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Marlborough House Sold for $110M, Planned for Surry Hills Luxury Apartments

A historic warehouse in Surry Hills, once a key site for David Jones’ manufacturing operations, has been sold for $110 million and will be transformed into a $500-million residential development.

A Landmark Changes Hands

Marlborough House, located at 47-97 Marlborough Street, was acquired by Time & Place, a developer backed by billionaire James Packer through his investment firm, NPACT. The sale marks the first property ownership change in over 50 years.

Previously owned by Orcades Investments since 1972, the site originally served as David Jones’ warehouse and factory, constructed between 1914 and 1934. The building, notable for its Chicagoesque style and advanced architectural features of the era, has housed offices and creative studios since the 1970s.

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Major Part of Australian Retail History

Marlborough House was the birthplace of manufacturing for David Jones, Australia’s oldest department store and the second-oldest department store brand in the world. Built in 1914, this warehouse was the company’s engine room, producing clothing, furniture, luggage, and homewares and employing up to 800 people at its peak.

The David Jones brand, established in 1838 by Welsh immigrant David Jones, weathered economic challenges throughout the 19th century to become a cornerstone of Australian retail.

The Marlborough Street facility embodied the company’s evolution, reflecting its shift from reliance on imported goods to locally manufactured high-quality products inspired by European design. The site played a pivotal role in Surry Hills’ development, serving as a major local employer and a hub of craftsmanship.

Plans for Redevelopment

Time & Place plans to convert the heritage-listed Marlborough House into 150-apartments, including 26 affordable dwellings. The project is valued at between $400 million and $500 million and will incorporate adaptive reuse strategies to honour the site’s historical significance.

The development team stated that they are working on a planning application that incorporates and celebrates Marlborough House’s heritage overlay by adaptively reusing the existing building while adding a new adjoining development in compliance with local planning regulations.

The Vision for Surry Hills

The project aligns with the broader transformation of Surry Hills, a suburb that has seen significant revitalisation in recent years. Developers have described the area as evolving into a vibrant residential and cultural hub.

Time & Place expressed excitement about working within the unique character of the neighbourhood, emphasising the local community’s energy and the proximity to cafes, nightlife, and other amenities.

Published 10-Dec-2024

Privacy Concerns Raised Over Surry Hills Light Rail Data Collection

Passengers boarding the L2 light rail in Surry Hills have discovered that their phones’ data is being collected via Wi-Fi sensors in a trial that has sparked privacy concerns and divided community opinion.

The trial, run by a private tech company called Flowly in partnership with Transport for NSW, began earlier this year and is set to continue until March 2025. It involves seven trams out of the network’s fleet of 76, including services through the busy suburb of Surry Hills. The sensors collect Media Access Control (MAC) addresses from passengers’ devices to gather data on travel routes, times, and patterns.

How the Data Collection Works

Passengers first learned of the trial from posters displayed inside the trams, which included a QR code directing them to a webpage explaining the process. The webpage stated that Wi-Fi sensors would collect device MAC addresses and anonymise the data after three hours. While the operators assured commuters that their browsing history and personal contacts would not be collected, concerns remain about the implications of collecting MAC addresses.

Transport for NSW stated that the trial aims to address gaps in existing travel data, such as instances where passengers fail to tap on or off using their Opal cards. Flowly’s system is designed to fill these gaps by providing more detailed information about passenger movements, particularly during special events or on shuttle services.

Critics argue, however, that MAC addresses, even when encrypted, could potentially be linked to individuals if combined with other data sources. Privacy advocates, including David Vaile from UNSW, have raised questions about whether such detailed data collection is necessary. He expressed scepticism over the operators’ assurances of anonymity, noting that no system is entirely immune to misuse or breaches.

Surry Hills Light Rail — *Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons*

Community Concerns and Opt-Out Challenges

The trial has raised significant concerns among passengers like Indra Arifin, a Surry Hills resident and web developer, who stopped using the light rail after learning about the data collection. He argued that the system’s opt-out approach puts the onus on passengers, many of whom are unaware of the data being collected until after boarding.

To opt out, passengers must either disable their device’s Wi-Fi before boarding or provide their MAC address through an online form within three hours of the data being collected. Mr Arifin criticised the lack of clear notification at tram stops and said the opt-out model makes passengers feel as though they are being enrolled in the trial without their explicit consent.

“I feel comfortable opting in instead of having to opt out,” Arifin said, echoing the concerns of other commuters who believe the process should be more transparent.

Operators Defend the Trial

A spokesperson for Transdev, the private company operating the light rail, defended the trial, stating that MAC addresses are encrypted and anonymised to ensure passenger privacy. They added that the data is stored securely in New South Wales and complies with privacy regulations. Transdev explained that the opt-out model is necessary to collect enough data to provide a comprehensive understanding of network performance.

Transport for NSW also defended the trial, emphasising its importance in improving public transport services. They highlighted that the trial has been publicised online and through in-tram posters. Despite these measures, critics argue that passengers in busy areas like Surry Hills may not notice the signs, particularly during peak travel times.

Alternatives to the Light Rail

For some commuters, privacy concerns have prompted a shift to other modes of transport. Arifin, for example, now uses the Metro to travel to work, avoiding the light rail entirely. Unlike the light rail, other NSW transport services such as trains and buses rely on Opal card data, which is perceived as less intrusive because it does not involve collecting MAC addresses.

Vaile suggested that less invasive methods could achieve similar results without compromising privacy. While acknowledging the need for data to improve services, he urged operators to explore alternatives that do not rely on tracking passengers’ devices.

Published 2-Dec-2024

Historic Paddington Terrace Sells for $3 Million

Photo Credit: McGrath Estate Agents

A dilapidated terrace house at 9 Cecil Street in Paddington has sold for $3 million, marking the first time this property has been offered to the open market after remaining in the same family for three generations.

The three-bedroom terrace, featuring original horse stables, attracted significant interest during its auction. Five of the 14 registered buyers placed bids, with the property ultimately selling to a Redfern buyer in front of a crowd of about 80 neighbours and supporters.

The auction began at $2.4 million, quickly surpassing the $2.6 million price guide through $50,000 increments. Smaller $25,000 bids followed, ultimately driving the price to $3 million.

According to the listing, the property offers unique historical features, including a large original horse stable with mezzanine storage, separate lounge and dining areas, and a basic gas kitchen. The 138-square-metre property has dual access and is located in Paddington’s gallery-rich art precinct.

Georgia Cleary of McGath Paddington noted that most of the feedback suggested the property was initially valued in the low two millions. She highlighted that owner-occupier buyers are often willing to pay a premium for original properties, preferring to renovate according to their own vision.

The sale coincides with Domain Group’s reported preliminary auction clearance rate of 64.2% across 830 reported results in Sydney, with 180 auctions withdrawn during the week.

The property represents one of the last remaining unrenovated homes on a premium street, offering potential for renovation or extension, subject to local planning regulations.

Published 25-November-2024

Fatal Shooting in Surry Hills Linked to Burning Porsche

On Friday evening, a man believed to be in his 30s was shot dead in a targeted attack at a BP service station on Baptist Street. The Surry Hills shooting, which occurred around 7:45 PM, has prompted an extensive investigation by NSW Police.

Targeted Attack with Organised Crime Links

South Sydney Police Area Command Superintendent Andrew Garner confirmed the victim was known to police and had connections to organised crime entities. The man was sitting alone in his vehicle at the service station when he was shot multiple times in the upper torso.

After being wounded, the victim managed to exit his vehicle and walk a short distance down Cleveland Street before collapsing. Despite immediate medical attention from NSW Ambulance paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Potential Connection to Car Fire

A significant development in the investigation is the discovery of a burning Porsche in the nearby suburb of Kensington, which occurred shortly after the shooting. Fire and Rescue NSW extinguished the vehicle fire on Kensington Road, and police are exploring potential links between the two incidents.

Police Response and Investigation

Authorities have established a crime scene, closing Cleveland Street between South Dowling and Elizabeth Street. Detectives from South Sydney Police Area Command, supported by the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad, are actively investigating the murder.

Superintendent Garner described the shooting as an “outrageous incident” that demonstrated a “high level of reckless indifference to the public.” He emphasised the targeted nature of the attack and assured the community that there is no broader threat.

Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal

Police are currently working to:

Determine the number of shooters involved
Locate the weapon used in the attack
Understand the origins and movement of the burned Porsche

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Published 22-November-2024

Inside Saltbox: Sydney’s Next-Generation Events Space

The Surry Hills and Redfern neighbourhood is set to welcome an ambitious new player to its events landscape. Saltbox, a contemporary event space, will be opening soon at the Wunderlich Lane.

Read: Surry Hills Terrace Gets A Bold Renovation

Spearheaded by luxury events veteran David O’Brien and his team at Cook & Waiter, Saltbox will open its doors in Autumn 2025. Located at the intersection of Surry Hills and Redfern at 399 Cleveland Street, this sophisticated venue promises to elevate Sydney’s event offerings with its thoughtfully designed spaces and versatile capabilities.

A Space That Means Business

The 560-square-metre venue, designed by acclaimed architects SJB and built by TOGA Group, makes a striking first impression with its luxurious mirrored lobby and reception area. The ground floor entrance leads guests to Level 1, where three distinct event spaces await, each bathed in natural light yet equipped with blackout features for ultimate versatility.

Saltbox — Photo credit: cookandwaiter.com.au

Perhaps the venue’s most compelling feature is its impressive 119-square-metre outdoor terrace, which runs the entire length of the building, offering a dramatic addition to any event setup.

Flexibility at Its Core

Saltbox’s pillarless design allows for maximum flexibility, accommodating various event configurations:

– 250 guests for seated dining

– 450 for cocktail functions

– 300 in theatre-style arrangements

– 192 for cabaret setups

The venue’s strategic position in Sydney’s vibrant inner city offers excellent accessibility, with ample parking and transport links. Its proximity to The Eve Hotel adds another layer of convenience for out-of-town guests.

A Proven Track Record

This new venture comes from Cook & Waiter, a team with an impressive portfolio of high-profile clients including luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Porsche, and Lamborghini. Their expertise in delivering premium experiences positions Saltbox as a promising addition to Sydney’s event scene.

According to Mr O’Brien, the new venue represents an important expansion of their business portfolio, offering clients a distinctive destination in one of Sydney’s most dynamic precincts. He emphasises that the venue stands out for its innovative approach to location, guest experience, and sustainability initiatives.

Read: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth Reopens After $70-Million Revamp

From corporate meetings and brand launches to cocktail parties and wedding receptions, Saltbox is poised to become a versatile addition to Sydney’s event landscape when it opens its doors in Autumn 2025, complete with a curated food and beverage offering by Cook & Waiter.

Published 22-November-2024

Moore Park Golf Course Announces Bold Expansion Plan

The Moore Park Golf Collective, a consortium of golfing bodies, has announced an ambitious proposal to transform Moore Park South into a multi-faceted recreational and sporting hub.

This alternative plan aims to cater to Sydney’s growing population while preserving the popular 18-hole golf course. The proposal prioritises the maximisation of under-utilised open space to create diverse recreational areas.

A Park for Everyone

The vision includes a variety of public amenities such as an adventure playground, nature play space, dog park, barbecue and picnic facilities, a fitness trail with scenic city views, a football oval, skate park, half and futsal courts, a BMX pump track, an athletics precinct, and a network of walking, running and cycling paths spanning 3 kilometres.

Additionally, the plan incorporates new environmental spaces dedicated to regenerating the critically endangered Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub.

Sustainable Solutions

Sustainability is a key focus, with the proposal incorporating a cleverly designed 500-space carpark built into the landscape. This not only addresses parking concerns but also aims to minimise the environmental footprint.

Preserving the Golf Course Legacy

The Moore Park Golf Collective emphasises preserving the iconic Moore Park Golf Course, a highly utilised public facility. The plan outlines a redesigned 18-hole course, par-68, allowing local, state and national competitions to continue. Additional golfing facilities include a mini-golf course, practice putting and chipping areas, and a modernised driving range with increased capacity.

Community Hub & Economic Benefits

This master plan positions Moore Park South as a vibrant community hub, catering to diverse recreational interests. The proposal also highlights the economic benefits, including significant job creation in various sectors and the continued operation of the thriving golf academy, which offers lessons for all ages and skill levels.

Published Date 18-November-2024

Sydney Rowers Dominate 2024 Australian Boat Race

Photo Credit: Australian Boat Race

The University of Sydney rowing teams secured a resounding victory in the 2024 Australian Boat Race on Sydney’s iconic Darling Harbour.

The annual event, which pits the best student-athletes from the University of Sydney and the University of Melbourne against each other, occurred on 27 October. Sydney’s crews triumphed in both the men’s and women’s eight races. The victory marked another chapter in the storied rivalry between the two institutions.

The Sydney women’s eight, coached by Alfie Young, and the men’s eight, coached by Don McLachlan, outperformed their Melbourne counterparts in a thrilling race that spanned 4.5 kilometres.

This event has been a tradition since 2009 and has become a significant event in the sporting calendar. This year’s competition was particularly special, as the race returned to Sydney Harbour after a hiatus.

The victory highlights the Sydney rowers’ athletic prowess and underscores the university’s commitment to fostering excellence in academics and sports.

Published Date 08-November-2024

Ward Park Fitness Classes Boost Health and Fight Isolation in Surry Hills

A community-driven outdoor exercise program based in Surry Hills is bringing residents together in Ward Park to improve physical health and reduce social isolation through weekly, free, and donation-based classes.

Outdoor Fitness for All Ages and Abilities

The Camp, an outdoor bootcamp and mobile personal training service, offers two inclusive exercise classes at Ward Park each week, designed to support the health and well-being of local residents.

One session, held on Fridays, is specifically tailored for residents of Social Housing in the area, welcoming participants of all ages and fitness levels to engage in a structured workout that fosters both physical and mental health.

Photo Credit: Supplied

The other session, Active Seniors, takes place on Mondays and is open to seniors in the neighbourhood. This class operates on a donation basis, making it accessible to those who might otherwise face barriers to fitness programs.

The community initiative began in April 2023 with the Northcott Fitness Workout for Social Housing residents, initially funded out of pocket with just three participants. The program quickly gained traction, with attendance steadily increasing to around 12 or more participants each week.

The success of these sessions has led to financial support from a City of Sydney Community Grant, enabling The Camp to continue providing the classes at no cost for the coming year.

Improving Health and Social Connection

Participants in these sessions range widely in age, with most attendees over 60 and the oldest participant being 86 years old. The workouts are designed to be adaptable to individual abilities, focusing on safe exercises that promote strength, mobility, and endurance.

Music plays throughout each session, adding a fun element that often ends in participants sharing a dance. The inclusive and flexible structure aims to improve health outcomes while allowing each person to go at their own pace.

The social impact of the classes has been significant. The Camp reports that many participants have found a renewed sense of community, making new friendships and enjoying regular social gatherings outside of the workouts.

Photo Credit: Supplied

For special events, such as Christmas and Easter, the group organises themed gatherings or small celebrations, providing additional opportunities for connection and enjoyment.

Continued Efforts and Community Impact

In August 2023, Lord Mayor Clover Moore awarded the camp and its founder a Certificate of Recognition for their contribution to local health and community. The Camp hopes to find further funding to make the Active Seniors class free of charge, ensuring no barriers to participation.

The classes run year-round, adapting to weather changes by using the Northcott Community Centre when needed. For residents of Surry Hills, these classes provide a consistent and supportive environment to work on their fitness, connect with others, and enjoy the benefits of exercising outdoors. With their continued success, The Camp aims to keep fostering a healthier, more connected community for the long term.

Published 7-Nov-2024

Surry Hills Exhibition Celebrates Halloween with Art, Film, and Performance

A new Halloween-inspired art exhibition and costume party has taken over the TAP Gallery in Surry Hills, offering an immersive experience that explores the spooky season through art, performance, and community gatherings.

Event Overview

The exhibition “This is Halloween,” hosted by Artists Supporting Artists International (ASAI) in collaboration with TAP Gallery, runs until 3 November 2024. This event marks ASAI’s first group exhibition, which is open to the public.

Organisers invite Sydneysiders to experience a unique fusion of visual art, poetry, music, film, and live performances that celebrate Halloween’s eerie and whimsical themes.

“This is Halloween” promises to showcase a wide variety of artwork, with submissions coming from both local and international artists. The event aims to highlight the creativity of artists who delve into Halloween’s darker, more mysterious aspects while also reflecting on themes of transformation and festivity. According to ASAI representative Kath Harding, the exhibition is as much about fostering a community of artists as it celebrates the holiday, offering a platform for creatives to connect and share their work with the public.

Tap Gallery Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Event Schedule

Following the opening, attendees can look forward to a Halloween party on Saturday, November 2, beginning at 7:00 p.m.

Performers throughout the week include poet Brian Bell, artist Julia Phillips, with Anousheh St Germain presenting “Samovar,” and Josh Shipton’s improvisational pieces. The event will close on Sunday, November 3, at 10:00 p.m., wrapping up a week filled with creative exploration and community interaction.

About the Venue and Organisers

The TAP Gallery, located at 259 Riley Street in Surry Hills, has been a mainstay in Sydney’s art scene since 1990. It supports emerging artists by providing a space to showcase their work and engage with the local community. Known for its long-standing commitment to accessible, artist-run spaces, TAP Gallery is partnering with ASAI to bring this event to life.

ASAI’s mission is to foster a global community of artists, providing opportunities for collaboration and exhibitions that allow artists to reach wider audiences. The “This is Halloween” exhibition is an extension of ASAI’s goals, designed to bring people together through art and inspire curiosity during the Halloween season.

Published 31-Oct-2024

Sofitel Sydney Wentworth Reopens After $70-Million Revamp

Photo Credit: Sofitel Sydney Wentworth

After a major $70 million overhaul, Sydney’s iconic Sofitel Sydney Wentworth has reopened, honoring its legacy as Australia’s first international hotel while embracing a sleek, modern aesthetic.

This grand dame of Sydney’s hotel scene, once the largest brick building in the southern hemisphere, has been reimagined for the modern age while honouring its 1960s origins.

Initially built in 1966 as Australia’s first international hotel, the distinctive curved structure replaced an earlier grand hotel that bore the Wentworth name—synonymous with Sydney’s past. This latest transformation, spearheaded by renowned design studio FK (formerly Fender Katsalidis), blends 1960s modernism with cutting-edge technology.

Highlights of the Refurbishment

*Photo Credit:* *Sofitel Sydney Wentworth*

A revitalised exterior: Clad in bronze, the hotel’s façade presents a striking new entrance leading to a redesigned lobby with intimate lounge areas and streamlined check-in stations.

Refreshed guest rooms: All 436 rooms and suites have been updated with a focus on contemporary comfort and technology, including “wellness bags” with exercise gear for guests.

Expanded culinary offerings: A key element of the renovation is the introduction of new dining experiences curated by Sydney’s acclaimed House Made Hospitality.

The hotel, known for hosting prominent figures like Princess Diana, offers new services to attract international travellers and residents.

With its panoramic city views, the revitalised Wentworth Bar is expected to be a particular drawcard, potentially breathing new life into the historic Wentworth name.

Published Date 30-October-2024