A ten-storey office and retail building will soon tower over Surry Hills, promising new jobs and boosting the local economy. Still, some residents are worried about the impact on their neighbourhood.
The City of Sydney has given the green light to the final development plans for the site at 232-240 Elizabeth Street, which sits within the Surry Hills Tech Centre. The project aims to create a workspace for around 280 office workers and 21 retail staff, potentially attracting big companies with its promise of lower rents.
The developers believe the project will help strengthen Sydney’s creative industries. The City of Sydney agrees, stating that the increased commercial space is perfect for the major digital and creative businesses already in the area. However, some locals have faced pushback on the development.
Concerns raised during the planning process include the loss of sunlight due to the building’s height, worries about privacy, obstructed city views, and the potential impact on nearby heritage buildings. One submission to the council argued that the plans didn’t fully consider how the new development would affect the amount of sunlight reaching surrounding streets.
The site currently houses five low-rise buildings containing shops and a hostel. These will be demolished for the new structure, featuring a laneway connecting Reservoir Street with Foster Lane. This project is the latest in a series of developments transforming the area.
Nearby, tech giant Atlassian is constructing its tower, and design plans for a new Canva headquarters were recently revealed. Stasia, the developer behind the Elizabeth Street project, has a growing portfolio of properties in and around the Sydney CBD, including completed projects like Foveaux HQ, now home to software company Safety Culture.
The Negroni just got a serious upgrade in Surry Hills! Frankie Cadillac has landed on Albion St with 16 mind-blowing variations on the classic cocktail.
Brought to you by the team behind Paddington’s plant-based haven, Bootleg Social Lounge, Frankie Cadillac appreciates this classic apéritif to a whole new level.
Did you know that the Negroni has a fascinating history? It was supposedly created in Florence in 1919 when Count Camillo Negroni asked for his Americano to be “strengthened” with gin instead of soda water. This simple swap gave birth to one of the most enduring cocktails ever. Over the years, the Negroni has been embraced by everyone from literary giants like Ernest Hemingway to Hollywood icons like Orson Welles and Audrey Hepburn.
A Negroni Wonderland
Forget the usual Negroni; Frankie Cadillac offers an impressive selection of 16 variations, each more enticing than the last. Owner Sam Overton, a stickler for quality, crafts his vermouth in-house using native Australian botanicals and even produces his own Frankie Cadillac Gin.
If you think you know your Negronis, think again. Overton recommends starting with the Classic Vintage Negroni, a journey back in time with Campari from 1938 and 1970 and gin from 1950.
For the adventurous, there’s a Mexican Negroni with mezcal and even a chocolate Negroni that pushes the boundaries of this classic cocktail.
While the Negroni takes centre stage, Frankie Cadillac doesn’t disappoint with its wider cocktail selection. Expect expertly crafted signature drinks like Frankie’s Daiquiri, Frankie’s Coconut Margarita, and Frankie’s Espresso Martini, all featuring house-made syrups, liqueurs, and juices. And if you’re not in the mood for a spirit-forward drink, they’ve got you covered with natural wines, Spritzes, Yulli’s beers, and house-made sodas.
Like its sister establishment, Frankie Cadillac embraces a plant-based philosophy, offering a menu of delicious bites to complement its drinks. Think potato gems with your favourite sauce, crumbed and fried olives stuffed with house-made ricotta, and mushroom arancini with truffle mayo.
But it’s not all about fried delights. The tomato carpaccio with vine-ripened tomatoes and the white beans on toast with Bootleg’s vodka tomato sauce are sure to impress. And for a sweet finish? Fried gnocchi with honey, cinnamon, vanilla ice cream, and house-made caramel.
Frankie Cadillac joins a thriving community of bars in Surry Hills, including Bar Copains and Bar Conte, both known for their appreciation of a good Negroni. With its dedication to quality ingredients, innovative creations, and plant-based ethos, Frankie Cadillac is set to become a favourite haunt for discerning drinkers and foodies in Sydney.
Did you know that “The Residence” penthouse in the CBD costs $75,000 per night? Located in one of Sydney’s most exclusive waterfront settings, this ultra-luxury property offers an extraordinary stay with a price tag that matches its opulence.
The Residence by Contemporary Hotels is designed to provide an unmatched level of comfort and sophistication, making it an appealing choice for those seeking the pinnacle of luxury in the city.
What You Get for $75,000 a Night
Photo credit: contemporaryhotels.com.au
With a minimum two-night stay, guests at The Residence enjoy a wide range of lavish amenities:
Private Rooftop Pool: The rooftop features a stunning pool and sundeck, perfect for enjoying the view or soaking up the sun.
Wine Cellar & Floristry Room: A dedicated wine cellar and floristry room elevate the property’s charm, offering specialized spaces for relaxation and entertainment.
Full-Service Staff: A full-time chef, butler, personal trainers, chauffeur, and cleaning staff ensure that every need is met, while private and service lifts provide seamless access to all areas of the property.
Luxurious Accommodations: The penthouse features six ensuite bathrooms and additional toilets on the main and pool levels, with flexible room arrangements that cater to families, friends, or larger groups.
Parking and Pet-Friendly: The Residence provides space for up to 10 vehicles and can accommodate pets upon request, making it ideal for those traveling with companions or family.
A Taste of Exclusive Living
Photo credit: contemporaryhotels.com.au
The interiors, designed by renowned designer Blainey North, seamlessly blend luxury and comfort. Whether lounging by the rooftop pool, enjoying a meal in one of the spacious communal areas, or retreating to your private bedroom, The Residence offers a sophisticated environment that feels both refined and welcoming.
Seasonal Demand
Photo credit: contemporaryhotels.com.au
Though available year-round, The Residence sees peak demand during the Christmas and summer holidays, with many domestic and international guests flocking to the property. Locals, expats, and international visitors alike are drawn to the idea of spending their holiday in such an exclusive setting.
According to Contemporary Hotels CEO Matthew Fleming, there has been a notable increase in bookings, especially from Australians looking to spend Christmas closer to home, such as at destinations like Palm Beach. He suggests that The Residence offers an ideal option for those seeking a luxurious stay in Sydney’s vibrant city center during this time.
A Unique Getaway
Photo credit: contemporaryhotels.com.au
With its lavish amenities and exceptional services, The Residence offers a truly unique way to experience Sydney. Whether you’re hosting friends, relaxing in the wine cellar, or enjoying the stunning views from the rooftop, this penthouse is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience.
Surry Hills and Redfern residents have multiple exciting options to enjoy Sydney’s world-famous New Year’s Eve fireworks, including ticketed and free vantage points across the city.
For those in Surry Hills and Redfern, Mrs Macquaries Point, within the Royal Botanic Garden, is a prime choice. It is located approximately 2.5 to 3 kilometres from both suburbs and offers clear views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. This iconic spot is free to access but requires early arrival as it fills up quickly.
Alternatively, those seeking a ticketed option with added convenience and family-friendly activities can head to Dudley Page Reserve in Dover Heights. Located about 7 to 8 kilometres from Surry Hills and Redfern, this vantage point provides panoramic views of the city skyline and harbour. Tickets for Dudley Page Reserve are priced at $65 for adults, $30 for children, and $170 for a family pass (2 adults, 2 children).
A Record-Breaking Fireworks Display by Foti International Fireworks
The 2024 Sydney New Year’s Eve fireworks, designed and executed by Foti International Fireworks, promise to be one of the most innovative displays in the event’s history. With a legacy of pyrotechnic excellence dating back to 1793, the Foti family has spent more than 4,500 hours preparing this year’s spectacle.
Photo Credit: Supplied
This year’s display will feature:
Aerial Pyrotechnic Platforms: For the first time in Australia, four aerial platforms will hover between the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, launching approximately 600 effects in the 9:00 p.m. and midnight shows.
Expanded Firing Locations: The Harbour Bridge will have 264 firing positions, an increase from 184 last year, including 80 new positions on the western side. This expansion allows for extended views and a broader visual impact for spectators.
Drop Comet Fireworks: A technological innovation enabling fireworks to cascade from the Harbour Bridge in shapes like sharks, fish, and the word “Sydney” in a waterfall effect.
The sheer scale of the production includes:
9 tonnes of fireworks launched from 16 locations across Sydney Harbour.
Over 13,000 aerial shells and 40,000 ground-based effects, with more than 30,000 effects fired from the Harbour Bridge alone.
23,000 pyrotechnic cues, ensuring the display is perfectly synchronised with custom soundtracks.
Photo Credit: Supplied
The Foti team of 70 pyrotechnicians has installed over 80 kilometres of wiring and 16 computers to coordinate the display, making it one of the most technologically advanced shows in the world.
The 9:00 p.m. family display will feature an 8-minute soundtrack titled Our Greats, created by producer and ARIA Award winner Nooky, highlighting Australian talent. The 12-minute midnight show will be set to a specially composed soundtrack by Luna Pan, blending orchestral, techno house, reggae, and more to reflect Sydney’s vibrant and diverse culture.
The Foti family takes pride in continually innovating and evolving their displays. Their efforts ensure Sydney’s New Year’s Eve fireworks remain among the most anticipated and visually spectacular in the world, attracting millions of spectators locally and internationally.
Planning Your Night
Mrs Macquaries Point opens early, and visitors should arrive by the afternoon to secure a spot. It’s recommended to bring picnic blankets, food, and drinks, but alcohol restrictions may apply, so check local guidelines.
For Dudley Page Reserve, gates open at 5:30 p.m., and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Attendees can bring their own picnic food (no glassware allowed), but alcohol is not permitted. On-site amenities include food stalls, a licensed bar, and family-friendly activities such as face painting and roving entertainers.
Transport and Accessibility
Public transport is strongly recommended for both locations. Surry Hills and Redfern residents can take buses or trains to Circular Quay for Mrs Macquaries Point or to Bondi Junction for Dudley Page Reserve, followed by a connecting bus to the reserve. Road closures around the city and harbour will begin in the early evening, so plan your trip accordingly.
For those staying home, live coverage of Sydney’s fireworks begins at 8:30 p.m. on ABC TV, with online streaming available on the event’s official website and ABC iview. Synchronised soundtracks for the 9:00 p.m. and midnight displays can also be heard on KIIS 1065.
Sitting in the city’s inner suburbs, Moore Park has become the centre of an ongoing debate about balancing open green space with existing recreational use.
Spanning 45 hectares, Moore Park Golf Course represents about 12% of the total Centennial Parklands. The proposal aims to repurpose the golf course’s western boundary and part of the land north of Dacey Avenue into parkland while keeping a 9-hole golf course, driving range, and clubhouse.
This change comes as areas like Waterloo, Zetland, and Green Square experience rapid population growth. Forecasts predict the local population will increase significantly by 2041, adding more pressure on public spaces.
The current lease for Moore Park Golf Course is set to expire in mid-2026, which aligns with the proposed timeline for the transformation.
Photo Credit: NSW Gov/Moore Park Discussion Papers
What’s in the Proposal?
Approximately $939,000 has been allocated for consultancy services to guide the transformation. The vision includes walking tracks, recreational facilities, and open green spaces aimed at addressing the growing need for public outdoor areas.
However, the Moore Park Golf Collective – made up of Golf Australia, PGA of Australia, Golf NSW, and Moore Park Golf Club – has countered with an alternative proposal. They suggest retaining an 18-hole course while slightly modifying it to free up about 15 hectares for public recreational use. Their plan includes tweaks to the driving range and course layout to incorporate walking tracks and play areas.
Photo Credit: NSW Gov/Moore Park Discussion Papers
What Locals Are Saying
Community feedback so far has been mixed. Some residents see the transformation as a much-needed step towards more accessible green space in the city’s densely populated suburbs. Others, particularly golf enthusiasts, worry about the potential loss of a longstanding recreational facility.
Local forums and discussions have been lively, with residents voicing both excitement and concerns about how the changes might impact daily life and the park’s historical significance.
Photo Credit: NSW Gov/Moore Park Discussion Papers
What Happens Next?
Community consultations are ongoing, and further engagement is planned for 2025 to ensure the final design reflects community needs and expectations.
Implementation of the proposed changes is expected to begin after the current lease ends in 2026.
At the end of the day, Moore Park sits at the heart of a broader conversation – how to balance history, recreation, and the growing needs of a busy city. The final outcome, it seems, is still unfolding.
In a dramatic turn of events that gripped the NSW Central Coast community, the missing 14-year-old son of former Sydney Roosters star James Maloney has been found safe following an intensive overnight search.
Kade Maloney disappeared from his family’s Green Point home in the early hours of Sunday morning, sparking immediate concern. The teenager was last seen at 10:00 p.m. on Saturday. CCTV footage later revealed that he purchased a train ticket at Gosford station at 1:51 a.m. on Sunday.
The search intensified as his parents, James and Jess Maloney, took to social media with urgent appeals for public assistance. Their concern was heightened as Kade had taken his father’s phone, making direct contact with James impossible.
Community response and police action
NSW Police launched an extensive search operation, focusing on the area between the Central Coast and Penrith, where it was believed Kade might be headed. The community’s response was swift, with residents and social media users joining forces to share information and assist in the search efforts.
The family’s recent transition added another layer of complexity to the situation. The Maloneys had been in the process of relocating from Townsville to Sydney, following James Maloney’s departure from his role as assistant coach with the North Queensland Cowboys. This marked a new chapter for the family, who had previously lived in France during James’ stint with Catalans Dragons in the French league, part of the UK Super League.
Late Sunday night, the tension broke when Jess Maloney confirmed through social media that Kade had been located and was safe with family friends. “Thank you to everyone who has helped to find him, offered support, and shared this post to get it out to as many people as possible,” she wrote, expressing the family’s profound relief and gratitude.
NSW Police echoed these sentiments, thanking both the media and the community for their instrumental role in locating the teenager. “Great news! A 14-year-old boy reported missing from Green Point has been located safe and well,” their statement confirmed.
James Maloney, a rugby league icon, enjoyed an illustrious 11-year NRL career, playing for several prominent clubs including the Melbourne Storm, New Zealand Warriors, Sydney Roosters, Cronulla Sharks, and Penrith Panthers. His notable achievements include securing premiership victories with the Roosters in 2013 and the Sharks in 2016, along with a grand final appearance with the Warriors in 2011.
Moore Park South is set to undergo an exciting transformation, with plans guided by feedback from thousands of community members and stakeholders. Earlier this month, the Future of Moore Park South – What We Heard report was released, highlighting ideas for reshaping the area to better serve the needs of the community while preserving its unique character.
Moore Park South encompasses the Moore Park Golf Course and Golf House, the historic Toll House, and the ES Marks Athletics Field. The consultation revealed strong support for making the space more accessible and versatile, with a focus on informal recreation, connecting with nature, and creating spaces for people to gather, exercise, and relax.
A Park for Everyone
Photo credit: Bernard Tan/Google Maps
The community expressed a desire for Moore Park South to become a place where people can unwind and enjoy everyday activities. Suggestions included:
Tracks for walking, running, and cycling.
Dog-friendly areas, including enclosed off-leash zones.
Nature play areas for children and peaceful spaces for relaxation.
Facilities for picnics, barbecues, and informal gatherings.
Outdoor gym equipment, yoga platforms, and meditation areas.
Community gardens and informal sports facilities.
A majority of survey respondents wanted the area to support both active and passive recreation, creating opportunities to connect with others and the natural environment.
Reimagining Golf at Moore Park
Photo credit: Des Don Paul/Google Maps
A key focus of the feedback was the future of the golf course, with ideas centered on balancing its role as a public facility while opening up the area for broader community use. Of those surveyed, 55 percent supported retaining the 18-hole course, while others showed interest in a scaled-back option with added features.
Proposals for enhancing the golf offering included:
A 9-hole course that allows more space for other park uses.
An upgraded driving range with advanced technology to attract a wider audience.
New activities such as mini-golf, disc-golf, and night-golf to cater to diverse groups.
The reimagined golf facilities aim to make the sport more inclusive, affordable, and accessible while integrating seamlessly into the larger park vision.
Moving Forward
Photo credit: Chak Kai Chong/Google Maps
Preliminary design and planning for the transformation of Moore Park South are already underway, informed by the themes and priorities outlined in the recent report. NSW has committed $2.6 million in the 2024-25 Budget for preliminary design and planning works.
The project is expected to deliver a space that balances recreational opportunities with habitat preservation, ensuring a vibrant and welcoming environment for everyone.
As Moore Park South evolves, the goal is to create a destination that brings people together, celebrates nature, and offers something for all ages and interests. This shared vision promises to turn the area into a much-loved community asset for generations to come.
Situated on George Street in Haymarket, the ambitious project by developer Samprian envisions a 31-storey mixed-use development featuring a 29-level hotel with 335 rooms, multiple dining and entertainment venues, and a range of amenities to attract both locals and tourists.
The elegant tower design, conceived by Architect And, has garnered praise for its sophisticated aesthetic. A City of Sydney report has approved the development, highlighting its potential to invigorate the area’s nightlife.
The report emphasised the project’s contribution to repurposing the heritage-listed Sutton Forest Meat Company building, generating employment opportunities, and enriching Sydney’s after-dark scene.
This development aligns with the Central Sydney Planning Strategy, an initiative to solidify the CBD’s status as a premier entertainment and economic hub. It joins other significant projects in the vicinity, such as the mixed-use development at 187-189 Thomas Street, Haymarket, collectively contributing to the revitalisation of the area.
The George Street project involves partial demolition of the existing building and is currently undergoing community consultation. If approved, it promises to infuse Surry Hills and Haymarket with a new wave of energy, drawing in visitors and bolstering the local night-time economy.
Darlington Public School, a small public school in Chippendale, has been named the World Building of the Year at the 2024 World Architecture Festival in Singapore, surpassing more than 220 global projects, including skyscrapers, museums, and transport hubs.
Darlington Public School, designed by Sydney-based architectural firm FJC Studio, took home the top honour at the festival, which recognises the best in global architecture. The modest project was celebrated for its innovative design, cultural significance, and focus on community engagement, outshining larger and more prominent buildings.
The school’s new design replaces a 1970s building that was no longer suitable for modern learning. It now combines contemporary architectural features with outdoor spaces, including a basketball court and a community garden where students can grow native plants. The school accommodates more than 500 students across preschool, kindergarten, and primary levels.
Photo Credit:FJC Studio
Connection to Culture and Community
A key focus of the design was the strong connection to Indigenous culture. The architects incorporated Aboriginal art into various parts of the building, including the entrance, classrooms, and hall. Murals that were originally painted on the old school walls were carefully recreated in the new structure’s cladding. The garden also plays an educational role, teaching students about Indigenous foods and traditions.
The architectural firm noted that community collaboration was at the heart of the project. FJC Studio highlighted that the design process was shaped by the input of the school’s staff, families, and students, ensuring the new space met their needs while preserving the spirit of the original campus.
Modern Design Meets Sustainability
One of the standout features of the new school is its distinctive “sawtooth” roof, which is angled to optimise natural light and reduce energy use. Open-air terraces, surrounded by curved metal screens, allow sunlight to filter through while providing privacy for students.
Photo Credit: FJC Studio
The emphasis on sustainability and thoughtful use of outdoor areas ensures the school remains a welcoming and functional space for generations to come.
The project was completed in two stages to allow classes to continue without interruption, ensuring minimal disruption for students and teachers.
Global Recognition
The 2024 World Architecture Festival, now in its 17th year, brought together projects from around the globe across categories including housing, health, and transportation. Darlington Public School was selected as the overall winner from the category finalists by a panel of 175 judges. Other notable projects in contention included a solar power plant in Turkey and a national observatory in Cyprus.
FJC Studio’s success marks their second win at the festival, having first earned the title in 2013. The firm’s representatives said the win reflects the importance of smaller-scale projects that focus on community enrichment and cultural identity.
The architects emphasised that while the award is an exciting achievement, the true benefit lies with the students and community. The new campus offers a modern, culturally significant, and enriching environment for children to learn and grow.
Set to open its doors on 13 February 2025, The EVE is a new addition to the vibrant fabric of Surry Hills, offering spaces that reflect the local community’s creative energy and character. Thoughtfully designed to blend contemporary architecture with the neighbourhood’s artistic identity, the hotel aims to create a welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.
Celebrating Surry Hills’ Creative Spirit
The EVE is the result of a collaboration between renowned architects Adam Haddow of SJB, Daniel Baffsky from 360 Degrees, and interior architect George Levissianis. The design of this Surry Hills hotel prioritises locally sourced materials, handcrafted furnishings, and bespoke details that showcase the craftsmanship and creativity of the area.
Photo Credits: The EVE Hotel
Every room and communal space has been designed with simplicity and function in mind, featuring vibrant artwork and design elements inspired by Surry Hills’ dynamic artistic community. From the lobby to the rooftop, the emphasis on local artistry is central to the experience.
A Link Between Surry Hills and Redfern
Positioned at the meeting point of Surry Hills and Redfern, The EVE connects two of Sydney’s most creative neighbourhoods. Its location provides a central hub for locals, with easy access to both areas’ cultural, artistic, and culinary scenes.
Beyond its role as a hotel, The EVE is designed as a gathering place for the community. The rooftop bar, outdoor areas, and shared spaces aim to create opportunities for locals to connect, whether for casual meetups or larger community events.
Photo Credits: The EVE Hotel
Supporting Local Culture and Craft
The EVE is committed to engaging with the Surry Hills and Redfern communities. By incorporating local materials, supporting regional artists, and fostering collaboration, the hotel strives to reflect and contribute to the creative culture that defines the area.
As its opening nears, this Surry Hills hotel aims to become a gathering place for residents to celebrate the local creative spirit and engage in the cultural conversations that define the neighbourhood. Details about The EVE’s facilities and offerings are available on the official website.
