A Redfern family is still holding out hope two decades after their son, Simon Knight, vanished without a trace from Surry Hills, with police renewing efforts to find answers and offering a $250,000 reward for information.
A Disappearance That Changed Everything
Simon Knight, 32, was last seen on Crown Street in Surry Hills on July 21, 2005, but never made it to his café shift in Newtown later that day. Known as reliable and friendly, Simon was reported missing that evening, and despite multiple investigations and two coronial inquests, one in 2015 ruling he had likely died, his body was never found.
His camera and mountain bike, items he regularly used, also remain missing. Nearly 20 years later, NSW Police’s Strike Force Glenlea continues to appeal to the public for information.
Community Appeal and Police Hope
Police believe someone out there knows what happened to Simon Knight and are urging the public to come forward. Acting Superintendent Christopher Hill called on anyone who was in the Surry Hills or Redfern areas in July 2005, especially near Crown and Oxford streets, to share anything they recall, no matter how small.
A $250,000 reward was announced in 2020, showing the case remains a high priority. Investigators say even a minor detail could help bring closure to Simon’s family.
Family’s Long Wait for Closure
Simon Knight’s family says the pain of not knowing what happened remains one of the hardest parts, even after 20 years. His father, Bob, shared that Simon had recently started studying horticulture and withdrawn money just before he vanished, funds that were never touched again.
His sister Frances said Simon’s disappearance left a lasting void in their lives. The family thanked police for their ongoing efforts and urged anyone with information to come forward, believing closure is still possible.
Past Concerns and New Commitment
A 2021 review into unsolved LGBTQ+ crimes raised concerns about how Simon Knight’s case was initially handled, but current investigators have since renewed their commitment to finding answers. The family said they felt dismissed in the early days but now value the support from today’s police team.
Simon’s disappearance is no longer just a mystery, it’s a reminder that no one from a close-knit community like Redfern should be forgotten. Police continue to urge anyone with information, no matter how small, to contact Crime Stoppers confidentially on 1800 333 000.
Published 29-July-2025
