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SF3 Returns to Palace Chauvel with Over $50K in Prizes

Australia’s leading smartphone film festival, SF3, returns to Palace Chauvel Cinema in Paddington, with over $50,000 in prizes and stories from around the world.

Festival to Run in November with Multiple Entry Categories

The 11th SF3 lands at Palace Chauvel Cinema from 7 to 9 November, with Melbourne getting an early screening on 24 October. Filmmakers have until 1 September to submit their entries. This year’s five categories range from kid-made stories to AI creations, three-minute minis and full-length features.

The festival welcomes filmmakers of all ages and skill levels, highlighting that a smartphone is all you need to create cinema-worthy stories. Organisers say it’s about the story, not the gear. Director Angela Blake says they want to hear from everyone, whether you’re five or 85.

Paddington Venue to Host Screenings, Classes and Community Events

Over the weekend in Paddington, audiences can catch red carpet screenings, vote for films and join community networking. The program also features awards and free masterclasses in sound, writing and more.

Røde will run a sound workshop, showing filmmakers how to get great results with simple gear. Melodie Music returns as a sponsor, offering its full music catalogue free to all SF3 2025 entrants.

Prizes Include Casting Opportunities and Industry Awards

Thirty-six awards will be handed out, including Best Film, Director, Kids Film and Feature. Special prizes will highlight First Nations creators, women in film, mobile-only work and adaptations. One filmmaker will also earn professional casting support through a pitch comp closing 17 June.

Submissions are judged by a panel of Australian and international creatives, including screenwriters, casting professionals, actors and producers. Some of this year’s panel include Louis Nowra, Ros Gentle, Megan Riakos, and Stephanie Pringle.

Festival’s Focus Is on Storytelling and Accessibility

The SF3 team, including ambassador Phillip Noyce, believes powerful stories don’t need big budgets. They support giving new voices a platform beyond studio systems. The festival now attracts hundreds of entries from Australia and abroad each year.

submit entry here

The community nature of the festival remains central, with schools, families, student filmmakers and seasoned professionals all encouraged to get involved. According to organisers, anyone with a phone and a story is welcome.

Published 14-May-2025

Oxford Street Cycleway Faces Legal Action Over Bus Stop Safety

Photo Credit: NSW Gov

Legal proceedings have been launched over the Oxford Street cycleway, with applicants alleging the project discriminates against older and disabled pedestrians.

Legal Dispute Emerges Over Oxford Street Cycleway

A legal challenge has been filed in the Federal Court against the City of Sydney Council and Transport for NSW, with the Oxford Street cycleway project at the centre of the dispute. The case is led by residents who claim the plan breaches federal discrimination laws.

Background of the Complaint

The Federal Court filing comes after a failed complaint to the Australian Human Rights Commission in 2024. That complaint was lodged by six Paddington residents, including Michael Waterhouse and Kathryn Greiner AO.

It focused on the use of “floating” or “island” bus stops along the planned separated cycleway on Oxford Street. The stops require pedestrians to cross active bike lanes to reach waiting areas, which complainants argue poses a heightened risk for less mobile users.

Following an unresolved Human Rights Commission complaint, the complainants were given 60 days to escalate the matter. The new case has now been filed against the City of Sydney Council and Transport for NSW.

Claims of Discrimination and Safety Risks

The applicants argue that the project violates the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and Age Discrimination Act 2004. Court documents point to the increased danger for elderly and mobility-impaired pedestrians who must navigate two-way cycleways to reach bus stops. Comparisons were made to similar designs in London and Canada, which have previously triggered safety concerns and legal decisions abroad.

The applicants maintain they do not oppose cycling infrastructure in principle but believe pedestrian safety should not be compromised to facilitate it.

Oxford Street bus stops — *Photo Credit: NSW Gov*

Alternative Route and Proposed Changes

The proposed alternative route put forward by the applicants includes Flinders Street in Darlinghurst and Moore Park Road in Paddington They have also proposed additional safety measures for bus stops, including speed humps, pedestrian traffic signals, eye-level cyclist traffic lights, and monitoring cameras to capture incidents involving non-compliance by cyclists.

Oxford Street proposals — *Photo Credit: NSW Gov*

Community Feedback and Project Status

Transport for NSW stated that the Oxford Street cycleway was developed in accordance with Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport, and noted that it has consulted community stakeholders including the Accessible Transport Advisory Committee. Meanwhile, the City of Sydney reported that consultation had taken place and that the bus stop designs included safety features such as marked crossings and fencing.

No final decision has been made by the NSW Government regarding the cycleway’s implementation.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The 1.7-kilometre Oxford Street cycleway, projected to cost $70 million, continues to face legal and community scrutiny. The Federal Court proceedings are expected to determine whether the current design sets a precedent for accessibility standards or requires modification to ensure inclusive access to public transport infrastructure.

Published 8-May-2025

Darling Harbour Rolls Out Retro Nights With Neon Dreams Skating Diner

Photo Credit: Vivid Sydney/Facebook

A 1979 mail plane, a roller rink, and a plant-based diner are turning Darling Harbour into a retro dream this autumn, bringing Sydney locals a hands-on taste of the past with a modern twist.

Skates, Tunes and a Touch of the ’70s

Neon Dreams runs nightly from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., 23 May to 14 June , under the Pier Street overpass at Tumbalong Boulevard. Part of Vivid Sydney, the event blends food, art, music and skating for all ages. Entry to the diner is free, and skating starts at $18 with gear included.

At the centre is a retro roller rink with disco lights and vinyl-only DJ sets played from a grounded 1979 mail plane. The airline-themed space is fully accessible and open to all skill levels, welcoming families, teens and nostalgic adults.

Tortuga Studios brings the throwback vibe to life with bold visuals and vintage-inspired costumes. Skating performers from the Malt Shop Rollers glide through the crowd, adding flair and fun with their choreographed moves.

Plant-Based Flavours With a Diner Twist

Chef Shannon Martinez, known for her take on meat-free cuisine, is behind the Neon Dreams diner menu. Guests can enjoy vegan versions of American comfort food—think burgers, fries, mac and cheese, and jelly-filled doughnuts. The diner is open to all, whether or not they plan to skate, and is designed as a relaxed meeting spot for friends and families.

Alongside the food, the Trolley’d team is shaking up retro milkshakes and cocktails. Their drinks use native ingredients like lemon myrtle and Illawarra plum, keeping with the event’s low-waste, sustainable theme.

Art Meets Community

More than just entertainment, Neon Dreams blends skating, food and art to create a nightly community hub. It’s a fresh, social way to enjoy Darling Harbour, whether you’re joining in or just soaking up the atmosphere.

Visitors are encouraged to bring their own skates and helmets, but equipment is also available on-site. Whether guests are skating for the first time or reliving their roller disco days, the experience is designed to be welcoming and inclusive.

How to Join the Fun

Neon Dreams joins the buzz of Vivid Sydney, adding colour and energy to the city’s nights. Skating spots book out fast, so it’s worth planning ahead. With its prime Darling Harbour location, it’s the perfect place to drop in, hang out or kick off your evening.

buy tickets

Before you roll in, check the FAQs for details on tickets, gear and accessibility. Full Terms and Conditions are also available on the Vivid Sydney website.

Published 7-May-2025

Dog Swallows Fishing Hook in Darlinghurst, Sparks Safety Push

Photo Credit: Change.org

A Darlinghurst dog owner is pushing for safety reforms after her rescue dog ingested a fishing hook during a walk, prompting a local petition targeting park hazards.

Emergency Surgery Triggers Safety Campaign

What began as a regular walk near Darlinghurst escalated into a medical emergency when a rescue dog swallowed a barbed fishing hook at Yarranabbe Park, near Rushcutters Bay.

While collecting litter during the walk, the owners noticed fishing line hanging from their dog Ripley’s mouth. Despite immediate efforts to retrieve it, the dog swallowed the hook, leading to emergency surgery that cost nearly $5000.

An X-ray confirmed the hook was lodged in Ripley’s stomach. The procedure was successful, but the incident raised broader safety concerns.

Dog Swallows Fishing Hook — *Photo Credit: Change.org*

Pattern Emerges Across Harbourside Parks

Following the incident, the dog’s owner, Wendy Coombes, shared the story online, which prompted a wave of similar reports from residents whose pets had encountered fishing hooks in the same area.

Some managed to remove hooks before serious injury, while others faced costly vet bills and medical treatment. One resident also sustained a hand injury from a barbed hook while trying to help their dog.

Ms Coombes said the issue had been present for some time and often involved hooks left with bait still attached.

Petition Calls for Infrastructure

In response, Ms Coombes launched a Change.org petition urging Woollahra Municipal Council to install hook-and-line bins and place anti-littering signage at key fishing areas, including parks near Darlinghurst.

By late April, the petition had gained 975 verified signatures, with a significant increase over just two days. The goal is to reach 1000 signatures to present a stronger case to council.

Darlinghurst dog safety — *Photo Credit: Change.org*

These bins are designed to safely collect fishing waste, including barbed hooks and nylon lines, which pose hazards to pets, children, and wildlife.

Council Begins Initial Steps

Woollahra Council acknowledged the petition during a formal meeting and stated it is working with the NSW Department of Primary Industries to roll out educational signage at common fishing sites.

Although no hook-and-line bins have been installed yet, the signage aims to raise awareness of the risks of fishing litter.

Darlinghurst fishing line bins — *Photo Credit: Change.org*

Community Supports Broader Action

Some supporters believe similar issues exist beyond the local area, with reports and comments indicating the need for a wider response.

While recreational fishing remains a popular activity, the campaign aims to improve safety without restricting access to shared public spaces.

The campaign continues to encourage responsible behaviour from fishers without limiting access to the area.

Petition Continues to Gain Momentum

With nearly 1000 signatures, the petition remains active, aiming to prompt further council response.

sign the petition now

Supporters continue to share the petition and encourage safe disposal of fishing tackle to prevent future harm to both animals and park users.

Published 7-May-2025

New Figures Confirm Surry Hills Among Fastest for Police Call-Outs

Photo Credit: NSW Police/Facebook

Surry Hills has recorded one of the fastest police emergency response times in New South Wales, according to newly released state-wide data.

Emergency Response Gaps Across Sydney

A new report detailing emergency response times across NSW has revealed wide disparities depending on postcode, with inner-city suburbs like Surry Hills consistently receiving faster police assistance compared to parts of western Sydney and regional areas.

NSW crime data — *Photo Credit: NSW Police/Facebook*

Current Performance in Surry Hills

Surry Hills recorded an average response time of 5 minutes and 6 seconds for priority call-outs. This ranked it among the top three fastest areas in the state, along with Leichhardt and Kings Cross. Priority incidents include domestic violence, violent assaults, threats to life, and robberies.

Context Across Greater Sydney

In contrast, suburbs west of Sydney’s CBD reported significantly slower response times. Camden topped the list with the slowest average at 12 minutes and 6 seconds—almost double that of Surry Hills. Other western regions such as Bankstown, Fairfield, Campbelltown, and Liverpool also lagged behind, all falling outside the seven-minute threshold.

Statewide Trends and Regional Delays

The state’s slowest response time was recorded in the Barrier police district, which includes Broken Hill and spans over a quarter of NSW’s land area, with an average of 18 minutes and 21 seconds. Several regional districts, including the Mid North Coast and Murrumbidgee, also exceeded 15-minute averages.

Challenges in Service Delivery

NSW Police have cited several contributing factors to slower response times, including traffic congestion, call volume, and distances required to travel. Population growth and officer availability have also been identified as ongoing challenges, particularly in western and regional areas.

Staffing and Capacity Issues

Official data indicates a drop of 1,096 serving officers across NSW compared to five years ago. Recruitment challenges and officer leave have been highlighted as contributing factors. Despite this, statewide performance has improved, with 79.8 per cent of urgent calls met within the 12-minute benchmark, up from 73.9 per cent the previous year.

Public and Government Commentary

NSW opposition figures have flagged the regional discrepancies as a concern for public safety. While they suggest the trends may indicate an under-resourced frontline workforce, NSW Police maintain that high-risk incidents are prioritised and that response benchmarks vary by district.

Looking Ahead

Although areas like Surry Hills continue to meet or exceed response benchmarks, other districts face ongoing pressures from infrastructure, staffing, and demographic shifts. NSW Police have reiterated their commitment to improving service delivery across all regions.

Published 3-May-2025

Saint Peter at The Grand National Hotel Earns Global Food Honour

Photo Credit: saintpeterbar/Instagram

A Sydney seafood restaurant has earned a spot on one of the world’s most prestigious travel lists, with Saint Peter at The Grand National Hotel recognised by Condé Nast Traveller as one of the top new dining venues across the globe.

A Sydney Pub Reimagined

The recognition comes from the 2025 Hot List, which showcases standout global spots in food, travel and design. Saint Peter, led by Josh and Julie Niland, moved to its new Paddington home in mid-2024, now serving sustainable seafood inside a reworked 1930s pub.

Saint Peter built its reputation on a bold, zero-waste seafood philosophy, using every part of the fish, skin, eyes, bones and blood. Its move to The Grand National Hotel gave the restaurant room to grow while keeping its intimate feel.

Design That Reflects the Food

Studio Aquilo, the architecture firm behind the transformation, took inspiration from Saint Peter’s disciplined kitchen methods. The materials are subtle and deliberate: polished limestone, stainless steel, walnut timber and textured glass. The finishes create a sense of order and calm, balancing warmth with precision.

Instead of obvious ocean motifs, the design suggests the sea through soft curves, marine tones and clean lines, reflecting the restaurant’s thoughtful use of every ingredient. The space, like the food, is quiet, focused and refined.

A Place to Stay, Not Just Dine

Above the restaurant, 14 boutique hotel rooms extend the same natural tones and refined textures, with blues, soft greens and terrazzo creating a calm, understated feel.

The idea was to offer guests more than a meal, a full experience of hospitality, design and comfort. While Saint Peter has gained international acclaim, the atmosphere upstairs remains relaxed and local. It’s a place for visitors and Sydneysiders alike.

Bookings and Global Recognition

Saint Peter takes bookings for lunch and dinner from Thursday to Sunday, with two-hour seatings that often fill fast.

book here

The 14-seat counter faces an open kitchen, while the front bar is walk-in only, offering small plates and cocktails on the same days. Dietary needs are considered with notice, though menu changes are limited.

The bar stays unbooked and casual, welcoming walk-ins for drinks or a quick bite. Despite global recognition in Condé Nast Traveller’s 2025 Hot List, Saint Peter remains a Sydney story, shaped by local talent, sustainability and care.

Published 1-May-2025

Surry Hills in Focus: DNA Project Reveals Ancestral Surprises

Photo Credit: Marc Fennell/Instagram

Residents of Surry Hills have participated in a large-scale DNA testing project as part of an Australian documentary series uncovering unexpected ancestral connections.

Background and Format of the Series

The four-part documentary series, The Secret DNA of Us, began airing on SBS on 17 April 2025. Hosted by Marc Fennell, with Rae Johnston and Brad Argent, the program offers mass DNA testing to residents in four Australian locations, including Surry Hills. The series aims to reveal hidden family ties and reshape understandings of local and national identity through genetic science.

Developed over ten years and initially trialled in the Cotswolds, the project was ultimately realised in Australia. The featured locations span Bairnsdale, Geelong, Bathurst, and Surry Hills in Sydney’s inner suburbs.

*Caption: Mr Marc Fennell*
*Photo Credit: Marc Fennell/Facebook*

Surry Hills Episode: Layers of Migration and Identity

In the Surry Hills episode, DNA results expose complex waves of migration and identity. Stories include links to Russian refugees who arrived through displacement camps and previously unknown ties to underworld figure Kate Leigh. These findings illustrate how successive immigration waves shaped the suburb’s distinctive social fabric.

While some family myths were debunked, others were confirmed in greater detail than previously known. Participants uncovered unexpected ethnic backgrounds and long-lost connections, with some discovering they were related to each other.

Surry Hills DNA Testing — *Photo Credit: Marc Fennell/Facebook*

Ethical Considerations and Participant Experience

While many residents embraced the process, some declined due to concerns around genetic privacy and unexpected revelations. Series producers emphasised voluntary participation and prioritised community safety and emotional care. Participants were briefed on potential outcomes, including the discovery of unknown biological relatives or corrections to assumed ethnic identities.

The team stressed that while DNA offers powerful insights, it cannot replace cultural identity, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Ms Johnston noted that identity also involves connection and acceptance within communities, beyond genetic markers.

The Secret DNA of Us Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: Marc Fennell/Facebook*

Broader Relevance and Impacts

The series reflects a shift in public attitudes towards Australian ancestry. Once-taboo connections, such as convict heritage, are now seen with interest or pride. The program encourages viewers to examine the roles ancestors may have played in Australia’s colonial and post-colonial narratives.

Mr Fennell explained that combining DNA analysis with historical records allows the team to reconstruct local and national stories, showing Australians as the latest chapter in a much older lineage.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The Surry Hills instalment of The Secret DNA of Us airs as the second episode in the series, available weekly on SBS and SBS On Demand. The series demonstrates how combining scientific tools with personal narratives can transform perspectives on identity and reveal previously unknown historical links.

Published 24-Apr-2025

Legionnaires’ Disease Cases Emerge in Sydney CBD

Photo Credit: Mayo Clinic

Six people have been hospitalised with Legionnaires’ disease after recently spending time in the Sydney CBD, prompting a public health alert for the area.

Health Alert Following Hospitalisations

NSW Health issued the warning after confirming the six cases. The individuals who did not know each other visited parts of the city centre over the last three weeks before falling ill.

South Eastern Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit Director, Dr Vicky Sheppeard, confirmed that all six individuals required hospital admission. Health authorities are now asking anyone in the Sydney CBD within the past 10 days to be aware of potential symptoms and seek medical advice if they feel unwell.

About Legionnaires’ Disease and Its Risks

Legionnaires’ disease is a serious lung infection caused by Legionella bacteria. The illness cannot be passed from person to person. Instead, people get infected by breathing in fine water droplets or dust containing the bacteria.

NSW Health indicates that outbreaks can happen when environmental sources, particularly cooling towers on top of large buildings, become contaminated with the bacteria.

Dr Sheppeard explained that symptoms might take up to ten days to appear following exposure to the bacteria. These typically include fever, chills, coughing, and difficulty breathing, potentially progressing to serious chest infections like pneumonia. Certain groups face a higher risk of infection, including older people, smokers, and individuals with existing lung problems or other serious health conditions.

Authorities Investigate Potential Sources

The exact source of the recent infections is still under investigation. Dr Sheppeard noted that the origin of the infections remains unknown, and it is possible the cases are not all connected to a single source.

NSW Health collaborates closely with City of Sydney officials to identify the cause. This work involves checking the maintenance records of cooling towers throughout the CBD to determine which ones require priority inspection and testing. NSW Health also reminds building owners to ensure their cooling towers are properly maintained and operated according to the NSW Public Health Regulation 2022.

Prevention and Health Advice

Controlling the growth of Legionella bacteria in water systems like cooling towers, spa pools, and hot water systems is key to preventing the disease. People can also reduce their risk by being careful around other potential sources, such as potting mix and certain home water sources.

This outbreak follows a significant cluster of over 100 Legionnaires’ cases in Melbourne last year, which sadly resulted in two deaths. Government data indicates that NSW recorded 129 confirmed cases per 100,000 people so far in 2024.

Anyone experiencing potential symptoms should contact their doctor or seek medical advice. For health concerns that are not emergencies, the public can call the free Health Direct service anytime at 1800 022 222. For details on managing water-cooling systems, local public health units can be contacted online or by calling 1300 066 055.

Published Date 21-April-2025

MLK Deli Ordered to Clear Outdoor Seating in Surry Hills

Photo Credit: Paul Fleetwood/Facebook

MLK Deli in Surry Hills has been blocked from using footpath space for outdoor seating, a practice that has sparked safety concerns and resident complaints.

Mlk Deli Told To Remove Outdoor Seating After Local Complaints In Surry Hills

MLK Deli, a popular eatery in Surry Hills, has been told to stop using part of the footpath for outdoor dining after complaints from nearby residents led to a formal review by the City of Sydney Council.

MLK Deli’s plan to add tables and benches to 12 square metres of footpath was knocked back, with council citing safety rules and a lack of space for pedestrians.

Council Denies Application Over Footpath Width And Safety

The City of Sydney said the deli’s plan breached Outdoor Dining Guidelines, which require at least two metres of clear footpath. The proposed layout would have reduced it to 1.5 metres.

Owner Myra Karakelle said the extra seating aimed to ease indoor crowding and improve safety after nearby tree branches fell. She called the refusal unfair, citing council support for outdoor dining.

Community Concerns Led To Investigation

Nearby residents raised concerns about noise, litter, and safety on the narrow footpath. One claimed the deli had previously placed stools outside without approval, prompting a complaint.

The council confirmed that these issues were taken into account when making its decision. Council staff carried out a site inspection before formally refusing the application.

Deli Owner Accepts Decision But Remains Disappointed

Karakelle said she’d remove the outdoor furniture as required, though she felt a small group of locals may have influenced the decision. Despite her disappointment, she values the Surry Hills community and plans to keep operating within the rules.

Council records show each outdoor dining application is assessed individually, with rules in place to protect public space and pedestrian safety in busy areas.

Published 15-April-2025

Surry Hills Architect Weighs in on NSW Housing Pattern Amid Housing Crisis

As Sydney grapples with an ongoing housing shortage, the push for more affordable homes has sparked a debate about the role of standardised designs in urban development. The New South Wales Housing Pattern Book, which introduces pre-approved designs for various types of housing, aims to streamline construction and make housing delivery faster and more cost-effective.

Read: Surry Hills Warehouse to Become $500m Apartment Complex

However, for areas like Surry Hills, known for its unique blend of heritage terraces, modern apartments, and vibrant arts scene, the introduction of these standardised designs raises important questions about how they might impact the character of the neighbourhood.

The NSW Housing Pattern Book includes designs for terraces, semi-detached homes, and mid-rise apartment buildings, all intended to speed up construction processes. While these plans address the need for more housing, their uniformity may not be suitable for every community, particularly in areas like Surry Hills, where the character is defined by a mix of old and new.

The rapid gentrification of the area has already seen significant changes to its landscape, and the introduction of more generic housing options could risk further altering the neighbourhood’s unique charm.

While the intention behind these designs is to provide affordable housing solutions quickly, critics argue that they may not fully meet the diverse needs of Surry Hills’ residents. The area is home to a wide demographic, from young professionals and families to retirees, and the challenge is whether a one-size-fits-all approach can truly cater to the variety of housing needs without compromising the neighbourhood’s character or residents’ quality of life.

Adapting Standardisation to Local Needs

Architect Amelia Holliday, whose studio in Surry Hills was shortlisted in a recent NSW Pattern Book competition, understands the delicate balance between innovation and tradition. While her studio’s entry didn’t win, Holliday appreciates the competition’s potential to foster collaboration across industries.

She believes that architects have a critical role in ensuring that new housing developments remain functional, aesthetically pleasing, and sensitive to the existing urban context. For Surry Hills, this means adapting the standardised designs to maintain the neighbourhood’s distinct character, while also meeting the pressing demand for affordable housing.

By incorporating local design elements and considering the area’s architectural heritage, developers and architects can ensure that new housing complements, rather than disrupts, the existing streetscape. In Surry Hills, where heritage terraces stand side by side with modern apartment blocks, there is potential to create housing that reflects both the historical and contemporary nature of the community.

Read: Mixed Reactions as Surry Hills Development Moves Forward

Meanwhile, the design teams are collaborating and conducting consistent design reviews to ensure the patterns meet the required standards for inclusion in the NSW Housing Pattern Book.

The low- and mid-rise architects’ designs will be combined with the winning designs from the NSW Housing Pattern Book Design Competition to form the NSW Housing Pattern Book, which will be available for use in mid-to-late 2025.

Published 10-April-2025