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The Bearded Tit To Close: Redfern’s Beloved Queer Bar To Shut In November

Redfern’s The Bearded Tit, a well-known queer venue and creative space, is closing later this year, ending over a decade of cultural and community contributions to Sydney’s inner south.

A Space That Grew Beyond a Bar

The closure was confirmed by owner Joy Ng, who shared the news via social media. She said the decision comes from a personal place and marks a turning point in her life. After 11 years, she’s ready to leave hospitality and explore new career directions. The venue will remain open until November 2025.

*Photo Credit: Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras/Facebook*

Since opening in 2014, The Bearded Tit has stood out not just for its vibrant bar scene but for its role as a home to queer, POC, and underrepresented creatives. It became known for its weekly events, experimental art shows, and bold decor, often featuring emerging artists from Sydney and abroad.

Ng described the space as somewhere built with love and support, shaped by its performers, artists, and the broader community. She said every performance, gathering, and moment of connection was made special by the people who walked through the doors.

Decision Not Up for Debate

In her statement, Ng made it clear the business will not be sold and there will be no campaign to save it. She explained that it was important for the venue to end on her terms, and for its identity to remain intact.

She asked that any questions or comments about the closure be directed to her personally, not the staff, who she thanked for their hard work over the years. She also expressed gratitude to the many DJs, artists, and partygoers who gave their time, energy, and creativity to the space.

Six Months of Celebrations Ahead

The venue plans to keep its programming going until it shuts its doors in November. Regular events and parties will continue, giving the community time to share stories and celebrate what they’ve built together. Ng encouraged patrons to come in, reconnect, and be part of its final chapter.

After the closure, there will be a market day, where people can buy items from the venue’s fit-out and decor. It’s a way for visitors to hold on to a piece of the place that has meant so much to so many.

Looking Beyond the Ending

While the announcement has brought sadness for fans of The Bearded Tit, Ng remains hopeful. She said the spirit of the place will live on through the community and the belief in creating safe, inclusive spaces. She expressed a wish that others will be inspired to build new venues that carry the same energy and values.

Her final message was one of thanks, for 11 years of magic, laughter, and connection, and a reminder that the story doesn’t end here, but continues in new forms across Sydney’s creative and queer scenes.

Published 11-June-2025

S’wich Expands to Redfern with New Menu and Store Launch

Photo Credit: S'wich/Instagram

A new S’wich location opened in Redfern on 6 June 2025, marking the brand’s expansion from Bondi with a fresh lineup of sandwiches, salads and exclusive offerings.

Background and Expansion into Redfern

S’wich launched its second store in Redfern’s Wunderlich Lane on 6 June 2025, following the success of its original Bondi outlet which opened in 2022. Founded by childhood friends Jordan Abram and Jay Fink, the brand began as a three-week pop-up in Bellevue Hill in 2019 before transitioning into a permanent fixture on Sydney’s sandwich scene.

The Redfern branch joins a precinct known for its mix of dining and culture, located next to venues like Olympus Dining. The decision to expand into Redfern was guided by its sense of community and alignment with other independent operators.

S'wich Redfern — *Photo Credit: S’wich/Instagram*

New Location, Expanded Menu

The Redfern venue introduces several new items not found at the Bondi store. These include the Le Boof, featuring house-roasted wagyu topside, and the Spring Chicken, made with Bannockburn free-range chicken on AP Bakery’s fenugreek and sesame sourdough. The same chicken also features in the Core Crunch salad, served with fresh vegetables and honey walnut topping.

While the original bread options from Sonoma and Wholegreen remain available, the AP Bakery sourdough is a new addition exclusive to this location. Bondi’s signature items such as the S’wich Schnit, Our Caesar, and Baby, Baby are also included on the Redfern menu.

S'wich Wunderlich Lane — *Photo Credit: S’wich/Instagram*

VIEW FULL MENU

Venue Design and Daily Service

Studio Shand designed the new fit-out, incorporating steel bars, curved surfaces, and a red interior palette. Seating includes indoor booths and a laneway-style alfresco area for 40 diners. The atmosphere is enhanced by artworks and a three-metre light sculpture by Newcastle artist Amy Vidler, along with music from a restored 1970s hi-fi system.

The Redfern store is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and serves its full range of offerings during standard hours. Items such as fries, previously available only after 3 p.m. at Bondi, are now available throughout the day.

AP Bakery — *Photo Credit: S’wich/Instagram*

Opening Weekend Promotions

To mark its launch, the Redfern store offered the first 50 customers each day a free AP choc chip cookie and gelato from Messina. The opening weekend also featured live jazz and exclusive merchandise, including limited-edition caps and a collaborative olive oil release.

Looking Ahead

With its launch in Redfern, S’wich brings an expanded menu, new local collaborations and a continuation of its original offering to a growing cultural precinct. The Redfern branch maintains the brand’s focus on accessible dining in a designed space, open daily for locals and visitors.

Published 10-June-2025

Yerrabingin to Lead Park Upgrades in Redfern

An Indigenous-owned design firm has been appointed to lead the renewal of three neighbourhood parks in Redfern, working alongside the local community.

Background and Community Vision

Plans to upgrade three public parks in Redfern were endorsed by the City of Sydney in 2024 following extensive community consultation that began in 2022. The parks—Redfern Community Centre Open Space, Yellomundee Park, and Hugo Street Reserve—are central to a suburb nationally recognised for its Aboriginal cultural history and urban activism. The concept design was informed by local input gathered through a series of public feedback rounds between 2022 and 2023.

Aboriginal design — *Caption: South Eveleigh Rooftop Native Garden*
*Photo Credit: Supplied*

Indigenous-Led Approach and Project Scope

Aboriginal-owned design practice Yerrabingin has been appointed to lead the next phase of the renewal, building on a vision co-created with the Redfern community. The project will focus on transforming over 4,500 square metres into greener and more inclusive spaces. Plans include a new playground, shaded barbecue areas, increased lawn space, improved basketball court, and upgraded dog areas. Enhancements to pathways, lighting, and gathering spaces will also support safer movement and recreational use.

Cultural Heritage and Urban Sustainability

Yerrabingin’s approach integrates Indigenous knowledge systems with contemporary design principles. The firm will prioritise biodiversity and climate resilience by increasing canopy cover and planting native species to mitigate urban heat. Drawing on its experience at projects such as the South Eveleigh Native Rooftop Farm, Yerrabingin intends to foster ecological balance while embedding cultural narratives into public infrastructure. Their co-design model will ensure continued input from residents throughout the design and delivery phases.

Redfern park renewal — Caption: Hugo Street Reserve
Photo Credit: Supplied

Integration with City Strategies

The Redfern park upgrades align with the City of Sydney’s Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan. The proposal includes activating Redfern Terrace with a ‘living museum’ to help tell local Aboriginal stories as part of the Eora Journey framework. Improvements are intended to support social cohesion as Redfern continues to densify with new housing developments and a changing demographic.

Project Timeline and Next Steps

Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026 following the completion of detailed designs. The City of Sydney’s project team will continue to liaise with community members and stakeholders to ensure the spaces reflect both past and present values. Yerrabingin’s involvement is seen as a step toward embedding cultural respect and sustainability in the area’s future growth.

Published 9-June-2025

Winter Solstice Festival to Light Up Wunderlich Lane in Redfern

Photo Credit: Wunderlich Lane

A week-long winter solstice festival is set to take place across multiple venues at Wunderlich Lane in Redfern, featuring food events, live music, art, and themed parties.

Winter Week of Activity in Redfern

Wunderlich Lane in Redfern is set to stage Nightshift, a winter solstice celebration scheduled from 16 to 22 June 2025. The event spans seven days and features collaborative programs across ten venues, combining food, music, wellness and nightlife.

Opening with a Greek Banquet

The festival launches at Olympus with a banquet inspired by ancient Greek festivals on 16 June. Priced at $2,500 per table, the banquet beneath Olympus’ oculus features a shared feast for ten, with live performances by GODTET and roaming art among floral designs by Doctor Cooper.

Trivia, Jazz and Vinyl Nights

Baptist Street Rec Club will present a one-night-only music trivia event on 17 June, hosted by Myf Warhurst and Zan Rowe, alongside Thai pub-style dishes and themed cocktails.

The following evenings (18–19 June) feature dual activations. S’WICH and Regina La Pizzeria will team up for a listening session featuring pizzetta sandwiches and vinyl sets by DJs Adi Toohey and Barney Kato. Nearby, Bar Julius transforms into a jazz lounge led by Setwun, with an à la carte menu of bistro offerings.

Winter Solstice Festival — *Photo Credit: Wunderlich Lane/Instagram*

Shopping, Drinks and Wellness

Saardé and Saltbox will run separate activations from 19 June. Saardé will offer the Kairos ritual from 19 to 22 June, featuring hot toddies and mulled wine served in-store.

On 19 June only, Saltbox Unlocked will preview its new event space, hosted by the team behind Cook & Waiter. The event offers a walkthrough of the venue and an opportunity to connect with the team behind its upcoming operations.

Meanwhile, The Parlour Room will run a solstice wellness treatment all week, offering massages, aromatherapy, scalp treatments and meditation sessions. The EVE Hotel will activate its heated pool and host a seasonal experience called Nocturne Nightdrift for in-house guests.

*Photo Credit: Wunderlich Lane/Instagram*

Three Feature Events on Solstice Eve

Saturday, 21 June marks the longest night of the year, with three standout events. Island Radio will host a six-hour “noodle rave” featuring headline act JNETT alongside DJs Ahju, Alexa Diwa, and residents.

At Regina La Pizzeria and Gelato Messina, a Bank Lane disco party will offer pizza, gelato and a soundtrack curated by Declan Lee. Omakase venue R by Raita Noda will hold a live tuna breakdown, led by chefs Raita, Momotoro, Narito Ishii, Toshihiki Oe and Tori Ryu, with accompanying music by Toshiki Ohta.

VIEW NIGHTSHIFT EVENT DETAILS + BOOKINGS

Community Offers

Beyond the headline events, local businesses are providing festival-linked promotions. Beyond Eyecare will offer complimentary eye tests, while Blooms the Chemist is offering discounts, loyalty points, and vouchers.

Published 30-May-2025

New Redfern Chapter Joins National Movement ‘The Man Walk’ to Combat Loneliness in Men

Redfern men are tackling social isolation as a new local chapter joins The Man Walk. This Australian charity has nationwide participants who have walked over 2.5 billion steps to improve their mental health and social connections.

The Man Walk began in Kiama, NSW, in 2018, as a personal effort by its founder to start each day positively. This simple morning ritual unexpectedly grew into one of Australia’s fastest-growing men’s health charities, now reaching communities across Australia and internationally.

The organisation says its purpose is to foster connections, provide opportunities for men to share stories, and create a sense of belonging, which is a vital support for many.

Addressing a Global Health Threat

The Man Walk promotes men’s physical, mental, and social health through regular physical activity and social interaction. It creates a space for men to build social connections and feel part of a community, helping to strengthen social support networks. The initiative aims to make it easier for men to talk about their feelings and ask for help when needed.

Research indicates that men who are not lonely tend to have better mental health, with lower rates of depression, anxiety, and thoughts of suicide. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has stated that loneliness is a significant global health threat, with its health impacts being comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes daily.

The Redfern Connection

A local “Manbassador” for Redfern has started the new chapter, driven by his understanding of the importance of men’s mental health. This 43-year-old married man, a father of two children aged seven and four, moved to the Surry Hills/Redfern area a decade ago.

He noted that after relocating from regional NSW, where he had strong support networks through schooling and sports, he felt these connections lessened as he got older. Family commitments took priority over playing sports.

He has observed a strong sense of community in the Redfern area as his children became involved in school and other activities. Through these interactions, he connected with other fathers who face similar challenges balancing work, family, and children.

He hopes to encourage these men, and others in the community, to join the walk as a practical way to stay connected, recognising that men often find it difficult to organise social gatherings themselves.

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A post shared by The Man Walk (@themanwalk)

Measuring the Impact

The Man Walk tracks its positive effects by gathering regular participant feedback through surveys and monitoring attendance, retention, and engagement levels via its dedicated app. While the app is still under development to provide exact figures, current estimates show that each walk covers an average of five kilometres, with each kilometre equating to approximately 1500 steps.

On average, 15 walkers attend each session, and there are currently 83 active walks, with each walk taking place an average of 275 times. These figures highlight the significant and growing participation in The Man Walk movement.

Published Date 20-May-2025

Redfern Residents and Police Stop 24-Hour McDonald’s Plan

A $3-million plan to build a 24-hour McDonald’s in Redfern has been rejected, after a wave of community objections and concerns from police about crime and health risks in the area.

Community Says The Plan Goes Against Redfern’s Identity

McDonald’s planned a two-storey, 24-hour restaurant with self-serve kiosks and seating for nearly 100 people at Redfern and Regent Streets, promising over 100 local jobs. But many residents, community groups, and Aboriginal leaders pushed back, saying the fast food outlet clashed with Redfern’s cultural identity and history as a centre for Aboriginal activism and community pride.

Over 260 submissions were lodged against the plan, while fewer than 20 supported it. Community members raised concerns about litter, noise, health impacts, and the area already having several other burger options.

Police Worried About Rising Crime And Safety Problems

Police supported residents’ concerns, describing the area as a high-crime zone. They warned that a 24-hour outlet could bring more late-night trouble, thefts and pressure on local resources.

Law enforcement also pointed out the lack of community infrastructure to manage the extra foot traffic and disturbances that may follow. They said the risk to public safety outweighed the claimed benefits of convenience and job creation.

Health And Indigenous Advisory Groups Not Consulted

Health concerns were also raised, with the City of Sydney’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Panel warning the outlet could worsen diet-related issues in vulnerable communities. The panel also said they were not consulted during planning.

Local groups working with young people and families said a fast food chain could promote unhealthy choices and undermine efforts to improve community wellbeing.

Council Sides With Locals, Says Proposal Not A Good Fit

The City of Sydney’s planning panel unanimously rejected the application after reviewing community objections. They said the proposal conflicted with planning goals and could worsen crime and damage Redfern’s cultural and social fabric.

McDonald’s said the outlet would create jobs and support community programs, but the panel found the negative impacts too significant. The plan will not proceed.

Published 15-May-2025

Iconic Redfern Pub, The Norfolk Hotel, Returns with New Look and Menu

Photo Credit: The Norfolk Hotel/ Facebook

Redfern has welcomed back a familiar face. The Norfolk Hotel on Cleveland Street, a local institution that first poured beers over a century ago, has reopened after a significant makeover.

The much-loved pub, which has seen several changes over the past decade, is now managed by Solotel, a well-known hospitality group in the area.

A Fresh Look and a Classic Feel

*Photo Credit:* *The Norfolk Hotel/ Facebook*

The reopening comes after months of work to refresh the hotel, aiming to keep its reputation as a relaxed and friendly local spot. Regular events like trivia nights and prize draws are set to return. General Manager Marcella Guilfoyle and Executive Chef Toby Wilson lead this new chapter, who also runs the popular Ricos Tacos in the pub’s courtyard, which remains open along with the upstairs Club Ricos.

Hearty Food with Local Flair

Mr Wilson has crafted a new menu for the Norfolk that focuses on using local ingredients. Suppliers like Good Ways Deli are providing focaccia, and they’ve teamed up with Ciccone & Sons for a special lamington ice cream sandwich.

The menu features classic pub fare with a modern twist, including house-made pork and fennel sausage rolls sold by the inch, beef and VB party pies, and a roast chicken and sage roll served with gravy for dipping. Mr Wilson stated that the new menu aims to keep things classic while ensuring everything is made carefully, highlighting the team’s effort to bring the best of the local area to the table.

Drinks from the Neighbourhood and Beyond

The revamped Norfolk bar will also showcase the local area, offering a selection of boutique wines from nearby regions by the glass. They have also collaborated with Alexandria-based brewers Yulli’s to create a dark lager. For those looking for something different, aperitivo-style cocktails will be available, with some even on tap for convenience.

A Community Hub Reborn

*Photo Credit:* *The Norfolk Hotel/ Facebook*

Ms Guilfoyle expressed her pride in the reopening, noting that the Norfolk has always been known for good times, great food, and a strong sense of local belonging. She added that they are excited to be back, working with successful businesses from the neighbourhood to create a space where everyone feels welcome.

Source two further describes the Norfolk Hotel as a much-loved pub and an important part of the Redfern community. It offers a welcoming space for food, drinks, and a good atmosphere. It also mentions the availability of a four-bedroom apartment upstairs for guests wanting to stay close to the action. This makes it a place where a casual bite can turn into a longer night out.

Published Date 09-May-2025

Cheers to Redfern: Beer & Brewer Awards Set to Unite Australian Beer Community at New Mountain Culture Venue

Photo Credit: Beer and Brewer

The Australian beer community has a major reason to celebrate: The prestigious Beer & Brewer Awards will make their highly anticipated return with a live ceremony, bringing together the nation’s finest brewers, venues, and industry figures at Mountain Culture’s vibrant new Redfern location.

This exciting gathering, a collaboration with Sydney Beer Week, is scheduled for Tuesday, 21 October 2025, at the much-talked-about new Mountain Culture brewery and taproom in Redfern, Sydney. The awards aim to spotlight the incredible talent, dedication, and innovative spirit that characterise the Australian beer scene, particularly after significant challenges for the industry.

“This event is more than just an awards night,” said Deb Jackson, Commercial Manager of Beer & Brewer. “It’s a chance to come together, acknowledge the sheer talent and passion across our industry, and raise a glass to those who’ve raised the bar.”

The awards will honour excellence across various categories, from Best Beer Venue and Best Beer Launch to the coveted Rising Star and Lifetime Achievement awards, celebrating every facet of beer culture.

The return of the live awards ceremony is seen as a vital step in fostering positivity and recognising those who have not only navigated difficult times but have actively propelled the industry forward. Peter Anstey, Managing Director of Sydney Beer Week, emphasised the importance of such events, noting, “When SBW took a break, and the Beer & Brewer awards stopped as well, I’d see other events interstate celebrating their local heroes – and it felt like something important was missing here.”

Mountain Culture Redfern, known for its innovative approach and independent spirit, provides a fitting backdrop for an evening dedicated to the best in Australian beer. The partnership between Beer & Brewer and Sydney Beer Week is central to the event’s mission.

“The awards are not about ego – they’re about recognising the people behind the craft,” Anstey added, highlighting the brewers experimenting with unique ingredients, the venues championing great beer, the dedicated teams, and those driving sustainability and innovation.

The event also aims to acknowledge the fresh talent and new breweries that have emerged, producing exceptional beers despite recent pressures. “Even in tough times, there’s so much happening in our industry that’s worth celebrating,” Anstey remarked.

The 2025 Beer & Brewer Awards promise to be an unmissable night for everyone passionate about Australian beer. It will offer a chance to connect, celebrate achievements, and toast the resilience and creativity that make the local beer culture world-class. Watch when tickets go on sale for this landmark event in Redfern.

Published Date 08-May-2025

Redfern Residents on Edge After Aggressive Dogs Attack Pets in Public Spaces

Photo Credit: Inner West Dog Shaming/Facebook

Two large, aggressive dogs have been roaming the streets of Redfern, frightening residents and leaving several local dogs injured or dead in a string of alarming incidents.

Community on Alert as Dog Attacks Continue

Since mid-April, Redfern locals have spotted two brown or tan staffy-type dogs roaming the streets. Social media posts show them on Turner Street and allege they attacked a small dog in a nearby laneway. One resident said the dog survived by playing dead before the staffies ran off.

*Photo Credit: Inner West Dog Shaming/Facebook*

Police were called to investigate but arrived after the dogs had left the area. According to updates from residents in contact with Redfern Police, the animals’ owner has not yet been identified. Officers believe it’s likely the dogs returned home or were picked up by someone before authorities arrived.

Police Confirm Reports, Issue Safety Warning

Redfern Police confirmed they responded to reports about the two dogs but couldn’t find them at the scene. Officers are still investigating and urge anyone with information to come forward. Locals, especially those with children or pets, are being advised to stay alert.

Residents described the dogs as large and intimidating, and said they were seen near Redfern Park, where they’re believed to have killed two dogs. One local said police stopped them while walking their dog and told them to leave the park for safety.

Locals Share Experiences Online

Images and warnings on the Inner West Dog Shaming Facebook page have added urgency, showing the two dogs roaming without an owner and alarming locals.

One user shared that police had warned them directly about the danger, confirming that two dogs had already been killed in the area. Others have speculated that the dogs may live locally, given the frequency and concentration of the sightings.

Ongoing Concerns and What Residents Can Do

The Redfern incidents reflect a wider rise in dog attacks across Sydney and beyond. Locals are urged to keep pets indoors, avoid walking small dogs alone, and report sightings to police.

Anyone with information that might help identify the dogs or their owner is encouraged to contact Redfern Police on (02) 8303 5199.

Published 24-April-2025

Redfern Hosts Rabbitohs’ Junior Grand Final Qualifiers and Senior Clashes

Photo Credit: Rabbitohs

Redfern Oval will host a major weekend of rugby league as South Sydney Rabbitohs’ junior and senior pathways teams compete in crucial fixtures.

Full Weekend of Rugby League at Redfern Oval

South Sydney Rabbitohs are set for a busy weekend at Redfern Oval, with both junior and senior squads scheduled to play across two days in critical matches. The venue will see Grand Final-qualifying games for junior representatives and Round Eight contests in the senior men’s pathway programs.

Junior Sides Eye Grand Final Berths

The Harold Matthews Cup under 17s team will meet the Warriors at 11 a.m. on Sunday, 27 April, followed by the SG Ball Cup under 19s side facing the Parramatta Eels at 1 p.m. Both are Preliminary Finals, with winners progressing to the Grand Finals next weekend.

Harold Matthews head coach Kell O’Brien leads a squad captained by Keone Anitelea Tsioussis, with players including Darcy Feltham, Hudson Warren, and Zane Hill.

*Photo Credit: Future Rabbitohs/Facebook*

SG Ball coach Nathan Hogan will oversee the under 19s side led by halves pairing Taj Alvarez and Matthew Humphries, supported by players such as Charlie Poynton, Dayne Jennings, and Cody Hill.

Rabbitohs in Redfern Oval matches — *Photo Credit: Future Rabbitohs/Facebook*

Senior Teams Face Eels on Saturday

Saturday, 26 April, will feature the NSW Cup and Jersey Flegg Cup squads against the Parramatta Eels, with the under 21s match scheduled for 12 p.m. and the open men’s game set for 2 p.m.

The NSW Cup side, coached by Wayne Collins, will include players such as Lewis Dodd, Josh Schuster, and Liam Le Blanc. The 19-man squad also features Carson Kaho, Declan Casey, and Ryan Gray.

Rabbitohs Junior and Senior clashes — *Photo Credit: Future Rabbitohs/Facebook*

In the Jersey Flegg Cup, Scott Kenna leads the under 21s squad, which will be captained by Nicholas Quinn and includes players like Dane Towns, Brent Hawkins, and Sione Lolohea.

Rabbitohs on Redfern Oval — *Photo Credit: Future Rabbitohs/Facebook*

Community Encouraged to Attend Redfern Weekend

Rabbitohs members will receive free entry to the matches, while general admission is priced at $5 for attendees aged 12 and over. The club is encouraging strong community attendance at Redfern Oval, especially for the junior Preliminary Finals on Sunday.

Published 24-Apr-2025