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The Grounds of Alexandria Named Most Instagrammable Restaurant in the World

Sydney has clinched the title of hosting the globe’s most Instagram-worthy dining destination, with The Grounds of Alexandria emerging as the reigning champion, boasting over 120,000 Instagram posts.

With its picturesque alfresco setting and enchanting gardens, The Grounds of Alexandria on Huntley St has become a magnet for social media enthusiasts seeking the perfect snapshot.

The popular dining destination, which opened in 2012, is owned by Ramzey Choker, Jack Hanna, and Barney Walters. Whilst the overall theme remains consistent, The Grounds often introduces seasonal or thematic decorations and installations to enhance the experience for guests. These changes may include festive decorations for holidays, themed events, or special installations to coincide with specific promotions or occasions.

Whether savouring artisanal cuisine, indulging in freshly brewed coffee, or simply basking in the beauty of its surroundings, patrons are drawn to The Grounds for its unique blend of culinary excellence and aesthetic appeal.

Instagrammable Restaurants in the World

Sketch in London claims the second spot on the list, enchanting visitors with its transformation from an 18th-century townhouse into a captivating cocktail lounge. Meanwhile, Catch in Los Angeles clinches third place, enticing patrons with its trendy rooftop ambience in West Hollywood.

Beyond the top three, a diverse array of culinary destinations captures the imagination of Instagram users around the world, according to Betway.

Pink Mamma in Paris, renowned for its vibrant ambience, secures fourth place, while The Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood, Texas, captures fifth place with its rustic charm. Hong Kong’s Man Wah, Bangkok’s Thip Samai, and New York City’s Le Coucou follow closely, each offering a unique blend of culture and cuisine that resonates with Instagram users worldwide. The top ten are La Favela in Bali, known for its eclectic charm, and Dalloway Terrace in London, a haven of elegance and sophistication.

Rank	Restaurant	Location	Instagram Posts
1	The Grounds of Alexandria	Sydney	120,440
2	Sketch	London	94,098
3	Catch	Los Angeles	66,092
4	Pink Mamma	Paris	29,242
5	The Salt Lick BBQ	Driftwood	23,741
6	Man Wah	Hong Kong	18,468
7	Thip Samai	Bangkok	16,846
8	Le Coucou	New York City	15,989
9	La Favela	Bali	15,444
10	Dalloway Terrace	London	13,471

Methodology

Betway’s analysis encompassed a comprehensive review of Instagram hashtags for 100 renowned restaurants globally, as well as an additional 100 in the United States. The study sought to identify the most popular dining destinations based on their social media presence. Restaurants lacking relevant hashtags were excluded from the rankings, ensuring a precise assessment of each venue’s online popularity.

Silvester Fuller Tapped to Design Redfern Place

Sydney-based architecture and interior design firm Silvester Fuller has been named the winner of a hotly contested competition to devise the vision for Redfern Place.

Read: Hollywood Actor Mark Wahlberg Joins Fight To Save Moore Park Golf Club From Downsizing

Redfern Place is a major new $230 million mixed-use housing hub proposed for 600-660 Elizabeth Street in Redfern.

The innovative practice beat out numerous competitors to secure the plum job of designing the transformative precinct, which aims to provide over 300 homes across a range of social, affordable and private housing types.

Concept image for Elizabeth Street (Photo credit: bridgehousing.org.au)

The development led by Bridge Housing and Capella Capital aims to revitalise the area by replacing an obsolete building with:

100 social housing units owned by NSW Land and Housing Corporation
40 affordable homes for very low to moderate income families
80 affordable homes designated for key workers like nurses, police, and teachers
11 specialist disability accommodation homes
Around 100 private market-rate apartments
3,500 square metres of community space including facilities for the local PCYC

Rose Jackson, the Minister for Housing and Homelessness, expressed approval of the selection of Silvester Fuller as the lead design firm for the redevelopment project.

“More social housing in inner city Sydney is crucial, and this project will bring together a diverse housing mix along with a community facility that will greatly benefit the Redfern community,” Ms Jackson said.

“I look forward to seeing Silvester Fuller’s vision for Redfern Place, and for this project moving another step towards providing more housing for people in need.”

“Redfern Place marks a turning point in property development history at a time when housing affordability has never been more important,” said Stephen Bull, Executive Chair of Bridge Housing.

Photo credit: @martinsiegner.studio/Silvester Fuller/Instagram

Mr Bull highlighted that Redfern Place will comprise 70 percent of social and affordable homes, giving people a home where they want to live, close to family networks and their jobs. He said the design will also be audacious, genuinely striving to design for community and country and “celebrating Redfern’s history, vibrance and resilience.”

While Silvester Fuller won the competition for the overall vision, several other firms have been brought on to execute different components. Architecture AND will handle the design of the community facility space within the Redfern Place complex.

The broader design team is being led by Hayball, who will serve as the lead design architects overseeing execution. Landscape architecture and cultural advisory will be provided by Aspect Studios and Yerrabingin, respectively.

Read: Over 43,000 NSW Homes Lay Vacant, Erskineville at Crisis Epicenter

Redfern Place may prove to be a blueprint for how cities can thoughtfully densify whilst maintaining diversity and easy access to vital services. Its success could pave the way for similar mixed-tenure developments that bring high-quality housing within reach for all demographics.

Published 22-April-2024

Female-Only FoxFit Studio Expands to Sydney with New Redfern Location

FoxFit is a fitness studio for people who identify as female that gained popularity in Melbourne for attracting elite fitness influencers. The studio recently opened its first Sydney outpost in Redfern, offering a unique environment free from “macho energy.”

FoxFit has chosen Redfern for its first expansion outside Melbourne, where it has thrived since 2019. The new studio occupies 332 square metres with two spacious custom-designed rooms to enhance female fitness without the traditional gym intensity.

Facilities and Training Options

The studio includes a HIIT Room for high-intensity circuit training encompassing treadmills, mat-based pilates, and endurance stations. Adjacent to this is the Strength Room, equipped for resistance hypertrophy-based training and personal training sessions. Both areas are outfitted with cutting-edge Technogym equipment, ensuring a premium training experience.

Members also enjoy luxurious amenities such as a hydration station with filtered water, complimentary towel service, and high-end shower facilities with Dyson hair stylers, enhancing the overall gym experience.

FoxFit Redfern is running eight classes every weekday and two to three on weekends. These classes are meticulously designed to facilitate optimum strength and fitness for female-identifying individuals, focusing on full body integration and functional workouts.

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Community and Lifestyle

The studio is endorsed by some of Melbourne’s most famous fitness enthusiasts, including Rozalia Russian and Bec Harding, who have helped popularise FoxFit’s unique approach to fitness.

FoxFit Redfern offers a Foundation Membership for $65 per week, which includes unlimited access with no minimum term contract. Class packs are also available for those interested in sampling the FoxFit experience.

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Published 16 April 2024

Hollywood Actor Mark Wahlberg Joins Fight To Save Moore Park Golf Club From Downsizing

Photo Credit: Facebook/ Moore Park Golf Club

Moore Park Golf Club, a cherished Sydney institution with a history of over a century, has found an unexpected champion in its battle against downsizing plans: Hollywood superstar Mark Wahlberg.

Whilst in Sydney filming the Amazon crime series “Play Dirty,” Mr Wahlberg, renowned for roles in films like “Shooter,” has voiced his opposition to the controversial plans to halve Moore Park Golf Club’s size from 18 holes to 9.

Mr Wahlberg, a non-Australian citizen, made a heartfelt plea to the people of Sydney in a video message released on the 30th of March 2024, urging them to join the fight to preserve Moore Park Golf Club. Standing on the picturesque green course, he spoke passionately about the club’s role as a source of joy and relaxation for generations.

Photo Credit: Facebook/ Moore Park Golf Club

“It’s been here for more than 100 years, and it’s been giving people hundreds and hundreds of years of pleasure and joy. Just people being able to come out and get a nice healthy walk, spend quality time together with family and friends,” the actor said.

This decision, a component of a larger urban development strategy, has ignited a significant wave of community discontent, drawing the actor and a growing number of dissenters into the fight.

The State Government stated its plan in 2023 to turn some of the club’s land into a new central park to help the areas around Green Square, Zetland, and Waterloo that are becoming more crowded. Premier Chris Minns defended the choice by saying that cities are growing quickly and need more green areas.

Mr Wahlberg’s action adds a voice for the people against the plans to cut jobs. Critics agree that cities need to grow, but they say that giving up such a famous green area would be a loss for the community.

Premier Minns defended the choice by saying that Sydney has many golf courses, stressing the need to balance development and protecting green spaces. Since the area’s population is expected to grow by 2040, the government says adding more green spaces is necessary to keep the city liveable.

There are currently 13 golf courses in the eastern suburbs of Sydney. However, many people are upset about the potential downsizing due to its historical significance and convenient location.

Published Date 10-April-2024

Over 43,000 NSW Homes Lay Vacant, Erskineville at Crisis Epicenter

In August 2023, the severity of the housing crisis in New South Wales was exposed when new developments in Erskineville, designed to ease the housing shortage, were left unoccupied due to several defects. This caused frustration within the community and highlighted the urgent need for action to address the crisis.

Over 43,000 inactive dwellings have been identified across New South Wales, with Erskineville emerging as a focal point, highlighting the significant number of unoccupied properties in the suburb amid the region’s severe housing shortage.

This scenario is mirrored in Greater Sydney, including Parramatta and Heffron, where 22,000 homes stand empty. This reflects a systemic issue beyond housing scarcity to encompass affordability and accessibility challenges.

Projects like the Honeycomb Terraces and developments on Gadigal Ave exacerbate the housing situation in Erskineville. These projects were proposed as solutions to the housing crisis but have now become symbols of it.

A Look Back at the Erskineville Development

The City of Sydney approved the construction of Sugarcube Apartments and Honeycomb Terraces in Erskineville in September 2015. However, the site was contaminated, leading to strict site remediation conditions. Despite these requirements, construction began without full compliance, leading to ongoing discussions and modifications to environmental management plans.

In December 2019, the EPA advised on managing the contamination, followed by a proposal for staged occupation by Golden Rain. The City offered support for this modification in March 2020, which was approved in September 2020. This modification allowed for staged occupation and addressed environmental concerns, with further remediation work completed by September 2022.

In 2023, additional remediation work was completed, paving the way for addressing the environmental concerns that had previously halted occupancy. As of March 2024, a development application (D/2023/740) for the strata subdivision of Honeycomb Terraces is under assessment, aiming to manage residual contamination effectively.

Academic and Demographic Perspective

Experts like Professor Nicole Gurran from the University of Sydney argue that the crisis is less about the number of homes and more about their distribution and affordability. The revelation that luxury housing abounds while affordable options are scarce indicates a market imbalance.

Erskineville — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Social demographer Mark McCrindle echoes these concerns, highlighting the surprising nature of these vacancies, especially in densely populated areas like Erskineville, rather than holiday destinations.

NSW Planning’s review of the short-term rental accommodation framework seeks to address the shortage. However, the efficacy of these measures remains to be seen, especially as developments in Erskineville await occupancy certifications, leaving potential residents in limbo.

Published 3-April-2024

Gel Blaster Gun Sparks Chaos at Redfern Station During Rush Hour

Photo Credit: Pixabay

An ordinary morning on a city-bound train was thrown into disarray when a passenger inadvertently left behind an item that would cause widespread alarm at Redfern station. This object, which bore a striking resemblance to a deadly Glock pistol, turned out to be a gel blaster gun, igniting a wave of panic among the passengers.

This incident disrupted the morning commute and raised serious questions about the legality and recognition of gel blasters in New South Wales.

As the train arrived at Sydenham station at approximately 8:00 a.m., a man exited the train and left a black object, resembling a gun, on the seat across from a female passenger. The sight of the object caused immediate concern and confusion among the passengers on board. The woman quickly alerted her fellow passengers about the potential threat, leading to the authorities being informed as soon as the train reached Redfern station.

After the train arrived at Redfern station, the Sydney Trains staff acted quickly to resolve the situation. They removed the item causing the issue, which allowed the train to continue its journey towards the city centre with minimal delay. Given the seriousness of the incident, the police were called to the scene at around 9 a.m. to investigate the matter thoroughly.

The police quickly clarified that the item was not a conventional firearm but a gel blaster, a replica gun that shoots gel pellets. Despite its harmless function, the gel blaster’s resemblance to a real gun caused a significant scare.

In NSW, gel blasters are considered illegal without the appropriate permits, and classified under the same category as unregistered firearms. This incident highlighted the legal implications and public safety concerns associated with gel-blaster guns in the state

The NSW Police have reiterated that there is “no genuine reason” for possessing or using a gel blaster within the state, emphasizing the strict stance against such items.

Authorities are now seeking the individual who inadvertently caused the morning’s chaos, aiming to understand the circumstances behind the gel blaster’s presence on the train.

Published 23-March-2024

Enhancing Accessibility: Redfern Station Has a New Southern Concourse

Redfern Station has undergone significant accessibility enhancements, specifically the recently inaugurated Southern Concourse, streamlining passenger movements and supporting the vision for the development of the Redfern North Eveleigh Precinct.

Spearheaded by Transport for NSW, the latest upgrade adds six new stairs and lifts that have been strategically installed to enhance commuter convenience and inclusivity. Passengers now have easier access to platforms 1 to 10.

Redfern Station Southern Concourse — *Photo Credit: Transport NSW*

Additionally, the revamped station design promotes better connectivity with surrounding areas, notably South Eveleigh (formerly Australian Technology Park), and educational institutions.

Integral to the station’s revitalisation is the broader vision for the Redfern North Eveleigh precinct, spanning 10 hectares and comprising three distinct sub-precincts. Named after heritage landmarks within the area, each sub-precinct is envisioned as a vibrant urban space with unique characteristics:

The Clothing Store Sub-Precinct: Positioned as the western gateway to the precinct, this area is designated for residential and community-oriented developments. The adaptive reuse of the Clothing Store and thoughtful urban design aim to foster a dynamic inner-city living environment.
The Carriageworks Sub-Precinct: Serving as the cultural nucleus of the precinct, the existing Carriageworks exemplifies adaptive reuse practices and contributes to the area’s cultural vibrancy.
The Paint Shop Sub-Precinct: Nestled adjacent to Redfern Station and seamlessly connected to its surroundings via the new Southern Concourse, this precinct will host innovative office spaces, residential units, retail establishments, and communal areas. The adaptive reuse of heritage buildings, including the iconic Paint Shop, adds to the precinct’s allure.

As part of the ongoing project, additional works are slated for completion:

Rectification works on the newly constructed Southern Concourse and adjoining buildings.
Roadworks on Lawson, Ivy, Wilson, and Little Eveleigh streets to facilitate the opening of the Little Shared Zone. This includes line marking, paving, signpost installation, and relocation of bicycle hoops.

Looking ahead, pending approval, a new light pole is scheduled for installation at the intersection of Little Eveleigh and Lawson streets to accommodate a pedestrian crossing. Residents affected by these developments will receive prior notification.

This phase marks the culmination of planned construction activities for the Redfern Station Upgrade project. Transport for NSW acknowledges the patience and understanding demonstrated by the community throughout the project’s duration.

Published 6-March-2024

Enmore Theatre to Host The Human League’s Iconic DARE! Performance

Enmore Theatre in Newtown is set to host The Human League’s celebration of their synth-pop masterpiece, DARE!, on two unforgettable nights.

The event, scheduled for Friday, 08 March 2024, and Wednesday, 13 March 2024, will feature the band performing the entire album, accompanied by other beloved hits from their extensive catalogue.

DARE!, an apex of 80s synth-pop, boasted four hit singles like the iconic “Don’t You Want Me,” “Love Action,” “The Sound of The Crowd,” and “Open Your Heart.” Achieving Platinum status and ranking as the second biggest album in Australia in 1982, DARE! remains a timeless masterpiece.

The Human League, comprising founding members Philip Oakey, Joanne Catherall, and Susan Ann Sulley, continues to captivate audiences with their distinctive sound and captivating performances. United by a shared vision of pushing the boundaries of avant-garde electronic music, the band’s influence extends far beyond their chart-topping hits.

With an impressive discography spanning nine studio albums since 1979, The Human League has solidified their status as true trailblazers, shaping the sound and style of numerous renowned artists. Their impact on the music industry is undeniable, with over 20 million records sold worldwide.

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Published 26-February-2024

THE HUMAN LEAGUE

Moore Park Golf Course Redevelopment Vision Unveiled

Plans to radically transform the Moore Park golf course site over the coming years have been released. A new discussion paper outlines ideas and proposals that stakeholders are considering for the publicly-owned land.

Read: Rising Price Disparities in Inner-City Shopping: The Case of Redfern

Central park and reimagined golf facilities

Moore Park — Photo Credit: City of Sydney

The centrepiece of the vision is a 20-hectare central park that would be created after seizing part of the existing 45-hectare course. This would leave a condensed 9-hole golf course and related facilities on the remaining 25 hectares. The paper states that more parkland is needed to serve the nearly 800,000 residents projected to live near the Centennial Parklands by 2041.

Suggestions for the new park put forward in the paper include native meadows, nature play spaces for children, and nighttime wildlife refuge areas. Officials acknowledge the importance of providing green space as Sydney tackles growth in higher-density housing.

Upgrades across entire site

While golf would remain in a reduced capacity, the paper indicates the whole site could see upgrades to attract more visitors.

Night golf, hospitality, entertainment options, and short-form golf are among proposals outlined. Officials note the need to appeal to demographic groups less likely to play traditional golf, like youth, women and families.

Read: How These Redfern Locals Uplift Community Through Their Social Enterprise ‘WildFlower Gardens’

The NSW Planning Minister says the plans aim to improve quality of life in Sydney’s most densely populated suburbs. The public can submit ideas for the Moore Park golf course redevelopment until April 10, 2024.

Final plans will be implemented after 2026 once feedback is assessed over the coming months.

Published 25-February-2024

Rising Price Disparities in Inner-City Shopping: The Case of Redfern

Supermarkets, as we once knew them, are quietly disappearing from inner-city suburbs, replaced by boutique “metro” or “local” versions. This transformation is starkly evident in Redfern, with Woolworths Metro stores introducing price discrepancies that challenge conventional shopping habits.

Over the past five years, the grocery shopping landscape in Redfern has undergone a notable shift. Once dominated by traditional supermarkets, the neighbourhood now boasts two Woolworths Metro stores, catering to the demands of a changing urban demographic.

The larger of two stores in the suburb, situated near Redfern Oval, has been a fixture for over a decade, serving as a community hub for residents and visitors alike. However, its recent conversion to a Woolworths Metro has left some shoppers questioning the impact on their wallets. A mere 10-minute walk away, a newer and smaller Metro store has emerged, strategically positioned near the bustling train station.

Redfern Woolworths — Photo Credit: Google Maps

A recent investigation has revealed a significant price differential between the two Redfern stores. A basket of seven everyday items, including milk, eggs, bread, and coffee, was nearly 10% more expensive at the smaller Metro than its larger counterpart. This pricing inconsistency has left residents pondering whether convenience is worth the added cost.

Professor Nitika Garg, a consumer behaviour researcher at the University of New South Wales, underscores the broader implications of this trend, per ABC News. She notes that while Metro-style stores initially targeted commuters seeking convenience, their expansion into residential areas like Redfern raises concerns about affordability and accessibility

The issue has not gone unnoticed by residents, with some expressing frustration over the gradual disappearance of traditional supermarkets. Last year, concerned citizens rallied against plans to convert the Alexandria Woolworths into a Metro, citing fears of increased food insecurity and limited access for elderly residents.

As Woolworths and other supermarket chains expand their footprint of Metro and local stores, questions linger about the long-term impact on inner-city communities. With ongoing inquiries into grocery pricing practices and increased scrutiny on supermarket giants, the debate over affordability and convenience is unlikely to wane anytime soon.

Published 21-February-2024