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Haymarket Glows as Neon Playground 2.0 Lights Up Chinatown

Photo Credit: Neon Playground Sydney/Facebook

Haymarket is all set to transform into a glowing hub of art, food, and entertainment as Neon Playground 2.0 returns for a three-week celebration of culture and creativity. The festival will take over Chinatown , bringing large-scale neon light installations, food experiences, and community events that highlight the area’s deep-rooted Asian-Australian heritage.

Running from 15 March to 6 April, Neon Playground 2.0 features 14 original light sculptures created by Asian-Australian artists, a series of food tours, live performances, and exclusive dining offers from local businesses.

Organised by the Haymarket Alliance and supported by NSW and the City of Sydney, the festival aims to breathe new life into a place rich in history but often overlooked in the city’s fast-changing landscape.

A Festival for the Community

The centrepiece of Neon Playground 2.0 is a stunning collection of neon light installations displayed across Haymarket and Chinatown. These works, crafted by a lineup of Asian-Australian artists, will illuminate the streets throughout the festival, offering visitors a unique visual experience.

Beyond the artwork, the festival is designed to reinvigorate the local area, providing a platform for creative talent and small businesses. The former Marigold Chinese Restaurant, once a popular dining institution, will host Asian film screenings, while other venues will feature stand-up comedy, a karaoke competition, and arts and crafts markets.

Bringing Haymarket Together Through Food and Art

Food lovers can take part in the Chinatown Street Food and Stories walking tours on 19 March and 2 April, guided by Local Sauce Tours. These tours will showcase some of Chinatown’s most iconic eateries, offering visitors the chance to sample traditional dishes and learn about the history of Chinese-Australian contributions to Sydney’s food scene.

Local businesses are also joining the festival with special promotions. Kura Kura Japanese will offer a free Asahi beer with a minimum spend, while Spicy World Hot Pot will include a complimentary lamb belly or beef brisket with orders. Good Luck Hot Pot will provide a free lemon tea, and Super Emoji is offering half-price drinks with every purchase.

Neon Playground 2.0 — *Photo Credit: Neon Playground Sydney/Facebook*

A City Backing Its Cultural Hubs

As the festival continues, it’s clear that Neon Playground is about more than just temporary excitement. Community leaders have expressed their commitment to revitalising Sydney’s iconic precincts, and Haymarket is at the centre of these efforts.

Transport and Roads Minister John Graham has said that events like Neon Playground are vital for keeping Sydney’s cultural spaces thriving, ensuring they remain vibrant and welcoming for both locals and visitors.

Published 12-March-2025

St Andrew’s Theological College and Byzantine Music School Celebrate Graduation in Redfern

Photo Credit: St Andrew's Greek Orthodox Theological College/Facebook

Graduates from St Andrew’s Theological College and the Byzantine Music School were honoured in Redfern during a Doxology Service at the Cathedral of the Annunciation of Our Lady.

Redfern graduation ceremony — *Photo Credit: St Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theological College/Facebook*

Graduation Ceremony in Redfern

His Eminence Archbishop Makarios of Australia presided over the Doxology Service, recognising the dedication of the graduates and awarding certificates to those who successfully completed the four-year Byzantine Music course.

His Eminence Metropolitan Seraphim of Sevasteia also awarded the degrees. He was joined by Their Graces Bishop Iakovos of Miletoupolis and Bishop Christodoulos of Magnesia.

Alongside them are senior clergy and academic representatives, including the Chancellor of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, Christophoros Krikelis, and the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Ioannis Mallikourtis. Families, faculty members, and friends gathered in support of the graduates during the ceremony.

Byzantine Music School’s Role in Church Services

During his address, Archbishop Makarios reflected on the significance of the Byzantine Music School. He founded the school shortly after his arrival in Australia. He highlighted the school’s vital role in preparing individuals to serve within the Church, particularly in sacred chanting alongside clergy and bishops. The Archbishop praised the graduates for their commitment to preserving this integral tradition within the Greek Orthodox faith.

Graduates at Cathedral of the Annunciation of Our Lady — *Photo Credit: St Andrew’s Greek Orthodox Theological College/Facebook*

Theology as a Transformative Gift

Addressing the graduates of St Andrew’s Theological College, Archbishop Makarios emphasised that theology is not merely an academic pursuit but a divine gift. Citing James 1:7, he described theology as a revelation that offers believers an encounter with God’s love and truth. The Archbishop urged the graduates to carry forward this transformative knowledge in their future ministries.

The Archbishop underscored the importance of theology’s role in shaping Christian life and ministry. He stressed that theology must remain genuine and forward-looking, ensuring it continuously reflects Christ’s kingdom’s essence.

Looking Ahead

The graduates will embark on their respective journeys. The Greek Orthodox Church of Australia will remain committed to fostering theological education and musical training for future generations. The completion of studies at St Andrew’s Theological College and the Byzantine Music School marks the beginning of new opportunities for service within the Church and broader community.

Published 7-Mar-2025

Waterloo Residents Given Eviction Notices as Redevelopment Begins

More than 100 housing residents in Waterloo have been given eviction notices as part of a major redevelopment project that will reshape the area. The first group of tenants has been given six months to relocate, marking the beginning of a long-debated plan to replace public housing with a mix of market, affordable, and social housing. Many residents fear they may never return to the neighbourhood they have called home for years.

A Community in Transition

The Waterloo Estate, one of the largest in Australia, has been earmarked for redevelopment for over a decade. The project, valued at $4 billion, will see the construction of 3,000 new homes, with only 30 per cent reserved for social housing. Half of the development will be private housing, while the remaining 20 per cent will be offered at lower-than-market rent.

The first stage of the project affects 150 households in an area bordered by John, Cope, McEvoy, and Mead streets. Homes NSW hand-delivered these residents’ official eviction notices on 27 February.

The remaining tenants of Waterloo South will be relocated in stages over the next two years, while those living in the high-rise buildings have been told they will not have to move for at least a decade.

The government has offered support in the form of relocation officers, who will assist tenants in finding alternative housing either within the local area or elsewhere in the state. Additionally, 70 new social housing units above the Waterloo Metro station are expected to be available within six months.

Waterloo South redevelopment — *Photo Credit: NSW Land and Housing*

Residents Fear Losing Their Community

Despite assurances, residents remain deeply concerned about the future of their community. Many have lived in Waterloo for decades and fear they will be permanently displaced. Some say moving into another public housing unit only shifts the housing crisis elsewhere, as new residents will take up available spaces.

A survey conducted in 2023 showed 43 per cent of Waterloo Estate tenants were open to leaving the neighbourhood if given the chance, but 35 per cent strongly opposed relocating. The figures suggest mixed feelings, though concerns are particularly high among Aboriginal tenants, who make up 22 per cent of the affected residents and may have stronger cultural and community ties to the area.

Local advocacy groups have expressed concerns about the lack of additional social work and case management support for affected tenants. While Homes NSW has funded Redfern Legal Centre to provide independent tenant advocacy, critics argue that this does not address the broader displacement concerns or the emotional and logistical challenges of relocation.

Long-Term Impact and Housing Debate

The redevelopment has reignited debate over housing availability in NSW, where more than 63,000 households are currently on the waiting list. Critics argue that demolishing existing structures to build a mix of private, affordable, and social units does not adequately address the shortage. The construction process is expected to take a decade, leaving questions about where displaced residents will live.

Residents and housing advocates believe the project prioritises developers over community needs. They point out that many of the existing homes in Waterloo South are still structurally sound, making demolition seem unnecessary at a time when construction materials and labour shortages are already delaying housing projects.

NSW has defended the redevelopment, saying it will provide modern, high-quality homes while increasing the overall housing supply. Housing Minister Rose Jackson has stated that affected residents will have the opportunity to return to the new estate once construction is completed.

However, critics remain sceptical about whether displaced tenants will be able to afford to return or if they will be permanently priced out of the area.

Published 7-March-2025

Redfern Exhibition Marks 60 Years Since the Freedom Ride

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

A new free exhibition in Redfern highlights one of Australia’s most significant civil rights protests. On the Road to Justice: Remembering the Freedom Ride commemorates 60 years since a group of university students took a stand against racial discrimination in regional New South Wales.

Freedom Ride Redfern — *Caption: The Freedom Rides SAFA (Student Action For Aboriginals)*
*Photo Credit: NSW State Library*

A Protest That Sparked Change

On 12 February 1965, 29 students from the University of Sydney set off on a journey that would make history. Led by Arrente/Kalkadoon activist Charles Perkins, the Freedom Ride was inspired by similar protests in the United States. The students wanted to expose the racial segregation and discrimination faced by Aboriginal communities.

Over 15 days, they visited 16 towns. The group witnessed and challenged segregation in cinemas, swimming pools, and Returned Servicemen’s League (RSL) clubs. In Walgett, their bus was forced off the road after they protested outside an RSL that refused entry to Aboriginal people. In Moree, they attempted to break a long-standing ban on Aboriginal children using the public swimming pool, leading to a heated confrontation. Their efforts attracted widespread media attention. This placed the issue of racism in Australia under the national and international spotlight.

Racial segregation. — *Caption: An example of racial segregation.*
*Photo Credit: Wikipedia*

Capturing History Through Photography

The On the Road to Justice exhibition features powerful archival photographs documenting the Freedom Ride, from the students’ protests outside businesses to their interactions with local Aboriginal communities.

Alongside these historic images, the exhibition includes contemporary portraits and personal stories from people who were there. Some were children at the time, watching the protests unfold, while others share first-hand experiences of the discrimination the students fought against.

*Caption: Students preparing picket signs in Walgett*.
*Photo Credit: Wikipedia*

A Legacy That Lives On

The Freedom Ride played a crucial role in Australia’s civil rights movement, helping to pave the way for the 1967 referendum, which gave the federal government more power to legislate for Aboriginal people and ensured they were counted in the national census.

The protest also inspired grassroots activism. In Redfern, efforts toward Indigenous self-determination gained momentum in the 1970s, leading to initiatives like establishing Aboriginal-run services. Though the original Freedom Ride lasted just over two weeks, its impact continues to shape conversations about Indigenous rights and equality in Australia today.

Student protest during Freedom Ride — Caption: Student protest outside Moree Town Hall.
Photo Credit: Wikipedia

The City of Sydney has recognised the exhibition as an important reflection on how civil rights movements, both here and abroad, have influenced policy and public attitudes.

Exhibition Details

On the Road to Justice: Remembering the Freedom Ride is open to the public at 119 Redfern Street until 13 March. The free exhibition runs on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Published 19-Feb-2025

Chris O’Brien Lifehouse Research Institute Unveiled to Revolutionise Cancer Treatment

Photo Credit: Google Photos

The Chris O’Brien Lifehouse has launched a new research institute to fast-track cancer breakthroughs and improve patient outcomes.

The facility focuses on translating lab discoveries into real-world treatments, ensuring that research leads directly to better care.

By collaborating with universities and research organisations, the institute aims to develop innovative treatments and secure funding for critical projects.

Professor Lisa Horvath, Lifehouse’s Chief Clinical Officer and Research Director, emphasised the institute’s commitment to progress.

With about 50 new research projects per year, the institute aims to advance progress in cancer research.“Without patients, this is just knowledge. Without the patients what we do isn’t progress,” Horvath said.

Patients Receive Personalised Care

Melanie McQuire, who lives with stage 3 ovarian cancer, said the institute’s medical team made her feel truly seen and cared for. Instead of treating her like just another patient, they took the time to understand her specific needs.

She highlighted the collaborative effort of her oncologist, surgeon, psychologist, and acupuncturist, who worked together to personalise every aspect of her care. “I’ve never felt like a number.”

Advancing Cutting-Edge Treatments

The institute is already working on several groundbreaking projects, including:

3D-printed, custom-made jaw implants
Research into nerve damage caused by chemotherapy

Chris O’Brien’s Vision: A Legacy of Hope

The Chris O’Brien Lifehouse Research Institute carries forward the powerful vision of Professor Chris O’Brien. Renowned as a compassionate head and neck surgeon and former director of the Sydney Cancer Centre, O’Brien made a lasting impact, both on his patients and through his appearances on the RPA TV show. His caring approach to medicine left a strong impression on the Australian public.

In 2006, O’Brien was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour. His experience as both a doctor and a patient inspired him to push for a comprehensive cancer centre in NSW. A place where patients and their families wouldn’t have to face the challenges of cancer care alone.

As his vision goes, “Everyone needs hope. We live on hope.”

Though he passed away in 2009, O’Brien’s vision became reality when the institute opened in 2013. Now, the research institute continues to build on his legacy. It ensures that cancer patients receive not only the most advanced treatment but also the personal care and support that O’Brien championed throughout his career.

Published 17-Feb-2025

Southeast Asian Flavours Shine at Island Radio’s Noodle Bar in Redfern

A new player has entered Sydney’s bustling dining scene, and it’s setting its sights on becoming one of the city’s best-value banquets. Welcome to Island Radio, a vibrant Southeast Asian-inspired restaurant and noodle bar that’s already making waves in Redfern.

Read: Taguan Cafe: Redfern Filipino Hideaway Serving the ‘Second-Best Adobo’

A Taste of Southeast Asia

Opened in November, Island Radio is bursting with colour, music, and an inviting laid-back atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to unwind and indulge in bold flavours.

At the Noodle Bar, diners can pull up a stool from Wednesday to Friday as drinks start pouring at 4:00 pm, with the noodle action kicking off from 5:00 p.m. The menu boasts a tempting lineup, including spicy pork noodles with sambal matah and garlic shoots, and the must-try sambal fried rice loaded with calamari and prawns—smoky, spicy, and packed with flavour.

For those craving a more extensive feast, the Eating House delivers with a menu crafted by Chef Andy Wirya (formerly of Bondi’s Easy Tiger), drawing inspiration from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Great value abounds with a $39 three-dish lunch menu and a six-dish banquet starting at just $44.50. Wines start at $10.50 per glass, while spicy noodle bowls begin at $15, ensuring top-notch dining without the hefty price tag.

Cocktails, DJs, & Private Karaoke

Island Radio isn’t just about the food—it’s quickly gaining a reputation for its tropical-inspired cocktails and zero-proof refreshments. Whether you’re sipping an ice-cold beer or diving into a bold new cocktail, the drinks menu delivers perfect summer vibes.

If you’re after a little more action, Thursday to Saturday nights bring a live DJ into the main dining room, creating an electric atmosphere. Or, if you’re in the mood for a private party, their 12-person private dining rooms come equipped with a karaoke lounge, setting the scene for an unforgettable night.

Read: Get Ready for Sana: South Eveleigh’s New Healthy Dining Destination

With its dynamic energy, bold flavours, and unbeatable value, Island Radio is already shaping up to be Redfern’s newest go-to dining spot. Whether you’re after a quick noodle fix, a banquet feast, or a night of drinks and music, this lively venue has you covered. Pull up a stool, grab a cocktail, and let the good times flow.

Published 17-February-2025

City of Sydney Backs $490m Life Sciences Campus in Waterloo

Photo Credit: D/2024/937

Did you know that Waterloo could soon have a new, $490-million life sciences precinct? The new development will mark a significant step towards establishing Australia’s first commercialised life sciences campus.

The project (D/2024/937), led by Kurraba Group, aims to advance medical and health sciences research while creating thousands of jobs in the region.

Life sciences campus — *Photo Credit: D/2024/937*

Project Scope and Development Timeline

The precinct, which will span 26,000 square metres at 74-108 Botany Road and 86-100 Wyndham Street, will feature advanced laboratories, collaborative research spaces, and commercial infrastructure. If planning approvals proceed as expected, construction could commence by early 2025.

The design includes:

A stepped building along Botany Road, ranging from seven to eleven storeys.
A five-storey research facility on Wyndham Street.
A Proton Therapy Cancer Treatment Centre, providing advanced cancer treatment options.

The project was designed by Gensler, a global architecture firm that won the Architect’s Design Excellence Competition. The campus incorporates sustainability principles and acknowledges the First Nations heritage of the area.

Medical research — *Photo Credit: Kurraba Group*

Economic and Employment Impact

The precinct is expected to generate substantial economic benefits for Waterloo and surrounding areas.

1,200 jobs are anticipated during the construction phase.
1,700 long-term positions will be created once the precinct is fully operational.
Proximity to Royal Prince Alfred and St Vincent’s hospitals, as well as major universities including the University of Sydney, UNSW, and UTS, will encourage collaboration among researchers, healthcare professionals, and students.

With Australia’s life sciences industry expanding by 43% since 2019, according to Austrade, this precinct is expected to attract investment, retain research talent, and enhance Sydney’s global position in medical research.

Waterloo development — *Photo Credit: D/2024/937*

Community Concerns and Local Impact

Despite its economic and scientific benefits, the project has raised concerns among local residents.

Some have highlighted construction-related disruptions, including noise, vibration, dust, and congestion.
Others have expressed worries over privacy, overshadowing, and the impact on existing homes.

Residents have called for a balanced assessment of the project’s benefits and challenges, urging the City of Sydney to consider the implications for long-term community members.

Strengthening Australia’s Medical Research Industry

Kurraba Group has positioned the development as a major step in Australia’s life sciences growth, aiming to accelerate research and commercialisation efforts. The precinct is expected to provide purpose-built facilities to retain Australian intellectual property and medical advancements, rather than seeing them developed offshore.

This project aligns with the Botany Road Precinct Vision, a broader redevelopment strategy that was introduced in 2022. The rezoning initiative aims to add 280,000 square metres of commercial floor space and create 14,500 jobs, making the area a major centre for knowledge-based industries.

Next Steps

The City of Sydney’s Central Planning Committee is set to make a final decision on the project in the coming weeks. If approved, Waterloo will become a leading location for medical research and biotechnology, supporting Australia’s role in scientific innovation and commercial development.

Published 15-Feb-2025

Telstra to Sell Part of Redfern Exchange in $20-M Deal

Photo Credit: Google Maps Street View

Telstra is set to partially decommission and sell part of its Redfern Telephone Exchange, offering a significant inner-city redevelopment opportunity. The 7-storey building at 103-109 George Street, sitting on a 1,260-square-metre block, is expected to fetch around $20 million through an international expressions of interest campaign.

Telstra has been gradually selling off commercial properties in recent years, including its 16-storey Sydney CBD building, which was sold to Charter Hall for $281 million in 2020. The company has also been divesting smaller suburban telephone exchanges as it modernises its telecommunications infrastructure.

The Redfern Exchange sale follows this trend, with Telstra opting for a sale-and-leaseback arrangement, allowing it to continue operations while transferring essential infrastructure to an adjacent building.

Redfern Exchange: Site Details and Redevelopment Potential

The Redfern Telephone Exchange at 103-109 George Street is a 7-storey, 4,000-square-metre building with protected 360-degree views, thanks to heritage restrictions on surrounding properties. The site is currently zoned E1 Local Centre, allowing for a range of redevelopment options (STCA), including:

Residential housing
Student accommodation
Co-living spaces
Traditional office spaces
Medical developments

According to Knight Frank’s Will Brassil, the property’s current building envelope exceeds planning codes, making it a high-value asset for developers looking to capitalise on its existing structure and zoning flexibility.

Market Demand: Offshore Investors Show Interest

There has been renewed demand for inner-city development sites, particularly among offshore investors. Knight Frank’s Andrew Harford stated that interest from Southeast Asian capital is growing, leading to strong competition with local buyers.

Mr Harford also pointed to Knight Frank’s Australian Horizon 2025 report, which suggests that now is an optimal time to invest in commercial property, with market recovery expected from mid-2025.

Telstra — *Photo Credit: Network Architectural*

What Happens Next?

The International Expressions of Interest campaign for the Redfern Exchange is expected to attract significant developer interest, given its prime location, existing infrastructure, and zoning flexibility. The sale is being managed by Knight Frank agents Will Brassil, Andrew Harford, and James Masselos, with advisory input from Charter Keck Cramer.

Once the sale and leaseback arrangement concludes, Telstra will fully decommission the site and finalise infrastructure relocation. The new owner will then seek approvals for redevelopment based on Sydney’s evolving property market demands.

Published 15-Feb-2025

Woolworths Unveils $165M Mixed-Use Precinct in Waterloo

Photo Credit: DA/2024/1208

Fabcot Pty Ltd, the development arm of the Woolworths Group has submitted a $165.86-million proposal to redevelop 923–935 Bourke Street in Waterloo into a mixed-use precinct featuring residential apartments, retail spaces, and a full-line supermarket. The project aims to revitalise the site, in line with Sydney’s urban renewal strategy.

Woolworths supermarket design for Waterloo development. — *Photo Credit: DA/2024/1208*

A New Vision for Waterloo

Fabcot has lodged a Development Application (DA/2024/1208) with public consultation open until 17 February 2025. The site will host a mix of residential, retail, and commercial spaces, creating a new urban hub for the area.

Residential apartments in the Bourke Street precinct. — *Photo Credit: DA/2024/1208*

Designed by Bates Smart, who won a competitive design process over firms including Koichi Takada Architects and SJB, the project seeks to integrate the cultural and natural heritage of Waterloo into its architectural expression. The development will include part eight and part six-level buildings with materials and design elements inspired by the surrounding landscape.

Residential and Commercial Features

Residential Apartments:

110 apartments offering a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom units
68% of apartments designed with dual aspects for optimal natural light and ventilation
Six terrace homes along Young Street, managed by City West Housing for affordable housing
Communal amenities including landscaped courtyards and rooftop gardens

Woolworth Waterloo — *Photo Credit: DA/2024/1208*

Retail and Commercial Spaces:

6,850 sqm of retail and commercial space
Full-line Woolworths supermarket with Direct-to-Boot and e-commerce services
Specialty stores, cafés, and restaurants activating the streetscape
2,000 sqm of flexible office space for local businesses and employment opportunities
Five-storey commercial building at McEvoy and Bourke Streets, serving as a workplace hub and precinct landmark

Public Spaces and Sustainability

Fabcot’s proposal places a strong emphasis on sustainability and green spaces. A landscaped public plaza will serve as a communal gathering point, with pedestrian pathways connecting Bourke, Young, and McEvoy Streets. The project will also retain mature trees to enhance biodiversity and provide natural shading.

Architectural design by Bates Smart for Waterloo project. — *Photo Credit: DA/2024/1208*

Key sustainability features include:

Solar panels to reduce energy consumption.
Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to support sustainable transport.
Rainwater harvesting systems for irrigation and water conservation.
Low-carbon materials to minimise the environmental footprint.

To support accessibility, the development includes 224 basement parking spaces for residents, visitors, and retail customers. Dedicated bicycle and motorcycle parking will also be available.

Artist impression of the proposed Waterloo precinct. — *Photo Credit: DA/2024/1208*

Next Steps for Approval

The public consultation period for the project runs until 17 February 2025. Residents are urged to submit feedback via the City of Sydney’s website. Pending approval, the development will move forward to the construction phase, bringing Fabcot’s long-awaited vision for Waterloo to life.

SUBMIT FEEDBACK

Published 7-Feb-2025

Neon Playground 2.0 : A Festival of Light, Music, and Culture Returns to Chinatown

Photo Credit: Neon Playground/Facebook

Neon Playground 2.0 is set to light up Chinatown and Haymarket, promising an unforgettable mix of neon art, live music, performances, and Asian street food.

The festival starting from 15 March to 6 April 2025 follows the successful 2022 debut with an expected 350,000 visitors. It will be one of the biggest celebrations of Asian-Australian creativity and culture in the city.

Bringing New Energy to Chinatown

Neon Playground 2.0 returns with fresh momentum, backed by a $200,000 grant from the City of Sydney. This funding aims to revitalise Chinatown and Haymarket, drawing more foot traffic and supporting local businesses.

Sydney’s Lord Mayor, Clover Moore AO, emphasised the importance of investing in Chinatown’s future.

She said that the city allocated a long-term financial plan of $44 million to fund Chinatown’s success.

Neon Lights, Live Entertainment & a Feast of Flavours

Chinatown’s streets will glow with stunning neon light installations designed by Asian-Australian artists. The festival will also feature live music, DJs, dance performances, and cultural showcases, ensuring an exciting atmosphere throughout.

Food lovers can indulge in some of the best Asian street food from top vendors and restaurants.

Building on Past Success

When Neon Playground debuted in 2022, it transformed Dixon Street with large-scale street art, interactive installations, and high-energy performances. Organised by Haymarket Alliance, the event played a key role in helping Chinatown bounce back after the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Kevin Cheng, Manager of Haymarket Alliance, believes this year’s festival will be even bigger.

Cheng highlighted that Neon Playground 2.0 will create opportunities for organisations like Haymarket Alliance to support large-scale events that benefit the entire district. By attracting more visitors, the festival will help boost foot traffic and bring new energy to the area.

The ultimate goal is to establish Neon Playground 2.0 as Sydney’s largest Asian-Australian creative festival.

A New Era for Chinatown

Beyond Neon Playground, Chinatown is undergoing significant upgrades. Restoration work has begun on the Chinatown Ceremonial Gates, with plans to repaint structures, install new lighting, and repair key architectural features.

Additionally, a new grant program is offering support for Dixon Street businesses to enhance their shopfronts, further modernising the precinct.

Don’t Miss This Unforgettable Event

With its dazzling neon art, energetic performances, and incredible food, Neon Playground 2.0 will be one of Sydney’s most exciting events in 2025. As Chinatown continues to evolve, the festival will highlight the talent and creativity of Asian-Australian artists and businesses.

Mark your calendar—Neon Playground 2.0 kicks off on 15 March 2025, bringing three weeks of non-stop energy to the heart of Chinatown.

Published 6-Feb-2025