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How These Redfern Locals Uplift Community Through Their Social Enterprise ‘WildFlower Gardens’

Roman Deguchi and Matt Coe of Redfern are on a mission to give back to their community through their social enterprise, WildFlower Gardens for Good, an Indigenous-led, not-for-profit that empowers disadvantaged local youth whilst creating beautiful native gardens for everyone to enjoy.

Read: Moore Park Golf Course at the Heart of Urban Green Space Debate

Their latest project is transforming the grounds of St Andrew’s College at the University of Sydney into a lush native garden. For Deguchi and Coe, it’s especially meaningful to beautify and educate on the land they grew up on.

The duo employs around 20 young men from Redfern and Waterloo, most working their first job ever. By choosing WildFlower, organisations can support reducing crime rates and empowering youth facing barriers to employment.

St Andrew’s College, Sydney (Photo credit: WildFlower Gardens for Good/Facebook)

It’s their way of giving back to the Redfern community that supported Deguchi when he was struggling as a youth.

Through the social enterprise, they aim to break down barriers by employing and mentoring local young men aged 19-25, including some who have had run-ins with the law. Their goal is to provide opportunities and guidance to some of the disadvantaged youth from their neighborhood.

Beyond greenscaping and land management, WildFlower builds interactive gardens in schools and educates about native ecosystems. Their blend of lived experience and green expertise makes them authentic community builders.

Photo credit: WildFlower Gardens for Good/Facebook

The results are already blossoming at St Andrew’s. Birds like magpies and kookaburras are flocking to the thoughtfully planted grounds. Students can also look forward to an engaging, colourful, and sustainable native garden integrated into campus life.

Photo credit: WildFlower Gardens for Good/Facebook

For St Andrew’s College, working with this social enterprise is also part of their commitment to diversity and inclusion.

“Not only does this project reintroduce native plants and create a vibrant space for socializing and studying, but it also provides meaningful employment opportunities for the Indigenous community,” St Andrew’s College stated.

Read: Locals Successfully Campaign to Reopen Darlington Activity Centre

Meanwhile, WildFlower has a busy 2024 ahead, with a second native garden slated for the Gadigal Centre at the University of Sydney. Through urban greening and youth empowerment, Deguchi and Coe are sowing the seeds for a healthier community.

Published 17-February-2024

Powerhouse Museum Ultimo Shuts Doors for $250-M Revamp

Did you know that the Powerhouse Museum in Ultimo will be closed for the next three years for a $250-million renovation?

Read: Powerhouse Ultimo Closing for 3-Year Renovation, Transforming Sydney’s Cultural Landscape

Concept designs have been released showing that the museum will be reoriented to connect with the CBD. The new design will provide new outdoor public spaces, and showcase the heritage facade of the original 1899 power station building.

The main entrance will be moved to face the Goods Line pedestrian walkway near Central Station, as part of plans to revitalise the Harris Street side of the museum. The 1901 Post Office on Harris Street will also be preserved and integrated into the precinct.

Plaza view (Photo credit: infrastructure.nsw.gov.au)

Powerhouse Museum Ultimo CEO Lisa Havilah said the heritage revitalisation of the museum will ensure that there will be even more opportunities for our audiences to connect with and experience our collection and programs across the applied arts and applied sciences.

“The concept design includes the Powerhouse Academy, which will offer increased levels of access for secondary and tertiary students from regional NSW and beyond, providing immersive learning experiences that enable pathways into industry and tertiary learning,” said Ms Havilah.

According to the government, the temporary closure will allow for efficient completion of the overhaul, whilst minimising disruption to museum operations and visitors. A staggered closure was ruled out due to amplified costs and prolonged inconvenience.

When reopened, the renovated spaces aim to improve visitor flow and access to the museum’s expansive collection. New world-class exhibition halls focused on applied arts and sciences are also planned.

In its final hours before closing on Sunday, visitors flocked to the museum to take one last look at its iconic displays.

The famous Catalina seaplane may also be relocated to the Historical Aviation Restoration Society museum in Albion Park during the revamp. Discussions about temporarily housing the prized exhibit there are underway.

Read: ‘Build a Bridge’ Launched in Response to Plans for Redfern North Eveleigh Precinct

The temporary closure of Ultimo’s Powerhouse Museum marks the end of an era, but also the beginning of an exciting new chapter. For three years, Sydneysiders will miss strolling the halls of this cultural institution and seeing its unique exhibits in their iconic home.

Published 5-February-2024

Moore Park Concert Cap Lifted to Boost Economy and Entertainment

Allianz Stadium, a thriving entertainment and sports hub located in Moore Park, is poised to liberate itself from decades-long constraints, amidst the announcement of the removal of a concert cap.

Premier Chris Minns has increased the allowance from a mere four concerts a year to a substantial 20 per year. This move is projected to inject a significant $120 million annually into the economy of New South Wales, offering a newfound sense of vibrancy to the region’s entertainment sector.

The limitations on concert numbers at Allianz Stadium were put in place after complaints from residents following a Rolling Stones concert more than 20 years ago, citing excessive noise. Despite the curbs, the Moore Park venue continued to host an array of events.

However, Mr Minns likened the previous restrictions to the fictional town depicted in the movie “Footloose,” where rock music and dancing were banned. He affirmed that purchasing property in the bustling heart of Sydney should come with an expectation of living in a thriving metropolis, not a quiet rural town.

“For too long NSW has missed out on world-class acts because of an archaic restriction that killed fun in our city and hurt the economy,” he said.

“Sydney is Australia’s only global city and now it will finally be able to host more global acts on the world stage.”

Whilst the cap has been lifted, a responsible approach remains in place. An 11:00 p.m. noise curfew will continue to be enforced, except during the Mardi Gras after-party event, should it relocate to the Moore Park precinct in the future. This ensures that the interests and quality of life of residents are safeguarded.

The decision to lift the concert cap has garnered praise from various quarters. ARIA chief executive Annabelle Herd anticipates more opportunities for international and Australian acts to grace Sydney’s stages. The economic impact is significant, with an expected annual boost of $120 million. Moreover, the move signifies the potential for Sydney to once again become a global hub for renowned artists and entertainers.

Sport Minister Steve Kamper underscores the cost of the previous red tape, asserting that a facility of this magnitude cannot be restricted to just four concerts a year. This move aims to revitalise the city’s visitor economy and support the struggling nightlife industry.

Business Sydney executive director Paul Nicolaou lauds the decision while urging the government to extend the Metro rail network to Moore Park and confirm plans to overhaul the nearby Entertainment Quarter. These initiatives could further transform the Moore Park precinct into a thriving cultural hub.

Of the 20 major events allowed annually, two will have the flexibility to operate as 10-hour festivals, akin to Wave Aid, running from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. This diversity in programming ensures a wide range of entertainment options for Sydney’s diverse population.

Published 26-Jan-2024

Redfern Teen Thrilled to Represent Australia at Youth Olympic Games in Gangwon 2024

Elin Schmitz, a 14-year-old Ice Hockey athlete hailing from Redfern, is among the 24 athletes from various disciplines who have settled into the Australian headquarters ahead of their first day of competition of the 2024 Winter Youth Olympic Games.

The teenager expressed her excitement upon her arrival at the Youth Olympic Village in Gangwon, highlighting the incredible experience of being part of this prestigious event. Along with her teammates, she explored the vibrant atmosphere of the Village, where flags from various countries adorned the surroundings.

Elin described being in Gangwon as “awesome” and mentioned the festive spirit. She was particularly thrilled by the dining hall and Athlete 365 centre, where various educational programs and activities await.

Twenty-four athletes from various disciplines, including Biathlon, Short Track Speed Skating, Snowboard Cross, and Ice Hockey, have settled into the Australian headquarters ahead of their first day of competition on Saturday, 20 January 2024.

This year’s Australian Team for the Winter Youth Olympic Games (WYOG) is the largest in history, comprising 47 athletes across eight disciplines. The competition will unfold over a two-week period, from 19 January to 1 February, providing ample opportunities for Australian athletes to shine on the international stage.

For those eager to follow the action, all events will be available for live streaming on 9Now, ensuring that fans don’t miss any of the thrilling moments. The festivities will kick off with the Opening Ceremony, which will be broadcast live on 9Go! from 9:55 pm AEDT on Friday, 19 January.

Published 18-Jan-2024

Powerhouse Ultimo Closing for 3-Year Renovation, Transforming Sydney’s Cultural Landscape

Photo Credit: Powerhouse Ultimo

Powerhouse Ultimo is poised to undergo a stunning metamorphosis as it shuts its doors for a three-year renovation project set to redefine the heart of Sydney’s cultural precinct.

With just a handful of weeks remaining until the doors close on 4 Feb 2024, eager visitors are seizing their last chance to experience the museum’s current offerings. However, this closure is not the end; it’s the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

The transformative journey, with a whopping $250 million budget, is expected to invigorate the exhibition space that can house an even more impressive array of objects, an intuitive visitor flow, and flexible exhibition areas that will catapult applied arts and sciences into the spotlight.

A key focus of the project will entail preserving the historical gems that have graced Ultimo for over a century. The original power station from 1899, the Turbine Hall, and the 1901 Post Office building will all find their place within the new space. A fresh, green public square will emerge, promising not only a tranquil oasis but also studio spaces for creative minds and the sciences.

With the clock ticking down to the closure of Powerhouse Ultimo, visitors have just a few weeks left to soak in the wonders of the current exhibitions and attractions:

“1001 Remarkable Objects”: Step into a treasure trove of wonder as you explore 25 rooms brimming with an astounding array of captivating objects. Some of these treasures have never seen the light of the exhibition halls before.
“Absolutely Queer”: Join in the celebration of Sydney WorldPride 2023 with this exhibition, which delves into the rich tapestry of Sydney’s queer creatives throughout the years, highlighting their invaluable contributions to the city’s vibrant culture.
“Paradise Camp“: Immerse yourself in Yuki Kihara’s thought-provoking photographic tableaus, as they delicately dissect the intricacies of gender and colonial legacies, placing them squarely under the microscope of scrutiny.

CHECK THE PROGRAMS

Whilst Powerhouse Ultimo takes its much-needed hiatus, culture enthusiasts need not despair. Powerhouse Parramatta, a cutting-edge cultural institution designed by Moreau Kusunoki and Genton, is slated to open its doors in 2025, marking a historic milestone as the first state cultural institution of NSW based in Western Sydney. Moreover, the Castle Hill site will continue to intrigue visitors throughout 2024, despite its expansion projects.

Published 9-Jan-2024

Redfern Ice Hockey Athletes Selected for 2024 Winter Youth Olympics

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Two Redfern locals are part of a 13-member women’s national youth 3-on-3 ice hockey team that will represent Australia at the 2024 Winter Youth Olympic Games in Gangwon, South Korea.

Annika Schmitz and Elin Schmitz, are set to join the WYOG tournament scheduled to take place from 20 to 25 Jan 2024. Notably, this selection marks a significant milestone as it is the first all-Australian ice hockey team to compete at a WYOG.

Annika, 15, started her journey at 9 years old. Today, she stands as a key member of the Arctic Foxes women’s team. Inspired by strong female athletes like her first ice hockey coach, who represented Australia, and Matilda’s captain Sam Kerr, Annika is determined to pave the way for women in sport.

Elin, 14, fell in love with the sport at 7 years old, when a new rink opened near her home. She joined the Ice Zoo Wolves and quickly embraced the speed, skills, and teamwork required in the game. In 2022, Elin made her international debut, representing Australia at the One Hockey International Peewee Tournament.

Ice Hockey Redfern — Photo Credit: Olympics.com.au

Unprecedented Opportunity for Australian Youth

Annika and Elin are two of the pioneers of what is expected to be a 53-member Australian team, set to compete against 1,900 youth athletes from 70 countries during WYOG. This event is a unique opportunity for young Australian winter athletes to challenge themselves on a global stage and gain invaluable experiences as they represent their nation in Gangwon.

Australian Chef de Mission and Vancouver 2010 Olympian, Ramone Cooper, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the selected athletes.

“As the first Australian ice hockey team to be selected for a Winter Youth Olympic Games, this is a fantastic achievement, and I have no doubt these young athletes will do an incredible job representing their country in Gangwon,” Ramone Cooper, the Australian Chef de Mission and Vancouver 2010 Olympian, said.

General Manager of Ice Hockey Australia, Adam Woolnough, expressed the immense pride felt by the ice hockey community in Australia for reaching this milestone. He highlighted the collective effort of coaches, volunteers, and players, both past and present, in achieving this remarkable accomplishment.

Mr Woolnough is confident that the selected team will represent Australia with pride and humility, creating lifelong memories in the process.

Published 4-Jan-2024

Redfern’s Bush: A Unique Culinary Experience

Nestled in the heart of Redfern is a culinary gem known as Bush, an unassuming restaurant that opened in July 2019 and has since become a beloved fixture in the local dining landscape.

Founded by head chef Grant Lawn, a visionary with a background in landscape architecture, Bush was conceived as a space to foster community and conversations while paying homage to the Australian outback through its menu and decor.

Chef Grant and his team, still learning the ropes of the business, aimed to avoid overwhelming themselves. However, to their surprise, the George Street establishment quickly became a hit, frequently selling out of its signature burgers and desserts on weekends.

A Taste of the Outback: Bush’s Unique Offerings

Despite its relatively small menu, Bush has garnered attention and acclaim for its standout dishes, notably the cheeseburger, kangaroo pies, and fairy bread pudding. Each creation at Bush serves a purpose beyond satisfying one’s palate; it is carefully crafted to highlight various aspects of Australian cuisine and the environment.

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A post shared by BUSH – 55 George st, Redfern. (@bush.sydney)

For instance, the kangaroo pies not only pay homage to a familiar Australian dish but also emphasise the environmental benefits of consuming kangaroo meat to manage their overpopulation.

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A post shared by BUSH – 55 George st, Redfern. (@bush.sydney)

Ambience Reflecting Nature’s Beauty

Stepping into Bush is like entering an Australian bush setting. The decor is thoughtfully curated to reflect Lawn’s vision, featuring roughly cut stools, long wooden communal tables, and tables adorned with native Australian plants. Stuffed toy versions of native Australian fauna add a playful touch to the ambience, further enhancing the dining experience.

Originating as a pop-up establishment, Bush quickly found its permanent home in Redfern, where it has since solidified its presence and gained a loyal following. The concise menu features indigenous produce and inventive game dishes, such as kangaroo steak frites and venison chops. Notably, the restaurant’s cheeseburger, though not a traditional Australian dish, has earned legendary status within Sydney’s culinary scene.

While the cheeseburger may have garnered some debate about its place on the menu, Bush offers an all-encompassing dining experience. From the beloved Nan’s Sausage Roll to wattleseed ice cream, the restaurant invites patrons to savour the essence of Australian cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. The welcoming and friendly wait staff treat guests as friends, enhancing the sense of community and camaraderie within the restaurant.

Contributing to the Local Dining Scene

Bush’s popularity is not solely attributed to its delectable food offerings but also to its invaluable contribution to the local dining scene. By offering a unique take on Australian cuisine and providing a communal space that encapsulates the spirit of the Australian bush in an urban setting, Bush has emerged as a distinctive and cherished establishment in Redfern.

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A post shared by BUSH – 55 George st, Redfern. (@bush.sydney)

Over four years on and Redfern’s Bush has solidified its status as one of Sydney’s most quintessentially Australian eateries. Chef Grant continues to celebrate native produce and even invasive species like boar on a menu that balances affordability with culinary ambition in a casual neighbourhood setting.

Book a table

For those seeking a unique and authentic Australian culinary experience, Bush in Redfern awaits. Follow them on Instagram.

Published 27-Dec-2023

Locals Successfully Campaign to Reopen Darlington Activity Centre

Darlington Activity Centre, also known as Harry Burland Activity Centre, is slated to reopen in 2024, in response to a successful community-led campaign.

Read: Sydney Streets: Redfern’s Vibrant Celebration Returns

The large community space, located at 132-134 Shepherd St, Darlington, just behind the University of Sydney, was closed by the City of Sydney during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The advocacy efforts were spearheaded by resident Matthew McCarthy and was supported by Cr Sylvie Ellsmore. The City Council unanimously voted to reopen the centre and restore it as a vital community asset.

McCarthy rallied his neighbours through surveys and outreach, finding substantial support for bringing back programs once hosted there, like those for seniors, children, and the arts.

“We are in desperate need of free or low-cost spaces that the community can use across the city, especially spaces for neighbours to connect and support each other,” said Cr Ellsmore, who championed the reopening during a meeting with Council.

“Big thanks to everyone who filled in the survey, came to a community meeting, wrote a submission to the elected Councillors, donated for the BBQ, and came along to celebrate with us, and otherwise have supported the campaign so far” she added.

The 60s-era centre has potential for hosting events affordably or even freely, increasing accessibility. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, the activity centre was known for hosting art classes for young children and adults alike.

The community wants Darlington Activity Centre to remain publicly owned and operated, rather than being redeveloped. Top requested uses include creative programs, meeting spaces, support groups, exercise, tool libraries, food pantries, and gardening. The next steps will be assessing maintenance needs before an early 2024 open house so residents can view the space.

Read: New Cycleways and Paths Enhance Bike-Friendly Status of Alexandria and Erskineville

Published 21-December-2023

Surry Hills Favourite RK San Relocates to Stylish New Venue in Redfern

After nearly seven years of serving contemporary Japanese cuisine in Surry Hills, RK San has moved to its new, bigger and better digs in Redfern.

Read: Now Open: Mr Charlie’s Redfern Brings Plant-Based Twist to Classic Burgers & Fries

The restaurant, led by veteran chef RK Matang, has relocated from its modest Cleveland Street space to a larger, sleek new home at Bourke Street’s bustling food scene.

The new location marks an exciting chapter for RK San, doubling its seating capacity in a modern, airy venue filled with Japanese artwork.

The Japanese restaurant has built a strong following thanks to its contemporary twist on traditional Japanese cuisine, showcasing high-quality ingredients like fatty tuna toro in its popular sashimi platters.

Chef RK Matang (Photo credit: rksan.com.au)

Trained in Japan since age 15 before moving to Australia, Chef RK brings over three decades of experience preparing traditional yet inventive Japanese food. Stints at luxury resorts and high-end Sydney restaurants like Flying Fish preceded the opening of his modest but now-bustling establishment bearing his name.

One signature bite that demonstrates RK San’s inventive approach is the tuna cigar – a crispy pastry rolled into a cigar shape and filled with silky sashimi-grade salmon tartare. Another standout is their pan-seared Hokkaido scallops, a consistent best-seller.

Beyond seafood, the menu retains customer favourites like the Peruvian Nikkei-inspired cooked dishes and premium wagyu robata skewers from the charcoal grill.

Read: New Chapter for Redfern’s La Salut, But Same Authentic Flavours

RK San’s move signals an exciting new era for Chef RK Matang to fully bring his contemporary Japanese vision to life. The big, welcoming space and expanded kitchen are a fitting backdrop for his slickest creations yet, from the Instagram-famous tuna cigar to the expertly seared Hokkaido scallops.

Visit them at their new location at 648 Bourke Street, Redfern.

Published 18-December-2023

Sydney Streets: Redfern’s Vibrant Celebration Returns

Sydney Streets, the beloved outdoor street events, are set to make a grand return this summer, transforming the bustling village high streets, in Redfern and other areas, into vibrant, car-free zones.

Spanning various weekends from February to April 2024, Sydney Streets celebrates our cherished local neighbourhoods with a kaleidoscope of activities and entertainment.

Join the Community Celebration

Local businesses and organisations are invited to play an integral role in these lively events. Opportunities abound for in-store activations, outdoor trading, and contributing to the festive atmosphere. This is a call to all businesses located on or near the high streets to collaborate in creating memorable experiences.

Key Dates for Participation

17 February: Macleay Street, Potts Point
24 February: Stanley Street, Darlinghurst
9 March: Glebe Point Road, Glebe
16 March: Redfern Street, Redfern
23 March: Harris Street, Pyrmont
6 April: Crown Street, Surry Hills

An online information session scheduled for 3:00 p.m. on 17 January 2024 will address all queries regarding participation. Businesses can also apply now to be part of this exciting initiative.

Inspiration from Past Events

Previous Sydney Streets have witnessed a plethora of innovative ideas from local businesses. Examples include special menus, unique events, and creative offers designed to draw in customers and enhance the festive spirit.

Masala Theory on Crown Street offered curry bombs and Mumbai margaritas.
Markd Tattoos on Redfern Street hosted walk-ins for exclusive tattoo sessions.
Restaurants and pubs, like the Lord Roberts in Darlinghurst, extended their dining experience to the streets.
Sydney Creative offered painting classes in Redfern, coupled with local culinary delights.
Face Furniture and Other Things in Redfern showcased a mix of medium readings, hair braiding, and Italian homewares.

Sydney Streets Redfern — *Photo Credit: City of Sydney/Katherine Griffiths*

Details of the Redfern Street Event

Location: Redfern Street, Redfern
Date and Time: 16 March 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Cost: Free

What to Expect

Redfern Street will be a hive of activity, offering a day filled with fun for families and individuals alike. Businesses will present a variety of offers, pop-ups, and activations, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The event promises festival vibes, live music, entertainers, kids’ activities, and alfresco dining, all contributing to a vibrant community atmosphere.

The area is closed to traffic from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. between Regent Street and Chalmers Street. For accessibility queries or specific needs, contact the event team at 9265 9333. Traffic and parking details can be found at livetraffic.com.

Published 15-Dec-2023