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Former Sydney Rooster James Maloney’s Missing Son Found Safe

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.

Read: Reimagining Moore Park South: What the Community Wants

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.

Relief and gratitude

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A post shared by Jess Maloney (@jess_maloney88)

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.

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

James Maloney, NRL icon

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.

Published 23-December-2024

Reimagining Moore Park South: What the Community Wants

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.

Read: Moore Park Golf Course Announces Bold Expansion Plan

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

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

Moore Park South — 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

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.

Read: Moore Park Entertainment Plans Scaled Back After Resident Backlash

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.

Published 18-December-2024

Surry Hills Nightlife to Shine Brighter with New Hotel Development

Photo Credit: City Of Sydney

Did you know that plans are underway to transform the historic Sutton Forest Meat Company building on George Street into a $63-million hotel?

Surry Hills nightlife — *Photo Credit:* *City Of Sydney*

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.

Published Date 18-December-2024

Darlington Public School Beats Global Icons to Win World Building of the Year

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.

A Small School with a Big Win

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.

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.

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.

Published 18-Dec-2024

Surry Hills Hotel Set to Showcase Local Craftsmanship with 2025 Launch

The EVE in Surry Hills offers thoughtfully designed spaces that celebrate the neighbourhood’s artistic identity and foster local connections.

Luxury Hotel Surry Hills — *Photo Credits: The EVE Hotel*

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.

Surry Hills Luxury Hotel Launch Coming Soon — *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.

Luxury Hotel to Debut in Surry Hills — *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.

Surry Hills Welcomes New Luxury Hotel — *Photo Credits: The EVE Hotel*

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.

Published 17-Dec-2024

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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A post shared by Time & Place (@timeplaceprop)

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