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119 Redfern Wins Prestigious National Trust Heritage Award for Architecture

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

TAFE NSW Eora Campus in Darlington Supports Young Barkindji Woman’s Ascent in AFP Recruitment

At the TAFE NSW Eora campus in Darlington, 22-year-old Barkindji woman Taela Douglass is close to breaking through a significant barrier, aiming to increase Indigenous representation in the Australian Federal Police, which stood at just 1.9% as of May 2022.

Pioneering Opportunities Through Education

For fifteen years, the Indigenous Police Recruitment Our Way Delivery (IPROWD) program at TAFE NSW’s Eora campus has been a crucial initiative helping Indigenous Australians like Taela Douglass pursue ambitious careers in law enforcement and justice services. Over a thousand individuals have benefited from this program, gaining the skills and support necessary for professional advancement and further education.

“The IPROWD program was honestly one of the best things I have done in my life,” said Taela. “They helped me find my voice and opened doors to opportunities that seemed beyond reach.”

A Dual Path of Learning and Leading

Taela is currently undertaking a dual role; she is a student at Western Sydney University, pursuing a Bachelor of Sociology in Criminal Community Justice, and also works at TAFE as an Aboriginal Learner Support. In her role at TAFE, she assists new students with their enrolment and course selections, and supports them in seizing employment opportunities.

“My ultimate goal is to join the detective unit within the Australian Federal Police,” Taela explained. She has successfully passed various stages of the AFP recruitment process, including psychometric tests and security vetting, with only the literacy and numeracy tests remaining.

Taela Douglass — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Recognitions and Inspirational Role

Not only is Taela a participant in the IPROWD program, but she has also risen to become a mentor and role model within the community. Her efforts have earned her numerous accolades, including the ‘Career Pathways, Aboriginal Languages and Employment Skills Student of the Year’ at the TAFE NSW Gili Awards.

“I’m forever grateful to people like Aunty Pam and Tatum in the IPROWD program who took a chance on me. Working in this program is a privilege, and it feels like being surrounded by unconditional love,” Taela remarked.

A Community of Empowerment

The IPROWD program enriches its academic curriculum with physical fitness programs and community engagement projects, like boxing, which enhance the students’ readiness for police work. Aunty Pam Touma, the IPROWD Coordinator, underscores the importance of this comprehensive support system.

“Moving to Sydney can be daunting, especially when it’s the first time away from home for many of our students. The TAFE NSW Eora campus provides a culturally safe learning environment where students are embraced into the IPROWD and Eora family,” said Aunty Pam.

She added, “Watching our students grow in confidence and become role models within their communities has been incredibly rewarding. For me, IPROWD is more than just a course; it’s about seeing our students succeed and excel.”

About the IPROWD Program

Launched in 2008, the IPROWD program at TAFE NSW offers a 12-week intensive course aimed at preparing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students for careers with the NSW Police Force and the Australian Federal Police. The program’s curriculum covers communication, ethics, Aboriginal studies, and practical experiences like excursions to the NSW Police Academy. Additionally, it provides essential support to help students meet the physical fitness standards required for police recruitment.

Published 2-June-2024

Fire Truck Adorned in Indigenous Artwork for Reconciliation Week

Photo Credit: Fire and Rescue NSW

A Redfern Station fire truck has been transformed into a vibrant canvas honouring Indigenous culture during Reconciliation Week. The distinctive artwork is a collaboration between First Nations FRNSW firefighters Muliyan Waters, Shawn Orcher, and Brodee Mate.

The reimagined fire engine will make its public debut tomorrow, June 1st, at the Sydney Swans Fan Day in Moore Park. Firefighters aim to use the truck’s eye-catching design to engage with the community and share important winter fire safety messages about smoke alarms and kitchen hazards.

“Gadigal is the country on which Redfern Fire Station responds and the community with which the crew engages, and each component of this piece reflects an aspect of our service,” explained Senior Firefighter Orcher.

He highlighted how the central circle represents the station as a meeting place, while the outer circles signify the four different staff shifts. The red and orange hues symbolise fire and FRNSW’s passionate commitment to the community.

FRNSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell joined Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib to inspect the newly decorated truck as it reentered active duty.

“The terrific, colourful artwork can’t help but start positive conversations as the crews go about their work,” Commissioner Fewtrell stated.

Minister Dib praised the artwork’s intricate details carrying cultural significance, like the emu and kangaroo footprints representing the journeys of female and male firefighters, respectively.

“The variation of colours used for the crew represents Redfern being an eclectic melting pot of culture of all different races, Indigenous and non-Indigenous,” he explained.

As it rolls through the streets in the coming days, the vibrant fire truck artwork will undoubtedly turn heads and spark important discussions about Indigenous reconciliation.

Published 31-May-2024

Redfern Unveils New Knowledge and Cultural Centre

Photo Credit: City of Sydney

A new chapter in the rich history of Indigenous activism and community-driven initiatives has begun with the opening of a knowledge and cultural centre at 119 Redfern Street.

The centre aims to carry on the legacy of empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Tracey Duncan, a Gomeroi woman and City of Sydney project manager, described her vision for the centre at the opening ceremony. She envisions a dynamic hub for living culture, where real-life experiences and knowledge are shared and passed down through generations.

Duncan emphasised the centre as a symbol of the resilience and enduring spirit of Indigenous peoples, whose connection to the land and waterways spans millennia.

119 Redfern Street — *Photo Credit:* *City of Sydney*

Housed in the two-storey former post office, the City of Sydney-owned centre boasts four rooms available for weekday use. Duncan envisions the centre as a versatile gathering place for workshops, exhibitions, classes, or simply sharing a cup of tea. She hopes the local Indigenous community of all ages will embrace and shape the space according to their needs and aspirations.

Dan Munro, Wiradjuri Gomeroi man and co-chair of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Panel, expressed his enthusiasm for utilising the centre. He plans to hold sessions for fathers through his Biyanga programme, which aims to empower local dads with the knowledge and skills to become confident and nurturing parents.

By running these sessions at 119 Redfern Street, Munro believes they can strengthen family bonds and foster cultural pride and traditional practices within the community.

The new centre is part of the City of Sydney’s Eora Journey programme, designed to promote cultural, economic, and social sustainability for First Nations communities in Sydney.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore affirmed the city’s commitment to providing a culturally safe haven for Indigenous people to gather, access services, and share knowledge and culture. She emphasised the significance of Redfern as a symbol of Indigenous community, culture, and activism, and pledged to continue working with the community to ensure the centre remains a place of empowerment and inclusivity.

Published Date 28-May-2024

Redfern Community Centre Marks 20 Years of Community Engagement

The Redfern Community Centre, which was opened in 2004, marked its 20th anniversary with community leaders and residents commemorating two decades of service and development in the heart of Redfern.

Opened on the 16th of March 2004, the Redfern Community Centre was established during a transformative period in the suburb.

The area had experienced civil unrest among local youths and had recently been incorporated into the City of Sydney following the dissolution of the South Sydney Council. At this time, the Premier’s Department was actively engaging with the community on the RED Strategy, which aimed to revitalise a significant portion of Redfern-Waterloo.

NSW Governor Marie Bashir and Aunty Joyce Ingram was present during the inauguration.

From Industrial Site to Community Hub

The Redfern Community Centre’s building, originally a printing factory, alongside a disused timber yard and a historic corner shop from 1881, now adorned with the Welcome to Redfern artwork, represents a significant transformation.

The former industrial area was rezoned for recreation in 1991, and the council purchased it in 1993 after intense community debates regarding its future use. Proposals had ranged from a police station to a native flora park, but it was the community’s push for a reconciliation and cultural centre that ultimately shaped its current function.

20th Anniversary Celebrations

Despite the challenge of heavy rain on the 20th of April 2024, the community turned out to celebrate the anniversary.

The event featured Councillors (Waskam) Emelda Davis and HY William Chan, and Aunty Beryl Van-Oploo, who had a long-standing connection with the centre since its inception.

Together, they participated in the ceremonial cake-cutting. Otis Williams, the community development officer and acting manager of centre, played a crucial role in orchestrating the festivities.

The celebration was a poignant moment for speakers such as Ms Davis, representing the Lord Mayor, and Aunty Beryl, who shared their reflections on the centre’s profound impact on the local community over the years. Their speeches highlighted the centre’s role as a community hub and a beacon of hope and growth for Redfern.

A Centre for Culture and Recreation

Today, the Redfern Community Centre is a valuable centre for Aboriginal social and cultural activities, surrounded by a landscaped park with an amphitheatre and a children’s playground.

These facilities are part of the broader Pemulwuy Project, integrating seamlessly with Yellomundee Park and Hugo Street Reserve, enhancing the communal and recreational space available to the Redfern community.

Published 21-May-2024

Sydney to Revamp Redfern Community Centre Open Space, Honouring Indigenous Culture

The Redfern Community Centre open space will be the centrepiece of major park upgrades planned for Sydney, celebrating the area’s rich Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and heritage.

Read: Powerhouse Ultimo Closing for 3-Year Renovation, Transforming Sydney’s Cultural Landscape

The Redfern Community Centre open space will feature a larger playground catering to children of various ages, expanded lawn areas suitable for events and recreational activities, and new shaded barbecue and seating areas will be introduced.

The Community Centre will feature an “activated Redfern terrace” designed as a “living museum” to showcase local Aboriginal stories as part of the Eora Journey public domain vision.

Photo credit: Chris Southwood/City of Sydney

Extensive community consultation has shaped the project scope, which prioritises creating greener, cooler and safer spaces that foster a stronger sense of community. Native trees and plants will be introduced, enhancing the park’s natural appeal and providing welcoming environments for residents to gather and socialise.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore AO emphasised the importance of creating inviting public spaces as Sydney continues to grow and develop.

Yellomundee Park and Hugo Street Reserve are also set for upgrades, spanning over 4,500 square metres of works across three parks in Sydney.

“The Block is so important for local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and is an area where the local community has shaped its neighbourhood,” she said. “This is why we’ve really listened to what they want for the future of the area and, in particular, these local parks.”

Other enhancements across the three parks include low wall seating, additional bins, bubblers, and improved lighting, catering to the needs expressed by residents who share a strong sense of community in the area.

After the scope of the project receives approval from the Council, a team consisting of experts from various disciplines, including a specialist in Aboriginal culture, will collaborate with the local community members to design and develop the project.

Read: Sydney Streets: Redfern’s Vibrant Celebration Returns

As major developments around Redfern and the upcoming Waterloo metro station reshape the neighbourhood, these park upgrades aim to preserve and celebrate the area’s rich cultural heritage whilst providing modern, inclusive spaces for recreation and community building.

Published 17-May-2024

Sunshine Inn: Vegan Redfern Eatery Shuts Down After Four Years

Sunshine Inn, a popular vegan restaurant and bar in Redfern, announced its closure after four years, leaving regulars devastated.

After serving innovative vegan fare and cocktails, Sunshine Inn along Redfern St has announced it will be closing its doors for good at the end of June 2024.

The plant-based restaurant and bar broke the devastating news to its 6,000 social media followers this week, prompting an outpouring of dismay from loyal customers.

The closure announcement was met with an outpouring of disappointment online, with customers mourning the loss of the beloved neighbourhood haunt. Others inquired desperately about potential future plans from the owners.

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A post shared by The Sunshine Inn (@the.sunshineinn)

In a bittersweet farewell, Sunshine Inn is inviting diners to join them for one final hurrah – a multi-course “dinner party” on the 6th of June 2024, featuring a greatest hits menu of staff favourite dishes from over the years.

The venue is also raiding its cellar for a special wine list available for one night only.

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A post shared by The Sunshine Inn (@the.sunshineinn)

For the entire month of June leading up to the closure, Sunshine Inn is serving up $15 negroni cocktails as a parting gift to devoted patrons.

Venue manager Rachael Paul said that they intended to “go out with a bang.”

The closure comes amid a shakeup in Sydney’s hospitality scene. Just kilometres away in Newtown, vegan fast food chain Lord of the Fries shuttered its last remaining NSW outpost.

Nationally, Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows households are spending more on food overall but less at cafes and restaurants as of March 2024.

Whilst the team behind Sunshine Inn is remaining tight-lipped about specifics, they have hinted at an exciting new project in the works – potentially taking over the large Bat & Ball Hotel premises just up the road on Cleveland Street in Redfern.

Published 13-May-2024

Chippendale Becomes Sydney Home for Melbourne’s Hit The Happy Mexican

Photo Credit: The Happy Mexican

The inner-city suburb of Chippendale becomes the first Sydney location for the renowned Melbourne Mexican restaurant The Happy Mexican. The vibrant eatery has opened inside the iconic Lansdowne Hotel on City Road.

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A post shared by The Lansdowne Hotel (@thelansdowne)

While Sydney has no shortage of Mexican dining options, The Happy Mexican brings an authenticity and flavour profile that has made it one of Melbourne’s most popular spots for south-of-the-border cuisine. Until now, Sydneysiders had to travel to Victoria to experience The Happy Mexican’s food.

Chippendale has been chosen as the launching pad to introduce The Happy Mexican’s menu of unique, handcrafted Mexican dishes to Sydney. Head Chef Jesus Rios says he will be “serving up a spectrum of authentic flavours straight from the heart of Mexico” at the new 500-seat location.

Signature items include slow-cooked beef birria tacos, chilaquiles, calabacitas, nopales, and the legendary Jalisco Birria-style quesabirrias oozing with Oaxaca cheese. A range of Mexican cocktails like piña coladas, palomas, margaritas, and mezcalitos, plus beers on tap, round out the vibrant beverage program.

The historic ambience of the Lansdowne Hotel, combined with The Happy Mexican’s lively Mexican flair, creates an inviting space for both locals and visitors to enjoy great food and music. Lunch and dinner are served Wednesday through Saturday from 12 pm to 10 pm, and Sunday from 4 pm to 10 pm.

book a table here!

Published 30-April-2024