Atomic Brewery had become a staple in Redfern’s vibrant community, known for its innovative beers and lively atmosphere. Established in 2019 and opening a year later, the brewery had offered a range of unique brews and hosted numerous community events.
Despite their best efforts and strong local support, Atomic Brewery succumbed to the same financial pressures plaguing many small breweries around Australia in the pandemic era. The decision to close was described as being made with a “heavy heart,” reflecting the emotional impact on both the owners and their patrons.
In their final message to customers, the owners expressed gratitude for the support and memorable moments shared.
“It’s been a pleasure Redfern, join us for a final froth and a nod to the good times,” the owners shared.
This sentiment was echoed on their website with a heartfelt goodbye, acknowledging the “excellent vibes” brought by their patrons over the years.
Industry-Wide Challenges
The closure of Atomic Brewery is part of a broader trend affecting the Australian brewing industry.
Experts like Nick Boots, an industry consultant, cite multiple factors contributing to these difficulties. The government-imposed excise tax, which is the largest expense for breweries, has been a significant burden, especially as it increases biannually with inflation. Additionally, during the COVID-19 pandemic, breweries were allowed to defer tax payments, a relief that has now ended with the Australian Tax Office demanding repayment.
Community and Economic Impact
The competitive landscape is also daunting for smaller players like Atomic Beer. The market is dominated by large corporations such as Carlton & United Breweries and Lion, which control up to 90% of the market, making it challenging for independent brewers to compete.
These larger companies benefit from tax advantages and economies of scale that allow them to produce and sell beer at significantly lower prices.
The closure of these independent breweries not only affects the local communities they serve but also has broader economic implications. The loss of these businesses contributes to job reductions and lessens the cultural richness of their locales.
Thousands of Sydney commuters experienced significant delays on Tuesday morning when a man was spotted near the tracks at Redfern Station, affecting multiple train lines and requiring adjustments to travel plans.
The disruption began just after 8:00 a.m. on 3 September 2024, when commuters were first alerted to the presence of a person near the tracks.
This led to halted services across several key lines, including the Airport & South Line, Bankstown Line, Inner West & Leppington Line, North Shore Line, Northern Line, and Western Line. Sydney Trains advised passengers to anticipate changes to stops and potential delays, urging them to stay informed via announcements, information screens, and transport apps.
New South Wales Police confirmed that the incident was mental health-related. Authorities safely removed the man from the tracks and into police care by approximately 9:00 a.m.
Despite the resolution, residual delays continued to affect the network, with Sydney Trains recommending that commuters allow for an additional half-hour of travel time.
Community Impact and Reactions
The morning’s events significantly disrupted the daily routines of many, impacting students, professionals, and other city dwellers. Social media platforms like X, formerly Twitter, saw a flurry of activity from frustrated commuters sharing their experiences.
Some praised the Sydney Metro for its efficiency and isolation from such disruptions, while others expressed dissatisfaction with the delay, with one commuter’s journey tripling in expected duration.
Sydney Trains reiterated the importance of passenger safety and the unpredictability of such incidents, reminding travellers to plan for additional travel time and stay alert to updates during their commutes.
Ongoing Effects and Future Precautions
As the morning progressed, normal train operations gradually resumed. Still, the incident serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities in public transport systems, especially in densely populated urban areas like Sydney.
Transport authorities continue to evaluate their response protocols and communication strategies to better manage and mitigate similar situations in the future, ensuring the safety and convenience of all commuters.
A new satirical play delving into the challenges faced by actors and filmmakers in Sydney’s creative scene is set to premiere at the Sydney Fringe Festival in Redfern.
The production, titled “I Worked With Heath Ledger Once…”, will run from 26 to 28 September at 107 Projects Redfern. Written and directed by Jarred Keane, the play is billed as “a real play about a fake documentary” and aims to blend humour with deeper themes of ambition and identity.
Story Background
The play centres on Maya, a young film student, who decides to make a documentary about an aspiring actor nearing 35 with a “make it or quit it” pact. As Maya faces pressure to tell a more personal story about her complicated past and issues faced by BIPOC in modern-day Sydney, she begins to intervene in the actor’s life to create a better ending for her film.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Keane describes the play as “a comedy… sort of” and explains its origins: “Originating as a disposal idea for a sketch/short film for the internet in between COVID lockdowns, I knew it was ‘the most unoriginal idea ever’ to make a Mockumentary about actors. Thankfully, I didn’t throw it away, but took that as a challenge to find something original and fresh where you’d least expect it.”
Community Focus
107 Projects Redfern, the venue hosting the play, is a repurposed car garage that now serves as a multipurpose creative hub. Since 2011, it has provided affordable facilities for artists, including exhibition and performance spaces, studios, and co-working areas.
The venue’s focus on community aligns with the play’s themes, offering a fitting backdrop for a story about Sydney’s creative industry. Its commitment to supporting local artists reflects the struggles and aspirations portrayed in the production.
Behind the Scenes
Keane reveals the personal nature of the project.
“This play is deeply personal for me as not only my first outing as a theatrical director, but as the writer – I have put so much of my life and the experiences of people close to me in this, I’ve never felt more vulnerable and terrified.”
The production features a cast of eight and additional crew members who will film and edit scenes to be played throughout as part of the “documentary” element. This unique approach blends live theatre with filmed content, creating a hybrid experience for the audience.
Themes and Relevance
Producer Westley Cornwell emphasised the play’s exploration of ethical dilemmas in pursuing creative dreams.
“This play offers a unique and humorous look at the struggles of actors and filmmakers, all while addressing deeper themes of ambition, identity, and the ethical lines we cross in pursuit of our dreams. It’s a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever faced a crossroads in their career,” he stated.
“While it is a Mockumentary, this is not at all about ‘mocking’ or making light of the struggles and dreams of creatives, it is about the universal need to be seen and heard. Both of the lead characters are intent on controlling how people see them, in fighting all of the expectations on them, but they make decisions that will hurt them in the long term simply because they are afraid of facing the entire scope of their identity,” Keane adds.
The play holds particular relevance in the current cultural climate, addressing the increased attention on diverse stories and the challenges faced by creatives in the industry.
Cast and Crew
The production boasts a diverse cast including Nat Astwood as Jennifer, Laren Bigg as DJ/Dominic, Richard Cotter as Clark, Lisa Hanssens as Ms Angelo/Kathleen Fennell, Jarred Keane as Jeremy, Koa Mcintyre as Ambrose/Raiden, Jade Nicholson-Lamb as Nikki, Ani Sidzamba as Maya, and Ricky Price as Terry.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Behind the scenes, Westley Cornwell serves as producer, with Lyndsey Fay Macnaught as production assistant and Indy Jo Woodward handling BTS videography.
Performance Details
The play will run for 115 minutes, with four performances scheduled:
“My hope is that people will see themselves in these characters, that they will double over laughing, and walk away with something personal and indescribable for themselves in their own journey of self-love. I optimistically believe that to be human is to find connection, and that even the most foolish and foolhardy among us deserves to be loved,” Keane concludes.
The inner-city suburb of Redfern has emerged as an area of concern in the growing issue of youth crime across New South Wales. With a troubling 27 youth offences recorded in recent data, including 17 assaults, the suburb is grappling with the challenges of youth violence and delinquency.
Statewide Youth Crime Data Paints a Concerning Picture
Photo Credit: Pexels
New South Wales is experiencing a surge in youth crime, with some suburbs reporting over 200 serious offences in just one year. The latest data from the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) reveals that young offenders committed 11,712 serious offences in 2023, including assaults, car thefts, and home break-ins.
The data highlights several hotspots across the state, including Bondi Junction, Sydney’s CBD, Mount Druitt, Macquarie Fields, Miranda, Parramatta, Blacktown, and Penrith. In regional NSW, the town of Bourke recorded the highest overall number of offences per capita, with 90 serious incidents in a population of just 2,389.
Youth Assaults and Recidivism at the Forefront
Photo Credit: Pexels
Assaults constitute over one-third of all severe youth offences, with 4,523 incidents recorded. Additionally, young offenders were responsible for 1,073 car thefts and 830 home break-ins.
NSW Police Minister Yasmin Catley acknowledges the problem and is working with NSW Police to ensure frontline officers have the necessary resources. Ms Catley emphasises the importance of tackling rising recidivism rates among young people and exploring diversionary mechanisms to keep them out of the criminal justice system.
Addressing the Complexities of Youth Crime
Photo Credit: Pexels
The BOCSAR data also highlights the complex factors contributing to youth crime. A recent report reveals that most 10- to 13-year-old children appearing in court come from disadvantaged backgrounds, with histories of violence, contact with the child protection system, and parents with criminal records. Aboriginal children and those living in regional and remote areas are disproportionately affected.
Jackie Fitzgerald, Executive Director of BOCSAR, stresses the need for an appropriate response that addresses the complex needs of these young people and prevents future offences. The challenge lies in keeping the child and the community safe while providing support and intervention.
The alarming statistics on youth crime in NSW call for a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach. Addressing the root causes of youth offending, such as poverty, trauma, and a lack of opportunities, is crucial. Early intervention, diversionary programmes, and support services are essential in preventing young people from entering the criminal justice system and helping them build a better future.
As communities across NSW grapple with the challenges of youth crime, collaboration between government agencies, law enforcement, social services, and the community is vital in creating a safer and more supportive environment for all young people.
The Bat and Ball Hotel, a beloved watering hole for sports enthusiasts since the 1930s, has reopened its doors after months of renovation, breathing new life into this historic establishment.
The pub, located near Cleveland and Dowling Streets, has long been a favourite pit stop for fans heading to and from the nearby Sydney Cricket Ground and Moore Park stadiums.
Photo credit: The Bat and Ball Hotel/Google Maps
On 16 August 2024, patrons were welcomed back to a refreshed Bat and Ball, now under the management of JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group. This change comes after Universal Hotels sold the leasehold earlier this year. The new management has taken a thoughtful approach to the renovation, choosing to enhance the pub’s existing charm rather than impose a completely new identity.
Photo credit: The Bat and Ball Hotel/Google Maps
The new management wanted to pay homage to the traditional pub. This philosophy is evident in the carefully curated blend of old and new throughout the establishment.
The Bat and Ball’s history is as rich as its new offerings. Originally built in 1929 as “The Duke of Cleveland,” the pub was demolished and rebuilt in 1931, adopting its current name in 1937. This latest renovation marks another chapter in its storied past.
Bat and Ball Hotel, 1949 (Photo credit: Tooth & Co yellow cards, Noel Butlin Archives)
While preserving its classic Aussie pub essence, the new Bat and Ball has elevated its offerings. Patrons can still enjoy their favourite beers on tap and the quintessential chicken schnitzel, but now with the added luxury of an improved wine selection and streamlined cocktail menu.
Photo credit: The Bat and Ball Hotel/Google Maps
This balance of tradition and modernity extends to entertainment as well. Sports fans need not worry – the televisions screening matches remain, but the pokies have been removed, making way for a more diverse crowd.
Photo credit: The Bat and Ball Hotel/Google Maps
Music lovers will appreciate the introduction of vinyl DJs on Friday and Saturday nights, adding a touch of nostalgia to the weekend atmosphere. The pub’s 2:00 a.m. licence ensures that the good times can roll well into the night.
Photo credit: The Bat and Ball Hotel/Google Maps
The revival of The Bat and Ball comes at a time when there’s a growing appreciation for Sydney’s pub heritage. In July, a submission was made to the NSW Government to preserve 22 historic pubs in the city’s Inner West, including notable establishments like the Duke of Enmore, Vic on the Park, and the Annandale Hotel.
As Sydney’s pub landscape continues to evolve, The Bat and Ball stands as a shining example of how to honour tradition while embracing the future. Whether you’re a longtime regular or a curious newcomer, this revamped classic promises a warm welcome and a fresh experience in a setting steeped in history.
When Harris Farm Markets opens their latest store on the Surry Hills and Redfern border, it will be the next iteration in an extraordinary evolution that started 53 years ago, with a belief in something greater than just fresh food.
Harris Farm Markets at The Village Surry Hills in Redfern will open on Thursday, August 22 to a fanfare of seafood, with long-time seafood partner, Fish in the Family, offering specials on Queensland Barramundi and Tiger Prawns, as well as Mount Cook Salmon, and the Infinity Blue Barramundi over the opening week-end.
• Mount Cook Salmon: 22-23 Aug • Infinity Blue Barramundi: 24-25 Aug
FOTF Promotion
Sign up as a Friend of the Farm and shop in-store for a chance to win one of five $50 seafood bundles
Infinity Bakery
• 25% off coffee and pastries • $6 sourdough loaves • Samples Thu-Sun
The Redfern store brings together the best that Harris Farm Markets has to offer in one place. This is a process that reflects an active policy to develop very strong relationships with farmers, alongside a highly customer-oriented policy that has included a program to remove the use of artificial colours from their product range, and a market leadership commitment to overnight cold storage for their fresh fruit and vegetables.
This passion for quality and “the customer as family” is something that has embodied Harris Farm Markets from the beginning.
The Inspiring Journey of Harris Farm Markets
In 1971, David Harris and his wife Catherine opened their first store in the Western Sydney suburb of Villawood, not long after they graduated from university.
A decade after, he and wife had grown the business enough to include stores in the affluent Sydney suburbs of Willoughby, Mosman, Castle Hill, Pennant Hills and Chatswood. Things were looking good.
What followed next is an inspiring story of community, solidarity, and triumph over adversity.
Five years after acquiring equity in Harris Farm Markets, Panfida went into receivership, nearly taking the business down with it.
Proving that it does take a village to raise a child (in this case, a brainchild, the business), friends and family invested their hard-earned money to save the business. After investing, they turned to David Harris to manage the stores for them.
After they had recouped their investment, these friends and relatives gifted their equity right back to David Harris. By 2011, he had refinanced and once again, the business was back into the fold, 100% family-owned.
Growing the business involved both husband and wife working side by side, each bringing their own contribution to the table.
“The expertise I brought related to the things that big corporates have in place, like key performance indicators, systems and disciplines. David, with his unparalleled knowledge of the industry, brought agility, lateral thinking and innovation. Part of the success of Harris Farm is that we bring this breadth to the board. It is a winning formula,” Cathy Harris recounted in an interview with the American Institute of Company Directors, where she is a Lifetime Fellow.
This experience is at the root of their strong belief that family is everything and that family extends to everyone who makes the business a success: their employees, suppliers, the community around each Harris store, and their customers.
The concept of “family” is so intrinsic to the core of the business that when it was time for David and his wife to “retire” from the day-to-day operations, they decided to hand over the reins to three of their five sons who were working for the business at the time.
Luke joined the business in 1995 and had been there the longest at the time; Angus started in 2003 and was the chief information officer; Tristan started learning the ropes as a grocery buyer in 2006. In an unprecedented move that many in the industry believed would fail, all three were appointed co-CEOs.
“We have the discipline, reporting structures and the agenda of a large corporation, but we have the flexibility, ingenuity, honesty and the hands-on passion of a small company.”
Since then, Harris Farm Markets has grown to become a thriving chain with over 29 stores across New South Wales and Queensland. The company has remained true to its roots and the values that it has represented for five decades: quality produce, support for local farmers, and a commitment to fresh food.
To an independent business like Harris Farm Markets, supply chain is important so they do what they can to make sure their suppliers are supported and treated fairly and well.
“We’ve always been about quality, freshness, and supporting local farmers,” Angus Harris said in an interview with Good Food. “That’s something we’ve never compromised on, even as we’ve grown.”
These values have helped Harris Farm Markets stand out in a competitive market. While many retailers focus on scale and efficiency, Harris Farm Markets has remained committed to the principles that David Harris established in those early days.
Standing Out
Since the early days of the business, competition has always been fierce, with other stores jostling for a position in the market. David Harris has always understood that building a loyal customer base required not only hard work but also a deep understanding of what the community needed.
“I remember a lady who would come every week without fail to buy apples,” he once recounted. “One day, she asked me to pick the best ones for her daughter’s birthday. That’s when I realised that what I was doing was more than just selling fruit—it was about being a part of people’s lives.”
The average annual household spend on groceries sits at around $10,000 per annum in Australia (Note: varying reporting is either side of this figure). The spend is largely distributed between Coles(28%) and Woolworths (37%). Together with Aldi (10%) and Metcash (7%), these stores control over 80% of the market.
In keeping with Harris Farm Market’s values, for example, the new Redfern store has also established an Aboriginal Employment Strategy to support the local community, recruiting staff for various positions, bringing opportunities and support to develop great careers.
Delivering a great customer experience is also paramount. Customer focus is something that the Harris family has cultivated and passed on to all their employees.
In a marketplace dominated by the Big 2 and the more recent “low-cost” players, Harris Farm Markets has grown steadily with over 300 million dollars in annual sales, whilst offering a combination of policies that deliver highly responsible community leadership.
The local community vibe is something that local contemporary artist, designer, and illustrator Nico Nicoson, known for his large public artwork installations, strove to capture in the stunning mural he created for the Redfern store.
“I consider myself a bit of a foodie and always love creating images related to food and the enjoyment around it. I love creating images that are fun and playful. I was really keen to represent the unique local community vibe in the artwork and had a lot of fun incorporating the beautiful little terrace houses that really capture the inner-city village lifestyle that I love so much,” Mr Nicoson said.
Making a Difference: In Partnership With Farmers
For decades, Harris Farm Markets has built its reputation on a commitment to fresh, locally sourced produce. Forming and maintaining strong relationships with the farmers who grow the produce are considered vital to the core of the business.
Both David and Cathy Harris, despite relinguishing operational control to their sons, still maintain active involvement in maintaining supplier relationships; Cathy is the chairperson of this endeavour.
These supplier relationships are particularly crucial during times of environmental stress, such as droughts, when the livelihood of farmers is on the line.
During periods of drought, many large retailers might turn away from local produce due to inconsistencies in supply or quality. Unlike them, Harris Farm Markets has consistently shown that it values its supplier relationships over short-term profits.
By continuing to purchase from local farmers, even when yields are low or even if the produce isn’t aesthetically perfect, Harris Farm Markets provides crucial financial stability to farmers who might otherwise struggle to stay afloat.
Farmers who have partnered with Harris Farm Markets often speak of the emotional support that comes with this financial stability. Knowing that there is a buyer who values their hard work and is willing to stand by them during the hardest of times can be a powerful motivator to keep going, even when the future seems uncertain.
“By choosing to purchase the full crop, and promote imperfect fruit and veg, we’ve ensured that farmers receive a fair return for their hard work, reducing the financial impact of previously discarded produce. Together, we are proving that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, and that every crop holds value,” Co-CEO Angus Harris said, explaining the rationale behind their enduring support.
For many farmers, having a reliable buyer during these difficult times can mean the difference between staying in business or shutting down. The assurance that their produce will still find a market, even when conditions are dire, provides a much-needed financial safety net.
The company’s marketing efforts during droughts also focus on educating consumers about the impact of drought on farmers and the importance of supporting local agriculture during these tough times.
In-store signage, social media campaigns, and customer newsletters are used to highlight the challenges faced by farmers and how purchasing locally grown produce can make a difference.
Always on the Leading Edge
Harris Farm Market has always been ahead of the curve, when it comes to thinking of ways to make a difference to the community.
No to Plastic
It was the first major supermarket to stop using plastic bags, advising its customers to use paper bags and cardboard boxes for their shopping.
In 2021, Harris Farm Markets committed to reducing plastic use in their stores by implementing reusable crates for fresh produce and introducing a “BYO container” option for customers.
Free Fruit for Children
The company offered free fruit for children while their parents shop, something they did quietly and without fanfare, a practice that was eventually adopted by Woolworths and eventually, Coles.
Imperfect Picks
True to its practice of innovation with a heart, Harris Farm Markets was also the first to launch its “Imperfect Picks” program, offering fruits and vegetables that did not quite meet the cosmetic standards of other retailers, selling them at a lower price.
While these products might be rejected elsewhere, Harris Farm Markets sees their value and offers them to consumers at a discounted price, providing value-for-money options for shoppers and much-needed support for farmers for products which might otherwise go to waste.
This program not only helps farmers sell produce that might otherwise go to waste but also educates consumers on the importance of reducing food waste. By promoting these “Imperfect Picks” to shoppers, Harris Farm Markets encourages customers to look beyond appearances and appreciate the nutritional value and taste of the produce, regardless of its shape or size.
“We are immensely proud of this achievement. Our Imperfect fruit and vegetables are just as delicious and great for cooking as the blemish-free kind. At up to 70% cheaper than their more perfect counterparts, Australians are able to feed their families with fruit & veg which would otherwise have been dumped, ploughed back into a field or used as animal feed. This journey has been possible thanks to our dedicated team, our loyal customers, and our invaluable relationship with local farmers,” Angus Harris, Co-CEO, said.
“…every piece of fruit and veg, no matter its shape or size, has immense value,” he added. “By embracing imperfections through our total crop solution, we have ensured that more Australians receive quality, nutritious fruit and veg at an affordable price, reducing waste and ensuring that value isn’t just about appearance, but substance.”
The initiative became so successful that competitors soon followed suit, with “The Odd Bunch” and similar strategies that now appear throughout the industry. The combined impact on food waste has been dramatic.
Sarah Johnson, a regular shopper at a Harris Farm location, agrees. “I love that Harris Farm Markets makes it easy to support local farmers. The ‘Imperfect Picks’ are such a great idea. They’re cheaper, just as tasty, and I know my money is going to help someone who really needs it,” she said.
No Artificial Colours
Further solidifying its commitment to sustainable retail practices, Harris Farm Markets has also eliminated artificial colours, after a five-year process working with suppliers, becoming the only major grocery provider to do so.
“For over 50 years Harris Farm Markets have been delivering goodness to Australian families. To continue to do this, we knew we needed to eliminate artificial colours from our shelves. So, for the past five years we have been working with our suppliers, to find new methods of production if needed and alternative ingredients if required. Now, our pasta sauces, dips, juices, peanut butter, cookie dough, curry pastes, chocolates, soups, noodles and even orange juices just to name a few, are all free of artificial colouring,” Co-CEO Tristan Harris said.
“We take immense pride in what we sell, and even more pride in what we don’t sell, and from now on, we don’t sell food with artificial colours. We are also incredibly proud to be the only major grocery provider in the country to be now artificial colour free,” he added.
Gourmet Treasures
For those who seek out the finest foods, Harris Farm Markets at The Village Surry Hills in Redfern is more than just a grocery store—it’s a haven of gourmet delights. From artisanal cheeses to rare spices, this market offers a selection of products that promise to elevate any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook, a professional chef, or simply someone who loves good food, the Surry Hills location is a treasure trove of culinary possibilities.
Artisanal Cheeses
One of the highlights of Harris Farm Markets in Redfern will be its impressive selection of artisanal cheeses. From locally made varieties that showcase the best of Australian dairy to imported specialties from Europe, there’s something to satisfy every cheese lover. The market’s cheese section has 600 varieties of cheese, carefully curated to include both popular favorites and unique finds that are hard to come by elsewhere.
Specialty Meats and Charcuterie
Harris Farm Markets is also the destination for those seeking high-quality meats and charcuterie. The market’s Proper Meat Butcher offers a range of quality meats, including free-range and organic options, as well as a curated selection of charcuterie that includes everything from prosciutto to pâté.
For home cooks, the market’s selection of meats offers an opportunity to experiment with new cuts and flavors, bringing restaurant-quality ingredients into your own kitchen.
Organic and Exotic Produce
Harris Farm Markets is known for its commitment to providing fresh, high-quality produce, and the Redfern location takes this to the next level with its range of organic and exotic fruits and vegetables. From heirloom tomatoes to dragon fruit, the market offers an array of options that cater to both health-conscious consumers and adventurous eaters.
The Harris Farm Markets policy on fresh fruit and veg also means that at the end of every day, the whole stock is moved into cold storage. You would expect that this was the industry norm but not so, Harris Farm Markets make that extra effort to maintain the freshness of their produce.
Whether you’re shopping for everyday meals or looking to create something special, the produce section at Harris Farm Markets Surry Hills is sure to inspire.
Food blogger Jess Wilson only has good things to say about the produce at Harris Farm Markets. “I was looking for something different to use in a salad and came across these beautiful purple carrots and watermelon radishes,” she says. “They were so vibrant and added a lot of flavor and color to the dish. I love that I can find such unique ingredients right here in Sydney.”
Gourmet Pantry Staples
Beyond fresh produce and meats, Harris Farm Markets is also a go-to spot for gourmet pantry staples. Visitors to the store at The Village Surry Hills will find a wide range of high-quality oils, vinegars, spices, and specialty grains that can elevate even the simplest dishes, a must for a well-stocked pantry.
“One of my favourite discoveries was this incredible truffle oil,” says Daniel Lee, a home cook who frequents his neighbourhood location. “It’s a bit of a splurge, but a little goes a long way, and it really makes a difference in my pasta dishes. I also found a spice blend that’s perfect for recreating a dish I had on a trip to Morocco.”
Customers who join the Friend of The Farm program will get 5% off produce, exclusive deals, and market updates at Harris Farm Markets at The Village Surry Hills in Redfern.
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.
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
Photo credit:119 Redfern Street/Google Maps
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.
Photo credit:119 Redfern Street/Google Maps
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Photo Credit: Marcus Liew/Google Maps
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.
Photo Credit: Marcus Liew/Google Maps
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Photo Credit: CityOfSydney
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.
Photo Credit: CityOfSydney
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.
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.
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.
