Surry Hills Archives - Page 6 of 19

Surry Hills in Focus: DNA Project Reveals Ancestral Surprises

Residents of Surry Hills have participated in a large-scale DNA testing project as part of an Australian documentary series uncovering unexpected ancestral connections.

Background and Format of the Series

The four-part documentary series, The Secret DNA of Us, began airing on SBS on 17 April 2025. Hosted by Marc Fennell, with Rae Johnston and Brad Argent, the program offers mass DNA testing to residents in four Australian locations, including Surry Hills. The series aims to reveal hidden family ties and reshape understandings of local and national identity through genetic science.

Developed over ten years and initially trialled in the Cotswolds, the project was ultimately realised in Australia. The featured locations span Bairnsdale, Geelong, Bathurst, and Surry Hills in Sydney’s inner suburbs.

*Caption: Mr Marc Fennell*
*Photo Credit: Marc Fennell/Facebook*

Surry Hills Episode: Layers of Migration and Identity

In the Surry Hills episode, DNA results expose complex waves of migration and identity. Stories include links to Russian refugees who arrived through displacement camps and previously unknown ties to underworld figure Kate Leigh. These findings illustrate how successive immigration waves shaped the suburb’s distinctive social fabric.

While some family myths were debunked, others were confirmed in greater detail than previously known. Participants uncovered unexpected ethnic backgrounds and long-lost connections, with some discovering they were related to each other.

Surry Hills DNA Testing — *Photo Credit: Marc Fennell/Facebook*

Ethical Considerations and Participant Experience

While many residents embraced the process, some declined due to concerns around genetic privacy and unexpected revelations. Series producers emphasised voluntary participation and prioritised community safety and emotional care. Participants were briefed on potential outcomes, including the discovery of unknown biological relatives or corrections to assumed ethnic identities.

The team stressed that while DNA offers powerful insights, it cannot replace cultural identity, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Ms Johnston noted that identity also involves connection and acceptance within communities, beyond genetic markers.

The Secret DNA of Us Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: Marc Fennell/Facebook*

Broader Relevance and Impacts

The series reflects a shift in public attitudes towards Australian ancestry. Once-taboo connections, such as convict heritage, are now seen with interest or pride. The program encourages viewers to examine the roles ancestors may have played in Australia’s colonial and post-colonial narratives.

Mr Fennell explained that combining DNA analysis with historical records allows the team to reconstruct local and national stories, showing Australians as the latest chapter in a much older lineage.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The Surry Hills instalment of The Secret DNA of Us airs as the second episode in the series, available weekly on SBS and SBS On Demand. The series demonstrates how combining scientific tools with personal narratives can transform perspectives on identity and reveal previously unknown historical links.

Published 24-Apr-2025

MLK Deli Ordered to Clear Outdoor Seating in Surry Hills

Photo Credit: Paul Fleetwood/Facebook

MLK Deli in Surry Hills has been blocked from using footpath space for outdoor seating, a practice that has sparked safety concerns and resident complaints.

Mlk Deli Told To Remove Outdoor Seating After Local Complaints In Surry Hills

MLK Deli, a popular eatery in Surry Hills, has been told to stop using part of the footpath for outdoor dining after complaints from nearby residents led to a formal review by the City of Sydney Council.

MLK Deli’s plan to add tables and benches to 12 square metres of footpath was knocked back, with council citing safety rules and a lack of space for pedestrians.

Council Denies Application Over Footpath Width And Safety

The City of Sydney said the deli’s plan breached Outdoor Dining Guidelines, which require at least two metres of clear footpath. The proposed layout would have reduced it to 1.5 metres.

Owner Myra Karakelle said the extra seating aimed to ease indoor crowding and improve safety after nearby tree branches fell. She called the refusal unfair, citing council support for outdoor dining.

Community Concerns Led To Investigation

Nearby residents raised concerns about noise, litter, and safety on the narrow footpath. One claimed the deli had previously placed stools outside without approval, prompting a complaint.

The council confirmed that these issues were taken into account when making its decision. Council staff carried out a site inspection before formally refusing the application.

Deli Owner Accepts Decision But Remains Disappointed

Karakelle said she’d remove the outdoor furniture as required, though she felt a small group of locals may have influenced the decision. Despite her disappointment, she values the Surry Hills community and plans to keep operating within the rules.

Council records show each outdoor dining application is assessed individually, with rules in place to protect public space and pedestrian safety in busy areas.

Published 15-April-2025

New Glebe-Ultimo Cycleway Opens, Paving Way for Surry Hills Link

Photo Credit: LMCloverMoore/Facebook

Sydney cyclists now have a safer 650-metre route between Glebe and Ultimo, advancing the city’s plan for an important connected cycleway reaching into Surry Hills.

New Route Details

A new separated, two-way cycleway is now open and ready for use along Mary Ann and Kelly streets. This path stretches for 650 metres, creating a dedicated east-west link for people riding bikes. It connects riders travelling directly from the lower-traffic streets in Glebe to the Goods Line pathway in Ultimo. From there, cyclists have easier access into Darling Harbour, Haymarket, and other parts of the city centre.

Safer Travel for Community

The opening of this cycleway is particularly good news for the many students and teachers in the area. It provides a much safer journey for those cycling to campuses like the International Grammar School, TAFE NSW, and the University of Technology, Sydney.

The project aims to make cycling a more attractive and secure option than travelling by car through the precinct by creating a separated path. As part of the work, a new crossing for pedestrians and cyclists was also installed at Jones Street, making it safer for people walking near TAFE NSW and UTS.

City Vision for Cycling

Lord Mayor of Sydney Clover Moore AO stated that the city is committed to delivering more bike lanes and improving connections within the cycling network. She emphasised that the goal is to ensure that people who choose to cycle around Sydney can do so safely.

The Lord Mayor noted that this important east-west link will significantly improve cyclist safety, benefiting local residents who might leave their cars at home and the large student population. She added that cycling is a cost-effective and healthy transport choice, and the City of Sydney continues to expand the network to benefit more people.

Transport for NSW’s Executive Director Cities Integration, Kathryn Crestani, said Transport was pleased to support City of Sydney on this project. Ms Crestani stated the new cycleway improves safety and access for riders in the CBD and will help reduce traffic congestion. She also highlighted that cycling supports healthier lifestyles, provides economic advantages for local neighbourhoods, and is an environmentally friendly option for individuals and the community.

Future Connections

This project is a step towards further improvements in Sydney’s cycling infrastructure. The City of Sydney plans to construct another dedicated cycling link, connecting Ultimo with Surry Hills, within the next year. This future project will use a mix of separated two-way cycleways, shared pathways, and routes along quiet streets. It aims to seamlessly connect the Goods Line and existing cycleways on Castlereagh Street and Campbell Street in Surry Hills.

Greener Streets

Alongside the cycling infrastructure, the project has added 300 square metres of new garden beds along the roads. These gardens are intended to help cool the surrounding area and make the streetscape more visually pleasant for the community. The Mary Ann and Kelly streets cycleway was delivered by City of Sydney and received funding from the NSW Government.

Published Date 10-April-2025

Surry Hills Crackdown: Police Charge Four Over Alleged Kidnapping

Photo Credit: NSW Police/Hightail

Four men have been charged following an alleged kidnapping and assault of two men in Sydney, with police making a key arrest in Surry Hills. The victims were reportedly held for ransom over an alleged drug debt before being rescued by authorities.

Background and Police Investigation

The incident came to light on 11 November 2024, when officers from Ryde Police Area Command received a referral from the Taiwanese Consulate regarding a 24-year-old Taiwanese man who had contacted his father overseas, claiming he had been kidnapped. The kidnappers allegedly demanded a ransom of approximately $480,000 AUD for his release.

Further inquiries revealed that a second hostage, a 26-year-old man, was also being held. However, his nationality has not been confirmed. The State Crime Command’s Robbery & Serious Crime Squad launched Strike Force Brackley to investigate.

At 5:45 a.m. on 12 November 2024, detectives—assisted by the Tactical Operations Unit—raided a property in Ermington, where both victims were found. It is alleged that the men had been detained and assaulted for two days, with one of them initially held at another location in Western Sydney before being moved to Ermington.

Strike Force Brackley — *Photo Credit: NSW Police/Hightail*

Arrests and Charges

Authorities have since made multiple arrests in connection with the case:

12 November 2024: A 23-year-old man was arrested at the Ermington property and taken to Gladesville Police Station. He was charged with two counts of take/detain in company with intent to ransom occasion actual bodily harm. He was refused bail and appeared in Burwood Local Court the next day.
12 December 2024: A 37-year-old man was arrested outside an office in Surry Hills. He was charged with take/detain in company with intent to ransom, occasion actual bodily harm, and use of an unauthorised pistol, among other offences. He was refused bail and appeared in Downing Centre Local Court on 13 December 2024.
11 March 2025: A 28-year-old man was arrested in Haymarket during a search warrant operation. He was charged with two counts of take/detain in company with intent to ransom occasion actual bodily harm and knowingly directing activities of a criminal group.
18 March 2025: A 29-year-old man was arrested in Belmore following a search warrant operation executed by detectives and the South West Metropolitan Operational Support Group. He was charged with two counts of take/detain in company with intent to ransom occasion actual bodily harm and participating in a criminal group.

kidnapping case — *Photo Credit: NSW Police/Hightail*

All four suspects were refused bail and are set to appear in court.

Surry Hills and the Criminal Network

The arrest in Surry Hills highlights the suburb’s role in ongoing police operations targeting organised crime. The 37-year-old suspect was apprehended outside an office in Surry Hills, reinforcing concerns about criminal groups operating within Sydney’s inner-city districts.

While the exact nature of the alleged drug debt remains undisclosed, police suspect it was a key motive behind the hostage-taking. Authorities are continuing to investigate potential links to criminal networks.

Surry Hills kidnapping case — *Photo Credit: NSW Police/Hightail*

Community and Law Enforcement Response

The case has drawn significant public attention. NSW Police urge the public to report any suspicious activities linked to criminal groups. The Robbery & Serious Crime Squad has reiterated its commitment to dismantling organised crime networks. Strike Force Brackley will continue its investigations.

What Happens Next?

The accused individuals remain in custody. Their court appearances are set to proceed. Authorities encourage potential victims of extortion and threats to come forward as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle organised crime syndicates.

Published 19-Mar-2025

Helmet Shortages Leave Surry Hills E-Bike Riders at Risk

Photo Credit: Pexels

A significant number of shared e-bikes in Surry Hills are missing helmets, leaving riders exposed to hefty fines and safety risks. Spot checks reveal that only 15 per cent of available bikes have helmets attached, forcing many users to ride without protection or risk a $344 penalty.

Widespread Helmet Absence Raises Safety Concerns

An investigation at the Bourke Street and Devonshire Street intersection in Surry Hills revealed a major shortage of helmets on shared e-bikes. Over three days, only 17 out of 110 bikes inspected had helmets available. The three leading providers—Lime, Hello Bike, and Ario—were all found to have limited helmet availability. Lime was identified as the least equipped.

Private bike riders demonstrated far higher helmet compliance, with 95 per cent of observed cyclists using properly secured headgear. In contrast, many shared e-bike users rode without helmets or brought their own due to the lack of available options.

Lime e-bikes — Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pexels

Fines and Safety Risks for Riders

The issue extends beyond safety concerns. Helmet violations in NSW come with steep financial penalties. Over the past eight months, police have issued close to $800,000 in fines for helmet-related infractions. The standard penalty for riding without a properly secured helmet is $344, creating a financial burden for those caught without one.

Regular users of shared e-bikes have pointed to availability and quality issues, noting that when helmets are provided, they are often in poor condition. Reports indicate that many helmets found on shared bikes are loose, missing padding, or visibly damaged, raising further concerns about their safety.

Pressure Mounts on E-Bike Providers

Cycling advocates and business leaders call for e-bike operators to take greater responsibility for ensuring helmets are available and properly maintained. Industry representatives argue that providers should be held accountable when bikes are repeatedly left without helmets, particularly for extended periods.

There are also calls for improved security measures to prevent helmets from being stolen or discarded. Some industry figures have suggested that technology could be implemented to better secure helmets to bikes, ensuring they remain available for riders.

Surry Hills e-bikes — Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pexels

E-Bike Providers Respond to Concerns

Rideshare companies are actively working to replace missing helmets and improve safety standards. Lime, which serves many Sydney riders, has stated that its operations team continuously monitors and replaces helmets but acknowledges room for improvement.

Push for Statewide Regulations

Beyond individual company policies, there is increasing pressure on NSW city officials to implement standardised regulations for e-bikes and e-scooters. Currently, different authorities enforce varying rules, creating inconsistencies across regions. A unified statewide approach could help address ongoing safety and operational challenges.

Helmet shortages persist in Surry Hills and other areas. Concerns over rider safety and financial penalties remain pressing. Calls for stronger regulation continue growing as e-bike providers and policymakers face mounting pressure to improve safety measures.

Published 18-Mar-2025

New Semi-Private Reformer Pilates for Expecting Mothers Arrives in Surry Hills

Photo Credit: One Playground

Sydney’s One Playground has launched a specialised semi-private Reformer Pilates program at its new wellness hub, Urban Oasis, in Surry Hills. The program is designed to support the physical well-being of expecting mothers and offers a structured and safe approach to fitness during pregnancy.

Tailored Pre-Natal Support in a Semi-Private Setting

The Urban Oasis wellness hub in Surry Hills has expanded its offerings with a Pilates program that bridges the gap between private coaching and larger group classes. The semi-private format allows for personalised instruction while maintaining the benefits of a small group environment, with each class capped at six participants.

Led by certified Pilates instructors, the program focuses on core stability, posture correction, flexibility, and pelvic floor strength, ensuring a safe and effective workout for pre-natal clients. The structured eight-week cycle provides a progressive approach, with exercises designed to support the body’s changing needs throughout pregnancy.

Surry Hills pre-natal Pilates — *Photo Credit: One Playground*

Why Expecting Mothers Are Choosing Semi-Private Reformer Pilates

The benefits of Pilates during pregnancy are well-documented, with improvements in posture, circulation, and back pain relief, as well as strengthening key muscle groups needed for childbirth and post-natal recovery. One Playground’s semi-private approach enhances these benefits by allowing instructors to provide individualised attention, ensuring that exercises are adapted to each participant’s fitness level and stage of pregnancy.

The program extends beyond pregnancy. It offers Align and Tone sessions available for post-natal recovery. These sessions target core rehabilitation, flexibility, and muscle recovery, ensuring continued support after childbirth.

Pre-natal fitness — *Photo Credit: One Playground*

Urban Oasis: A Wellness Destination in Surry Hills

Urban Oasis, located at 41 Holt Street, is One Playground’s newest wellness hub, offering a range of fitness and recovery services. The 750-square-metre facility houses three dedicated wellness studios, a recovery suite with infrared saunas and contrast therapy, and premium amenities, all available under the Play membership.

With over 150 weekly classes, members can access various wellness programs, including the semi-private Reformer Pilates sessions. The centre’s focus on personalised fitness and recovery aligns with One Playground’s vision of holistic well-being in an accessible, community-driven setting.

Urban Oasis Pilates — *Photo Credit: One Playground*

Urban Oasis Opening Hours:

General Opening Hours: 5 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Staffed Hours:
Monday – Friday: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday – Sunday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

How to Join the Pre-Natal Pilates Program

The semi-private pre-natal Pilates program is now available at Urban Oasis in Surry Hills. Expecting mothers can select one to three sessions per week, based on individual needs. Bookings can be made via One Playground’s website. Interested clients can join the semi-private Reformer Pilates waitlist.

Published 7-Mar-2025

The Agency Establishes New Hub in Surry Hills, Connecting 50 Sydney Suburbs

Photo Credit: The Agency

The Agency has strategically chosen Surry Hills as the location for its new flagship office, positioning itself in one of Sydney’s most vibrant inner-city neighbourhoods. The office brings together real estate professionals serving more than 50 Sydney suburbs under a single roof.

The Surry Hills location places The Agency at a central point in Sydney’s property landscape, with the neighbourhood itself known for its blend of heritage architecture, creative industries, and premium real estate.

Matt Lahood, The Agency’s CEO of Real Estate, highlighted the strategic benefits of the Surry Hills location, noting that it provides state-of-the-art facilities within a new development. The office’s position in this well-connected suburb allows agents to service clients across a wide radius of Sydney locations more efficiently.

**Matt Lahood, Founder and CEO Real Estate**
Photo Credit: The Agency

The surrounding Surry Hills amenities, including nearby coffee shops and restaurants, create additional spaces for client meetings and team collaboration. This integration with the local business ecosystem is already enhancing the work experience, according to Lahood.

The selection of Surry Hills aligns with The Agency’s broader expansion plans for 2025, with the central Sydney location serving as a cornerstone for growth targets throughout the city, New South Wales, and nationally.

Published 25-February-2025

Surry Hills Warehouse to Become $500m Apartment Complex

Surry Hills is poised for a major facelift with the $500-million redevelopment plan for the historic Marlborough House.

The warehouse, sold by a company connected to James Packer for $110 million, will be transformed into a luxury apartment complex by developer Time & Place.

This ambitious project will create 150 residences, including 26 affordable housing units. Located on Marlborough Street, the development is just a stone’s throw from another recently completed half-billion-dollar project by Toga, Surry Hills Village.

Anthony Falas, Toga’s executive general manager, expressed his support for the Time & Place development, believing it will raise the bar for apartment living in Surry Hills, an area currently dominated by older housing stock. He also anticipates the influx of new residents will boost the local economy, particularly the vibrant retail and dining scene.

Toga’s Surry Hills Village development has attracted many buyers from affluent eastern suburbs like Paddington and Woollahra, demonstrating the area’s growing appeal. Surry Hills Village is a testament to the suburb’s transformation. It boasts a bustling laneway precinct with popular establishments like Olympus Greek restaurant, Island Radio Asian fusion eatery, Regina Pizza, and Messina gelato.

Further additions to the hub are on the horizon, including the Baptist St Rec Club and Lottie, a new Mexican restaurant atop the 102-room boutique Eve. This flourishing food and retail scene, which also features a Coles and Harris Farm, is expected to be a major drawcard for the area’s current and future residents.

The Marlborough House site, spanning over 3400 square metres, was sold for the first time in over half a century. The deal, brokered by JLL and The Agency, marks a new chapter for the historic building, originally constructed between 1914 and 1934 as a factory for David Jones.

Time & Place, in partnership with investment firm NPACT, will submit their plans to the NSW Government for approval as a significant development project. A design competition will follow, with demolition slated for 2027 and project completion expected two years later.

Published Date 23-Feb-2025

Community Pays Tribute to NSW Police Officer Found Dead in Surry Hills

Heartfelt tributes have poured in for Senior Constable Mark Hobson, whose body was discovered inside the Sydney Police Centre in Surry Hills. His passing has sparked an outpouring of grief, with many highlighting the pressures faced by police officers and the need for better mental health support within the force.

The 52-year-old officer, remembered by colleagues and community members as a kind and dedicated man, was found early on Monday morning, 10 February 2025.

Mr Hobson had served in the NSW Police Force since 1996, following in the footsteps of his father, a retired sergeant. He was well-regarded by colleagues, with former associates describing him as a helpful and professional officer who played a vital role in major operations. Social media tributes have flooded in, with messages such as “Rest in peace, brother in blue” and “Thank you for your service” reflecting the community’s deep sorrow.

Investigation Underway, No Suspicious Circumstances

NSW Police have confirmed that an investigation into Hobson’s death is ongoing, but authorities have stated that there are no suspicious circumstances. A coroner’s report will be prepared to formally determine the cause of death.

Police Commissioner Karen Webb visited the Sydney Police Centre following the incident, expressing condolences to Hobson’s family and colleagues. She assured that support services would be available to all those affected by the tragedy.

“Our hearts go out to the officer’s family,” Ms Webb stated, acknowledging the profound impact of the loss on the police force.

Surry Hills Police — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Concerns Raised Over Mental Health in Policing

The tragic news has also reignited discussions about mental health challenges within law enforcement. Some community members have expressed concerns about the emotional toll of policing, calling for increased support for officers.

Comments on social media have pointed to the stress and demands of the job, with one user writing, “This is so sad and shows the pressures of this job.” Others urged struggling officers to seek help, reinforcing the importance of mental health awareness.

Mr Hobson’s colleagues described him as someone who always assisted others, particularly in his role at the State Technical Investigations Branch. Many have reflected on his contributions to major operations, remembering him as a valued and respected force member.

Support Services Available

In response to the tragedy, support services have been made available for those in need. Organisations such as Lifeline (13 11 14), Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636), and MensLine Australia (1300 78 99 78) have encouraged anyone struggling to reach out for assistance.

Published 13-February-2025

Mixed Reactions as Surry Hills Development Moves Forward

Photo Credit: D/2024/122/CityOfSydney

A six-storey commercial building has been approved for construction in the heart of Surry Hills, set to transform 141-155 Commonwealth Street despite a wave of objections from local residents.

Sydney’s Local Planning Panel approved the project on 18 December 2024, paving the way for the demolition of existing structures and the introduction of new retail and office spaces alongside a landscaped rooftop terrace.

A Development Years in the Making

The site has a history of stalled projects, with previous approvals in 2015 and 2017 for student accommodation and a hotel, respectively. This latest proposal, designed by SJB Architecture, has secured the necessary green light after addressing concerns related to building height and floor space ratios under the Sydney Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2012.

The approved project includes a basement, commercial spaces across multiple levels, and a rooftop terrace designed to integrate urban greenery. The development will replace older buildings from the 1950s and an adjacent gravel car park, aiming to revitalise a long-neglected part of Surry Hills.

Community Voices: Support and Concerns

While some residents have welcomed the development as a much-needed improvement, others remain apprehensive. Concerns about overshadowing, loss of privacy, increased noise, and mental health impacts were prominent among the 21 community submissions received during the consultation period.

One resident expressed worries about the loss of visual privacy for east-facing apartments and potential light spill at night, which she believes will affect the quality of life for nearby occupants. Another resident highlighted that the reduction in solar access could negatively impact both the liveability of homes and the mental well-being of residents.

However, not all feedback was critical. A resident living opposite the site supported the redevelopment, noting that the current structure has been neglected, contributing to health issues like mould. The local believes the new project will rejuvenate the area and set a positive precedent for future developments in Surry Hills.

Heritage Considerations and Design Changes

The site’s rich history, once home to the Sydney Rescue Work Society and other social welfare organisations, also became a point of discussion. Some submissions suggested the inclusion of heritage interpretation elements, such as commemorative plaques, to honour the location’s past.

To address community concerns, modifications were made to the development conditions, including clarifications on protecting street trees, adjusting noise control measures, and ensuring rooftop activities respect residential privacy.

Published 5-February-2025