Historic Water Tunnel Prompts Major Changes to Moore Park Carpark Project

The discovery of a historic 19th-century water tunnel beneath Moore Park has led to significant changes in the design of the Allianz Stadium underground carpark.



The unexpected find of the heritage-listed Busby’s Bore has resulted in a redesign to ensure the tunnel remains undisturbed while accommodating the stadium’s parking needs.

Originally approved in 2022, the underground carpark was planned to include 1,500 spaces to support the 42,500-seat Allianz Stadium. 

Moore Park carpark
Photo Credit: Centennial Parklands
Busby's Bore
Photo Credit: Centennial Parklands

However, during early construction, workers uncovered parts of Busby’s Bore, a tunnel built in the 1830s by convicts to provide Sydney with a reliable water supply. Recognised as a crucial piece of Sydney’s history, the tunnel is protected under state heritage laws.

Following the discovery, city authorities required the carpark design to be altered to preserve the tunnel’s integrity while continuing construction.

Sydney Football Stadium redevelopment proposal
Photo Credit: SSD-9249-MOD-6

Changes to the Carpark Design

To protect the heritage tunnel, Venues NSW, the agency responsible for the project, has introduced several modifications to the carpark layout under SSD-9835-Mod-10:

Plaza Adjustments: The outdoor plaza above the carpark will be redesigned to highlight the historic tunnel’s presence and ensure accessibility features align with the Everyone Can Play guidelines.

Deeper Excavation: The carpark will now be dug an additional three metres deeper on the western side to avoid the tunnel, which lies about two metres below the original design depth.

Additional Level: On the eastern side, an extra parking level will be added to compensate for space lost due to the redesign.

Space for Event Operations: Parking spaces originally planned for the mezzanine level will be removed and replaced with a new double-height area called a ‘boneyard,’ which will provide storage and staging space for event logistics.

Impact on Capacity and Timelines

As a result of these changes, the number of available parking spaces will decrease by 78 from the original 1,500. Venues NSW has yet to confirm whether this reduction will lead to alternative parking solutions or adjustments in traffic management around the stadium.

Project timelines are also under review. Officials have warned that further modifications could lead to delays and increased costs, although no final figures have been disclosed.

Allianz Stadium carpak proposal
Photo Credit: SSD-9249-MOD-6

Heritage Protection Measures

To ensure the tunnel remains intact, construction crews have established a protected zone around Busby’s Bore. Special monitoring equipment has also been installed to track vibrations and prevent potential damage during excavation.

What’s Next?

Sydney Football Stadium carpark
Photo Credit: SSD-9835-MOD-7

The revised plans are currently going through the necessary planning and approval processes. Once completed, the city officials will provide updated timelines and budget estimates. Meanwhile, work on sections not affected by the heritage discovery continues.



The Allianz Stadium redevelopment aims to balance the need for modern infrastructure with the preservation of Sydney’s historical landmarks, ensuring both functionality and heritage protection.

Published 22-Jan-2025

A Fusion Feast: Japanese and Italian Flavours at Ito in Surry Hills

Ito Restaurant is a neighbourhood Japanese restaurant in Surry Hills that reimagines the traditional izakaya with a creative twist. 


Read: All About the Negroni and Where to Get a Great One in Surry Hills


Opened in late 2023 by the ESCA Group, Ito blends the casual, convivial atmosphere of a Japanese pub with a menu that celebrates the unlikely but harmonious pairing of Japanese and Italian cuisines.

Photo credit: Ito Restaurant/Google Maps

At the heart of Ito’s kitchen is Head Chef Erik Ortolani, who draws from his Italian heritage to craft a modern izakaya experience. His dishes emphasise simplicity and the use of locally sourced ingredients, resulting in creations that are both innovative and grounded in tradition.

Ito restaurant
Photo credit: Ito Restaurant/Instagram

The menu is designed for sharing, offering a mix of small plates and heartier options. Highlights include the Moreton Bay bug chawanmushi, a delicate Japanese egg custard paired with asparagus and thyme, and the Roasted Aubergine, elevated with tomato miso and whipped tofu. These dishes showcase Erik’s ability to bring the flavours of two distinct cuisines together in perfect harmony.

Ito restaurant
Photo credit: Ito Restaurant/Google Maps

Last year, Ito proudly earned its first Chef’s Hat at the Good Food Awards, a proof to the exceptional culinary talent of Head Chef Erik Ortolani and his team. The Chef’s Hat Awards are highly esteemed honours presented to Australian restaurants known for their outstanding cuisine. They are often regarded as Australia’s version of Michelin Stars.


Read: Takam Brings Filipino Cuisine to Darlinghurst with a Modern Twist


Complement your meal with a curated selection of sake or a signature cocktail, and enjoy the warm, laid-back ambience that defines Ito. Located at 413-415 Crown Street in Surry Hills, this modern izakaya is a true celebration of the intersection of Japanese and Italian culinary traditions, offering a dining experience that’s both familiar and refreshingly unique.

Published 22-January-2025

Uber Fares Double Amid Train Disruption

Uber fares double as Sydney’s train network continues to be disrupted by both industrial action and extreme storms.



A trip from Petersham to Surry Hills that cost $18 on January 6 has risen to $38 on Thursday, despite Uber implementing a surge pricing cap.

The increased costs come as dozens of trains have been cancelled due to strikes by the Electrical Trades Union and the Rail, Tram and Bus Union. The situation has been exacerbated by severe storms that have left 95,000 homes and businesses without power and resulted in one fatality.

An Uber spokesman confirmed the surge pricing cap was in place Wednesday and Thursday but declined to specify the cap amount. The measure was introduced following a March 2023 incident when Sydney commuters faced hundreds of dollars in fares during a rail network outage.

NSW Premier Chris Minns announced new legal action with the Fair Work Commission against rail unions on Thursday morning. He acknowledged the impact of increased fees on commuters during the rail strikes.



Transport for NSW confirmed the surge pricing cap will remain until alternative public transport options are available, and passenger demand is met.

Published 16-January-2025

Rare Corpse Flower Thrills Visitors at Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

It’s a beautiful plant native to the rainforests of Sumatra with a massive flower that smells a rotting corpse. At the Royal Botanic Garden, the rare corpse flower is currently in bloom, a phenomenon last seen in the city 15 years ago.



This plant is famous for its massive size and strong smell, often compared to rotting meat.

A Botanical Marvel in Sydney

The Titan Arum, native to the rainforests of Sumatra, is a botanical rarity. Its blooms are unpredictable and awe-inspiring. The Royal Botanic Garden has nurtured this plant for years, and it’s now putting on a show. Past blooms in Sydney were recorded in 2004, 2006, 2008, and 2010. This latest bloom is another exciting chapter in its history.

The Corpse Flower is known for its unpredictable nature. It spends years building up energy before producing its iconic bloom. This makes each event highly anticipated by plant enthusiasts and the public alike.

What Makes the Corpse Flower Unique

This plant is no ordinary flower. It can grow up to three metres tall and emits a strong odour during its brief bloom. The smell, which resembles sulphur or decaying flesh, attracts specific pollinators such as flies and beetles. The massive inflorescence is a spectacle, with a vibrant spathe opening to reveal its towering spadix.

Over the weekend, the plant grew 20cm, indicating that it was ready to bloom. Blooming period is anticipated between 15 and 20 January. Once the bloom starts, the plant will be relocated to a public viewing area in the gardens to accommodate visitors.

Extended Hours for a Limited-Time Event

The Royal Botanic Garden has extended its hours until midnight during the bloom. Entry is by donation so it easily accessible to everyone. This event offers locals and tourists a chance to witness something truly special. The bloom lasts only 24 hours, so timing is critical to catch the flower at its peak.

Visitors are encouraged to plan their visit early, as the garden expects large crowds. Updates will be provided online to help manage viewing times.

Building Excitement Around the Bloom

Titan Arum being admired by visitors.
Photo Credit: Botanic Gardens of Sydney/YouTube

Word is spreading quickly, with people showing excitement across social media. The garden’s updates are helping visitors stay informed. This rare moment has sparked curiosity and enthusiasm, drawing attention from across the country.

The last bloom in Sydney drew thousands of visitors, and this event is expected to attract even more interest. The unique combination of its size, smell, and rarity makes the Corpse Flower a must-see.

Titan Arum in full bloom.
Photo Credit: Botanic Gardens of Sydney/YouTube

Conservation in Action

The bloom highlights critical conservation efforts. The Titan Arum is endangered in its native Sumatra due to habitat loss. By hosting this event, the Royal Botanic Garden underscores the importance of protecting rare and threatened species.

The Royal Botanic Garden is part of a global network of institutions that work to protect species like the Titan Arum. By displaying this plant, the garden not only educates the public, but also emphasises the critical need for conservation.



For Sydney residents, this is a unique opportunity to see one of nature’s wonders up close. Don’t miss it — the clock is ticking on this extraordinary bloom.

Published 14-Jan-2025

CaterFrom: A Local Catering Solution for Surry Hills

CaterFrom, a corporate catering platform is making waves in Surry Hills by connecting local businesses and event organisers with nearby cafes and restaurants. The innovative platform aims to simplify event catering while boosting the local economy.



CaterFrom was established to address a gap in the catering industry by providing a seamless way for venues to access catering services from local eateries.

CaterFrom Surry Hills
Photo Credit: CaterFrom/Instagram

The platform’s origins are deeply rooted in Surry Hills, where its founders recognised the importance of supporting small, independent food establishments.

Operating in a neighbourhood known for its vibrant culinary culture, CaterFrom offers a centralised platform where cafes and restaurants can display their catering menus, making it easier for organisers to order and communicate.

How CaterFrom Works

The CaterFrom platform allows event organisers to explore a directory of local cafes and restaurants in Surry Hills, review their menus, and place orders for either delivery or pickup.

This ensures that venues receive timely food deliveries tailored to their schedules. CaterFrom offers a range of options suitable for business meetings, social gatherings, and other events.

Partnering with CaterFrom is risk-free for venues. It provides them with an additional revenue stream while promoting local businesses.

The platform encourages corporate catering budgets to be reinvested into the local community, which helps sustain jobs and maintain the culinary diversity that defines Surry Hills.

CaterFrom in Surry Hills supports local cafes and restaurants.
Photo Credit: CaterFrom/Instagram

Community Impact

CaterFrom’s focus on local partnerships has been well-received in Surry Hills. By prioritising small businesses, the platform helps independent cafes and restaurants thrive in a competitive market.

Catering suppliers, such as Cook and Archie’s and Burbs Brew Espresso, benefit from the exposure and increased orders facilitated by the platform.

Event organisers, in turn, appreciate the convenience of accessing multiple catering options through a single, user-friendly interface.

Feedback from the community suggests that CaterFrom’s services align with the values of Surry Hills residents, who are keen to support sustainable local initiatives.

Simplify event catering with CaterFrom in Surry Hills.
Photo Credit: CaterFrom/Instagram

Lead Time and Delivery

Each restaurant partnered with CaterFrom sets its own lead time for orders, allowing organisers to plan accordingly. In cases where a venue struggles to find an available caterer, CaterFrom provides personalised assistance via its concierge service.

All orders are fulfilled by local restaurants and cafes, ensuring timely and convenient delivery or pickup.

Concierge Services

In addition to its core offerings, CaterFrom provides concierge services to help organisers plan menus within specific budgets, address dietary requirements, and manage last-minute catering needs.

For further assistance, venues can contact CaterFrom’s dedicated concierge team at concierge@caterfrom.com.

CaterFrom in Surry Hills connects venues with local caterers.
Photo Credit: Cater From/Instagram

Looking Ahead

As CaterFrom continues to grow, its focus remains on supporting the Surry Hills community and strengthening ties with local businesses.



By fostering partnerships and promoting sustainable practices, the platform contributes to the economic and cultural vibrancy of the area.

Published 11-Jan-2025

Group Relaxation Reimagined: Surry Hills Bathhouses to Explore

Bathhouses are making a stylish comeback, blending ancient traditions with modern sensibilities. Across Australia, a growing wave of wellness retreats is redefining relaxation as a group activity. For residents of Surry Hills, two standout destinations promise rejuvenation and connection in beautifully curated spaces.


Read: Inside The Residence, Sydney’s $75,000-Per-Night Penthouse


Capybara Bathing

Photo credit: Capybara Bathing/Google Maps

Nestled on Commonwealth Street, Capybara Bathing offers a tranquil escape in the heart of Surry Hills. Designed for both solitude and shared experiences, this day spa features a lounge where guests can savor tea and enjoy a leisurely read. The facilities include a hot stone sauna, a traditional sauna for purists, a steam room for revitalization, and a mineral bath to soak away stress.

Bathhouses
Photo credit: Capybara Bathing/Google Maps

The spa’s emphasis on shared relaxation is clear. “Our bathing activities, individually considered and collectively enjoyed, take place in one shared space. Intimacy is not sacrificed, ensuring that the number of bathers is carefully managed at any given time,” the spa explains. To maintain its intimate yet communal vibe, no more than 20 guests are allowed in the space simultaneously.

Sense of Self Bathhouse

https://sos-senseofself.com/sydney

Set to open later this year, Sense of Self Bathhouse promises to elevate Sydney’s wellness scene. Strategically positioned between Surry Hills and Paddington, this sprawling bathhouse will span more than 1,000 square metres, making it the largest of its kind in the city.

Bathhouses
https://sos-senseofself.com/sydney

The facility will feature mineral pools, saunas, steam rooms, cold plunges, treatment rooms, and ample spaces for unwinding. The owners, who have already gained recognition in Melbourne for their wellness ventures, aim to bring a fresh perspective to Sydney’s bathhouse culture. They’re inviting locals to join their journey and sign up on their website for updates ahead of the grand opening in the second half of 2025.


Read: Surry Hills Nightlife to Shine Brighter with New Hotel Development


A Community-Centred Wellness Trend

Both venues highlight the evolving role of bathhouses as community hubs. Rather than just focusing on individual pampering, these spaces encourage guests to share moments of calm and connection in thoughtfully designed environments. For Surry Hills residents, these bathhouses offer more than relaxation—they provide a unique opportunity to embrace wellness as a collective experience.

Published 10-January-2025

Surry Hills Spotlight: One Brothel Sold, Another Stands the Test of Time

On Albion Street, one brothel, ‘Thai City’ has changed hands while another, Tiffany’s Girls, continues its decades-long legacy, showcasing the contrasting stories of the adult services industry in Surry Hills.



Behind the unassuming facade of a terrace home on Albion Street lies ‘Thai City,’ a brothel recently sold to new owners. Celebrated as “the best Asian brothel in Sydney,” the venue gained recognition for offering services from a diverse, multicultural array of attendants, as highlighted on its Yelp page.

The property spans 137 square meters of land with a 185 square meter internal area. It features dual-lane access and holds mixed-use zoning, making it eligible for residential conversion. Real estate professionals have emphasized the rarity of licensing for adult services at this site due to strict local regulations.

Thai City brothel facade on Albion Street, Sydney.
Photo Credit: Toby Silk/Instagram

The sale, facilitated by CBRE agents Toby Silk and Max Silk ahead of its scheduled auction, reflects the dynamic nature of Sydney’s real estate market, particularly in niche sectors like adult services.

Just down the street, another brothel, Tiffany’s Girls, stands as a longstanding establishment in Surry Hills, further illustrating Albion Street’s historical role in Sydney’s adult services industry.

Tiffany’s Girls: Oldest Operational Brothel in Sydney

Established in the early 1970s, Tiffany’s Girls has served as a landmark in Surry Hills, embodying over five decades of the neighborhood’s socio-economic transformations. 

As Sydney’s oldest operational brothel, it has borne witness to dramatic shifts in legislation and the evolving dynamics of adult services brought on by the digital era.

Decades of Service Amid Changing Laws

Opening during an era of significant legal constraints on the sex industry, Tiffany’s Girls has navigated through substantial reforms, including the pivotal decriminalisation of sex work in New South Wales in 1995.

This reform legitimized venues like Tiffany’s Girls, establishing standards for safety and regulation that reshaped the industry.

Challenges from the Digital World

With the rise of digital platforms such as OnlyFans, the traditional brothel business model has been challenged, sparking debates about the relevance of establishments like Tiffany’s Girls in today’s digital landscape.

Despite these challenges, Tiffany’s Girls has remained a secure environment for both workers and clients.

Inside the oldest brothel in Surry Hills.
Photo Credit: Tiffany’s Girls

Property with Potential: A Brief Listing

The property, located on Albion Street, spans six lots and features architectural relics like Victorian terraces and a corner building that once housed a pub. With its unique 687 square meter footprint, it is a gem in Sydney’s compact real estate market.

Although it was listed for $13 million in May 2024, it was swiftly taken off the market, continuing its operation, which underscores its enduring appeal and potential hesitance from the owners to part with such a historic site.

Community and Economic Implications

The listing and subsequent withdrawal of Tiffany’s Girls from the market have ignited discussions about the future of adult venues in Sydney, reflecting broader urban development trends.

Surry Hills, a suburb known for its rich tapestry of history and vibrant culture, stands at a crossroads of development and preservation.

Tiffany's Girls "old-world style."
Photo Credit: Tiffany’s Girls

Uncertain Future for a Brothel Icon

Currently, Tiffany’s Girls promotes itself as the “go-to destination for those seeking companionship and TLC,” boasting interiors that reflect an “old-world style brothel” with lush, boutique-themed rooms.

Its role in the community and its potential transformation remain hot topics as it balances between continuing as a cultural icon and adapting to new urban demands.

The Continued Presence of Tiffany’s Girls: A Reflection of Historical Persistence

The withdrawal of Tiffany’s Girls from the market emphasizes its value not just as a commercial entity but as a piece of living history in Surry Hills.



It raises essential questions about the preservation of historical establishments and their place in rapidly evolving urban environments.

Published 9-Jan-2025

Explore Identity and Culture with “Jacky” at Belvoir St Theatre in Surry Hills

The Belvoir St Theatre in Surry Hills will host the award-winning play “Jacky” in the Sydney Festival’s Blak Out program.



This production will run from 16 January to 2 February 2025.  “Jacky” tells the story of a young Indigenous man trying to find his place in the city. He’s balancing work, family, and his identity as a queer Aboriginal person in modern Australia.

About the Play

Jacky
Photo Credit: Belvoir St Theatre

Declan Furber Gillick wrote “Jacky,” first performed at the Melbourne Theatre Company in 2023. The play hit audiences and critics, even receiving nominations for several awards, including Best Production and Best New Writing. Eamon, from Belvoir St Theatre, saw the play in Melbourne and was excited to bring this new generation of Indigenous storytelling to Surry Hills.

Jacky’s Story

Jacky
Photo Credit: Belvoir St Theatre

Jacky is a clever young man who has figured out city life. He has different jobs, including office work and cultural performances. But things get complicated when his younger brother, Keith, arrives in town. The play examines Jacky’s challenges as he tries to balance his personal life, work, and culture. It shows how he learns to accept himself and find his place.



A Talented Team

The play is directed by Mark Wilson, who has worked on other successful productions like “Bighouse Dreaming.” The cast includes talented actors such as Guy Simon, known for his role in “Holding the Man,” and Mandy McElhinney, who was in “Tiny Beautiful Things.”  Danny Howard will also make his first appearance at Belvoir St Theatre in this production.

Published Date 06-Jan-2025

Preserving Oxford Street: Balancing History and Housing

Efforts are underway to have several Oxford Street venues in Darlinghurst (such as The Oxford Hotel, Universal Sydney, and The Bookshop) included in the heritage register, sparking a debate over the balance between preserving culture and addressing housing needs.



Proposed Heritage Listings

Oxford Street in Darlinghurst, a hub of Sydney’s LGBTQIA+ community, is at the centre of a proposed heritage conservation initiative by the City of Sydney. These locations are under consideration for protection due to their cultural and historical significance. 

Universal Sydney, previously known as The Midnight Shift, has long been a cornerstone of the area’s nightlife, while The Oxford Hotel and The Bookshop Darlinghurst are seen as pivotal landmarks in the LGBTQIA+ movement.

Universal Sydney Darlinghurst in Oxford Street
Universal Sydney
Photo Credit: Google Maps

These listings aim to recognise Darlinghurst’s unique social history and preserve the area’s character amidst rapid urbanisation. Council representatives have highlighted the importance of protecting spaces that represent marginalised communities and their contributions to Sydney’s heritage.

Community Reactions

The proposed listings, pooled in the last five years, have drawn mixed reactions from the community. Supporters argue that these sites are irreplaceable parts of Darlinghurst’s identity and should be safeguarded for future generations. Heritage advocates emphasise that such protections preserve stories and spaces that have shaped Sydney’s cultural landscape, particularly for the LGBTQIA+ community.

The Bookshop Darlinghurst in Oxford Street
The Bookshop Darlinghurst
Photo Credit: Google Maps

However, critics, including housing advocates, express concerns that heritage protections may hinder necessary development in areas close to the city. Sydney YIMBY, a housing advocacy group, argues that councils should focus on providing housing solutions rather than expanding heritage listings. They believe that overprotecting sites, especially entire streets, could exacerbate housing shortages.

Balancing Preservation and Progress

The debate over the heritage listings reflects a broader struggle across New South Wales, where councils are criticised for using heritage laws to limit urban development. The NSW Planning Minister Paul Scully has stated that while heritage preservation is vital, councils must also meet their housing targets. Mr Scully said that protecting one area for its character should be balanced by identifying alternative locations for housing development.

At the same time, heritage organisations maintain that preservation is crucial in areas like Oxford Street, where cultural landmarks represent significant social progress. 

Oxford Hotel Darlinghurst
The Oxford Hotel
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Local leaders stress that thoughtful heritage protections can coexist with responsible urban planning, provided there is a commitment to community consultation and strategic housing policies.



Community engagement will play a key role in shaping the outcome, ensuring that both history and progress are considered in equal measure.

Published 8-Jan-2024

Takam Brings Filipino Cuisine to Darlinghurst with a Modern Twist

Takam, a vibrant Filipino restaurant in Darlinghurst, offers a unique dining experience by blending traditional Filipino flavours with native Australian ingredients.



Located at 324 Victoria Street, Takam is the brainchild of lifelong friends Francis Dela Cruz, Aileen Aguirre, and Lesley Roque. Relaunched in September 2024, the restaurant focuses on elevating Filipino dishes while incorporating Australian native produce. The team collaborates with chefs Ralph Libo-On and Michael Mabuti, known for their work at Melbourne’s Askal, to create a menu that honours both Filipino heritage and Australia’s rich biodiversity.

Blending Cultures on a Plate 

Filipino restaurant Darlinghurst
Photo Credit: Takam/Instagram

The menu highlights classic Filipino recipes with creative Australian twists. Signature dishes include lumpia (spring rolls) wrapped in betel leaf with saltbush tomato ketchup and “litson” beef brisket paired with pepperberry salsa. The lemongrass chicken inasal, grilled over traditional hibachi coals, remains a crowd favourite. Each dish showcases the team’s dedication to authenticity and innovation.

An Inviting Atmosphere 

Takam’s redesign expanded its seating capacity from 26 to 51, creating a more welcoming dining space. The interior features a multi-toned marble countertop made from offcuts, symbolising the Filipino diaspora. The bar also offers a curated cocktail menu, including the “Galleon de Manila,” which combines tequila with lambanog, a traditional Filipino palm liquor.

Takam restaurant interior with marble countertop design.
Photo Credit: Takam/Instagram

Community Response and Future Prospects 

Since its relaunch, Takam has garnered praise for its bold flavours, thoughtful integration of local ingredients, and exceptional customer service. Diners have described their experiences as both nostalgic and exciting, with flavours transporting them back to cherished childhood meals while introducing them to innovative twists.

Guests like Ianne D have highlighted the inviting atmosphere, exceptional service, and dishes that leave a lasting impression. Cedrick Suarez praised standout dishes like the litson and leche flan, while also recognising the attentive staff for enhancing the dining experience. 

Takam showcases Filipino food.
Photo Credit: Takam/Instagram

Similarly, Nerissa Stitt commended the octopus adobo, fish, and leche flan, along with creative cocktails like the mango and Davidson plum colada and the pandan and wattleseed daiquiri. Nerissa also noted how Takam exceeded her Filipino mother’s expectations, a rare achievement.

The attentive and friendly staff have been recognised for enhancing the overall dining experience with warm hospitality. Additionally, personal touches, such as interactions with the restaurant’s owners, have further enriched the guest experience.

Whether enjoying a relaxed brunch or a cosy dinner, visitors often highlight the inviting atmosphere, delicious food, and service reminiscent of dining at a favourite family member’s home.



With its refreshed approach, Takam aims to continue evolving while staying true to its roots. The restaurant operates Wednesday to Saturday from 6 pm to 10 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 3 pm.

Published 4-Jan-2025