Redfern Archives - Page 6 of 11

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

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

Redfern Teen Thrilled to Represent Australia at Youth Olympic Games in Gangwon 2024

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.

Published 18-Jan-2024

Redfern Ice Hockey Athletes Selected for 2024 Winter Youth Olympics

Photo Credit: Unsplash

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.

Ice Hockey Redfern — 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.

Mr Woolnough is confident that the selected team will represent Australia with pride and humility, creating lifelong memories in the process.

Published 4-Jan-2024

Sydney Streets: Redfern’s Vibrant Celebration Returns

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.

Sydney Streets Redfern — *Photo Credit: City of Sydney/Katherine Griffiths*

Details of the Redfern Street Event

Location: Redfern Street, Redfern
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.

Published 15-Dec-2023

Moore Park Golf Course at the Heart of Urban Green Space Debate

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.

Published 26-Nov-2023

Redfern’s Rico’s Tacos: A Spicy Fiesta in the Heart of Sydney

Rico’s Tacos, a gem amongst Chippendale’s culinary scene, has recently waved goodbye to its snug spot on Meagher Street, causing quite the stir among its loyal fanbase. But fear not, taco aficionados! The beloved taqueria has found a new, even more vibrant abode in the Norfolk Hotel at Redfern.

The relocation isn’t just a change of scenery; it’s a full-blown fiesta transformation. With walls splashed with vivacious yellows and reds, hand-painted ceramics, and cartoon tacos breaking it down salsa-style, the new location feels like walking into a taco’s dream of a Mexican carnival. The vibe comes complete with a late-night disco by the mezzanine.

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In the heart of Rico’s Tacos at the Norfolk is its airy, leafy courtyard, a long-time favourite among the pub’s patrons. Whilst the courtyard retains its cherished vibe, it now sports adorable pastel pink tables and more of those whimsical murals, setting the stage for a casual, yet high-spirited dining experience.

The menu stars, of course, are the tacos – a symphony of flavours ranging from bronzed cauliflower dripping in agave tahini sauce to the zesty pork al pastor. Each taco is proof of the chef’s mastery of balancing salt, acid, and fat. And let’s not forget the star-studded tostada of kingfish and coconut ceviche, a dish so delightful it practically demands an encore visit.

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Nods to the Classics and New Twists

Whilst staying true to its roots, Rico’s Tacos also embraces the classic pub culture with its new addition – the hamburguesa. This isn’t your average beef burger; it comes with a Mexican twist, a nod to familiar flavors with a dash of adventure.

And for the sweet-toothed, the churros (a fan favourite) have made the journey from Chippendale to Redfern, joined by a new chilli and cinnamon spiced ice cream sandwich that’s as intriguing as it sounds.

SEE THE MENU

More Than Just Tacos – A Community Hub

Rico’s Tacos at the Norfolk isn’t just about tantalising your taste buds; it’s about creating a space where everyone feels at home. Whether you’re wrangling toddlers in the courtyard, sharing snacks with your furry friend, or dancing the night away at Club Rico, this place has a way of fitting into every aspect of your life, be it a laid-back Wednesday lunch or a weekend fiesta.

The restaurant’s relocation to Redfern marks a rebirth of sorts for The Norfolk’s courtyard. This once beloved millennial haunt has shed its whitewashed, beachy beer garden look for a vibrant, Mexican sports bar vibe, complete with murals of dancing tacos and surprised pineapples. The upstairs Club Ricos, previously a seafood shack, now pulsates with the energy of a Mexican night club, replete with football memorabilia and mezcal.

So, if you’re looking for a spot that combines the zest of Mexican cuisine with the laid-back charm of an Aussie pub, look no further than Rico’s Tacos at The Norfolk in Redfern. With its eclectic decor, mouth-watering menu, and vibrant atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to eat, drink, and be merry, any day of the week.

BOOK A TABLE

Follow Rico’s Tacos on Instagram for updates.

Redfern Station Gets Major Upgrade with Direct Pathways to Carriageworks and South Eveleigh

Redfern Station, Sydney’s fifth-busiest train station, is now also one of the most accessible after undergoing a huge safety and convenience overhaul.

The grand unveiling of the long-anticipated upgrade of the Redfern Train Station was met with enthusiasm by commuters and the community alike. The station’s facelift includes a gleaming new southern concourse and two additional entrances, notably one on the southwestern side, facilitating easy access to the vibrant cultural precinct of Carriageworks and South Eveleigh.

The Upgraded Redfern Station

With this direct pathway, commuters can effortlessly engage in the dynamic program of large-scale theatre, dance, and installation works at Carriageworks, and indulge in the delights of the Carriageworks Farmers Market, making it a Saturday morning staple.

For those seeking entertainment and employment opportunities, the concourse also provides a direct walkway to South Eveleigh, home to various establishments like BrewDog, Lucky Kwong for wonton noodle soup enthusiasts, and the world’s first permanent zero-waste bar, Re.

The comprehensive project not only improves accessibility but also enhances safety features. It includes the installation of six new lifts, stair access to platforms one through ten, designated drop-off areas, and accessible toilets. These enhancements are set to be game-changers for passengers with disabilities or limited mobility and those travelling with prams, luggage, or bikes.

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns commented on the significance of this upgrade.

“Given its close proximity to education, health, employment, and cultural precincts, we know how important Redfern Station is for people accessing local services and attractions, so it’s great to see these accessibility upgrades completed,” he said.

Community Involvement

The NSW Government approached the station’s redesign collaboratively, engaging heritage architects and consulting with Aboriginal community members to ensure the upgrades resonate with Redfern’s rich cultural heritage. This transformation marks the beginning of a new era for Redfern Station, setting the stage for a promising future for the historic transport hub.

“The upgrade of this station was years in the making, with people advocating for this project for decades,” Jo Haylen, Minister for Transport, remarked. “Now with an additional $300 million in the budget for further station accessibility upgrades, I look forward to seeing even more communities across NSW making the most of these vital station upgrades.”

“These six brand new lifts at one of our state’s busiest train stations will open up new opportunities for people with disability, parents with prams, and anyone with mobility issues,” Kate Washington, Minister for Disability Inclusion, emphasized.

Broader Accessibility Initiatives

With Redfern Station’s success story, the government has dedicated further funding to enhance accessibility across the state’s public transport system. This development aligns with the broader Transport Access Program, and the outcome has set the stage for more communities in New South Wales to benefit from safe and accessible public transport options.

In addition to Redfern Station’s remarkable transformation, Stanmore Station has also received its accessibility upgrades, with a pair of lifts being added to ensure equal access to both the platforms and the connecting tunnel. These initiatives signal a bright future for public transport in New South Wales, making travel smoother, safer, and more accessible for all.

Published 14-Oct-2023

New and Improved Redfern Station Enhances Accessibility and Heritage

After years of anticipation and community advocacy, the newly upgraded Redfern Station in Sydney has officially opened, marking a significant milestone in the State’s Transport Access Program.

The station, one of Sydney’s oldest and busiest railway sites, has undergone a transformation to enhance accessibility and safety for passengers with disabilities, limited mobility, and those travelling with prams, luggage, or bicycles.

This comprehensive upgrade includes new lifts, additional entrances, accessible facilities, and improved streetscaping. The project also paid homage to the station’s unique cultural heritage through collaboration with heritage architects and Aboriginal community members.

Enhanced Accessibility and Improved Connectivity

The most notable feature of the upgraded Redfern Station is the new southern concourse, equipped with six state-of-the-art lifts and stair access to Platforms 1 to 10. These additions ensure that passengers with disabilities and those travelling with mobility devices and other equipment.

Furthermore, the upgrade includes two additional entrances, drop-off areas, accessible toilets, and enhanced streetscaping, making the station more user-friendly for everyone.

The strategic location of the pedestrian bridge provides easier access to important arts and employment precincts, such as Carriageworks and South Eveleigh. This enhancement strengthens the station’s role as a vital transportation hub, connecting passengers to key destinations in the city.

Responding to a community campaign, the new concourse introduces barrier-free access, allowing people to move freely between Little Eveleigh and Marian Streets. This improvement aligns with the goal of making Redfern Station more inclusive and welcoming to all passengers.

Cultural Heritage Preserved

Transport for NSW collaborated closely with heritage architects and members of the Aboriginal community to ensure that the upgrade respected and reflected the station and its surrounding area’s unique cultural heritage. This approach demonstrates a commitment to preserving the history and character of Redfern Station while modernizing its facilities.

The Redfern Station upgrade is part of the Transport Access Program, which received a significant boost of $300 million in the most recent budget. This funding injection will enable more communities across New South Wales to benefit from safe and accessible public transport options.

Government Officials Express Satisfaction

“Given its close proximity to education, health, employment and cultural precincts, we know how important Redfern Station is for people accessing local services and attractions, so it’s great to see these accessibility upgrades completed,” Chris Minns, Premier of NSW said.

“I am pleased to mark the completion of this project, which will benefit so many rail commuters and visitors travelling on our states rail network.”

“Redfern Train Station is the fifth busiest train station in the state, but for the 140 years it’s been serving passengers it hasn’t been accessible,” Jo Haylen, Minister for Transport, said.

“That changes today as this much-needed upgrade opens, breathing new life into this beautiful old station and ensuring it has better capacity and accessibility into the future.

“The upgrade of this station was years in the making, with people advocating for this project for decades. I want to thank the more than four thousand workers who contributed to this project, as well as the community for their patience during construction.

“Now with an additional $300m in the budget for further station accessibility upgrades, I look forward to seeing even more communities across NSW making the most of these vital station upgrades.”

The Redfern Station upgrade marks a significant achievement in improving public transport accessibility and preserving cultural heritage, setting a positive example for future infrastructure projects across the state.

Published 10-Oct-2023