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

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.

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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

A Tavola Restaurant Group’s Sudden Closure

Photo Credit: A Tavola

Sydney’s vibrant Surry Hills community was rocked after the esteemed A tavola restaurant group’s sudden closure. The beloved Flour Eggs Water Surry Hills, cherished for 15 years, ceased operations, leaving residents in disbelief.

Led by Chef Eugenio Maiale and his wife Michelle, the A tavola family encompassed several revered culinary establishments, each contributing uniquely to Surry Hills’ gastronomic tapestry. The sudden liquidation, encompassing sister companies and terminating all staff contracts, sent shockwaves through the neighbourhood.

“A tavola was established in 2007 in buzzing Darlinghurst on Victoria Street by chef owner Eugenio Maiale. A tavola quickly earnt a reputation of being one of Sydney’s best places to go for authentic Italian pasta. The long marble table has been filled with loyal and regular diners – all seduced by the simplicity and honesty of Eugenio’s food and especially his love of good pasta. Thank you for the honour of being at our table for the past 16 years.”
A Tavola

Liquidator Shumit Banerjee confirmed the unfortunate termination of employment contracts on December 27, highlighting the daunting task of quantifying owed entitlements, potentially totalling hundreds of thousands of dollars. The collapse appears rooted in a complex blend of factors, from enduring Covid-19 impacts to struggles negotiating viable terms with landlords and suppliers.

A tavola’s legacy transcended mere dining experiences. Its long marble communal table stood as an emblem of conviviality, fostering connections among patrons. The closure of its Darlinghurst origin and the recent shuttering of A tavola Bondi marked the end of an era, leaving an indelible void in Surry Hills.

Chef Maiale’s culinary ingenuity extended to Flour Eggs Water at Tramsheds, a hub of gastronomic delight that enriched the local dining scene. The pandemic pivot to A tavola at Home echoed industry-wide adaptability, catering to the evolving needs of patrons during challenging times.

Photo Credit: Facebook / Flour Eggs Water

Despite the closures, social media remains silent, echoing the unexpectedness of these events. Disabled booking links signal an abrupt halt in operations, amplifying the profound impact on Surry Hills’ culinary landscape.

This collapse follows Okami’s recent voluntary administration, pointing to inflation and pandemic-induced costs, intensifying concerns within the food and beverage sector. As Surry Hills residents grapple with this shocking development, uncertainty shrouds the future of their culinary community.

A Tavola Restaurant Group’s sudden closure marks the end of an era, leaving Surry Hills residents mourning the loss of cherished establishments that formed an integral part of their lives. The repercussions of this collapse resonate deeply, casting a shadow over the local dining scene’s trajectory.

Published 28-December-2023

Despite Community Pushback, Oxford Street Cycleway Project Forges Ahead

Construction works on the Oxford Street Cycleway Project, a landmark artery that winds through Sydney’s vibrant Oxford Street precinct, are set to proceed despite facing a mix of support and opposition from the local community.

This contentious project, spanning from Taylor Square to Centennial Park on the southern side of Oxford Street, and continuing through Paddington, has generated significant debate. While an online survey indicated a 57 per cent level of support among 1,500 respondents, a closer look at the consultation process reveals a more nuanced picture.

Community Backlash and Feedback

The online survey, conducted by Transport NSW, initially suggested a majority in favour of the cycleway. However, this percentage only reflects the responses from the online survey, failing to account for those who chose to voice their opinions through other means, such as phone calls, emails, written letters, or face-to-face discussions with community representatives.

When all feedback channels were considered, overall support for the cycleway dropped to 42 per cent, with 51 per cent expressing opposition and 7 per cent remaining neutral.

Many business owners refrained from voicing their opposition during the two-month consultation period that commenced in late June. This hesitation stemmed from a lack of awareness regarding the potential disruptions the cycleway might cause.

They had relied on the artist’s impression of the proposed cycleway, noted as “subject to change” on the website, which provided an incomplete understanding of the actual ramifications. Sue Ritchie, founder of the Three Saints Square Project, succinctly described this situation as a “false impression,” per reports.

Alternative Proposals

Ms Ritchie has proposed an alternative route, suggesting a cycleway along Moore Park Road. This alternative path offers a similar length without intersecting with business shopfronts and has fewer intersections. Ms Ritchie emphasized that there was no community consultation regarding the selection of Oxford Street as the cycleway location.

The Paddington Society also contributed an alternative vision, “Plan B,” for rejuvenating Oxford Street. This vision includes the addition of 71 more trees, expanded footpaths to accommodate al fresco dining, car parking bays, and bus bays. “Plan B” has garnered substantial support from the local community.

Plan C: A Community-Oriented Solution

In response to the debate, the Paddington Society has introduced “Plan C,” designed to benefit cyclists while preserving the character of Oxford Street. This plan offers cyclists two options: an express route from Paddington Gates to Taylor Square along Moore Park Road, or a scenic route along a beautified Oxford Street.

However, the implementation of a cycleway on Oxford Street presents challenges for local businesses. With the cycleway, car parking will no longer be possible, and questions arise regarding the logistics of delivery trucks.

Moreover, the cycleway would necessitate the blocking of five right-hand turns on Oxford Street, creating traffic disruptions. Residents on smaller streets may experience increased congestion as motorists seek alternative routes.

Government’s Perspective

While Transport for NSW acknowledged these concerns, it expressed its intent to proceed with the original plans, with the possibility of retaining a right turn from South Dowling Street eastbound into Oxford Street. The department also indicated a review of the speed limit on Oxford Street from 50km/h to 40km/h, though a reduction to 30km/h was deemed unsuitable.

Transport Minister Jo Haylen emphasised the importance of the cycleway project, citing its role in enhancing connectivity between the eastern suburbs and the central business district (CBD). She argued that it would provide a safer and more practical cycling option, subsequently reducing road congestion and easing the strain on public transportation.

“A cycling link between the east and the CBD is vital to give people a real and safe option to cycle, freeing up space on our roads and seats on our buses,” the minister asserted. She further highlighted that the cycleway would cater to individuals who might otherwise hesitate to ride on busy roads.

Additionally, the NSW Government’s plans to increase the number of concerts at Allianz Stadium in Moore Park have raised concerns about traffic management. Currently, only six concerts per year are permitted, with a maximum average of four concerts over five years. The proposed increase to twenty concerts annually prompts questions about the infrastructure and traffic planning required to accommodate this surge in visitors.

Preserving Oxford Street’s Legacy

Oxford Street, historically known as the birthplace of Mardi Gras and home to prestigious art schools, has faced various challenges in recent years, including the impact of Sydney’s lockout laws. Despite these challenges, it remains an internationally-recognised icon for Sydney. Sue Ritchie aptly characterized it as a “spirited place for people and individualism, creativity and expression.”

Published 26-Dec-2023

Sydney Girls High School Students Included in HSC All-Round Achievers List

Several Sydney Girls High School students in Surry Hills have delivered an excellent turnout in the 2023 Higher School Certificate standings, making it to the list of All-Round Achievers, and underscoring the school’s excellent standards for academic achievement.

Reaching the illustrious All-Round Achievers List is an extraordinary feat. To join this select group, students must achieve the highest possible band score in ten or more units of study.

This achievement demonstrates a remarkable level of academic versatility and excellence across a diverse range of subjects.

In this year’s All-Round Achievers list, Sydney Girls High School has achieved noteworthy results.

Information Processes and Technology

Rion Iwano secured the 4th place

Mathematics Advanced

Sydney Wang attained the 4th place
Nikita Badve earned the 6th place
Naeun Kim achieved the 18th place

Sydney Girls High School Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

While Sydney Girls High School stands out in Surry Hills, various other schools, both selective and non-selective, have made their mark in the HSC rankings.

Baulkham Hills High School, a co-ed public selective school, boasts a remarkable 54 students who achieved the highest band in ten units or more. Sydney Boys High, located in Moore Park, shines with 29 All Round Achievers.

In the Distinguished Achievers list, 18,516 students out of a total of 68,689 currently pursuing their HSC studies in 2023 have secured a place. To gain this distinction, students must attain the highest possible band score in one or more of their courses, showcasing their exceptional academic skills and dedication. Notably, Knox leads the Distinguished Achievers List with 343 students, followed by Baulkham Hills High, Barker College, Sydney Boys, and James Ruse.

For the most competitive accolade, the Top Achievers List, 879 students have been selected this year. To earn a place on this prestigious list, students must rank within the top 20 for subjects with more than 10,000 students or the top five for subjects with smaller enrolments, such as certain languages. Sydney Grammar, James Ruse, and Knox lead the way with impressive numbers of high-achieving students.

Meanwhile, individuals such as Darshanik Aryal at James Ruse, William Jones and Jeremy Wong at Sydney Grammar, Guanyu Zhu at North Sydney Boys, Chris Yoo at Kings, and Aaron Yuen at North Sydney Boys have earned recognition for their exceptional performances.

Published 18-Dec-2023

Surry Hills Small Home Bags World Interior of the Year Award

Photo Credit: Australian Institute of Architects / Anson Smart

Surry Hills has reason to rejoice, as SJB’s modest yet extraordinary small home clinches the World Interior of the Year award at the acclaimed World Architecture Festival in Singapore.

Located at 19 Waterloo Street, this architectural gem, crafted by renowned firm SJB and spearheaded by lead architect Adam Haddow, bagged the World Interior of the Year award and also triumphed in the INSIDE: Residential (single home) category.

The compact 29-square-meter abode is an architectural marvel that redefines spatial limitations, ingeniously utilising its limited footprint to encapsulate the essence of a larger home while ensuring optimal amenities.

The jury’s praise for 19 Waterloo Street resonates with its creative genius, likening it to “a wardrobe for the architect himself to live in, not only a building or an interior but a pocket-sized tour de force.”

Architecturally, the residence stands as a testament to innovation, boasting a playful facade reminiscent of Jacques Tati, adorned with recycled and broken bricks that engage artfully with the street through cleverly designed geometric openings.

Sustainability lies at the heart of this architectural wonder, achieving an impressive 90% self-sufficiency in electrical needs through the integration of rooftop PVs and battery storage.

The interior design intricacies reflect a harmonious blend of drama and tranquillity, with spaces designed to expand and contract, creating serene respites within the home.

From the bathroom adorned with lush monstera plants, harnessing both steam and natural light, to the study featuring a gold leaf-coated void refracting morning light into a celestial workspace, every corner of 19 Waterloo Street is a testament to thoughtful design and functionality.

This exceptional achievement not only celebrates the ingenuity of SJB and Adam Haddow, but also underscores Surry Hills’ place in the forefront of architectural innovation and sustainable living on a global stage.

Director Adam Haddow, who calls this innovative space home, expressed his gratitude for the recognition bestowed upon the Surry Hills residence.

Published 13-December-2023