the site’s redevelopment aligns with the broader transformation of Central Station and the Tech Central precinct. This promises to attract more investment to the Surry Hills area, making it a hub of activity and development.

Published 10-Jan-2024