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How the Redfern Post Office Evolved into a Vibrant Community Centre

Nestled in the heart of Redfern, a Victorian Italianate-style building stands as a testament to the area’s rich history and evolving cultural landscape. Once a bustling post office, the Redfern Post Office has found new life as a community centre and home for Aboriginal people, embodying the spirit of reconciliation and cultural preservation.

Read: 119 Redfern Wins Prestigious National Trust Heritage Award for Architecture

The story of the Redfern Post Office begins in 1878 when the Redfern Municipal Council first approached the government about constructing a dedicated postal building.

By 1882, renowned architect James Barnet had designed an impressive structure that would serve as more than just a post office. The building, completed in early 1883, housed a telegraph office, living quarters, and even stables, reflecting the multifaceted needs of the era.

Redfern Post office 1890s (Photo credit: CC0/State Records NSW/Wikimedia Commons)

Barnet’s design showcases the grandeur of Victorian Italianate architecture. The building’s most striking feature is its four-storey clock tower, crowned with a belvedere and a distinctive domed copper roof. Each face of the tower displays a clock with black numerals on a white background, serving as a neighbourhood timekeeper for generations.

View showing the Redfern Post Office building with clock tower, 1990s (Photo credit: City of Sydney Archives)

Inside, the building retains much of its original charm. Visitors can still admire the ornate plaster cornices, pressed metal ceilings, and a small window tucked away upstairs. Perhaps most intriguing are the timber ladders leading up to the clock tower, offering a glimpse into the building’s functional past.

Recognising its historical and architectural significance, the Redfern Post Office was designated as a state heritage site on 22 December 2000. This status ensured the preservation of the building’s period character for future generations to appreciate.

Transforming into an Indigenous Cultural Hub

The story of the Redfern Post Office didn’t end with its postal service. In 2018, a new chapter began to unfold. Plans emerged to transform this historic landmark into an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural hub. When the building was listed on the market for approximately $5 million, the City of Sydney saw an opportunity to invest in the community’s cultural future.

Today, passing by the former Redfern Post Office reveals a building reborn. While its exterior maintains the elegant Victorian facade, its interior now buzzes with the energy of a community centre dedicated to Indigenous culture. This transformation represents a powerful symbol of reconciliation, turning a relic of colonial architecture into a space that celebrates and supports the First Nations peoples who have called this land home for tens of thousands of years.

The repurposing of the Redfern Post Office demonstrates how historical preservation can align with contemporary cultural needs. It stands as a bridge between past and present, honouring both the architectural heritage of the area and the ongoing cultural contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Read: Redfern Unveils New Knowledge and Cultural Centre

As Redfern continues to evolve, this iconic building serves as a reminder of the importance of adaptive reuse in urban planning. It shows how cities can honour their history while simultaneously addressing the needs and aspirations of their diverse communities. The former Redfern Post Office, now a vibrant cultural hub, embodies the spirit of a neighbourhood that values both its heritage and its future.

Published 9-August-2024

New Redfern Eatery Attenzione Serves Up Oversized Pasta and European Flair

The newly opened Attenzione Food and Wine in Redfern has brought a fresh twist to Sydney’s Italian cuisine scene, offering diners oversized pasta dishes and a vibrant European atmosphere.

The restaurant, which opened its doors on 1 August 2024, is located at 180 Redfern Street, in the former premises of The Sunshine Inn.

Behind the Scenes

Attenzione is the brainchild of four industry veterans who have joined forces to create this unique dining experience. Felix Colman, part-owner and operator of Ragazzi and Fabbrica, has teamed up with Toby Davis, former Yellow restaurant manager, Toby Stansfield, previously of Lola’s in Bondi, and Dexter Kim, an ex-Buffet Digital videographer. Their combined expertise and passion for European cuisine have shaped Attenzione’s distinctive character.

A Taste of Europe

The menu at Attenzione blends Italian classics with broader European influences, creating a culinary journey that spans the continent.

One of the standout dishes is the Pico XL, an oversized version of pico pasta that’s available with various sauces. Despite its polarising texture, this innovative pasta creation has quickly become the restaurant’s signature item. Priced at $30, the Pico XL currently features a green scallion crema and roasted soba cha, offering a unique taste experience that’s new to Sydney’s dining scene.

Attenzione Redfern — *Photo Credit: Attenzione/Instagram*

For those seeking heartier fare, Attenzione offers dry-aged dairy cow steaks sourced from Emilio’s Butcher in Rozelle, as well as a succulent charcoal-roasted free-range chicken served with chicory and horseradish.

The menu also includes a range of snacks and share plates that draw inspiration from various European cuisines, providing diners with a diverse array of flavours to explore.

Attenzione in Redfern — *Photo Credit: Attenzione/Instagram*

Dessert lovers aren’t forgotten, with Attenzione offering playful sweet treats that cap off the meal perfectly. Options include an apple baked in pastry served with tonka custard, showcasing the kitchen’s creative approach to traditional European desserts.

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Wine and Dine

Attenzione’s commitment to European dining extends to its impressive wine selection. The restaurant boasts a 150-bottle cellar that features both local Australian wines and Italian varietals. There’s a particular emphasis on Nebbiolo, with selections from renowned regions such as Barolo, Barbaresco, and Piemonte. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive by-the-glass options, allowing for exploration of different styles and regions.

The drink menu continues beyond wine, however. Attenzione also offers a range of digestifs including grappas, armagnacs, and amaros, perfect for rounding off a meal. Classic cocktails are available for those who prefer mixed drinks, and there’s even a selection of natural wines for patrons interested in low-intervention bottles.

Ambiance and Design

The restaurant’s interior, designed by Sydney-based studio Coffeyhallet, perfectly complements the European-inspired menu. The space features a vibrant mustard and aniseed colour palette that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Comfortable leather banquettes and dark-stained Bentwood chairs provide seating options, while large mirrors have been strategically placed to enhance the sense of space.

The owners of Attenzione have aimed to create a lively, relaxed, and welcoming environment that captures the essence of their favourite European dining experiences. From the moment diners step through the door, they’re transported to a space that feels both familiar and excitingly new.

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A New Chapter in Sydney Dining

With its blend of oversized pasta, European-inspired dishes, extensive wine list, and inviting atmosphere, Attenzione Food and Wine is poised to become a standout in Sydney’s competitive dining scene. It offers a unique experience that combines the best of Italian cuisine with broader European influences, all served up in a setting that encourages lingering over good food and wine.

Follow their Instagram for updates.

Published 7-Aug-2024

Waterloo to Welcome Innovative Six-Storey School on Sydney Film School Site

Waterloo is set to host a new six-storey independent school at the existing Sydney Film School location, 242-258 Young Street, catering to 800 students.

Project Overview

Plans unveiled by Sustainable Development Group detail the site’s transformation into a state-of-the-art educational hub, merging primary and secondary schooling with creative arts. The project, poised to meet the increasing demand for school places due to a projected 76% rise in the school-aged population by 2031, aims to fill the significant gap in private educational facilities in the area.

The proposed development, integrated within one of Sydney’s largest urban renewal areas, aligns with citywide efforts to support a booming population expected to reach 63,000 by 2036. This initiative promises to provide a contemporary education setting adjacent to major residential projects like the future Woolworths Waterloo and the Danks St South Precinct.

Sydney Film School Waterloo — *Photo Credit: CityOfSydney*

Development Details and Benefits

The new school will offer K-12 education and maintain the heritage of the Sydney Film School, creating a unique educational environment that leverages film studies’ media focus. The school plans to operate by the 2028 or 2029 academic year, with facilities including a hall and community hub designed to enhance student life and local community interaction.

The school’s design incorporates innovative learning environments, with classrooms equipped with the latest technology to support digital learning and interactive pedagogies. Plans include outdoor learning areas that complement the indoor facilities, emphasizing the importance of flexible and varied learning spaces.

The school’s design also focuses on sustainable development, aspiring to achieve a 5-star Green Star and 4-star NABERS rating, emphasizing energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Decisions and Planning Steps

The Central Sydney Planning Committee has taken significant steps to advance this project. Recent council resolutions include approving the planning proposal for submission to the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, initiating public authority consultation, and seeking ministerial authority to finalize the local environmental plan. Additionally, the draft Design Guide for the project was approved for public exhibition, ensuring community input into the final design aspects.

The school development is expected to significantly impact the local community by providing high-quality educational opportunities and catalysts for further economic and social development. Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with residents expressing support for a project that promises to enhance the local landscape and provide essential services.

Published 7-Aug-2024

Redfern Child Protection Workers Protested Amidst Crisis

Photo Credit: Public Service Association of NSW

Child protection caseworkers in Redfern staged a protest outside the Community Services Centre, highlighting what they described as an unacceptable risk to child safety in NSW.

Child Protection Workers in Redfern — *Photo Credit:* *Public Service Association of NSW*

The protest, which happened on Wednesday, 3 July, drew attention to the escalating crisis within the child protection system, with caseworkers reporting chronic understaffing and burnout.

The alarming discovery that only one in four children reported to child protection services as being at risk of serious harm was at the centre of the crisis. The Department’s data revealed a staggering number of 113,668 children and young people reported at risk in NSW in the previous year, with only 25,899 receiving attention. The situation was even more dire in some parts of the state, where only 15 per cent of children at risk were seen.

The Public Service Association (PSA) General Secretary Stewart Little emphasised the situation’s urgency, stating that Premier Chris Minns needed to intervene immediately. “The most vulnerable kids in this state are at risk of serious harm, or worse because child protection caseworkers are chronically understaffed and exhausted,” said Mr Little. He further highlighted the concern of caseworkers that exposing vulnerable children to a broken system may lead to further harm.

The PSA called for the Minns government to take immediate action, demanding the deprivatization of foster care, hiring 500 caseworkers, and a significant pay increase for current employees. While acknowledging that the current government did not create the crisis, Mr Little stressed their responsibility to fix it.

The protest came as child protection caseworkers grappled with the additional workload of colleagues who had left due to the challenging conditions. Data indicated that one in two caseworkers left within their first two years of employment, while the vacancy rate for positions on any given day could be as high as one in five.

Despite the protest, the PSA assured the people of Redfern that urgent child protection responses would not be impacted, with skeleton staffing maintained throughout the event. Mr Little explained that the protest was a last resort, as management was not receptive to their concerns.

Published Date 02-August-2024

Moore Park Blood Centre Saves 22,700 Lives in First Year at AFL Ground

The blood donor centre at Sydney Swans HQ in Moore Park has collected nearly 7,600 blood and plasma donations in its inaugural year, saving more than 22,700 lives and becoming the top-performing new facility in Australia.

The centre recently marked its first anniversary, celebrating a year of significant community impact. Opened in 2023, it is the first blood donor centre in the southern hemisphere to be located within an elite sports precinct.

Impressive Performance

Despite its small size, the Moore Park centre has outperformed other new facilities across the country. With only six chairs, it can accommodate up to 22,000 donations annually, potentially saving 66,000 lives.

Moore Park Donor Centre — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

The Sydney Swans have been strong supporters of the initiative. The club currently leads the AFL Blood Drive leaderboard with 78 donations, including a recent contribution from former player Brett Kirk.

Lifeblood reports that while Australia has over half a million active donors, the demand for blood products is rising. The organisation needs approximately 33,000 donations every week to meet the growing need for treatments of various life-threatening conditions.

In addition to saving lives, donors at the Moore Park centre have enjoyed nearly 10,000 party pies and sausage rolls, along with almost 3,000 chocolate milks and iced coffees during their visits.

How to Donate

To book a donation at the Sydney Swans HQ centre or any Lifeblood donor centre, interested individuals can call 13 14 95 or book online at Lifeblood.com.au. The DonateBlood app is also available for convenient scheduling.

Published 23-July-2024

New 40km/h Speed Limit Coming to Redfern

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Residents and visitors to Redfern will soon experience safer streets as the City of Sydney implements a new 40km/h speed limit in the area. This change is part of a broader initiative to reduce speed limits across Sydney, aimed at improving road safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.

The new speed restrictions in Redfern will affect sections of roads that currently have a 50km/h speed limit. This adjustment aligns Redfern with other Sydney suburbs receiving similar speed limit reductions, including parts of Glebe, Forest Lodge, Beaconsfield, Waterloo, Annandale, Alexandria, Zetland, and Woolloomooloo.

Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore AO, highlighted the significance of this change for Redfern and other affected areas: “When people drive at safer speeds it reduces the number of crashes and their severity, improves safety for people walking and riding and helps to support better place-making.”

For Redfern, a suburb known for its vibrant community and pedestrian activity, the speed limit reduction is expected to enhance street safety and contribute to a more livable urban environment. The change may be particularly impactful given Redfern’s mix of residential areas, community facilities, and proximity to the city centre.

The City of Sydney plans to install new speed limit signs in the coming weeks. To ensure drivers are aware of the changes, temporary electronic signs will be positioned at key locations in Redfern for a minimum of two weeks.

This initiative is part of a long-term strategy by the City of Sydney to improve road safety. Since 2004, the proportion of local and regional roads in Sydney with a 40km/h speed limit or lower has increased from 5% to 75%. The inclusion of Redfern in this latest round of changes brings the suburb in line with this broader safety trend.

While the new speed limit will apply to roads managed by the City of Sydney within Redfern, it’s important to note that some major roads passing through or near the suburb that are under NSW Government control may retain higher speed limits. However, the City is working with Transport for NSW to prioritise speed reduction on these roads as well.

Redfern residents and those who frequently travel through the area are encouraged to stay alert to the new speed limit changes and to always observe posted speed limit signs. The City of Sydney emphasises that these changes will not only make Redfern’s streets safer but also contribute to a quieter neighbourhood with reduced exhaust emissions.

Published 9-July-2024

New Housing Development Announced for Carriageworks Precinct in Redfern

A new housing development featuring 250 affordable homes will be constructed at the Carriageworks precinct near Redfern Station.

In an ambitious move to alleviate the housing crisis in Sydney, a significant housing development is set to transform the Carriageworks precinct. This initiative will introduce approximately 500 new dwellings, half of which are earmarked as affordable housing options.

Following a comprehensive audit, this development forms part of a broader strategy to utilise well-located public land for housing. The focus on Redfern, a suburb known for its vibrant community and cultural significance, highlights the strategic choice of locations that balance accessibility with the need for increased housing capacity.

The project at North Eveleigh, within the larger Carriageworks area, is named after the historic Clothing Store building it encompasses. This sub-precinct will see the construction of new homes designed to cater to a mix of residents, ensuring diverse community benefits.

In addition to the North Eveleigh site, other locations across New South Wales have also been designated for similar developments:

301 Samantha Riley Drive, Kellyville: Adjacent to Rouse Hill Metro station, this site is expected to house between 75-83 new homes, with half available as social and affordable housing.

72, 82, and 86 Menangle Road, Camden: This location will focus exclusively on social and affordable housing, with around 10 homes planned.

WestConnex Dive site, Parramatta Road, Camperdown: This site will see the development of over 100 homes in a mixed-use setting, in partnership with the private sector.

As part of this expansive housing initiative, stakeholders from various sectors are collaborating to ensure the successful implementation of these projects. The efforts aim to provide housing and foster communities where families can thrive in well-supported environments.

The announcement marks a substantial step forward in the NSW Government’s efforts to alleviate housing shortages and improve affordability. With further sites to be announced in the coming months, the initiative is poised to transform underused land into thriving communities, significantly impacting the lives of many in New South Wales by providing better access to quality, affordable homes.

Published 5-July-2024

119 Redfern Wins Prestigious National Trust Heritage Award for Architecture

Photo Credit: City of Sydney News

Redfern is celebrating a significant achievement as the newly transformed 119 Redfern wins the National Trust Heritage Awards architecture prise.

Aileen Sage Architects is in charge of this transformation, which honours the region’s historical and cultural roots while creating a flexible, community-centred space.

A Historic Transformation

Located at the site of a former post office, the two-storey building at 119 Redfern has been revitalised after extensive collaboration with local communities. The project, overseen by Aileen Sage Architects, aimed to create a space that honours its heritage while serving the modern needs of the community. The importance of maintaining Redfern’s Aboriginal heritage is one of the key initiatives of the City.

Cultural Reclamation

The transformation of this 19th-century building into a multipurpose community hub presented numerous challenges. Key upgrades included the installation of a lift, reflecting the building’s clock tower, and significant improvements to accessibility. The building now features flexible indoor and outdoor spaces, including a dedicated room for family research. These modifications respect the historical fabric of the structure while ensuring it meets contemporary standards.

Design Rooted in History

Aileen Sage’s design approach stripped the building back to its original brickwork, made from the clay of the land on which it stands. The detailing and linear patterns throughout the building draw inspiration from the local ironbark and turpentine forests, as well as the powerful owl’s feathers, symbolising resilience and connection to the country.

A Living Culture

119 Redfern is envisioned as a vibrant space for various community events, from workshops and exhibitions to casual gatherings over tea. Programme manager Tracey Duncan, a Gomeroi woman, stresses that this centre is not just a repository of materials but a place alive with people’s experiences and knowledge. The centre aims to be a culturally safe environment where stories, traditions, and knowledge are preserved, shared, and celebrated.

Community-Centred Design

The City of Sydney’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Panel played a crucial role in shaping the vision for 119 Redfern. Through surveys, workshops, and pop-up stalls, local communities contributed their ideas, highlighting the need for a space that connects culture to identity and fosters community unity. This consultation ensured that the centre was co-designed with the very people it aims to serve, providing a strong sense of ownership and involvement from the start.

Future Prospects

Now open, 119 Redfern invites local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and community members to use the space and bring their ideas to life. The centre’s programming will remain flexible to adapt to the evolving needs of the community. Tracey Duncan envisions the space hosting cultural workshops, storytelling sessions, choir performances, and even yoga classes. This flexibility reflects the dynamic nature of the community it serves.

A Commitment to Cultural Sustainability

The establishment of 119 Redfern fulfils a promise made in the City’s Eora Journey, a programme promoting the cultural, economic, and social sustainability of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. By purchasing and converting the building, the City of Sydney demonstrates its commitment to maintaining Redfern as a vital centre for Indigenous culture and activism.

Published Date 20-June-2024

Eveleigh Icon Kylie Kwong Closes Lucky Kwong and Exits Restaurant Industry

Photo Credit: Kylie Kwong/ Instagram

Renowned chef and restaurateur Kylie Kwong has announced the closure of her South Eveleigh restaurant, Lucky Kwong, marking her departure from the restaurant industry after an illustrious 24-year career.

Kwong opened Lucky Kwong in 2021, following the closure of her previous venture, Billy Kwong, in 2019. The celebrated chef initially launched Billy Kwong in 2000 with the late Bill Granger, quickly establishing herself as a significant figure in the culinary world.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Kwong shared the unexpected news, eliciting an overwhelming response from the culinary community. She reflected on her journey, acknowledging the challenges and rewards of the hospitality industry, and expressed gratitude for the positive experiences that have defined her career.

Kwong is set to begin a new chapter focused on her enduring passions for food, art, culture, and community connection. She plans to dedicate her efforts to amplifying the stories and voices of First Nations people and Australia’s diverse multicultural communities. This new direction underscores her commitment to using food as a medium to foster understanding and celebrate cultural heritage.

*Photo Credit:* *Kylie Kwong/ Instagram*

Prominent figures in the culinary world have shown their support for Kwong’s decision. Esteemed chef Christine Manfield commended her courage, while Dessert Masters judge Melissa Leong praised Kwong’s influential role in the industry. Nigella Lawson expressed a sense of loss but also joy for Kwong’s new journey, recognising her significant contributions to Sydney’s dining scene.

Lucky Kwong will continue its regular lunch service from Monday to Friday until its closure. Kwong intends to close this chapter on a high note, before taking a necessary break to transition into her new endeavours.

Kwong’s departure marks the end of an era for the Sydney food scene, but her legacy and impact will undoubtedly continue to inspire and influence the culinary community and beyond.

Published Date 20-June-2024

Big Name Indigenous Artists Champion Redfern in Prestigious Art Auction

Prominent indigenous artists have united to stage a luxurious art auction that aims to transform Redfern into a venue for indigenous art and empowerment.

Scheduled for 30 June 2024, at the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence, the auction is not just an event but a statement. The auction will feature works by renowned artists such as Richard Bell and Tracey Moffatt, whose pieces carry significant expectations, ranging from $4,000 to $15,000.

This event is orchestrated to support the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence’s programs that assist at-risk youth. By redirecting the narrative from disadvantage to dignity through art, the auction promises to contribute substantially to the community. All proceeds will be used to foster local talents and keep young people engaged and off the streets.

*Photo Credit: Australian Centre for Contemporary Art*

A Showcase of Iconic Artworks

The auction is set to feature an array of significant artworks including Mr Bell’s “You Don’t Own Me,” a vibrant painting echoing the voice of the Stolen Generations. Ms Moffatt’s photographic print from her “Up in the Sky” series, which explores complex themes of race and conflict, will also be featured. Other noted artists like Tony Albert and Brenda L. Croft will contribute pieces that delve into Indigenous identity and history, with estimates up to $35,000.

The involvement of these artists not only highlights their commitment to cultural advocacy but also brings Redfern to the forefront of the Australian art scene, showcasing the suburb as a pivotal space for Aboriginal-controlled art initiatives. This shift redefines Redfern’s image and reinforces the importance of accessibility and pride in Indigenous artistry.

A Future Built on Artistic Foundations

With high-profile figures in the art world waiving fees and contributing their expertise, the auction is anticipated to raise between $135,000 and $185,000. These funds will directly support innovative community programs like Young Fit & Deadly, providing safe and creative youth spaces every Friday night.

The strategic placement of this high-calibre auction in Redfern marks a significant step towards reshaping the community’s narrative, offering hope and tangible support through the power of art. It celebrates Indigenous excellence and resilience, promising to leave a lasting impact on Redfern and its residents.

Published 20-June-2024