Surry Hills Archives - Page 8 of 15

Leather Lingerie-Clad Motorist Hits E-Bike Rider in Moore Park

A vehicle driven by a woman clad in leather lingerie who reportedly told Police she was a sex worker travelling between clients, allegedly ran over an e-bike rider in Moore Park. The e-bike rider bore visible tyre marks on his chest and pelvis, providing first responders with an idea of the nature and severity of the impact.

Emergency services rushed to South Dowling St, near the light rail intersection with Devonshire St, at 3:45 a.m. on Saturday, 3 Feb 2024. Paramedics attended to the cyclist, a 29-year-old man riding a Lime e-bike, at the scene before transporting him to St Vincent’s Hospital in a serious condition.

Injuries and Eyewitness Account

Eyewitness accounts suggest that the Subaru sedan may have run over the man following the initial collision. Dashcam footage from a taxi driver, submitted to the police, allegedly depicts the e-bike rider moving into the path of the car.

The driver of the car, identified as Cindy Pham, 26, reportedly confessed to being a sex worker en route to another job at the time of the collision. Clad in what appeared to be leather lingerie, Ms Pham allegedly returned a positive result on a roadside breath test and was subsequently taken to Surry Hills Police Station for further testing.

Legal Proceedings and Prior Offences

Pham’s history with the law reveals prior encounters with authorities.

In 2021, she was charged with drink driving, registering a blood alcohol reading of 0.08. Resulting in a ban from driving, she faced fines totaling $850 plus additional costs. Moreover, Pham received a one-year suspended jail sentence at Perth Magistrates Court for assault occasioning bodily harm, although details of the incident remained unclear.

In March 2022, she incurred further penalties when her good behaviour bond was breached, leading to an upgraded fine and costs. Subsequent infractions in 2023 for disorderly behavior and failure to provide police details saw Pham charged a total of $2500, alongside additional costs.

Despite her legal entanglements, Pham, recognised by a distinctive garter belt-style tattoo around her thigh, is known to operate independently as an escort, offering outcalls to clients’ homes. She was reportedly on a working holiday in Sydney when the accident occurred.

Pham faces charges of mid-range drink driving, with a scheduled court appearance set for 14 March 2024. However, authorities have yet to determine any charges directly related to the crash.

A crime scene has been established, with investigators from the Crash Investigation Unit probing the circumstances. Police urge witnesses or those with dashcam footage to contact Crime Stoppers via 1800 333 000.

Published 8-Feb-2024

Historic Surry Hills Terrace Home of Perkal Brothers, Shoemakers with Royal and Celebrity Connections, Set for Auction

A historic terrace home in Surry Hills will soon be up for auction. The Crown street home was once the creative hub of renowned Sydney bootmakers Morris and Adam Perkal, who crafted footwear for the likes of Queen Elizabeth II, the King of Tonga, the Beatles, Kerry Packer, and other celebrities.

A Rich History Beckons Auction Enthusiasts

Located on 386 Crown Street, the terrace will be up for bidding on 17 February 2024.

The terrace once housed the workshop of the Perkal brothers. Both of Polish descent, they survived the Holocaust and embarked on a new life in Sydney after World War II.

These renowned bespoke cobblers achieved fame for their craftsmanship, fashioning iconic golden slippers for Queen Elizabeth during her inaugural Australian tour in the 1950s. Their Cuban heel boots adorned the Beatles when the legendary band visited Australia in 1964, and media magnate Kerry Packer was among their most loyal patrons.

Perkal Brothers Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: Ray White Tuomo Group*

A New Chapter After the Perkal Brothers’ Demise

Tragically, the Perkal brothers passed away within a fortnight of each other in late 2013, and their cherished terrace at 386 Crown Street was sold to developers for $1.71 million the following year.

However, its story did not end there. In 2021, Brie Langley, co-owner of the renowned resort-wear brand Sara Fox, and her husband, Damien Langley, co-founder of Student Edge, Australia’s largest student membership organization, acquired the property for $3,695,500.

With their young son Ziggy, they are now bidding farewell to Surry Hills and returning to their hometown of Perth, intent on nurturing their respective business ventures.

A Revived Terrace and Promising Auction

The circa 1895 four-bedroom, three-bathroom terrace, which comes complete with parking, boasts a 5.5-meter frontage and sits on a 133-square-meter block. The property has been meticulously restored to its former glory and is generating considerable interest in the lead-up to its auction.

Charles Touma, principal of Ray White Touma Group, has placed a $3.5 million price guide on the terrace and has been delighted with the response thus far as the first open house became the “busiest open across inner Sydney” to kick off 2024.

Mr Touma also notes that the property market in his area is showing signs of growth, with a solid level of interest in open homes and an increase in listings. Furthermore, he believes that buyers have adapted to the stable interest rate environment, offering optimism for the real estate market.

As the auction date approaches, all eyes will undoubtedly be on this historically significant Surry Hills terrace, with its captivating past and a promising future in the hands of its new custodians.

Published 7-Feb-2024

Searching for a Home in Surry Hills: Navigating the Challenging Rental Market

The escalating rental crisis was evident one Saturday morning in Surry Hills as nearly 100 hopeful renters queued at an apartment above a local pub amidst fierce competition and a limited supply of properties.

The rental scene in Sydney has been fraught with challenges since January 2024, marking a distressing period for those searching for accommodation. The convergence of low property availability and competitive market conditions has thwarted people’s hopes for an early resolution to the ongoing housing dilemma.

Real estate insiders note a significant uptick in rental seekers, with some properties attracting over 100 hopefuls, particularly in sought-after locales such as Surry Hills. The scene on Cooper St in Surry Hills on 27 January 2024 proved this after a large crowd gathered to view two available units, priced at $975 and $875, respectively.

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Among the crowd was 22-year-old student Rania Raiqa, who, after weeks of fruitless searching, considered upping her offer in a bid to secure a roof over her head. With the process being first-come-first-served, Raiqa felt her options narrowing down to divine intervention.

The surge in demand traces back to December 2023, when rental availabilities dwindled to near-historic lows.

According to Jeremy Wiesner, principal at Wiesner Property, the turnout for the Cooper St property’s first viewing was unexpectedly large, hinting at the pent-up demand during the holiday season.

Experts predict no ease in the rental market’s pressure, with trends like remote working, lifestyle changes, and population growth fuelling demand.

Published 2-February-2024

Sydney’s First Pop-Up Cooling Hub Triumphs in Surry Hills

Surry Hills has witnessed the city’s first pop-up cooling hub at work, offering a refuge from the sweltering temperatures.

As the mercury soared to 36 degrees on 25 and 26 January 2024, the initiative provided a welcome respite, especially for socially disadvantaged individuals.

The cooling hub was set up in Ward Park, Surry Hills, and staffed by healthcare professionals. The initiative provided cooling strategies, monitored health indicators, and offered support services.

Addressing a Health Issue

Many Sydney locals face heightened exposure to extreme heat, whether sleeping on the streets, in cars, overcrowded housing, or in tents. The need to address this challenge has become increasingly apparent for communities, health organizations, governments, and councils.

The concept of the cooling hub in Surry Hills was inspired by overseas case studies and recent local experiences. The project is a collaborative effort involving the University of Sydney, St Vincent’s Homeless Health Service, and the City of Sydney.

Homelessness and Heat Emergency Activation Team (HHEATeam)

Dr Timothy English, the project’s leader, envisions scaling up the initiative to provide more relief to vulnerable individuals in the face of rising temperatures.

St Vincent’s Hospital and its partners view the cooling hubs as a crucial response to immediate issues caused by increasing heat patterns. They also offer an opportunity to provide longer-term support to those at risk of homelessness.

Extreme heat is a major contributor to hospitalisations and deaths, causing significant strain on healthcare systems and budgets.

Climate change presents a health emergency, with people experiencing homelessness particularly vulnerable due to difficulty finding cool spaces and existing health conditions.

A Blueprint for the Future

The experience gained from this initiative will be used to create a blueprint for other services to replicate and address the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals during extreme heat.

This initiative represented a climate justice response by working with disadvantaged communities to meet their needs during the climate crisis.

Published 29-Jan-2024

Canva HQ in Surry Hills Enters Exhibition Period for Planned $56 Million Transformation

The dynamic duo behind Canva, billionaire founders Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht, have unveiled plans for a remarkable transformation of their Surry Hills headquarters in Sydney.

Located on Kippax Street, just a stone’s throw from Central Station, their $123.25 million acquisition of a nine-level building in late 2022 set the stage for this ambitious venture. The project, set to receive a $56 million investment, has enlisted the expertise of Cox Architecture.

As of press time, the development plans (D/2023/1162) have entered the exhibition period, between 11 Jan to 13 Feb 2024, marking a significant step in the transformation of Canva’s Surry Hills headquarters.

Innovation and Creativity at Canva’s Core

In the development application submitted to the City of Sydney Council in November 2023, Cox Architecture underlines that innovation and creativity have always been at the heart of Canva’s DNA, driving their team to deliver their best work consistently.

This commitment to excellence earned Canva the prestigious title of “Best Workplace for Innovators” on Fast Company’s 2023 list, a global recognition of their dedication to fostering creativity within their workspace.

For 8-24 Kippax Street, the conceptual narrative revolves around creating a workplace that nurtures growth and culture, where the culture, in turn, shapes the environment.

A Redesigned Facade and Elevated Experience

The forthcoming redevelopment plans encompass an overhaul of the existing nine-level building facade, as well as an additional level that will house a new rooftop and terrace. This rooftop space is envisioned to serve as a hub for Canva’s employees, collaborators, and guests to congregate, connect, and celebrate the unique ‘vibe’ that defines the company.

Canva HQ Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: D/2023/1162*

In line with Canva’s commitment to being a “Force for Good” and doing more with less, the proposed rooftop additions maintain the integrity of the existing building while making strategic interventions to enhance functionality and sustainability, including the introduction of natural light.

Beyond the façade and rooftop transformation, the redevelopment project includes the removal of ground and underground parking levels. In their place, a new ground-floor café and lower-ground gym, studio, and community space will be introduced. Adding to the project’s artistic flair, Canva will also commission a mural on the eastern façade to complement the extended building height.

Canva’s Journey to Billionaire Status

Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht founded Canva during their studies in Western Australia back in 2013. Remarkably, Melanie Perkins became Australia’s youngest billionaire at just 36 years old, with their combined net worth estimated to be around $10 billion, as reported in The Australian’s “The List Richest 250.”

Recent news also indicates that early investors and employees of Canva are gearing up to sell approximately $1.5 billion worth of stock, as the company’s valuation continues to soar, currently estimated at a staggering $40 billion.

Published 16-Jan-2024

The Resilient Revival of Surry Hills Hat Factory: From Ashes to Heritage Hotel

Photo Credit: D/2023/1170

Following the devastating inferno that consumed a hat factory in Surry Hills, a developer has submitted a $42-million proposal to build a hotel in the area.

Despite the destructive fire that decimated the factory in May 2023, Hanave is committed to resurrecting the site, staying true to the original design approved back in late 2019. Salvaging existing bricks for future use and incorporating remnants from the fire’s aftermath into the hotel’s interior design, including charred timber posts and the original fire bell, adds a unique touch to the restoration.

Surry Hills Hat Hotel — *Photo Credit: D/2023/1170*

The amended plans for the hotel reveal a comprehensive vision for the site’s transformation. Within the heritage-listed hat factory building, a nine-storey hotel will emerge, offering 123 rooms, providing a blend of modern comfort and historic charm. Alongside the guest rooms, the hotel will feature two restaurants and a bar and cafe, providing a range of dining options for visitors and locals alike.

Plans for the “Hat Hotel” are currently open for public exhibition until 6 Feb 2024, inviting the community to engage and offer input on this ambitious restoration project.

History and Significance of the Hat Factory

Built in 1912 for R. C. Henderson, a renowned ladies’ hat manufacturer, the hat factory is special in local history, having contributed significantly to the Australian production of felt and straw hats. The factory’s closure in the 1950s marked the decline of the millinery industry in Sydney, symbolising societal changes and women’s emancipation. Restoring its brick facade, proportions, patterns, and detailing will honour its historical importance.

Frank Howarth, Chair of the Heritage Council of NSW, commends the adaptive reuse of old buildings into hotels, citing successful examples like the Capella Hotel and Kimpton Margot. Such projects, when executed well, contribute positively to heritage preservation.

The Tragic Fire and Legal Proceedings

In August, two 13-year-old boys were charged for the fire that engulfed the abandoned Surry Hills building, creating a spectacle visible on national TV networks. Legal proceedings are ongoing.

Situated near the new Central Metro station’s eastern entry point, the site’s redevelopment aligns with the broader transformation of Central Station and the Tech Central precinct. This promises to attract more investment to the Surry Hills area, making it a hub of activity and development.

Published 10-Jan-2024

Sydney Girls High School Students Included in HSC All-Round Achievers List

Several Sydney Girls High School students in Surry Hills have delivered an excellent turnout in the 2023 Higher School Certificate standings, making it to the list of All-Round Achievers, and underscoring the school’s excellent standards for academic achievement.

Reaching the illustrious All-Round Achievers List is an extraordinary feat. To join this select group, students must achieve the highest possible band score in ten or more units of study.

This achievement demonstrates a remarkable level of academic versatility and excellence across a diverse range of subjects.

In this year’s All-Round Achievers list, Sydney Girls High School has achieved noteworthy results.

Information Processes and Technology

Rion Iwano secured the 4th place

Mathematics Advanced

Sydney Wang attained the 4th place
Nikita Badve earned the 6th place
Naeun Kim achieved the 18th place

Sydney Girls High School Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

While Sydney Girls High School stands out in Surry Hills, various other schools, both selective and non-selective, have made their mark in the HSC rankings.

Baulkham Hills High School, a co-ed public selective school, boasts a remarkable 54 students who achieved the highest band in ten units or more. Sydney Boys High, located in Moore Park, shines with 29 All Round Achievers.

In the Distinguished Achievers list, 18,516 students out of a total of 68,689 currently pursuing their HSC studies in 2023 have secured a place. To gain this distinction, students must attain the highest possible band score in one or more of their courses, showcasing their exceptional academic skills and dedication. Notably, Knox leads the Distinguished Achievers List with 343 students, followed by Baulkham Hills High, Barker College, Sydney Boys, and James Ruse.

For the most competitive accolade, the Top Achievers List, 879 students have been selected this year. To earn a place on this prestigious list, students must rank within the top 20 for subjects with more than 10,000 students or the top five for subjects with smaller enrolments, such as certain languages. Sydney Grammar, James Ruse, and Knox lead the way with impressive numbers of high-achieving students.

Meanwhile, individuals such as Darshanik Aryal at James Ruse, William Jones and Jeremy Wong at Sydney Grammar, Guanyu Zhu at North Sydney Boys, Chris Yoo at Kings, and Aaron Yuen at North Sydney Boys have earned recognition for their exceptional performances.

Published 18-Dec-2023

3 Things You May Not Know About the Adam Goodes Mural in Surry Hills

Here are 3 things you may not know about the two-storey portrait of former Sydney Swans star player Adam Goodes, at the corner of Crown Street and Foveaux Street in Surry Hills. The mural is a little over a kilometre away from the SCG, home ground of Goodes’ former footy team.

1. It took just eight hours to create.

It took four professional artists from Apparition Media eight hours atop a cherry picker to render the AFL legend’s likeness in extraordinary detail.

2. The mural’s creation and unveiling day was delayed by 4 months.

The mural was originally planned to be created and unveiled in February 2020 but the coronavirus health crisis derailed the initial plans. It wasn’t until June 2020 when it came into fruition.

Read: Mural Honouring AFL Legend Buddy Franklin in Surry Hills Rejected

3. The mural was not really created to make a statement about the Black Lives Matter movement.

Actually, its rescheduled appearance was meant to coincide with the return of the 2020 AFL season which kicked off on June 11, 2020 — the same day that the mural went up.

Less than a week before the mural made a splash in the neighborhood, massive demonstrations about the Black Lives Matter movement had taken place across Australia.

Goodes, who is of mixed Adnyamathanha and Narungga heritage, is a well-known advocate of First Nations rights in the country. Having the mural out just after the demonstrations broke was taken as a message of support by many people. Many still recall the circumstances of his untimely retirement in 2015, when his stance on racial abuse in football elicited both media criticism and racist boos from the fans.

Read: Top-Rated Restaurants In Surry Hills

Surry Hills Church Set for a Modern Makeover, See the Ambitious Plans

Surry Hills is set to witness a blend of heritage and modernity as the Toga Group undertakes an ambitious project to transform a historic Gothic church into a modern, mixed-use development.

A Blend of Old and New

At the heart of this development is The Kirk, a deconsecrated Victorian Gothic church located at 422-424 Cleveland Street. Built in 1879, this landmark has served various roles, from a place of worship to a hub of Sydney’s nightlife. Now, it’s poised to embrace a new era.

Toga Group’s plan, crafted in collaboration with EM BE CE Architects, envisions a harmonious blend of the church’s historic charm with contemporary architecture.

The project, filed via DA – D/2023/997, will see the demolition of rear additions to The Kirk, making way for a five-storey rear infill building. This new structure is set to connect to the church via a newly constructed basement level, creating a seamless integration of the old and the new.

Photo Credit: DA – D/2023/997

A Space for Everyone

The proposed development is not just about preserving a piece of history but also about creating a vibrant, multi-functional space. The mixed-use facility aims to house commercial office spaces and end-of-journey facilities in the new building. Additionally, a licensed restaurant is planned to span across both the church and the new building, offering a unique dining experience.

Noteworthy is the architectural design that includes a mid-building connection with the upper mezzanine level of The Kirk. This feature, along with open pitched portals as a roof feature, is set to add a distinctive character to the development.

Respecting the Past, Embracing the Future

A crucial aspect of this redevelopment is the sensitivity towards the heritage of The Kirk and its integration with the surrounding streetscape. Despite not being listed as a local or state heritage item, The Kirk holds a special place in the heart of Surry Hills, a sentiment Toga Group is keen to respect.

The Kirk’s history is rich and varied. After ceasing its role as a place of worship in 1970, it transformed into an exhibition space, a community centre, and a concert venue. It became a symbol of Sydney’s wildest nightlife under the ownership of Gretel Pinniger, known as Madame Lash.

Adding to its historical significance, Australian rock legends AC/DC shot their music video for “Let There Be Rock” in this very church in 1977.

A Broader Vision for Surry Hills

Toga Group’s vision extends beyond The Kirk. The developer plans a comprehensive redevelopment of Surry Hills, encompassing residences, restaurants, boutiques, and workspaces as part of the Surry Hills Village project. This initiative aligns with the council’s vision for the area as a crucial transport corridor and commercial hub.

Adjacent to The Kirk, Toga Group is also progressing with the $200-million redevelopment of the Surry Hills Village Shopping Centre. This project, currently under construction, includes buildings up to seven storeys and is touted as an emerging influence in the locality.

Published 5-Dec-2023

Surry Hills: Triumph Over Adversity at Central Station

Six months after an intense blaze in an adjacent building threatened to derail the plans for Sydney’s transport hub, the new Chalmers Street entrance of Central Station has recently opened, symbolising resilience and progress.

In May 2023, a fire erupted in an abandoned seven-storey building on Randle Street, mere metres from Central Station’s new Chalmers Street entrance. This inferno brought with it a wave of destruction, causing extensive structural and water damage to the station’s entrance, which was on the cusp of opening to the public.

The emergency response was swift and decisive. Within three minutes of the blaze being reported, Rail Fire & Emergency personnel, along with Fire & Rescue NSW teams, were on site, battling the flames.

Their efforts were concentrated in the narrow laneway separating the inferno from Central Station. Their heroism and quick action prevented a potential catastrophe at Australia’s busiest railway station.

The path to restoration was arduous but necessary. The damaged entrance required comprehensive repairs, including the installation of a new roof, re-tiling of stairs, and replacement of windows.

The lifts and escalators, crucial for commuter movement, were inundated during the firefighting efforts and had to be replaced or repaired. The total cost of these repairs, amounting to $3.4 million, was covered by insurance.

This incident did not dampen the spirits of Sydney’s residents or the resolve of the authorities. Instead, it served as a catalyst for significant improvements. The reopening of the Chalmers Street entrance marks the completion of major upgrade works at Central Station, a near-$1.3 billion project.

This includes new underground concourses, improved accessibility with more lifts and escalators, a revitalised Northern Concourse with a striking new roof canopy, and the upcoming North-South Concourse.

The renewal of Central Station is more than just a physical refurbishment; it symbolises the unwavering spirit of Surry Hills and Sydney at large. With the impending launch of the metro services in 2024, the station is poised to become an even more vital hub, accommodating thousands of commuters and significantly reducing travel times across the city.

Published 20-Nov-2023