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Here’s What’s New At The Woolpack Hotel In Redfern

The Woolpack Hotel in Redfern may have changed hands but its legacy in the neighbourhood continues, as the new owners keep things exciting with an all-new menu and a refreshed identity.

Read: Pop-up Mexican Street Food Restaurant Now Has Permanent Redfern Home

When Aaron Crinis and the Laundy Family acquired the hotel in 2021, they knew they could not change much about the venue. With a history dating back to the late 1800’s, the pub has become a go-to for locals for hundreds of years now.

To keep locals coming but also attract new ones, Mr Crinis decided to give the menu an overhaul by enlisting hospitality guru Jaime Wirth and Toby Wilson of Ricos Tacos to team up with their head chef Alberto Facci.

woolpack redfern — Photo credit: Woolpack Redfern/Facebook

Mr Crinis is the founder of The Good Atelier, a hospitality consultancy that now operates the pub. He’s also behind the Italian eatery Glorietta and Glory Days cafe in North Sydney.

The menu sticks to pub classics, but this time they are given a contemporary twist. For instance, the crowd-favourite potato wedges are served with labneh and fermented chilli instead of the usual sour cream and sweet chilli.

redfern pub — The Woolpack’s popular potato wedges (Woolpack Redfern/Facebook)

Their chicken schnitzel is here to stay and so is the steak, served with gravy or lemon herb butter, chips and salad; They have also introduced salads for those looking for vegan/vegetarian options.

As for drinks, the option is not limited to craft beers because guests can grab organic, sustainable and vegan friendly wines from the Woolpack bottle-shop.

There’s still the old wooden bar but they laid some white tiles to at least tone down the interiors.

If you want to come by, visit them at 229 Chalmers St, Redfern. They are open daily from 10:00 a.m. until late.

Pop-up Mexican Street Food Restaurant Now Has Permanent Redfern Home

Photo Credit: Tacos Muchachos / Facebook

Adios, Surry Hills. Hola, Redfern! Hit pop-up Mexican street food restaurant, Tacos Muchachos, has finally moved to its permanent home at the Hotel Hacienda.

During last year’s lockdown, a Surry Hills cafe, Paddock, was transformed into a pop-up restaurant that opened three nights a week. In launching Tacos Muchachos, owner Daniel Hanssen drew inspiration from the vibe and ambience of the taqueria that he discovered whilst in Arizona. His pop-up venue delivered on its promise of serving authentic Mexican street food – tacos, nachos and burritos – which proved to be a hit among the locals.

Cauli tacos | Photo Credit: Tacos Muchachos / Facebook

When the time came to hand the premises back to the cafe, a new location was sought, but this time, as a permanent home. Tacos Muchachos did find a perfect spot on the ground level of Mexican-themed Hotel Hacienda with plans to launch an open-air dining area at the hotel’s rooftop, soon.

If you didn’t have the chance to visit their pop-up location in Surry Hills, you can now check out their Redfern spot and taste their tortillas, nachos and burritos stuffed with slow-cooked beef, adobo cauliflower or chipotle chicken.

Tacos Al Pastor | Photo Credit: Tacos Muchachos / Facebook

Another must-try special is Quesabirria Tacos which is a cross between tacos and quesadilla served with consomme for dipping. A newly added offering, Tacos Al Pastor, is sure to delight taste buds too.

Drinks-wise, margarita, agua fresca and a selection of beers are on offer as well as Jarritos with choices of lime, cola, mandarin, watermelon or guava flavour.

Tacos Muchachos is located at 179 Cleveland St, Redfern and is open Thursday to Saturday from 5 pm until late.

Flyover Fritterie Makes Big Move to Redfern

Photo Credit: Flyover Fritterie / Facebook

Moving from its laneway digs at the Sydney CBD to Redfern, Flyover Fritterie opens a new flagship store on Regent Street, with an expanded menu of Indian dishes available for both dine-in and takeaway.

Flyover Fritterie bade farewell to its laneway location in late 2021 and moved to a new and bigger space in Redfern. The eatery expanded from a lunch-only and weekends-only takeaway joint to an all-day dining spot.

Photo Credit: Flyover Fritterie / Facebook

Chef and owner Gunjan Aylawadi said that the new location will offer a wider array of dishes inspired by Indian regional cuisine including street foods, seasonal pickles, chutneys and spice blends.

Expect Flyover Fritterie’s signature dishes including Fritters/Pakora made with seasonal vegetables in chickpea flour batter then served with fresh mint and tamarind chutneys along with rotating jaffle toasties and burgers, also served with chutneys.

Jaffle filled with dosa potatoes and peanut chutney

Bowls options include Coconut Lime Khichri made with masoor daal, basmati rice, coconut and black lime then topped with house tamarind chutney, coconut crunch, onion and potato fritters. Then there’s Mushroom Khichri with puy lentils, rice, quinoa and mushroom plus toppings, as well as Chole Puri made with braised chickpeas and eggplant, and served with samosa fritter and two pieces of whole wheat puri.

Chole Puri / Coconut Lime Khichri | Photo Credit: Flyover Fritterie / Facebook

Must-try Indian sweets include hand-rolled besan ladoo with cardamom, pepper, sea sale and ghee as well as Rose Cardamom Kheer made with rice pudding, saffron and cardamom topped with almonds and rose petals.

To pair with these dishes are specially brewed Chai (ginger cardamom / chocolate/ choice of bonsoy / full cream milk) which are offered in cups and bottles.

Flyover Fritterie is located at 80-88 Regent Street, Redfern and is open Wednesday to Sunday from 11 am to 8.30 pm and on Tuesday from 11 am to 5 pm.

Flyover Fritterie | 80-88 Regent Street, Redfern

Have Your Say on Proposed Aboriginal Knowledge and Culture Centre in Redfern

Photo Credit: City of Sydney / cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

A proposed Aboriginal Knowledge and Culture Centre in Redfern is now up for community feedback and local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are invited to weigh in on how the building should be used by the community.

The centre will be located at the former Redfern Post Office, a two-storey building at 119 Redfern Street.

The site is located in the heart of Redfern, which is synonymous with Indigenous activism for civil rights and self-determination.

The acquisition is to provide the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community with a culturally safe space where they could practice and share cultures; a need identified by the City’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Panel.

Aboriginal Knowledge and Culture Centre in Redfern Ground-floor plan — Aboriginal knowledge and culture centre Ground-floor plan Photo Credit: City of Sydney / cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Plans for the premises include two levels of multipurpose community and commercial space. The ground floor will have a new accessible entry and lift, a reception area and two shopfront displays/spaces.

There will also be two rooms – an 87.5-sqm room with floorboards, storage, a service bar with sink and dishwasher; and a 19.5-sqm room with floorboards, a kitchenette and an adjoining verandah.

First-floor plan Photo Credit: City of Sydney / cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Meanwhile, the first floor will include a new accessible lift and landing, two new toilets (including an accessible toilet), a 77.4-sqm room with floorboards and an adjoining verandah, a 21-sqm room with floorboard, and a storeroom. The accessibility upgrades are now being undertaken with completion expected by August 2022.

Here is how you can have your say:

Complete the survey here.
Visit a pop-up stall (additional dates to be announced soon)
Comment on or add to a map of the local area.
Register your interest in a workshop here.
Get in touch: Preston Peachey – SENIOR COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR (Phone: 02 9265 9333; email:sydneyyoursay@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au)

The consultation period commenced on 7 March 2022 and will run until 9 May 2022.

4 Ways Tech Central May Outstrip Other Sydney CBD Precincts

Interest in leasing opportunities has been growing for Tech Central, the country’s most exciting development for startups, innovative institutions, and commercial or retail businesses. Here are four ways this massive revitalisation project could soon outstrip other precincts in Sydney’s CBD.

1. Tech Central spans six neighbourhoods.

Even at this early stage, industry insiders have seen some movement in companies, businesses, or establishments seeking opportunities to move into Tech Central. Because the precinct covers six neighbourhoods — Redfern, Surry Hills, Haymarket, Ultimo, Eveleigh, and Chippendale — areas that were once under-utilised for such a long period could become stronger markets for many types of businesses.

These neighbourhoods have three major universities and more than a hundred research institutes, filled with millennials who prefer riding e-bikes, that are within walking distance of each other.

2. Atlassian is building its headquarters in Tech Central.

Atlassian is set to build its 40-storey headquarters, with retail amenities and new YHA accommodation space at its base, adjacent to Central Place. Dexus is working with Atlassian to develop the site as the “benchmark in sustainability and smart workplace.”

The development is projected to cost $1.4 billion and will start construction in mid-2022. It is expected to welcome thousands of workers as well as new tenants by 2026.

According to property developers, companies have been asking about space availabilities and what their investments could potentially yield. The completion of the Atlassian will drive new retailers in the precinct.

3. Night-time economy will boom.

Tech Central will expand Sydney’s night-time economy to these six neighbourhoods as there will be opportunities for 24-hour trading with the arrival of the new workforce and residents. In fact, Fortius has already announced its plans to build a gaming centre, which will open as late as 2:00 a.m., at the Central Park Mall in Chippendale.

4. Business opportunities will impact demand for public transport, more recreational spaces.

Local councils of the six neighbourhoods are already finding ways to improve active transport, connectivity, outdoor and recreational spaces. Investors are looking into plans to build mini-golf sites, escape rooms, karting facilities, as well as heaps of food and beverage outlets that will allow the workforce and its residents hours of relaxation and enjoyment.

Your Next Spicy-Hot Chicken Adventure Should Be at Super Nash Brothers in Waterloo

On the hunt for your next fried chicken adventure? If you’re down for some spicy hot Nashville-style chicken, Super Nash Brothers recently opened an outlet in Waterloo, after Waitara.

Mates Ross Kemp and Joe Avers came up with Super Nash Brothers during a U.S. visit in March 2020, just as the whole world was shutting down because of a virus scare. Ross and Joe’s business meetings were cancelled but instead of going home immediately, the two went on a tour of Los Angeles to take advantage of all their advanced bookings.

They visited 54 burger joints, with celebrity chef Alvin Cailan of “The Burger Show,” and were very impressed with a chicken sandwich from a store in Chinatown. From there, the “Sando” was concocted, along with Super Nash Brothers, to deliver the right balance of sweet and spicy, Nashville-style.

Photo Credit: SuperNashBrothers/Facebook

The Sando is a red-hot Instagrammable chicken sandwich that comes with a very crispy outer layer covered in cayenne spices. Inside, the meat is as you’d expect — juicy and tender! This crowd favourite is served with shredded iceberg lettuce, sweet and spicy pickles and ranch sauce.

For the adventurous chook lover, it’s a lot more fun to play up the flavours of the chicken with peach jam or smoked chipotle honey. Diners may also request to adjust the spiciness of their southern fried chicken order if your taste buds aren’t ready to conquer two million Scoville heat units.

Super Nash Brothers has a very simple menu that also includes tenders or drumsticks, mozzarella sticks, fries, soy fillet for vegetarians, and some desserts. The Waterloo site has a small dining area with an arcade game, which customers may actually play. The space has been designed mostly for convenient and fast takeaway options.

For store hours, menu, and pick-up arrangements, visit their official site. Follow their Facebook page for deals and other offers.

“That was some SERIOUSLY tender, JUICY chicken burgers. I absolutely rate the burgers and the thighs with that dry spice, ranch dressing and crispy AS pickled are where it’s at!!! The tenders were good but no where near as juicy, the thighs are definitely the winners here. Note to self; the sandos are default not spicy, ALWAYS ask for hot and add HOT sauce.”
Sixfoot&Salty

“I got the tenders combo for 18$ and they gave me french fries, 4 tenders, a drink of choice, and a milk bun. It is slightly pricey but you get a generous amount. The chicken is also generously seasoned and is super flavorful. The place is small but its really cute and even has two Mario arcade games. Ask the counter and they will give you coins to play for free.”
Riya

“I just ate my first Sando Combo from these guys… never had a chicken burger/ sando so good. And the chips were also amazing. Can of coke tasted like any other can of coke. Best of all, they’re located right next to the park that I frequent with my 4 year old.”
Alan

Have Your Say! Waterloo South Planning Proposal On Exhibition

The long-awaited Waterloo South Planning Proposal, which aims to deliver new affordable social housing and private homes with access to community facilities, is now under public exhibit.

The proposal to revamp this precinct, to build on the strengths and character of the area, will be open for feedback until 29 April 2022. The community is encouraged to submit their suggestions to help the NSW Government shape the final plans for Waterloo South.

Since 2020, the City of Sydney has conducted the planning process for Stage One of the Waterloo Estate redevelopment to deliver more than 3,000 new homes to a growing community. the planning process, however, was turned over to the NSW Department of Planning and Environment in early 2021.

Dubbed as the state’s “most significant urban regeneration projects,” Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes Anthony Roberts said that the public exhibition is a leap closer to getting the plan moving.

“The community has shown immense patience, particularly when it comes to something as important as the roof over their head. For that, I thank them and urge everyone to have their say over the coming weeks.”

“If approved, the Waterloo South redevelopment will provide a vital refresh for tired social housing as well as thousands of new inner-city homes, plus more than 2 hectares of public open space to support recreational activities like field sports, cycling and walking,” the minister said.

Per REDWatch, the key points of this development include:

about 3,000 dwellings on the land owned by the corporation
a park adjoining Waterloo metro station of more than 2 hectares and another smaller park in the south
about 250,000 square metres of floor space (gross floor area) including retail and community spaces
9 tower buildings between 20 and 32 storeys
3 buildings of 15 storeys
other buildings up to 8 storeys
30% social, 65% market and 5% affordable housing

After the public consultation, the department will still submit a development application that will need further inputs from the community before construction starts on Waterloo South.

Make a Submission

Eveleigh Now Home To National Space Industry Hub

Eveleigh is now home to the National Space Industry Hub, a centre that offers office space, resources, mentoring and connections for emerging space ventures.

Read: Carriageworks Redfern Closed For Significant Upgrades

The hub is part of Sydney’s Tech Central Precinct, considered as the largest technology and innovation hub in Australia with its 250,000 square metres of space for technology companies.

The first residents of the hub are the Space Industry Association of Australia, the government-backed NSW Space Research Network and the NSW Node of the SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre (CRC).

Coinciding with the launch of the National Space Industry Hub, the NSW Government has also introduced Fast Start, an intense six-month mentoring and coaching program aimed at helping companies to commercialise innovative ideas.

Extraterrestrial Power, a company that supports space missions by producing advanced silicon solar cells, is one of the participants of the program, along with Amentum Aerospace, which specialises in predictive scientific modelling software that enhances operational planning for space missions.

Both companies will receive a six-month tailored program of mentoring and coaching, access to state-of-the-art rapid prototyping facilities and a dedicated workspace at the hub.

space industry — Photo credit: Cicada Innovations

The hub has appointed Tim Parsons as its expert-in-residence to conduct one-on-one sessions with participating teams. Aside from investing in space startup companies and helping UTS Tech Lab to increase its exposure to the space industry ecosystem, Mr Parsons is also chair of the Space Industry Association of Australia, the industry’s peak body.

Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology, and Minister for Skills and Training Alister Henskens said guaranteeing a talent pipeline of highly skilled workers was critical to ensuring NSW remains competitive in the space race.

“NSW already has an incredible depth of talent in the space industry however we need to continue to grow this pipeline to ensure the industry thrives,” Mr Henskens said.

The National Space Industry Hub is delivered by Cicada Innovations and supported by the NSW Government.

Animal Advocates Petition Bunnings to Stop Sale of Glue Traps

Wildlife rescuers are calling on Bunnings, the hardware giant with a massive outlet on Euston Road in Alexandria, as well as other retailers to remove the sale of glue traps in their inventory.

Whilst the glue traps are meant to catch rodents and other pests, they can also be indiscriminately snaring other animals like micro bats, kookaburras, or blue-tongued lizards. A veterinary clinic in Sydney has also desperately saved kittens as they have been trapped in devices meant for rats.

When trapped, the rescuers said the animals could slowly die of starvation or dehydration. Some species also try to remove themselves from the glue trap by biting or gnawing through their limbs.

“These traps cause horrific pain and suffering to any animal that comes in contact with them,” the online petition to stop the sale of glue traps stated.

“A Bunnings representative said, whilst they complied with all Australian laws for selling glue traps, they were also aware of the risks associated with the products they sell, on birds and other wildlife.”

“We are asking Bunnings, Chief Operating Officer, Mr Ben McIntosh if he will help in getting Bunnings to uphold community standards for environmental responsibility and animal welfare.”

As of press time, the petition has over 17,000 signatures.

Adrian Pearce, the general manager of merchandise for Bunnings, said that the sticky traps they sell contain glue strong enough to trap insects but not mammals and birds. These are recommended for indoor use only, which shouldn’t be exposed to wildlife. The “indoor use” label is on the packaging.

Mr Pearce also said that, unlike other retailers, they do not sell glue traps for catching rodents. The retail giant works with innovative suppliers to follow the advice of the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority and state regulatory bodies. Glue traps have been banned in Victoria, Tasmania, and the ACT.

A quick look at the stocks online indicates that Bunnings Alexandria currently has one product, The Buzz Indoor Pest Glue Trap, with advanced soft-set insect glue traps. The packaging indicates that it’s featured with a “professional strength glue” meant for capturing spiders, cockroaches, scorpions, earwigs, and “other unwanted household pests.”

Don’t Miss the Remaining Dates of ‘Rood Food’ at the Imperial Hotel Erskineville

Photo Credit: The Imperial Hotel Sydney / Facebook

There’s still time to catch Rood Food. Back for another round, the X-rated Drag N’ Dine experience is now happening at the Imperial Hotel in Erskineville every Friday and Saturday until 26 February.

Put on your most fabulous drag outfit and enjoy a night of Rood Food Drag N’ Dine featuring a sumptuous three-course meal and flowing drinks along with cheeky drag performances by Dakota Fann’ee, Danni Issues, Riot, Kalin Klein, Mama Medusa and more.

Happening at the Impy’s award-winning restaurant, Priscillas, there will be two seatings available each Friday and Saturday night, one at 6 pm and another at 8.30 pm. Packages start at $89 per person including a cocktail on arrival. But you can add $45 for flowing drinks to enjoy throughout the duration of your seating.

Photo Credit: The Imperial Hotel Sydney / Facebook

As for the set menu, the tasty appetizers include Pearl Necklace (Sydney Rock oysters, coconut and finger lime dressing), Pussy Pate (Macadamia pate, crudites and blue corn chips) and Bachelor Balls (Taleggio and Parmesan arancini, cheese splooge).

For the mains, you’ll get served with Hot Root (Carrot cooked in its warm juices with fennel puree), Bareback Ribs (Glazed lamb ribs in cum-back sauce) and Under the Sea-men (wood-roasted Queen prawns served with hot nut cream).

Winding up the serving of hearty meals are these mouth-watering desserts: Panna Knockers (Perky salted caramel pannacotta), Forbidden Fruit (Fig and rose parfait, pretty in pink), and Priscilla’s Box (Assorted chocolates, dark, white and milk).

If you’re still wanting more after you already had your fill of those naughty dishes then go ahead and rush downstairs to the basement for the Rood Food After Hours starting at 8.15 pm. For $10 per person, enjoy some raunchy entertainment courtesy of the queens Ruby Royale, Dammit Jannet and Peach Fuzz. A great selection of Rood Fluids are also available during the show.