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Hellfire Alley Brings Spicy Street Flavour to Entertainment Quarter

Sydney’s Entertainment Quarter will turn up the heat in May as more than 21 chilli makers, sauce crafters and fiery food vendors gather for the Sydney Superhot Chilli and BBQ Festival, set to feature a growing trend of chilli-infused drinks and local maker culture.

The one-day festival takes place on Sunday, 18 May, under the weatherproof Market Canopy at Moore Park. Running from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., it will host four chilli-eating challenges (details soon!), food and drink stalls, live music and family-friendly activities. Organisers say the event caters to both serious spice fans and curious locals keen to sample something new.

Sydney Superhot Chilli and BBQ Festival — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Local Vendors Bring the Flavour

The festival’s main drawcard is Hellfire Alley, a section dedicated to showcasing more than 21 of Australia’s boldest chilli makers and gourmet producers. This includes a mix of established brands and emerging local talent, many of whom specialise in small-batch, handcrafted products.

Old Bones Chilli Co, based in Sydney, is known for its smoked garlic chilli sauce and fermented hot sauces made for everyday use. From Queensland, Mind Maze Hot Sauce joins the line-up with its distinct range of sauces designed around depth and burn, while The Chilli Love Co blends tropical ingredients like pineapple and coconut into their chilli condiments.

Old Bones at the Sydney Superhot Festival - Entertainment Quarter — *Photo Credit: Old Bones Chilli Co/Facebook*

Also featured are vendors like Flare 2 Fire, which produces chilli rubs and marinades, and The Fermentalists, which is known for combining spice with fermented flavours in its kimchi and pickles.

Grumpy Gary’s offers a playful edge with its wide range of sauces, including the popular “Seriously Hot Sauce” and “BBQ Smokehouse” ranges. BC Jerky, another favourite, combines heat with protein in their chilli-infused beef jerky, appealing to both snackers and heat seekers.

Grumpy Gary at the Sydney Superhot Festival - Entertainment Quarter — *Photo Credit: Grumpy Garys/Facebook*

SSB Chilli offers sauces that focus on flavour as much as fire, including mango blends and extra hot varieties.

SSB Chilli at the Sydney Superhot Festival - Entertainment Quarter — *Photo Credit: SSB Chilli/Facebook*

With such variety, Hellfire Alley gives festivalgoers a chance to taste-test their way through the many ways Australians are reimagining spice—from table sauces and honey to nuts, jerky, and beyond.

Spice Hits the Drinks Menu

In addition to food, the event highlights the rising popularity of chilli-flavoured beverages. The bar will serve up chilli beers and themed cocktails designed to test taste buds in new ways.

Organisers say there will be non-spicy drink options as well, but those looking for an adventurous twist can try drinks blended with ingredients like jalapeño, habanero or smoky chipotle.

Chilli beers have seen increased attention in Australia’s craft brewing circles. While specific drink menus have yet to be announced, the event will offer a sample of how local brewers and mixologists are experimenting with heat in their creations.

Entertainment for All Ages

Despite the focus on heat, organisers stress the event is meant for everyone. Families can expect a range of activities including an animal nursery, face painting, and art and craft stations. Performers from local dance schools and cheer groups, including Sydney University’s squad, will take to the stage to support competitors in the chilli challenges.

Musical performances will run throughout the day, with local guitarist Sean Mullen headlining with a tribute to Joe Satriani. Vocalist Sandra Beynon and Berlin-based Philip John will also make appearances.

Ticket prices are $25 for adults, $10 for concessions, and free entry for children aged 14 and under. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate using EFTPOS or cash.

Published 28-March-2025

40 Res Introduces Global Flavours to Surry Hills Wine Bar Scene

Photo Credit: 40Res/Facebook

Tucked away on Reservoir Street, a new wine bar in Surry Hills invites locals to unwind with boutique wines and dishes inspired by global travels.

40 Res Brings Global Flavours to Surry Hills Wine Scene

A new neighbourhood wine bar has emerged in Surry Hills, offering a blend of boutique wines and globally inspired dishes.

Located at 40 Reservoir Street, 40 Res is the latest venture by chef-owner Josh Raine and his partner, floor manager Keliann Zellman, aiming to create a relaxed space for locals to enjoy quality food and wine.

Culinary Expertise Meets Casual Dining

Opened in early 2025, 40 Res is led by culinary director Raine (ex-Tetsuya’s, now at MCA’s Canvas) and head chef Michael Tran (formerly of London’s Michelin-starred Hibiscus). Their snack-focused menu draws on global influences and highlights premium Australian produce.

The wine list at 40 Res highlights selections from boutique producers across Australia, Italy, France, and Spain. Curated by sommelier Lauren Baker of Imbibo, the list emphasizes balance and affordability, encouraging guests to explore diverse options. The emphasis on lighter styles complements the delicate, shareable dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.

A Space Designed for Lingering

With cream-washed brick and warm lighting, 40 Res has a minimalist yet welcoming ambience. The establishment welcomes guests to “stop in for a glass, stay for a bottle,” discovering charm in the pleasure of a carefree evening.

BOOK a table

Thursdays through Saturdays, 6 pm late, the bar encourages customers to stay and celebrate without the rush of deadlines.

A New Chapter in Surry Hills’ Dining Landscape

As Surry Hills continues to evolve as a dining precinct, 40 Res adds something new to the regional culinary landscape.

By combining foreign culinary traditions and a focus on local berries and boutique wines, the bar offers an atypical experience to both tourists and locals.

Published 25-March-2025

Boarding House Redevelopment Displaces Long-Term Residents in Paddington

Photo Credit: Pexels

Long-term residents of two Paddington boarding houses have been displaced after the properties were sold to a developer, ending decades of affordable communal living.

Background and Context

For over 20 years, Jeff Elliott lived in a modest studio inside a Paddington boarding house on Selwyn Street. He and 31 others formed a close-knit, low-income community that offered more than shelter — it provided social connection, mutual support, and stability.

In early 2025, both the Selwyn Street boarding houses were sold to LFD Developments, who plan to replace the ageing properties with four new luxury homes. Most residents, including Mr Elliott’s long-time companions, were relocated with little time to say goodbye, leaving behind decades of shared memories.

The City of Sydney had initially rejected the developer’s application to redevelop the site. However, LFD Developments is now seeking to overturn the decision at a hearing in the NSW Land and Environment Court, scheduled for 8 May.

boarding house redevelopment — Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pexels

Loss of Affordable Housing in Paddington

The sale has left residents scrambling to find new accommodation. Mr Elliott, a 59-year-old postal worker, continues to search for a place near his early-shift job, as housing affordability in the inner city remains out of reach.

Homes NSW has assisted with relocating tenants, but ongoing housing pressure has stretched resources thin. According to the Newtown Neighbourhood Centre, up to 2,500 people seek support each year — 80 per cent of them either homeless or at risk.

Elaine Macnish, the centre’s chief executive, noted a troubling trend: older boarding houses are being vacated, upgraded, and re-let at higher prices targeting younger renters. She stressed the critical role that traditional boarding houses still play in housing vulnerable populations.

Boarding House Alternatives Shrinking

As more boarding houses across Sydney are redeveloped or rebranded, the pipeline of affordable, communal housing options continues to shrink. Community advocates argue these residences meet a vital demand that social housing cannot always address.

Despite sometimes being below modern standards, many residents prefer their independence and reject institutionalised social housing options. Boarding houses remain one of the few low-barrier entry points for stable accommodation — especially for single men like Mr Elliott.

long-term residents displaced — Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pexels

Community Sentiment in Paddington

Locals have expressed disappointment and frustration over the displacement. Up to 30 neighbours have launched an outreach project to assist former residents with food, furniture, transport, and social support.

Online reactions have varied. Some users empathised with Mr Elliott’s loss, calling for the protection of heritage boarding houses and questioning the value of luxury developments in established neighbourhoods. Others pointed to the legal rights of owners to sell and the lack of long-term security in rental arrangements.

Next Steps and Legal Proceedings

The next major development is the Land and Environment Court hearing on 8 May, where the developer will seek approval to proceed with the housing project. Until then, residents like Mr Elliott continue to wait, displaced and uncertain about their futures.

The Paddington case highlights broader housing issues across New South Wales — including the shrinking availability of low-cost options and growing community calls to protect remaining affordable dwellings.

Published 22-Mar-2025

Surry Hills Crackdown: Police Charge Four Over Alleged Kidnapping

Photo Credit: NSW Police/Hightail

Four men have been charged following an alleged kidnapping and assault of two men in Sydney, with police making a key arrest in Surry Hills. The victims were reportedly held for ransom over an alleged drug debt before being rescued by authorities.

Background and Police Investigation

The incident came to light on 11 November 2024, when officers from Ryde Police Area Command received a referral from the Taiwanese Consulate regarding a 24-year-old Taiwanese man who had contacted his father overseas, claiming he had been kidnapped. The kidnappers allegedly demanded a ransom of approximately $480,000 AUD for his release.

Further inquiries revealed that a second hostage, a 26-year-old man, was also being held. However, his nationality has not been confirmed. The State Crime Command’s Robbery & Serious Crime Squad launched Strike Force Brackley to investigate.

At 5:45 a.m. on 12 November 2024, detectives—assisted by the Tactical Operations Unit—raided a property in Ermington, where both victims were found. It is alleged that the men had been detained and assaulted for two days, with one of them initially held at another location in Western Sydney before being moved to Ermington.

Strike Force Brackley — *Photo Credit: NSW Police/Hightail*

Arrests and Charges

Authorities have since made multiple arrests in connection with the case:

12 November 2024: A 23-year-old man was arrested at the Ermington property and taken to Gladesville Police Station. He was charged with two counts of take/detain in company with intent to ransom occasion actual bodily harm. He was refused bail and appeared in Burwood Local Court the next day.
12 December 2024: A 37-year-old man was arrested outside an office in Surry Hills. He was charged with take/detain in company with intent to ransom, occasion actual bodily harm, and use of an unauthorised pistol, among other offences. He was refused bail and appeared in Downing Centre Local Court on 13 December 2024.
11 March 2025: A 28-year-old man was arrested in Haymarket during a search warrant operation. He was charged with two counts of take/detain in company with intent to ransom occasion actual bodily harm and knowingly directing activities of a criminal group.
18 March 2025: A 29-year-old man was arrested in Belmore following a search warrant operation executed by detectives and the South West Metropolitan Operational Support Group. He was charged with two counts of take/detain in company with intent to ransom occasion actual bodily harm and participating in a criminal group.

kidnapping case — *Photo Credit: NSW Police/Hightail*

All four suspects were refused bail and are set to appear in court.

Surry Hills and the Criminal Network

The arrest in Surry Hills highlights the suburb’s role in ongoing police operations targeting organised crime. The 37-year-old suspect was apprehended outside an office in Surry Hills, reinforcing concerns about criminal groups operating within Sydney’s inner-city districts.

While the exact nature of the alleged drug debt remains undisclosed, police suspect it was a key motive behind the hostage-taking. Authorities are continuing to investigate potential links to criminal networks.

Surry Hills kidnapping case — *Photo Credit: NSW Police/Hightail*

Community and Law Enforcement Response

The case has drawn significant public attention. NSW Police urge the public to report any suspicious activities linked to criminal groups. The Robbery & Serious Crime Squad has reiterated its commitment to dismantling organised crime networks. Strike Force Brackley will continue its investigations.

What Happens Next?

The accused individuals remain in custody. Their court appearances are set to proceed. Authorities encourage potential victims of extortion and threats to come forward as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle organised crime syndicates.

Published 19-Mar-2025

Helmet Shortages Leave Surry Hills E-Bike Riders at Risk

Photo Credit: Pexels

A significant number of shared e-bikes in Surry Hills are missing helmets, leaving riders exposed to hefty fines and safety risks. Spot checks reveal that only 15 per cent of available bikes have helmets attached, forcing many users to ride without protection or risk a $344 penalty.

Widespread Helmet Absence Raises Safety Concerns

An investigation at the Bourke Street and Devonshire Street intersection in Surry Hills revealed a major shortage of helmets on shared e-bikes. Over three days, only 17 out of 110 bikes inspected had helmets available. The three leading providers—Lime, Hello Bike, and Ario—were all found to have limited helmet availability. Lime was identified as the least equipped.

Private bike riders demonstrated far higher helmet compliance, with 95 per cent of observed cyclists using properly secured headgear. In contrast, many shared e-bike users rode without helmets or brought their own due to the lack of available options.

Lime e-bikes — Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pexels

Fines and Safety Risks for Riders

The issue extends beyond safety concerns. Helmet violations in NSW come with steep financial penalties. Over the past eight months, police have issued close to $800,000 in fines for helmet-related infractions. The standard penalty for riding without a properly secured helmet is $344, creating a financial burden for those caught without one.

Regular users of shared e-bikes have pointed to availability and quality issues, noting that when helmets are provided, they are often in poor condition. Reports indicate that many helmets found on shared bikes are loose, missing padding, or visibly damaged, raising further concerns about their safety.

Pressure Mounts on E-Bike Providers

Cycling advocates and business leaders call for e-bike operators to take greater responsibility for ensuring helmets are available and properly maintained. Industry representatives argue that providers should be held accountable when bikes are repeatedly left without helmets, particularly for extended periods.

There are also calls for improved security measures to prevent helmets from being stolen or discarded. Some industry figures have suggested that technology could be implemented to better secure helmets to bikes, ensuring they remain available for riders.

Surry Hills e-bikes — Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pexels

E-Bike Providers Respond to Concerns

Rideshare companies are actively working to replace missing helmets and improve safety standards. Lime, which serves many Sydney riders, has stated that its operations team continuously monitors and replaces helmets but acknowledges room for improvement.

Push for Statewide Regulations

Beyond individual company policies, there is increasing pressure on NSW city officials to implement standardised regulations for e-bikes and e-scooters. Currently, different authorities enforce varying rules, creating inconsistencies across regions. A unified statewide approach could help address ongoing safety and operational challenges.

Helmet shortages persist in Surry Hills and other areas. Concerns over rider safety and financial penalties remain pressing. Calls for stronger regulation continue growing as e-bike providers and policymakers face mounting pressure to improve safety measures.

Published 18-Mar-2025

Darlinghurst Patient Lives 105 Days Without a Human Heart in Medical First

Photo Credit: Wikimedia

Darlinghurst have made history. A man in his 40s became the first in Australia to live for months with a total artificial heart, showing the world what’s possible for patients with advanced heart failure.

Australian Surgeons Make History with Australia’s First Total Artificial Heart Implant

A Darlinghurst man is Australia’s first to be given a total artificial heart, living without the use of a human heart for 105 days before undergoing a transplant. The landmark procedure was performed at Sydney’s St Vincent’s Hospital, where a medical team fitted the BiVACOR Total Artificial Heart (TAH), a device designed to completely take the place of the human heart.

A Medical Breakthrough in Heart Failure Treatment

The patient, a man in his 40s with severe heart failure, underwent the six-hour procedure in November 2024. Led by Dr Paul Jansz, a St Vincent’s cardiothoracic surgeon, the team was able to install the BiVACOR TAH, a sophisticated titanium heart using magnetic levitation technology. Unlike other artificial hearts, the device has no mechanical valves and is capable of varying blood flow according to the body’s requirements.

*Photo Credit: St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney/Facebook*

After the operation, the patient spent a few weeks in intensive care before the doctors decided he was healthy enough to go home. He’s the first person outside of the United States to live at home while completely reliant on an artificial heart.

A Life-Saving Bridge to Transplant

For over three months, the BiVACOR TAH functioned as his heart, allowing him to maintain daily activities while awaiting a donor. On March 6, 2025, a compatible donor heart became available, and he received a successful heart transplant. The man is recovering and expected to return to full health.

Australian biomedical engineer Dr Daniel Timms built the BiVACOR TAH, more than two decades in the works. It’s different from old-style heart pumps, though; it’s built to be durable enough to remain in use over a decade, without ever sustaining wear and tear.

Future of Artificial Heart Technology in Australia

The procedure is part of the Artificial Heart Frontiers Program (AHFP), a $50 million government-funded initiative led by Monash University. The program aims to advance heart failure treatment and develop next-generation implantable heart devices. St Vincent’s Hospital, which has a long history of pioneering heart transplants, is expected to play a key role in future artificial heart trials.

Experts say the success of this case could change the way advanced heart failure is treated, offering an alternative for patients who may never receive a donor heart. While transplants remain the preferred solution, artificial hearts could bridge the gap for thousands of Australians on waiting lists.

Published 13-March-2025

Moore Park Fires Up for Sydney’s First Superhot Chilli & BBQ Festival

Photo Credit: Superhot Chilli & BBQ Festival/Facebook

Sydney’s Moore Park is set to bring the heat this autumn with the launch of the Sydney Superhot Chilli & BBQ Festival, a fiery celebration of spice, smoke, and community. Taking place at the Market Canopy in the Entertainment Quarter, the festival will introduce Sydneysiders to an interactive, family-friendly event dedicated to all things chilli and barbecue.

A Spicy First for Sydney

Scheduled for Sunday, 18 May 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., the festival is the brainchild of Ms Habanero, who has successfully run similar events in Queensland for a decade. She said Sydney was long overdue for a high-quality chilli festival that caters to the whole community.

The event will showcase four intense chilli-eating challenges, live cooking demonstrations, and a range of activities suitable for all ages. While spice lovers can push their limits in the competitions, those who prefer milder flavours can explore hundreds of locally made chilli products from Australian producers. Festivalgoers can also enjoy a live performance from a renowned Satriani tribute artist, adding a musical element to the fiery festivities.

*Photo Credit: Superhot Chilli & BBQ Festival/Facebook*

A Venue Designed for All Weather

With the festival set in the Market Canopy, organisers are confident the venue will provide a comfortable and weather-proof experience. Event partners at the Entertainment Quarter have expressed excitement about hosting an event that appeals to a broad audience, from dedicated chilli fans to families looking for a fun weekend outing.

Festival organisers also emphasised that the event is designed with inclusivity in mind. While the spotlight is on chilli, there will be kid-friendly activities, both free and paid, to ensure an engaging experience for all visitors.

A Challenge for the Bold

Those looking to test their limits can register for one of the four chilli-eating challenges, with places limited to 12 contestants per round. Participants will compete for prize money, trophies, and exclusive chilli-themed rewards, with organisers promising a thrilling showdown of endurance against capsaicin.

Registrations will open closer to the event, and organisers encourage interested participants to keep an eye on the festival’s social media channels for updates.

An Event for the Whole Community

The Sydney Superhot Chilli & BBQ Festival is not just about the heat—it’s about bringing people together. With a focus on local businesses, food culture, and family-friendly entertainment, the event aims to create a welcoming atmosphere for everyone, regardless of their spice tolerance.

For those eager to experience the flavours, festivities, and fiery challenges, the festival promises a one-of-a-kind day out at Moore Park’s Entertainment Quarter.

More details, including ticketing and challenge registration, are available at www.sydneysuperhot.com.au.

New Semi-Private Reformer Pilates for Expecting Mothers Arrives in Surry Hills

Photo Credit: One Playground

Sydney’s One Playground has launched a specialised semi-private Reformer Pilates program at its new wellness hub, Urban Oasis, in Surry Hills. The program is designed to support the physical well-being of expecting mothers and offers a structured and safe approach to fitness during pregnancy.

Tailored Pre-Natal Support in a Semi-Private Setting

The Urban Oasis wellness hub in Surry Hills has expanded its offerings with a Pilates program that bridges the gap between private coaching and larger group classes. The semi-private format allows for personalised instruction while maintaining the benefits of a small group environment, with each class capped at six participants.

Led by certified Pilates instructors, the program focuses on core stability, posture correction, flexibility, and pelvic floor strength, ensuring a safe and effective workout for pre-natal clients. The structured eight-week cycle provides a progressive approach, with exercises designed to support the body’s changing needs throughout pregnancy.

Surry Hills pre-natal Pilates — *Photo Credit: One Playground*

Why Expecting Mothers Are Choosing Semi-Private Reformer Pilates

The benefits of Pilates during pregnancy are well-documented, with improvements in posture, circulation, and back pain relief, as well as strengthening key muscle groups needed for childbirth and post-natal recovery. One Playground’s semi-private approach enhances these benefits by allowing instructors to provide individualised attention, ensuring that exercises are adapted to each participant’s fitness level and stage of pregnancy.

The program extends beyond pregnancy. It offers Align and Tone sessions available for post-natal recovery. These sessions target core rehabilitation, flexibility, and muscle recovery, ensuring continued support after childbirth.

Pre-natal fitness — *Photo Credit: One Playground*

Urban Oasis: A Wellness Destination in Surry Hills

Urban Oasis, located at 41 Holt Street, is One Playground’s newest wellness hub, offering a range of fitness and recovery services. The 750-square-metre facility houses three dedicated wellness studios, a recovery suite with infrared saunas and contrast therapy, and premium amenities, all available under the Play membership.

With over 150 weekly classes, members can access various wellness programs, including the semi-private Reformer Pilates sessions. The centre’s focus on personalised fitness and recovery aligns with One Playground’s vision of holistic well-being in an accessible, community-driven setting.

Urban Oasis Pilates — *Photo Credit: One Playground*

Urban Oasis Opening Hours:

General Opening Hours: 5 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Staffed Hours:
Monday – Friday: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

How to Join the Pre-Natal Pilates Program

The semi-private pre-natal Pilates program is now available at Urban Oasis in Surry Hills. Expecting mothers can select one to three sessions per week, based on individual needs. Bookings can be made via One Playground’s website. Interested clients can join the semi-private Reformer Pilates waitlist.

Published 7-Mar-2025

UNSW Sydney Retains Title as Australia’s Most Employable University

UNSW Sydney has once again been recognised for its outstanding graduate employability, securing the title of Most Employable University at the 2025 Top 100 Future Leaders Awards for the sixth consecutive year.

Read: Sydney Streets 2025: Surry Hills Set to Shine in Community Event

The prestigious event took place in Sydney on 13 February. The university achieved the highest number of students on the Top 100 Future Leaders list, reinforcing its reputation for producing industry-ready graduates.

UNSW Vice-Chancellor & President, Professor Attila Brungs, expressed pride in the students’ achievements, stating that the strong dedication to learning and ability to translate knowledge into the workplace are key characteristics of UNSW students. He emphasised that their focus on developing critical skills and gaining experience has been rightfully recognised and looked forward to their future successes.

UNSW Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Education & Student Experience, Professor Sarah Maddison, also congratulated the students who made the list. She noted that their inclusion in the Top 100 Future Leaders reflects their professionalism, industry-leading skills, and positive contributions to both the workplace and the broader community.

The Top 100 Future Leaders Awards, hosted by GradConnection, The Australian Financial Review, and Chandler Macleod, identify Australia’s most promising university students through a competitive selection process that allows participants to develop their application and communication skills while engaging with top employers. The recognition is open to students studying at an Australian university in 2025.

UNSW Students Shine in Industry Awards

UNSW Top100 Future leaders Mandy Li, Nathan Fok, Aaron Lee and Raahat Shai (Photo credit: UNSW Sydney)

Among the UNSW students who made the Top 100 Future Leaders list, three were also recognised as category winners in highly competitive employer awards:

Nathan Fok (B Commerce/B Laws) – Winner of the Clifford Chance Social Impact Top 100 Future Leader Award
Lily Miranda (B Data Science and Decisions – Co-Op Scholar) – Winner of the Quantium Data Science Top 100 Future Leader Award
Jaime Pitcher (B Commerce – Double Major: Marketing; Co-Op Scholar) – Winner of the Optus Business & Commerce Top 100 Future Leader Award

Read: Darlington Public School Beats Global Icons to Win World Building of the Year

Nathan Fok highlighted the significance of his award, considering it recognition of his dedication to the legal field and volunteer work. He expressed his ambition to use his knowledge in law, finance, and pro bono work to create meaningful social impact for non-profit organisations. He also shared his goal of working with nonprofits and launching new initiatives, particularly in education, to help others develop leadership skills and make a difference.

The continued success of UNSW students in the Top 100 Future Leaders Awards underscores the university’s commitment to delivering high-quality, practical education and producing graduates who are highly sought after by employers across various industries.

Published 28-February-2025

The Agency Establishes New Hub in Surry Hills, Connecting 50 Sydney Suburbs

Photo Credit: The Agency

The Agency has strategically chosen Surry Hills as the location for its new flagship office, positioning itself in one of Sydney’s most vibrant inner-city neighbourhoods. The office brings together real estate professionals serving more than 50 Sydney suburbs under a single roof.

The Surry Hills location places The Agency at a central point in Sydney’s property landscape, with the neighbourhood itself known for its blend of heritage architecture, creative industries, and premium real estate.

Matt Lahood, The Agency’s CEO of Real Estate, highlighted the strategic benefits of the Surry Hills location, noting that it provides state-of-the-art facilities within a new development. The office’s position in this well-connected suburb allows agents to service clients across a wide radius of Sydney locations more efficiently.

**Matt Lahood, Founder and CEO Real Estate**
Photo Credit: The Agency

The surrounding Surry Hills amenities, including nearby coffee shops and restaurants, create additional spaces for client meetings and team collaboration. This integration with the local business ecosystem is already enhancing the work experience, according to Lahood.

The selection of Surry Hills aligns with The Agency’s broader expansion plans for 2025, with the central Sydney location serving as a cornerstone for growth targets throughout the city, New South Wales, and nationally.

Published 25-February-2025