Elin Schmitz, a 14-year-old Ice Hockey athlete hailing from Redfern, is among the 24 athletes from various disciplines who have settled into the Australian headquarters ahead of their first day of competition of the 2024 Winter Youth Olympic Games.
The teenager expressed her excitement upon her arrival at the Youth Olympic Village in Gangwon, highlighting the incredible experience of being part of this prestigious event. Along with her teammates, she explored the vibrant atmosphere of the Village, where flags from various countries adorned the surroundings.
Elin described being in Gangwon as “awesome” and mentioned the festive spirit. She was particularly thrilled by the dining hall and Athlete 365 centre, where various educational programs and activities await.
Twenty-four athletes from various disciplines, including Biathlon, Short Track Speed Skating, Snowboard Cross, and Ice Hockey, have settled into the Australian headquarters ahead of their first day of competition on Saturday, 20 January 2024.
This year’s Australian Team for the Winter Youth Olympic Games (WYOG) is the largest in history, comprising 47 athletes across eight disciplines. The competition will unfold over a two-week period, from 19 January to 1 February, providing ample opportunities for Australian athletes to shine on the international stage.
For those eager to follow the action, all events will be available for live streaming on 9Now, ensuring that fans don’t miss any of the thrilling moments. The festivities will kick off with the Opening Ceremony, which will be broadcast live on 9Go! from 9:55 pm AEDT on Friday, 19 January.
Powerhouse Ultimo is poised to undergo a stunning metamorphosis as it shuts its doors for a three-year renovation project set to redefine the heart of Sydney’s cultural precinct.
With just a handful of weeks remaining until the doors close on 4 Feb 2024, eager visitors are seizing their last chance to experience the museum’s current offerings. However, this closure is not the end; it’s the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
The transformative journey, with a whopping $250 million budget, is expected to invigorate the exhibition space that can house an even more impressive array of objects, an intuitive visitor flow, and flexible exhibition areas that will catapult applied arts and sciences into the spotlight.
A key focus of the project will entail preserving the historical gems that have graced Ultimo for over a century. The original power station from 1899, the Turbine Hall, and the 1901 Post Office building will all find their place within the new space. A fresh, green public square will emerge, promising not only a tranquil oasis but also studio spaces for creative minds and the sciences.
Photo Credit: Powerhouse Ultimo
With the clock ticking down to the closure of Powerhouse Ultimo, visitors have just a few weeks left to soak in the wonders of the current exhibitions and attractions:
“1001 Remarkable Objects”: Step into a treasure trove of wonder as you explore 25 rooms brimming with an astounding array of captivating objects. Some of these treasures have never seen the light of the exhibition halls before.
“Absolutely Queer”: Join in the celebration of Sydney WorldPride 2023 with this exhibition, which delves into the rich tapestry of Sydney’s queer creatives throughout the years, highlighting their invaluable contributions to the city’s vibrant culture.
“Paradise Camp“: Immerse yourself in Yuki Kihara’s thought-provoking photographic tableaus, as they delicately dissect the intricacies of gender and colonial legacies, placing them squarely under the microscope of scrutiny.
Whilst Powerhouse Ultimo takes its much-needed hiatus, culture enthusiasts need not despair. Powerhouse Parramatta, a cutting-edge cultural institution designed by Moreau Kusunoki and Genton, is slated to open its doors in 2025, marking a historic milestone as the first state cultural institution of NSW based in Western Sydney. Moreover, the Castle Hill site will continue to intrigue visitors throughout 2024, despite its expansion projects.
Two Redfern locals are part of a 13-member women’s national youth 3-on-3 ice hockey team that will represent Australia at the 2024 Winter Youth Olympic Games in Gangwon, South Korea.
Annika Schmitz and Elin Schmitz, are set to join the WYOG tournament scheduled to take place from 20 to 25 Jan 2024. Notably, this selection marks a significant milestone as it is the first all-Australian ice hockey team to compete at a WYOG.
Annika, 15, started her journey at 9 years old. Today, she stands as a key member of the Arctic Foxes women’s team. Inspired by strong female athletes like her first ice hockey coach, who represented Australia, and Matilda’s captain Sam Kerr, Annika is determined to pave the way for women in sport.
Elin, 14, fell in love with the sport at 7 years old, when a new rink opened near her home. She joined the Ice Zoo Wolves and quickly embraced the speed, skills, and teamwork required in the game. In 2022, Elin made her international debut, representing Australia at the One Hockey International Peewee Tournament.
Photo Credit: Olympics.com.au
Unprecedented Opportunity for Australian Youth
Annika and Elin are two of the pioneers of what is expected to be a 53-member Australian team, set to compete against 1,900 youth athletes from 70 countries during WYOG. This event is a unique opportunity for young Australian winter athletes to challenge themselves on a global stage and gain invaluable experiences as they represent their nation in Gangwon.
Australian Chef de Mission and Vancouver 2010 Olympian, Ramone Cooper, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the selected athletes.
“As the first Australian ice hockey team to be selected for a Winter Youth Olympic Games, this is a fantastic achievement, and I have no doubt these young athletes will do an incredible job representing their country in Gangwon,” Ramone Cooper, the Australian Chef de Mission and Vancouver 2010 Olympian, said.
General Manager of Ice Hockey Australia, Adam Woolnough, expressed the immense pride felt by the ice hockey community in Australia for reaching this milestone. He highlighted the collective effort of coaches, volunteers, and players, both past and present, in achieving this remarkable accomplishment.
Nestled in the heart of Redfern is a culinary gem known as Bush, an unassuming restaurant that opened in July 2019 and has since become a beloved fixture in the local dining landscape.
Founded by head chef Grant Lawn, a visionary with a background in landscape architecture, Bush was conceived as a space to foster community and conversations while paying homage to the Australian outback through its menu and decor.
Chef Grant and his team, still learning the ropes of the business, aimed to avoid overwhelming themselves. However, to their surprise, the George Street establishment quickly became a hit, frequently selling out of its signature burgers and desserts on weekends.
A Taste of the Outback: Bush’s Unique Offerings
Despite its relatively small menu, Bush has garnered attention and acclaim for its standout dishes, notably the cheeseburger, kangaroo pies, and fairy bread pudding. Each creation at Bush serves a purpose beyond satisfying one’s palate; it is carefully crafted to highlight various aspects of Australian cuisine and the environment.
For instance, the kangaroo pies not only pay homage to a familiar Australian dish but also emphasise the environmental benefits of consuming kangaroo meat to manage their overpopulation.
Stepping into Bush is like entering an Australian bush setting. The decor is thoughtfully curated to reflect Lawn’s vision, featuring roughly cut stools, long wooden communal tables, and tables adorned with native Australian plants. Stuffed toy versions of native Australian fauna add a playful touch to the ambience, further enhancing the dining experience.
Originating as a pop-up establishment, Bush quickly found its permanent home in Redfern, where it has since solidified its presence and gained a loyal following. The concise menu features indigenous produce and inventive game dishes, such as kangaroo steak frites and venison chops. Notably, the restaurant’s cheeseburger, though not a traditional Australian dish, has earned legendary status within Sydney’s culinary scene.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
Photo Credit: Bush/Instagram
While the cheeseburger may have garnered some debate about its place on the menu, Bush offers an all-encompassing dining experience. From the beloved Nan’s Sausage Roll to wattleseed ice cream, the restaurant invites patrons to savour the essence of Australian cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. The welcoming and friendly wait staff treat guests as friends, enhancing the sense of community and camaraderie within the restaurant.
Contributing to the Local Dining Scene
Bush’s popularity is not solely attributed to its delectable food offerings but also to its invaluable contribution to the local dining scene. By offering a unique take on Australian cuisine and providing a communal space that encapsulates the spirit of the Australian bush in an urban setting, Bush has emerged as a distinctive and cherished establishment in Redfern.
Over four years on and Redfern’s Bush has solidified its status as one of Sydney’s most quintessentially Australian eateries. Chef Grant continues to celebrate native produce and even invasive species like boar on a menu that balances affordability with culinary ambition in a casual neighbourhood setting.
Darlington Activity Centre, also known as Harry Burland Activity Centre, is slated to reopen in 2024, in response to a successful community-led campaign.
The large community space, located at 132-134 Shepherd St, Darlington, just behind the University of Sydney, was closed by the City of Sydney during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The advocacy efforts were spearheaded by resident Matthew McCarthy and was supported by Cr Sylvie Ellsmore. The City Council unanimously voted to reopen the centre and restore it as a vital community asset.
Photo credit: Google Street View
McCarthy rallied his neighbours through surveys and outreach, finding substantial support for bringing back programs once hosted there, like those for seniors, children, and the arts.
“We are in desperate need of free or low-cost spaces that the community can use across the city, especially spaces for neighbours to connect and support each other,” said Cr Ellsmore, who championed the reopening during a meeting with Council.
“Big thanks to everyone who filled in the survey, came to a community meeting, wrote a submission to the elected Councillors, donated for the BBQ, and came along to celebrate with us, and otherwise have supported the campaign so far” she added.
Photo credit: Google Street View
The 60s-era centre has potential for hosting events affordably or even freely, increasing accessibility. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, the activity centre was known for hosting art classes for young children and adults alike.
The community wants Darlington Activity Centre to remain publicly owned and operated, rather than being redeveloped. Top requested uses include creative programs, meeting spaces, support groups, exercise, tool libraries, food pantries, and gardening. The next steps will be assessing maintenance needs before an early 2024 open house so residents can view the space.
The restaurant, led by veteran chef RK Matang, has relocated from its modest Cleveland Street space to a larger, sleek new home at Bourke Street’s bustling food scene.
The new location marks an exciting chapter for RK San, doubling its seating capacity in a modern, airy venue filled with Japanese artwork.
Photo credit: Phing Phing/Google Maps
The Japanese restaurant has built a strong following thanks to its contemporary twist on traditional Japanese cuisine, showcasing high-quality ingredients like fatty tuna toro in its popular sashimi platters.
Chef RK Matang (Photo credit: rksan.com.au)
Trained in Japan since age 15 before moving to Australia, Chef RK brings over three decades of experience preparing traditional yet inventive Japanese food. Stints at luxury resorts and high-end Sydney restaurants like Flying Fish preceded the opening of his modest but now-bustling establishment bearing his name.
One signature bite that demonstrates RK San’s inventive approach is the tuna cigar – a crispy pastry rolled into a cigar shape and filled with silky sashimi-grade salmon tartare. Another standout is their pan-seared Hokkaido scallops, a consistent best-seller.
Photo credit: Minh Phan/Google Maps
Beyond seafood, the menu retains customer favourites like the Peruvian Nikkei-inspired cooked dishes and premium wagyu robata skewers from the charcoal grill.
RK San’s move signals an exciting new era for Chef RK Matang to fully bring his contemporary Japanese vision to life. The big, welcoming space and expanded kitchen are a fitting backdrop for his slickest creations yet, from the Instagram-famous tuna cigar to the expertly seared Hokkaido scallops.
Visit them at their new location at 648 Bourke Street, Redfern.
Sydney Streets, the beloved outdoor street events, are set to make a grand return this summer, transforming the bustling village high streets, in Redfern and other areas, into vibrant, car-free zones.
Spanning various weekends from February to April 2024, Sydney Streets celebrates our cherished local neighbourhoods with a kaleidoscope of activities and entertainment.
Join the Community Celebration
Local businesses and organisations are invited to play an integral role in these lively events. Opportunities abound for in-store activations, outdoor trading, and contributing to the festive atmosphere. This is a call to all businesses located on or near the high streets to collaborate in creating memorable experiences.
Key Dates for Participation
17 February: Macleay Street, Potts Point
24 February: Stanley Street, Darlinghurst
9 March: Glebe Point Road, Glebe
16 March: Redfern Street, Redfern
23 March: Harris Street, Pyrmont
6 April: Crown Street, Surry Hills
An online information session scheduled for 3:00 p.m. on 17 January 2024 will address all queries regarding participation. Businesses can also apply now to be part of this exciting initiative.
Inspiration from Past Events
Previous Sydney Streets have witnessed a plethora of innovative ideas from local businesses. Examples include special menus, unique events, and creative offers designed to draw in customers and enhance the festive spirit.
Masala Theory on Crown Street offered curry bombs and Mumbai margaritas.
Markd Tattoos on Redfern Street hosted walk-ins for exclusive tattoo sessions.
Restaurants and pubs, like the Lord Roberts in Darlinghurst, extended their dining experience to the streets.
Sydney Creative offered painting classes in Redfern, coupled with local culinary delights.
Face Furniture and Other Things in Redfern showcased a mix of medium readings, hair braiding, and Italian homewares.
Date and Time: 16 March 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
What to Expect
Redfern Street will be a hive of activity, offering a day filled with fun for families and individuals alike. Businesses will present a variety of offers, pop-ups, and activations, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The event promises festival vibes, live music, entertainers, kids’ activities, and alfresco dining, all contributing to a vibrant community atmosphere.
The area is closed to traffic from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. between Regent Street and Chalmers Street. For accessibility queries or specific needs, contact the event team at 9265 9333. Traffic and parking details can be found at livetraffic.com.
Sydneysiders craving a quick, tasty meal now have a new option that doesn’t sacrifice health or flavour. Mr Charlie’s Told Me So, or simply Mr Charlie’s recently opened its first Australian location in Redfern and has quickly built a devoted local following.
Specialising in plant-based burgers, nuggets, and other fast food favourites, Mr Charlie’s, nicknamed the ‘vegan McDonald’s’ offers all the nostalgic fun of childhood favourites without the guilt.
When Mr Charlie’s opened in 2022, its red and yellow decor made people do a double take – it bore an uncanny resemblance to the popular fast food chain. Videos showcasing the vegan menu even went viral on TikTok. But this was no ordinary burger joint; Mr Charlie’s puts a fresh, plant-based twist on classic fast food items.
Photo credit; Nicholas Hitz/Google Maps
The Not a Cheeseburger, which is made up of plant-based burger patty, vegan cheese, pickles, onion, ketchup and mustard, is currently one of the hit menu items.
Photo credit: Aliyah Jurd/Google Maps
The Australian outpost is the first international location for the California-based chain. With the signature upside-down smile on their MiniFrowny kids meals and menu items like the ‘Not A Hamburger Frowny Meal,’ ‘Not Chicken Nuggets’ and American Fries, they put a playful spin on classic dishes.
Photo credit: Eduards Lakis/Google Maps
Their mission is to inspire a new generation to connect with their inner child through food that makes them feel good.
Since opening in late September 2023 in Redfern, lines have frequently stretched out the door for a taste of Mr Charlie’s colourful cuisine. They are open daily except Mondays at 3 Cope St. Follow on Instagram for updates on new menu items and specials.
A significant housing initiative is taking shape in the heart of Sydney’s evolving suburb of Alexandria as City West Housing, a prominent community housing provider, has embarked on an ambitious project to develop the Bangalay Apartments.
Located at 216-220 Wyndham Street, this development (D/2023/884) is part of the broader revitalisation of the Botany Road Precinct, a transformation into a vibrant commercial and residential hub.
Situated within the City of Sydney Local Government Area, the Bangalay Apartments are strategically positioned near key transport links, including the Waterloo Metro and Green Square train stations, and essential amenities like Alexandria Park. It is part of the Botany Road Precinct, which was rezoned by Council to incentivise new commercial and affordable rental housing developments.
This rezoning aligns with the City of Sydney’s vision of increasing affordable housing in proximity to jobs, services, and public transport.
Photo Credit: D/2023/884
The project has progressed to its Stage 1 Development Application (DA), which is on exhibition until 12 December 2023. This stage is critical for obtaining concept approval and setting the building envelope to inform the design competition.
“Because of the new Waterloo metro, there has been a change to the LEP (Local Environmental Plans) around the Botany Bay Precinct that allows us to increase affordable housing there, and this is the first DA that takes advantage of those increased planning controls,” Lisa Sorrentino, City West Housing’s head of development said.
In addition to providing affordable housing, the development places a strong emphasis on sustainable living. A partnership with the Australian car share network GoGet aims to reduce reliance on cars.
“We want to reduce reliance on cars and be more green. The building is also all electric,” explained Ms Sorrentino, underscoring the project’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
With Sydney facing significant challenges in providing affordable housing due to high land prices and limited supply, this project marks a crucial step in addressing the housing needs of the community.
“We have managed to purchase this property from our own cash reserves with the help of City of Sydney affordable housing developer contributions. It is an investment that will pay dividends in the uplift in value delivered by the precinct revitalisation plan and in social outcomes transforming people’s lives,” Leonie King, CEO of City West Housing, remarked.
The Bangalay Apartments project represents a significant effort to provide affordable housing in a key area of Sydney, catering to the needs of low to moderate-income households.
With the ongoing development and anticipated approval of the Stage 1 DA, the project is poised to become a model for sustainable and affordable urban living, shaping the future of Alexandria and its community.
A heated debate has emerged in Sydney over the future of the popular Moore Park Golf Course, following the announcement of plans to provide more additional green spaces for Redfern, Waterloo, Green Square, and Zetland.
Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore proposed to halve the size of the Moore Park Golf Course, transforming it into more parkland for inner-city residents. However, the plan has divided the community and government officials.
“The Government has accepted our proposal to convert the course from 18 holes to 9, retaining the larger area of land for golf, the clubhouse, depots, parking and popular driving range, and returning up to 20 hectares of land to Moore Park for public recreation,” she revealed.
“The Government will soon commence public consultation with the local community and stakeholders on how best to revitalise the parkland.
“It has been the policy of successive State Governments to increase housing in the Green Square urban renewal area and by 2040, up to 80,000 more people will be living in the Green Square and Waterloo area within two kilometres of Moore Park.
“The City is creating 40 parks and playgrounds as part of the Green Square urban renewal, but small parks don’t provide the same opportunity as large green spaces to stride out, relax and recharge, play sport and connect with nature.”
Photo Credit: NSWGovernment/Artist Impression
Government and Community Response
NSW Premier Chris Minns has shown support for the conversion, citing the pressing need for more parkland due to the increased housing density around the Moore Park Precinct.
“As the New South Wales government issues more density, more apartment living, more units, we need to balance that with more open space,” Mr Minns stated.
However, his decision has not been without its critics. The NSW Department of Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes initially backed the retention of the 18-hole course, highlighting the complexity of the issue.
Financial Impacts and Urban Development
The Moore Park Golf Course, contributing over $4 million annually to the Centennial and Moore Park Trust, is a significant financial asset. Club president John Janik has raised concerns that a nine-hole course may not be viable, affecting the broader community. Other club members have reportedly written councillors to express their opposition for the plans to covert the gold course.
“This course was built for the working class,” Mr Janik said, pointing out the affordability of the club compared to others in the area.
The debate also extends to the broader theme of land use in urban development, with Ms Moore emphasising the changing needs of the public in densely populated areas.
The Future of Moore Park
The government plans to release a discussion paper next year for public consultation on the design of the new park area. This move indicates a commitment to involving the City of Sydney, the local community, and stakeholders in the decision-making process.
Despite the division, the case of Moore Park Golf Course underscores a broader conversation about balancing urban development with the need for accessible public spaces in Sydney’s rapidly evolving landscape.
