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Searching for Answers in Surry Hills Fire Continues

Photo shown for representation purpose only | Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Daniel Yarnall, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The aftermath of the Surry Hills fire left authorities with a grim task of searching for human remains within the demolished ruins. In their pursuit of answers, specialist forensic officers, accompanied by a cadaver detection dog, embarked on a painstaking exploration of the charred debris.

The investigation seeks to find out why the fire started and if anyone lost their life in the tragic incident. Speculations and unconfirmed sightings suggest that individuals may have been inside when the fire erupted.

Detective Superintendent Gordon Arbinja, with a heavy heart, acknowledged the possibility of discovering deceased victims. With a sense of hope tempered by caution, the forensic team and their canine companion meticulously combed through the wreckage, to provide answers and closure to the grieving families affected by this heartrending event.

According to Detective Superintendent Martin Fileman, the comprehensive search of the rubble would span multiple days. He explained the diligent process involved, where the cadaver dog would be carefully deployed and then removed periodically as more debris was cleared, allowing for a thorough search of the three buildings. This painstaking procedure was estimated to take three days before the full extent of the tragedy could be determined.

Meanwhile, three 13-year-old boys and a 12-year-old boy were brought in for questioning by the police. Detective Superintendent Gordon Arbinja confirmed the use of an accelerant in the fire but refrained from disclosing the specific method employed. He added that charges, if any, would be determined only after the cadaver dog had concluded its assessment of the crime scene.

As the impacted residents grappled with displacement and an uncertain future, their safety remained the primary concern. The Surry Hills fire’s aftermath affected approximately 130 individuals across three buildings, with 80 still unable to return to their homes. Detective Superintendent Martin Fileman reassured the affected residents of the meticulous evaluation and remediation measures that must be undertaken before their safe return.

Whilst residents on Chalmers St were able to return home, those residing across the street on Randle Street faced a potential four-week wait due to lingering power issues. Detective Superintendent Fileman emphasised the necessity of ensuring the structural integrity and safety of the buildings before granting re-entry to the affected individuals.

As the recovery efforts continue, welfare officers and a dedicated recovery team work diligently to support the affected residents, offering solace and assistance in their time of need.

Published 6-June-2023

Pop-up Cycleway on Moore Park Road Secures Three-Year Extension

Photo Credit: City of Sydney / cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Did you know that the pop-up cycleway which runs along Moore Park Rd will be retained for three more years after construction delays pushed back plans for a permanent replacement on Oxford Street?

The decision to retain the pop-up cycleway comes after construction delays postponed the construction of a permanent bicycle path on Oxford St, sparking a wave of controversy and debate among residents and business owners.

The temporary pop-up cycleway along Moore Park Rd has witnessed a surge in popularity among cyclists traversing the area. Transport for NSW installed a trip counter, which recorded an average of 1,915 weekly trips in February 2021.

Data from February 2023 indicates that the cycleway now registers approximately 500 trips on weekdays and 350 trips on Saturdays and Sundays, totalling around 3,200 weekly trips.

Bicycle NSW, a prominent cycling advocacy group, expressed their satisfaction with the council’s decision, emphasising the importance of prioritising cyclists and the future success of the Oxford Street urban renewal project. The 9-1 vote in favour of the pop-up cycleway demonstrates both government and community resolve to place people above vehicles, as stated in a press release.

A petition initiated by Bicycle NSW to ensure the implementation of the cycleway has gained significant traction, amassing over 100 signatures within a mere 48 hours since its launch on Sunday, 28 May 2023. The petition encourages individuals to reach out to their local Members of Parliament to express their support for the project.

However, the proposed permanent bicycle path on Oxford St faces opposition from local residents who are concerned about the reduction of car lanes in the area.

The proposed bike path, which is part of a broader $77 million investment in walkways and cycleways, will connect with a 1.7 km cycleway located between Taylor Square and Hyde Park.

+Council Chief Executive Kim Woodbury, acknowledged that the construction of the permanent route had not progressed as anticipated. However, a spokesperson for the City of Sydney said that the construction of the permanent cycleway will commence in October. Transport for NSW will conduct investigations and studies on the concept design, which will undergo public scrutiny.

Acknowledging the discontent among Moore Park Rd residents, Mayor Clover Moore attributed the delays to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on construction projects. She expressed her understanding of the frustration surrounding the extended duration of the pop-up cycleway but emphasised the unforeseen circumstances caused by the pandemic.

Published 31-May-2023

Inside the Tamsin Johnson Showroom and Studio: A Glimpse into Paddington’s Hidden Gem

Interior designer and antique dealer Tamsin Johnson has embarked on an awe-inspiring endeavour, expanding her creative empire into a spacious new warehouse in Paddington.

Read: Amuro: Boutique Saké Bar in the Heart of Darlinghurst

This remarkable showroom, located a mere 100 metres away from her design studio and the original showroom on William Street, is a veritable treasure trove, brimming with antique wonders and vintage furnishings that transport visitors to a bygone era.

Each piece has been hand-selected by Ms Johnson herself, ensuring that only the most exquisite and evocative items find their way into her showroom.

Photo credit: Tamsin Johnson Showroom/Instagram

Stepping into this extraordinary space, visitors are greeted by an ever-changing tableau of objects, lighting, and furniture, a testament to Ms Johnson’s insatiable passion for collecting treasures from her physical and virtual travels.

Rather than imposing a distinctive style, Ms Johnson prioritises understanding her clients’ needs. She firmly believes in crafting spaces that feel authentic and never forced.

Ms Johnson, a Melbourne native, was raised by an antiques dealer and grew up immersed in a world of exquisite artefacts. From an early age, she learned two vital principles: timeless quality endures, and the significance of comfort should never be underestimated.

Following her education in interior design at London’s prestigious Inchbald School of Design and gaining valuable experience with a prominent design firm in Sydney straight out of the university, she took the leap in 2013 and established her own design practice in Paddington.

Photo credit: Tamsin Johnson Showroom/Instagram

She also now shares the office space above the showroom with her husband, creating an intimate sanctuary where their shared passion for design, artistry, and craftsmanship thrives. Her husband is Patrick Johnson, the founder of label P Johnson, a custom tailor and clothier for men and women.

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

The Tamsin Johnson Interior Design showroom and studio is located at 1 Victoria St, Paddington. They are open Monday to Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You can see more of her collection via Instagram.

Published 17-May-2023

How Water Shaped Zetland and Waterloo into Sydney’s Industrial Powerhouses

Not many people realise that the presence of abundant and reliable water sources that flow through the region contributed greatly to the development of Zetland and Waterloo as part of Sydney’s industrial heartland.

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

The Gadigal people of the Eora nation are recognised as the original custodians of the land. Their ancestral connection to this area can be traced back to a time when freshwater creeks and wetlands dominated the natural landscape, which drew them to this region.

Residential and industrial areas of Waterloo, Zetland and Alexandria can be seen in the far distance, c. 1930s (Photo credit: City of Sydney Archives)

It was the early 19th century when capitalists recognised the tremendous potential of the Green Square area. In 1810, they identified its ample water supply as an ideal power source for mills and factories.

Once a wetland, this area has evolved into one of the industrial heartlands of the city, teeming with factories and mills that powered Sydney’s growth.

The steady flow of water became the lifeblood of industry, enabling the generation of steam power for milling cloth and grinding grain. This precious resource opened doors to economic growth, attracting entrepreneurs and sparking the industrial revolution in Sydney.

By the 1900s, Green Square underwent a remarkable transformation, evolving into Australia’s largest industrial hub. With a staggering number of over 500 factories and a bustling workforce comprising over 22,000 individuals, it cemented its reputation as a thriving centre of industry and productivity.

Aerial photograph of Waterloo and Zetland, 1964 (Photo credit: City of Sydney Archives)

As the city expanded, water became a scarce commodity. Understanding the significance of the area’s water supply, tunnels were constructed to channel water into dams, ensuring a reliable source of drinking water for the burgeoning population.

Lords Dam, among the largest in the region, acted as a critical reservoir, supplying the city with water.

Read: Paddington Greenway Project Ditched Despite $300K Already Spent

Today, Green Square, one of Australia’s largest urban renewal projects, has revitalised Zetland, Beaconsfield, Waterloo, Alexandria, and Rosebery. This ambitious endeavour marks Sydney’s first new town centre in over a century, offering an array of world-class community amenities that redefine modern living.

Published 9-May-2023

Taylor Square Landmark in Surry Hills to Get a Vertical Addition

Photo Credit: D/2023/119

An iconic Taylor Square landmark in Surry Hills is set to get a vertical addition if plans for the redevelopment are given the green light.

David Mitchell Architects designed an extension to the historic building’s facade that creates a green three-storey addition to the red brick structure. The extension aims to revitalise the iconic site by adding more uses and opportunities for commercial, retail, creative and cultural activities.

Archon Property Pty Ltd is behind the development after buying the property on Flinders Street for $6.85 million in 2018. Previously, plans were also filed to turn Taylor Square into a nightclub and a cycling hub, although these did not pan out.

The Flinders Street building stands on one of the oldest commercial sites in Sydney. The property is under the Oxford Street Heritage Conservation Area, but it is not part of the NSW Heritage Register, National Heritage List, Commonwealth Heritage List, National Trust Register (NSW) or the former Register of the National Estate.

Taylor Square — Photo Credit: D/2023/119

“These new land uses will be facilitated through a sensitive refurbishment of the heritage listed building, and provision of new contemporary additions above the existing buildings contributing to the streetscape and character of Oxford Street and Taylor Square,” the developer cited in its development application (D/2023/119).

“They will result in retail ground plane activation and a publicly-accessible rooftop restaurant and bar.”

The Taylor Square landmark was formerly the Government Savings Bank of New South Wales and the Commonwealth Savings Bank. It was also known as the Taylor Square Hotel before it was shut down in 2008.

Published 3-May-2023

Fortress Sydney: The Ultimate Gaming Destination at Central Park Mall Now Open

Photo credit: Fortius / LinkedIn

Fortius Funds Management, now part of Growthpoint Properties Australia, has launched a major expansion and opened its latest venue at the Central Park Mall on Sydney’s CBD Fringe, with the opening of Melbourne-born entertainment and video games powerhouse, Fortress.

The new Fortress spans a vast area of 2,500 square metres. Fortress Sydney is a unique facility with a capacity to hold over 1,000 people.

Fortress has become the largest leisure facility in the Southern Hemisphere and has now anchored the Central Park Mall, which already houses various retail stores, restaurants, cafés, and a cinema complex, boasting a gross lettable area of 15,085 square metres.

The new venue is also expected to give a significant boost to Sydney’s night-time economy, with the interactive games industry anticipated to be valued at $4.9 billion by 2025.

The Executive Director of Funds at Fortius, Sam Sproats, stated that Central Park Mall offers an exceptional lifestyle opportunity for the locals. And with its primary location within the mall, Fortress Sydney is projected to attract about 400,000 yearly visitors.

In 2019, Fortius purchased the Central Park Retail properties from Frasers Property Australia and Sekisui House for $174.5 million. The acquisition comprised three retail properties, including DUO Retail, Park Lane Retail, and Central Park Mall, forming an integral part of one of the largest mixed-use urban projects in Sydney.

Despite the challenges posed by the global pandemic, Fortius executed a successful leasing strategy. Consequently, Fortius Growthpoint and SC Capital sold the DUO retail stratum for $26.1 million in June 2022, indicating the growth and success of the company.

In September 2022, Growthpoint completed the acquisition of Fortius. The move aimed to leverage the complementary strategic vision between the two businesses, and cater to the ever-increasing needs of investors.

With the launch of Fortress Sydney, the Central Park Mall is expected to attract more retailers in the upcoming weeks, generating momentum for its growth and positioning the mall as a top-of-mind destination for leisure and entertainment.

Fortress Sydney is located at Central Park Mall at 28 Broadway Chippendale.

Published 17-April-2023

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

Did you know that the name ‘Green Square’ was taken from a small park that once stood in Alexandria? The tiny park was named in honour of the late Frederick Green. Get to know Mr Green and a brief history of Green Square, also known as Sydney’s oldest industrial heartland.

Read: Works For Sydney’s ‘Silicon Valley’ Anticipated To Start Soon

Frederick Green

Mr Green, born in Sydney, received his elementary education from state schools. He was the son of a metal dealer and worked in different jobs such as a brick carter, concrete labourer, and law clerk.

In 1927, he became a member of the Labor Party and later served as an alderman on the Alexandria Municipal Council from 1934 to 1948.

In 1938, the small park in the area was named after Mr Green, who at the time was the mayor of Alexandria. The park was formerly located at the intersection of Bourke Road, Botany Road, and O’Riordan Street.

A member of the Australian Labor Party, Frederick Green served in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly from 1950 until 1968 as a politician.

History Of Green Square

The Green Square area in Sydney includes the suburbs of Alexandria, Beaconsfield, Rosebery, Zetland, and parts of Waterloo.

The Gadigal people of the Eora nation were the traditional owners of the land where Green Square is located. It is likely that the area formed the southern boundary of their territory.

The abundant food, fresh water creeks and wetlands in the region made it a particularly attractive location for the Gadigal people.

Green Square became a market garden area after European settlers arrived, due to its abundant water supply from the south Sydney wetland corridor.

View of Green Square in the 1960s (Photo credit: archives.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au)

Since 1815, Green Square’s industrial heritage has been evident, with the arrival of grain mills, wool-washing, tanneries, and fur traders, who were drawn to the area’s reliable water supply. The area’s water was also used to feed the growing city and diverted into tunnels and dams.

The early 1900s saw the area rise to prominence as a manufacturing powerhouse, with an impressive 500 factories and 22,238 workers, making it the largest industrial municipality in Australia at the time.

Green Square’s Urban Renewal

In 30 years, Green Square is anticipated to become the focal point of inner south Sydney.

The City of Sydney is committed to revitalising the heritage and charm of this inner-city area through the use of innovative and sustainable design, in order to establish a thriving hub for living, working, and visiting.

Read: Demolition and Redevelopment Lodged for Salvation Army Sites in Surry Hills

The city has dedicated $540 million towards constructing an inventive new library and plaza, an aquatic centre, numerous parks and playgrounds, a childcare centre, and a creative hub, as part of Green Square’s Urban Renewal.

Published 14-April-2023

Inside Romeo’s IGA Paddington, The Grocery Store That Feels Like A Cafe

Imagine a grocery store that feels like a cosy cafe, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee and takeaway meals after shopping for groceries? That’s exactly what you will find at Romeo’s IGA Paddington, a unique shopping destination where food, drinks, and atmosphere combine to create an unforgettable experience.

Read: Here Are The Top Gluten-free Bakeries In Surry Hills

As soon as you walk through the doors, you will be greeted by the enticing aroma of freshly brewed coffee. It’s the kind of place where you can easily lose track of time, browsing the aisles and savouring the experience.

Unlike other grocery stores, Romeo’s IGA Food Hall Paddington is designed to be a destination rather than just a place to shop. From an exceptional deli to a walk-in liquor storage facility, to outdoor seating and a cheese room for optimal storage and cooling, this establishment offers a unique shopping experience.

Romeo's IGA Paddington — Photo credit: Tina Chen/Google Maps

The layout is spacious and welcoming, with comfortable seating areas outside where you can sit and enjoy a cup of coffee afterwards or before shopping for your essentials.

If you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a more substantial meal, they have takeaway salads, pies, and other assorted meals.

A frequent customer at Romeo’s IGA Food Hall Paddington refers to it as an ‘oasis’ and commends its user-friendly layout. As the customer noted, the store always looks presentable and everything is conveniently located.

The concept of a European-style food hall is not new to Romeo’s Retail Group. In 2021, they launched Locali in the Sydney CBD, a sleek and modern fresh food market, featuring a walk-in cheese room, fresh butcher, and dry ageing room, in addition to a commercial kitchen, dine-in restaurant, and liquor store.

Read: Amuro: Boutique Saké Bar in the Heart of Darlinghurst

Romeo’s IGA Food Hall Paddington is located at 1 Newcombe Street, Paddington. It’s open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Published 10-April-2023

Amuro: Boutique Saké Bar in the Heart of Darlinghurst

Photo credit: Instagram / amuro.au

Meet Amuro sake bar, a new intimate and welcoming space to enjoy conversations over a glass of sake and authentic Japanese snacks and rice dishes.

Amuro Sake Bar, owned by Kei Tokiwa, is the latest addition to the drinking and dining scene in Darlinghurst, Sydney.

Amuro Sake Bar: A Gastronomical Journey Through Regional Japan in the Heart of Darlinghurst — “Rock oyster, shikuwasa, green apple. Goes great with a dry sake, and good company.”| | Photo credit: Instagram / amuro.au

Tokiwa, who previously worked at Chaco Bar and consulted at other venues, has curated a selection of around 20 sakes imported from different prefectures in Japan including Yamaguchi, Hokkaido and Yamagata. There is a range of Japanese wines and whiskies on offer as well.

What makes Amuro more interesting is that there is no physical drink menu – Tokiwa prefers to guide his customers on a personal journey to discover their preferences.

Complementing the sakes is a range of rotating regional Japanese dishes, from the far north of Hokkaido to southern Okinawa. The snack menu includes tantalizing dishes such as grilled shishamo; Hokkaido scallop with ume and buckwheat; raw octopus served with a hit of wasabi or what is called “tako wasabi”; and mentaiko potato salad.

There are also heartier dishes like unagi rice and ochazuke (green tea poured over crusty charred rice and garnishes), and the adventurous can try the natto or fermented soybeans on rice.

Tokiwa’s grandmother, who was a rice farmer, inspires many of the dishes. His mother, who hails from Okinawa, is another source of inspiration, and he expects her regional cuisine to influence his future menu ideas.

Soo, we could also be tasting his own version of taco rice, a popular Okinawan dish made with taco-flavoured ground beef, cheese, lettuce and tomatoes served on a bed of rice. The dish was created in the 1980s by local Chef Matsuzo Gibo to appeal to the U.S. military personnel stationed in Okinawa and has since grown in popularity among the locals and tourists as well.

Tokiwa has taken great care in every detail of the restaurant, from the blackwood bar and Italian floor tiles to the chopstick rests and sake shelves. Each dish is served on a plate or bowl handpicked by Tokiwa himself.

Amuro is a new 20-seat boutique sake diner located at 2/255 Crown St. in Darlinghurst.

Walk-ins are welcome, but bookings are by invitation only at the establishment’s discretion. Amuro is open from Wednesday to Sunday, starting at 4 pm.

Google Reviews:

“What a fabulous find. This is best Japanese cuisine I have had outside Japan. The staff were professional, friendly and extremely helpful.” – Sharman Palmer

“Very nice decor and relaxing atmosphere, great food and excellent service! Dinner there felt like sharing a quiet moment in the middle of bustling Tokyo!” – Clement Guo

“Ah love this place already. Beautiful food, carefully prepared, great selection of drinks, especially for my sake loving friends. The difference was the personal service of the owner, who was so attentive and happy to chat with people about the food, drinks, regions of sake etc.

Pretty location and lovely vibe. Great place if you’re also gluten or dairy sensitive: almost all the food options were suitable which was fantastic.” – k c

Published 3-April-2023

Paddington Greenway Project Ditched Despite $300K Already Spent

The Paddington Greenway project, which involves the construction of a 2.2-kilometre pedestrian and cycle path across White City, has been ditched and abandoned due to security concerns, despite an initial expense of $300,000 already poured into the endeavour.

A majority vote to drop the green link plan was carried through Woollahra Council following concerns about a security risk raised by the community. Apparently, the route proposed for Paddington Greenway will give the public access to the Sydney Grammar school grounds. The school wrote Council a letter citing concerns about the unnecessary risk to child safety.

Richard Malpass, the headmaster of Sydney Grammar, attempted to find a middle ground with Council whilst ensuring that the safety of the children won’t be compromised. An alternate route was not approved as it did not align with the elevated pathway’s vision.

Residents on Walker Street were also concerned that the greenway would give people a glimpse of their yards.

Sadly, the original vision for the Greenway was too compromised by the alternative design. If adjoining neighbours, @Sydney_Grammar and the Hakoah Club had agreed to acquisition of a sliver of their land, the Greenway could have progressed (and justified further public funding). https://t.co/wg0PdNlL3d
— Harriet Price (@PriceHarriet) March 12, 2023

The Paddington Greenway project was conceptualized by residents who lacked public access along the White City tennis centre. As the site was due for redevelopment, the community came up with a plan in 2020 for the pedestrian and cycle path, which was eventually endorsed by Woollahra Council and the City of Sydney.

However, Cities and Active Transport Minister Rob Stokes expressed disappointment over the decision to abandon the plans that would have brought long-term benefits, especially to the children.

“One of the biggest dangers to our children is the increasingly sedentary lifestyles they’re living, and any measure to encourage them to move around will have tremendous long-term benefits,” he said.

Published 22 March 2023