Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 15 of 32

Raising the Bar: Surry Hills Shines in Sydney’s Night of Innovation

Surry Hills is known for its innovative and pioneering spirit in a city renowned for its lively culture. As part of the Raising the Bar event, the suburb is set to host a series of thought-provoking talks.

On Tuesday, 1 April 2024, 10 local bars in Surry Hills, Camperdown and Chippendale will hold 20 discussions of groundbreaking ideas – from climate change and sustainable investing to the future of healthcare and emission-free aviation.

This event, supported by the City of Sydney and in partnership with the University of Sydney, is set to ignite conversations and inspire change.

A Global Initiative, Locally Tailored

Raising the Bar is a global movement to increase accessibility to education and innovation. By moving these important conversations from the traditional confines of lecture halls to the relaxed and inclusive atmosphere of bars, the initiative seeks to engage a broader audience.

The event promises a diverse array of topics. Highlights include “Unleashing purposeful investment for a better world” with Vis Vythilingam at Brix Distillers and “Migrapreneurs can unlock a better future for all” with Usman Iftikhar at Soultrap, both located in Surry Hills. These sessions will explore the frontiers of sustainable investing and the role of migrant entrepreneurs in our economy, respectively.

Raise the Bar Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: David Shirley/Brix Distillers/Google Maps*

Healthcare and technology merge in talks like “Can your health be programmed like an app?” by Pete Field at The Abercrombie in Chippendale, offering insights into personalized healthcare through technology. Similarly, “Harnessing brain waves to improve mental health” by Cameron Higgins at The Barrie in Chippendale delves into wearable neuro-tech’s potential to aid depression recovery.

From the future of electric flights discussed by Siobhan Lyndon and Andrew Moore at Wayward Brewing Co in Camperdown to Emma Bacon’s blueprint for cooler cities at Fortress Sydney in Chippendale, the event underscores the urgent need for innovation in addressing climate change. Moreover, “Ocean advocacy is for everyone” by Emily Rowland at Hermann’s Bar in Camperdown emphasizes the importance of community engagement in ocean conservation.

A Call to Action

Raising the Bar is more than an event; it’s a call to action to inspire change. With free tickets available to all, the organizers invite Sydney’s residents and visitors to partake in this unprecedented evening of insight, inspiration, and community spirit.

Whether you’re passionate about technology, the environment, or social change, Raising the Bar 2024 offers a unique opportunity to explore these topics in the congenial settings of Surry Hills and beyond.

CHECK TOPICS & VENUES

Published 26-March-2024

Foster Street in Surry Hills Receives Recognition as One of the Coolest Streets in the World

Did you know Foster Street in Surry Hills holds the distinction of being one of Time Out’s “30 Coolest Streets in the World” for 2024?

Nestled within the vibrant Hollywood Quarter of Sydney, Foster Street boasts a dynamic mix of culinary, cultural, and entertainment options, encapsulating what makes a neighborhood genuinely cool, according to Time Out, who placed the area in the 23rd spot on its Top 30.

Foster Street’s Charms

Foster Street is a perfect destination for those looking to experience the real taste of Sydney. The street boasts a rich history and cultural significance, exemplified by the iconic Hotel Hollywood. Food enthusiasts will be delighted by the variety of dining options, including the highly recommended Pellegrino 2000 and Nomad. You can embark on a culinary journey like no other on Foster Street.

Art enthusiasts can enjoy live music at the Great Southern Nights festival and visit China Heights Gallery, an artistic haven that contributes to the street’s eclectic atmosphere.

The Hollywood Quarter: A Cultural Beacon

Located in the vibrant Hollywood Quarter, Foster Street and Campbell Street have become synonymous with Sydney’s inner-city culture. This area is popular for attracting high-profile visitors, including celebrities like Taylor Swift.

It boasts an array of culinary delights, artistic endeavours, and sustainable initiatives. Pellegrino 2000, a favourite Italian restaurant among locals and stars alike, epitomizes the street’s culinary excellence with its inviting pasta dishes, which even the most privacy-conscious celebrities venture out to enjoy despite the paparazzi.

Nomad Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: Nomad/Facebook*

Culinary and Artistic Haven

Foster Street is not just a place where celebrities can be spotted; it’s a hub of culinary innovation and artistic expression. The street offers a diverse range of food options, from Nomad’s heartwarming dishes served in an industrial-chic setting to Malibu’s hefty sandwiches, which cater to all tastes.

The Paramount Building is another area attraction. It houses the Paramount Coffee Project, AP Bakery, and the Golden Age Cinema and Bar, making it a cornerstone of cultural and social activity.

Paramount Bldg Surry Hills — Photo Credit: Paramount Building/Facebook

Nightlife and Entertainment

The street’s vibrant nightlife is centred around the Hollywood Hotel, a historic Art Deco pub that has been a Sydney institution since Doris Goddard opened it in 1977. Adjacent to the Hollywood Hotel, Tio’s Cerveceria and The Rover offer diverse evening entertainment options.

Hollywood Hotel Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: Hollywood Hotel/Facebook*

The Great Southern Nights music festival further enhances the Hollywood Quarter’s reputation as a dynamic venue for live performances and highlights the area’s dedication to promoting a lively entertainment scene.

Artistic Flourishes

Art enthusiasts can explore the creative heart of Sydney at China Heights, a gallery located on Foster Street. This venue is dedicated to showcasing the works of emerging artists in the city and offers a glimpse into the area’s unique cultural landscape. The gallery’s warehouse-style space is an added attraction that enhances the overall experience.

Looking Ahead

The recognition Foster Street received from Time Out not only acknowledges its current appeal but also lays the foundation for its future evolution. As Sydney keeps growing and redefining its urban spaces, Foster Street’s recognition serves as a reminder of its neighbourhoods’ lasting charm and potential.

For both locals and visitors, Foster Street offers a unique experience that blends the historical with the contemporary, and the global with the local, making it a true embodiment of what it means to be cool in the eyes of the world.

A Global Affair

Time Out’s selection process for the coolest streets involved input from editors and contributors worldwide, ensuring a diverse representation from every continent except Antarctica. The list, which includes entries from capital cities like Buenos Aires, Manila, and Tokyo, also highlights the cultural richness of second cities such as Sydney, Vancouver, and Rio de Janeiro. With London’s Gerrard Street and Lisbon’s Rua da Boavista also making the cut, the compilation offers a kaleidoscope of destinations that blend history, heritage, and modern vibrancy.

Published 19-March-2024

Qtopia Unveiled in Permanent Home, Celebrates LGBTQ+ History in Darlinghurst

Photo Credit: Qtopia/Facebook

Sydney’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community gains a significant addition as Qtopia, the city’s inaugural queer museum, finds its permanent residence within the historic Darlinghurst police station.

Established as part of the city’s Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras festivities, Qtopia emerges as a landmark of remembrance and celebration, honouring the diverse stories and struggles of the LGBTQ+ community in Sydney and beyond.

Reviving History: Inside Qtopia

Upon entering Qtopia, visitors are greeted with a poignant reminder of the lives lost during the AIDS epidemic, commemorated in a solemn memorial at the museum’s entrance.

The museum’s diverse exhibitions delve into various aspects of queer history, encompassing Indigenous contributions, transgender experiences, evolving legal landscapes, representations in media, and confronting instances of police brutality — a particularly resonant theme given the museum’s former identity as a police station.

Transforming Spaces

Greg Fisher, Qtopia’s chief executive, underscores the museum’s transformative nature, emphasizing its departure from its former role as a site of enforcement to one of storytelling and empowerment. The museum’s renovation breathes new life into the once sombre confines of the police station, now reimagined as a vibrant hub of LGBTQ+ culture and heritage.

Within the Qtopia complex, the newly inaugurated Loading Dock Theatre offers a platform for the LGBTQ+ community to share their narratives through performances and events. This 60-seat venue promises to showcase the richness and diversity of queer experiences, fostering a sense of belonging and creative expression among its patrons.

Accessible Engagement: Admission and Funding

To ensure accessibility, Qtopia offers a range of admission prices, with free entry for children under 10 and discounted rates for students and concession holders. Additionally, the museum’s commitment to community engagement is exemplified through free Sunday admissions for the first year, made possible through support from the City of Sydney.

Further bolstering its resources, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese provides Qtopia with a substantial financial boost, with federal funding earmarked for ongoing enhancements to the museum.

Reclaiming History

For many in the LGBTQ+ community, the transformation of the former Darlinghurst Police Station into Qtopia symbolizes a profound act of liberation, reclaiming a space once synonymous with persecution and oppression. However, Mr Fisher acknowledges that for some, the trauma associated with the site may linger, underscoring the importance of preserving these memories while forging ahead with a renewed sense of pride and purpose.

The museum’s opening resonates deeply with activists like Rebbell Barnes, a member of the 78ers who vividly remembers the brutality faced by LGBTQ+ individuals during the early Mardi Gras protests.

For survivors like David Polson, Qtopia represents the realization of a long-held dream, fulfilling the vision of the late Dr David Cooper AC, a pioneering HIV/AIDS physician. Through exhibits like the recreated Ward 17 South of St Vincent’s Hospital, Qtopia is a testament to resilience, remembrance, and the enduring spirit of the LGBTQ+ community.

Published 12-March-2024

Avner’s Bakery in Surry Hills Revives Heritage Recipes, Fosters Community Connection

Avner’s Bakery is a hidden gem in the busy streets of Surry Hills, offering a variety of delicious treats deeply rooted in Eastern European heritage.

Did you know tht the man behind the bakery, which opened in February 2024, is “Fast Ed” Halmagyi, known for his stint on TV’s Better Homes and Gardens?

Avner's Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Avner’s Bakery is more than just a place to eat—it’s a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and community. Despite being a recent addition to the area, it has already gained a loyal following.

Reviving Family Recipes: The Heartbeat of Avner’s Bakery

Avner’s is a restaurant that has a strong family legacy and a passion for culinary intrigue. Inspired by his grandmother’s treasured recipes, Ed has set out to revive old traditions in the lively neighbourhood of Surry Hills.

With the help of cryptic notes from an ancient notebook, Ed carefully unravels the secrets of Transylvanian rye bread and other cherished delicacies, infusing each dish with a tangible sense of history and nostalgia. Every creation at Avner’s is a testament to craftsmanship and homage, from the slow fermentation of bagel dough to the subtle infusion of pastrami with smoky undertones.

Artisanal Mastery: Crafting Culinary Perfection at Avner’s Bakery

Avner’s stands out in an era where mass production dominates by championing the ethos of artisanal excellence. The bakery rejects mechanised monotony and instead infuses each creation with a labour of love and attention to detail that goes beyond mere sustenance.

From the custom-built smoker, meticulously crafted from WWII relics to the daily ritual of hand-shaping bagels, the dedication to authenticity permeates every aspect of the bakery’s operations. Every slice of pastrami and every braided challah bears the mark of human touch, serving as proof of the enduring allure of traditional craftsmanship.

Must-Try Treats at Avner’s Bakery

Avner’s Bakery boasts a wide variety of baked goods, but a few items stand out as customer favourites.

One such item is the signature lox-loaded bagel, a delicious combination of smooth lox, creamy schmear, and perfectly toasted bagel that showcases the bakery’s culinary skills.

Other popular choices include the chocolate babkas, which feature rich chocolate swirled into flaky pastry layers, and the freshly baked challah bread, which is made every Friday to celebrate the start of shabbat.

For those looking to try something new, the ube and date babka is a unique fusion of flavors that combines the exotic taste of ube with sweet, caramelized dates. Additionally, Avner’s offers smaller treats like rugelach and babka bites, each of which is packed with flavour and nostalgia.

Whether you’re indulging in a classic dish or trying something new, every bite at Avner’s Bakery is sure to be a delicious experience that reflects the bakery’s dedication to quality.

Immersive Experience at Avner’s Bakery

With antique wood accents and an open layout, the bakery invites patrons to stay a while. The centrepiece of the space is an antique wood island bench, where the magic of bagel-making unfolds before your eyes, adding to the bakery’s allure.

Here, amidst the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread and the gentle hum of conversation, customers find solace and connection. They forge bonds over shared meals and memories.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Avner’s Bakery (@avnersbakery)

Avner’s founder, Halmagyi, has infused the concept of “tikkun olam,” a Jewish custom of benevolence, into the very fabric of the bakery. The bakery follows the age-old Turkish tradition of “askida ekmek,” which invites customers to purchase loaves and bagels for those in need.

It’s a place where the simple act of breaking bread becomes a celebration of life, love, and community.

Follow Avner’s on Instagram for updates.

Published 8-March-2023

Crown Street to Come Alive for the Festive ‘Sydney Streets’

Get ready for a street party unlike any other! This April 6, Crown Street in Surry Hills will transform into a vibrant car-free zone filled with food, music, entertainment, and community vibes for the highly anticipated Sydney Streets Event Series.

Read: Locals Split on Surry Hills’ Taylor Swift Mural

The focal point of the event will be Crown Street between Cleveland and Foveaux Streets, where vehicles will be prohibited and pedestrians can freely take over the thoroughfare for the exciting festivities.

The all-day event invites the community to enjoy Surry Hills’ lively culture and support local businesses who will have special offerings, sales, classes, and attractions.

Expect pop-up dining on the street, fresh food stalls, retailer giveaways and competitions, live performances on small stages, dancers, musicians, and child-friendly entertainers.

The Sydney Streets Event Series has been making its way through several Sydney neighbourhoods since kicking off in Potts Point in February, with events following in Darlinghurst, Glebe, Redfern, and Pyrmont in March. The series will then arrive at the Surry Hills edition on Crown Street in April.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore shares that the Sydney Streets concept has re-energised neighbourhoods across the city since the pandemic’s lockdowns.

“Last year we hosted 16 events, and since we kicked off the series in 2022, we’ve organised almost 30 editions,” she said.

Visitors can soak in Surry Hills’ artsy vibe whilst relaxing at an outdoor cafe, listening to live bands, exploring local shops, or letting kids enjoy activity stations. The evening offers a festive night market atmosphere to linger.

The Surry Hills edition will see Crown St closed off to vehicles from 9:00 a.m., with the festivities and street market running from 11:00 a.m. through 10:00 p.m. Surrounding side streets will also be blocked to traffic during the event’s hours, reopening at 11:30 p.m.

Read: Sydney Endorses Cycleway Projects Connecting Ultimo to Surry Hills

About the ‘Sydney Streets’

The Sydney Streets series aims to spotlight distinct neighborhoods, foster community connections, and boost local businesses across the city’s vibrant commercial districts.

Local shops and venues can participate by offering sidewalk sales, specials, classes or attractions to creatively draw patrons during the pedestrian-only events.

With roads closed to vehicles, businesses also have the chance to potentially extend retail stands or dining outdoors. To transform these streets into lively public spaces, the City of Sydney arranges road barriers as well as tables and seating throughout the area. Roaming acoustic performers entertain guests, whilst additional amenities like portable restrooms are provided.

For parking and traffic details, visit livetraffic.com to find special clearance restrictions in place surrounding the pedestrianised zone.

Published 28-February-2024

Iconic Chinatown Gates in Haymarket to Get Heritage Status

The Dixon Street precinct in Haymarket is all abuzz with the news that the iconic ceremonial gates in Sydney’s Chinatown will soon be awarded heritage status. The prestigious recognition is part of a broader initiative to revitalise the historic district.

The decision to grant heritage status to the Chinatown gates, marking each end of Dixon Street’s northern and southern sides, stems from a concerted effort by the local Australian government following extensive public consultation. Dixon Street has been lauded as the “heart of Chinatown,” whilst the gates are seen as a cultural symbol in Sydney.

Chinatown Gates Haymarket Sydney — *Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons*

The move aligns with the Sydney City Council’s proposed $44-million Haymarket and Chinatown revitalisation strategy, which gained momentum in 2020 amidst a decline in visitor numbers due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Crafted by local architect and politician Henry Tsang, the gates draw inspiration from traditional Chinese arches known as “damen.” They were unveiled in 1980, coinciding with the formal recognition of Chinatown by then-Sydney Lord Mayor Nelson Meers.

Chinese migration to Sydney traces back to 1818, with substantial waves settling in Haymarket during the 1870s following the establishment of Belmore Markets. By the 1920s, the area had become a bustling economic and sociocultural hub for the Chinese community.

Vincent Lim, president of the Haymarket Chamber of Commerce, emphasises the gates’ significance as a defining landmark for Chinatown, akin to the Opera House and Harbour Bridge for Sydney.

Dr. Sophie Loy-Wilson, a historian at the University of Sydney, underscores their resilience, surviving challenges such as Sydney’s bubonic plague outbreak in 1900 and the impacts of the White Australia Policy.

“While other Chinatowns in central Sydney have diminished in importance, Haymarket has remained a special place for the community,” Ms Loy-Wilson said.

Meanwhile, the City’s proposed enhancements along Dixon Street south are being collaboratively undertaken with the community as an integral component of the comprehensive strategy for the Haymarket precinct.

Furthermore, the design concept accentuates the significance of the Chinatown Ceremonial Gates, slated for restoration and inclusion in the City’s broader strategy. Crafted with traditional Chinese materials and adorned with red, green, and gold tiles, these archways serve as striking symbols at both ends of this iconic locale.

“The gates provide a ceremonial entrance to the only surviving original Chinatown in the city centre. By restoring and heritage listing the gates, we will ensure they can be enjoyed for generations to come,” the Lord Mayor Clover Moore said.

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