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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

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

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.

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

Photo Credit: Pexels

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.

Tiffany's Girls Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: Google Maps Street View*

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

Photo Credit: Belvoir St Theatre

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

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 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

Photo Credit: Takam/Google Maps

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.

view menu

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.

BOOK RESERVATION

Published 4-Jan-2025

New Tech Hub to Rise in Surry Hills Despite Community Concerns

Photo Credit: City of Sydney</span

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.

Growing Pains for a Creative Hub

Surry Hills — *Photo Credit:* *City of Sydney*

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.

A Changing Landscape

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.

Published Date 31-December-2024

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

Photo Credit: Frankie Cadillac/ Facebook

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.

classics and drinks

Beyond the Classic

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.

negroni menu

Plant-Based Pairings

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.

A New Hub for Cocktail Connoisseurs

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.

Published Date 31-December-2024

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

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.

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

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

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

The Residence — 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

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

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.

Read: Surry Hills Hotel Set to Showcase Local Craftsmanship with 2025 Launch

For those willing to invest in the ultimate luxury, The Residence offers a chance to live like royalty in one of Sydney’s most exclusive properties.

Published 31-December-2024

Surry Hills and Redfern Residents: Your Guide to Watching Sydney’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

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.

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.

Sydney New Year's Eve 2025 fireworks — *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.

Published 30-Dec-2024

Moore Park Golf Course Plans Stir Up Community Conversation

A proposal to turn 20 hectares of Moore Park Golf Course into public parkland has kicked off plenty of chatter among locals and regular visitors.

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.

Moore Park Plans — *Photo Credit: NSWGov/Moore Park Discussion Papers*

A Quick Look Back at Moore Park

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.

Moore Park site analysis — *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.

Moore Park plans for golf entertainment — *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.

Moore Park recreational plans — *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.

Published 28-Dec-2024

Photo Credit: NSWGov/Moore Park Discussion Paper