BREED
Photo: Pedro Grieg
The Neglected Cleveland House.
The Spectacular La Ronde.
LOCAL LEGENDS
A Day In The Life With MP Tanya Plibersek.
LEGENDS
The Sydney Swans in 2025.
The Bookshop’s Final Chapter.
Joy Arrives Back In Surry Hills.
The Girls & Boys Brigade.
The Siege of 1919.
Sydney Dance Company’s 12th New Breed Season.
T Hello Surry Hills Sweethearts & Darlo Darlings,
THE weather is warming up, the end of the year is fast approaching, and we’re signing off with one last edition of the 2010 Magazine - filled with the people, performances, and perspectives that keep Surry Hills & Darlinghurst thriving.
In this issue, we take a look at one of Sydney’s oldest homesteadsCleveland House - and relive a dramatic siege that happened in 1919.
On the community front, we farewell The Bookshop and learn more about local charity The Girls & Boys Brigade. Then, relive a dramatic siege that happened in 1919.
Go behind the scenes of the spectacular La Ronde, now playing at The Grand Electric and featured on our Front Cover. We have details on Sydney Dance Company’s 12th iteration of New Breed and a handy local What’s On guide.
We check out “The Story of Christmas” at NEL, look at some new local hotspots and discover an incredible partnership between ESCA Hospitality and The Girls & Boys Brigade. We’ve got all this plus puzzles, pets, news and a local business directory!
Enjoy, and we’ll see you in 2026 for Issue #12.
Neighbourhood Media Team
PUBLISHER - Neighbourhood Media
CONTRIBUTORS - Rita Bratovich, Elliot Lindsay, Adeline Teoh, Jen Keates, Rob Everett, Lisa Ferron
COVER STAR - Geniris Mena (La Ronde Artist)
ADVERTISING - Georgie Pengelly - 0416 972 081
If you have any thoughts, feedback or questions about the 2031 Magazine, please reach out to info@neighbourhoodmedia.com.au
NEL’s Story of Christmas.
The Fur Salon & Dental.
Do You Have All The Answers?
Shop, Support, Spend Local.
HISTORY
By Rita Bratovich
Once Sydney’s oldest home and a rare example of early colonial architecture, Cleveland House has long suffered from neglect.
T“THIS old grey house, now part of a group of buildings, is, from an Australian point of view, very old indeed.” This quote is from The Freemasons Journal, 1938 in reference to Cleveland House — which has since aged another 87 years!
Occupying the block of land between 51 Buckingham Street and 146-164 Chalmers Street in Surry Hills, this impressive two storey mansion has a history dating back to early settlement. However, if you were to walk past it today you would do exactly that - walk past.
Surrounded by crude wire fencing, graffitied, rusting and crumbling, this important heritage listed landmark has been allowed to fall into dereliction. Rudimentary and emergency repair work has been conducted over the last two decades, but the serious maintenance work required has been delayed by ping ponging DAs and approvals.
Cleveland House is not only a beautiful example of quality architecture, it is also testament to two convict-cum-free settler success stories.
Daniel Cooper was “transported” to Sydney from England in 1816, but received a pardon two years later. A shrewd businessman, Cooper immediately began building his empire, beginning with a pub and a store and expanding to
include a shipping company, a brewery, and eventually the large, notable trading company, Cooper & Levey.
By the early 1820s, Cooper was a very wealthy and very prominent figure within the colony. In around 1823, the now married Cooper commissioned another successful exconvict, respected architect Francis Greenway, to design a residence on his five hectare parcel of land in what is now Surry Hills.
The result was a stunning two-storey mansion in the Colonial Georgian style. Made from brick on stone foundations, it featured a wrap-around verandah supported by stone pillars, an iron roof, ten large rooms, an enormous basement with four cellars, a beautiful cedar interior staircase, stone exterior staircase, and verdant, landscaped gardens. The external rendering was stucco. Several outbuildings surrounded the main house and helped create courtyards. Built on a hill with very few other structures around, the magnificent mansion offered views down to the harbour.
Alas, Cooper and his wife, Hannah, separated in 1829, having spent only five years at Cleveland House. The house was rented out so that Hannah would have an income. Meanwhile, the rest of Sydney colony continued to develop.
Despite its distance from the rest of the world, Australia was an early adopter of technologies, including the invention of steam engines.
By the mid 1850s, a railway line had been established in Sydney from Circular Quay to Parramatta. A terminus was built at Redfern in 1855 (which later became Central Station). Surry Hills was quickly urbanising. Daniel Cooper died in 1853 and his estate was sold and subdivided into eight blocks — the main house and outbuildings remained on one block.
From then on, Cleveland House changed ownership and experienced a wide variety of tenancies and uses. It was a ladies college, a boarding house, a laundry, a group of apartments. In 1903 it was owned by Sisters of the Good Samaritan of the Order of St Benedict and functioned as a school and convent. Then the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary purchased it in 1946, residing there for around 12 years before it was bought by NSW Society for Crippled Children in 1958 and used as a hospital.
Current owners, LGS Enterprises Pty Ltd, acquired the property in 1988, demolishing the outbuildings and further subdividing the land. A 103 unit residential apartment block called Princes Gardens was built adjacent to Cleveland House. Meanwhile, Cleveland House continued to host a diverse range of tenants, including a solicitors firm and an importer/ exporter of dental supplies.
InVivo Communications, medical education company and subsidiary of LGS Enterprises, moved in in 1997 and still
Emergency Carers Needed
lists 51 Buckingham Street as its address, even though Cleveland House is said to be vacant.
Despite its historical significance and the threat imposed by repeated change of tenancy and development, it took until April 1999 for Cleveland House to be registered with New South Wales Heritage Council.
Even with oversight by the Heritage Council, the once glorious manor house is in severe decline. As far back as 2010, the owner was ordered to repair the roof, drainage system, gutters, downpipes and flashing to prevent water damage to the building. A grant of $50,000 was awarded in 2013 so that repair work could be done. The verandah floors had already collapsed due to improper water drainage. Whether or not this work was ever completed, Cleveland House continues to display signs of dilapidation. An integrated development application (IDA) submitted in 2019 is still awaited approval on all elements. Being registered with Heritage NSW indicates that Cleveland House has state significance as an historical building.
Local residents are keen to see it repaired and actually used in a way that benefits the community: a museum, cafe, venue, community centre. Something that honours its past.
Cleveland House: 146-164 Chalmers St, Surry Hills
COVER STAR
THE SPECTACULAR LA RONDE!
Strut & Fret delivers yet another mind-blowing show featuring a stunning troupe of international stars.
IIF you have never seen a Strut & Fret show, then you have never seen just how magnificent humans can be. This company brings together acts from around the world, artists who are at the pinnacle of their craft, performers who can make you gasp, cheer, laugh and even cry.
When creators, Scott Maidment and Sarah Stewart, met some 25 years ago, it was like a collision of two meteors exploding into a supernova (okay, probably not scientifically correct but you get the picture). Combining their talent, energy and limitless imagination, Maidment and Stewart developed conceptual shows melding circus, cabaret, burlesque, comedy and fabulousness, resulting in a unique audience experience.
Strut & Fret have produced shows all over the world, in spiegeltents, theatres, big tops, little tops, festivals — basically anywhere with enough room to swing a gigantic mirror ball.
In 2023, Strut & Fret took up residence in the newly refurbished The Grand Electric theatre in Surry Hills.
Once the HQ for the Australian Railway Union, the building had been repurposed several times as a theatre before sitting abandoned and alone on Cleveland Street for several years.
But Scott Maidment saw its potential and rebuilt it in his image…that is, if his personality was a theatre it would be
The Grand Electric: bold, flashy, elegant yet wild. The interior summons the spirit and design of a classic spiegeltent. The courtyard entry features vintage-themed murals by preeminent artist, Max Elbourne.
The Grand Electric’s grand opening introduced Strut & Fret to a new, appreciative audience with the incredible Blanc de Blanc. The show was so successful it had repeated extended seasons. With follow-ups including Blanc de Blanc: Encore, Limbo, and the irreverent, Titanique, Strut & Fret has gathered a fanbase and
reputation for delivering supreme entertainment.
Enter, La Ronde.
A varied troupe of extraordinary artists from Australia and across the globe gather onto “the round”, the circular stage in the centre of the room. Here they sing, they swing, they defy gravity and etiquette.
La Ronde captures the essence of Blanc de Blanc and Limbo and distills it into a more refined, parred back, show concentrated onto a central platform.
“ It is sexy, raunchy, amazing, ostentatious, hilarious and spellbinding. ” See
As in previous shows, La Ronde is about individual fetes of wonder, but also about the synergetic group dynamic that invites the entire audience into a circle of magic and fun.
It is sexy, raunchy, amazing, ostentatious, hilarious and spellbinding.
A DAY IN THE LIFE MP TANYA PLIBERSEK
IIT’S fair to assume Tanya Plibersek loves what she does, having done it for 27 years and counting. The popular politician is as much a Sydney icon as the Bridge or Opera House; testament to that is this year’s election result in which she achieved the highest primary Labor vote in the country.
Tanya’s legacy, however, will go beyond high polling scores. As a conscientious, empathetic MP, Tanya proudly notes among her achievements the introduction of Kids’ Dental; the building of 80 new homelessness services; and the addition of 100 million hectares to land and ocean conserved in Australia.
Motivated to make a difference, Tanya aims for significant systemic changes, yet she also feels great satisfaction in being able to help individual constituents, especially when she’s their last resort.
With cost of living and housing affordability being pressing issues in her constituency, Tanya knows there is still a lot of work for her to do.
Thankfully, she also knows where to re-fuel and find inspiration!
Local Favourites Surry Hills/Darlinghurst:
• Best coffee : Flour and Stone
• Best meal : Bastardo, or Fontana if you are prepared to leave Darlinghurst to go to Redfern.
• Must-see/do : Qtopia – with a quick visit to the National Art School thrown in for good measure.
NAME: Tanya Plibersek
OCCUPATION: Member for Sydney, Minister for Social Services
3 WORDS TO DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY: long, busy, rewarding
SOMETHING PEOPLE WOULDN’T EXPECT ABOUT YOUR ROLE: No two days are alike. Every day is interesting.
6.00am – Take our dogs Frankie and Robbie for a walk. Stop at Mentmore and Morley for the first coffee of the day.
7.30am – Drive my son to school because I’ve been away in Canberra all week and I want to spoil him a bit. Stop at Flour and Stone for a ham and cheese toastie for him and another strong coffee for me.
9.00am – It’s Women’s Health Week, so visit the Leichhardt Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain clinic to talk to doctors and nurses about the difference new Commonwealth government funding for women’s health is making. Cheaper contraceptives, IUDs, endo medicines and menopause meds.
10.00am – Meet with constituents about a range of personal and local issues. Catch up on emails. Thank John, our volunteer accountant who has been helping low income constituents with their tax returns, as he does at “tax help” time every year.
12:00pm - Delicious lentil and cauliflower soup from Brickfields for lunch.
2:00pm – Visit the Older Women’s Network in Newtown to speak at their Women’s Health Week event. Wish I could stay and listen to the whole thing!!
SURRY HILLS
4:00pm – Paperwork. Paperwork. Paperwork. Writing back to constituents who have emailed me. Putting the final touches on a Cabinet submission
6:00pm – Takeaway from Erciyes for dinner. My daughter is home from Broken Hill for the weekend, so her favourites are on high rotation.
8.00pm – Watch my younger son play basketball.
10:00pm – Generic moody British detective drama on Britbox and a cup of peppermint tea to unwind.
This is my real day today. The best thing about my job is the extraordinary variety. No two days are the same. My parents taught me to treat everyone I meet with respect, and one of the things I like best about my job is being able to help people at some of the most difficult times in their life.
OWN YOUR SKIN. COMMAND YOUR PRESENCE.
Step into MANKiND, Surry Hills, where advanced technology meets precision artistry. Our Class 4 Clinical Laser works smarter, not harder, to rejuvenate your skin, erase imperfections, and elevate your natural radiance.
From stubborn acne scars and all types of pigmentation, to tattoo removal and skin resurfacing, no challenge is too complex. Every treatment is tailored, clinically advanced, and designed to deliver transformative results — skin that looks refreshed, smooth, and perfectly balanced.
LOCAL LEGENDS
EReflecting on a season of resilience and renewal for Sydney’s beloved AFL teamThe Sydney Swans. As the 2025 AFL season draws to a close, the Sydney Swans find themselves at a pivotal juncture.
EMERGING from the shadow of a disappointing Grand Final loss in 2024, the 2025 season was a journey of introspection and rejuvenation. Under the guidance of new head coach Dean Cox, the Swans aimed to recalibrate and rebuild.
A SEASON OF CHALLENGES & TRIUMPHS
The season began with cautious optimism, tempered by an awareness that consistency is key. Early rounds revealed both promise and areas needing improvement, with defensive lapses leaving the Swans vulnerable. A heavy loss to the Adelaide Crows in Round 12 served as a stark reminder that refinement was needed.
Yet the Swans’ resilience shone through. In Round 13, Sydney delivered a commanding 44-point victory over Richmond at the MCG, keeping the Tigers goalless for over a half and demonstrating their ability to respond under pressure. This win not only built confidence, but reinforced the team’s ability to compete at the highest levels. Across the season, individual brilliance seemed to supersede collective effort. Midfield stalwarts Luke Parker and Callum Mills consistently drove the Swans’ engine, while young talents Errol Gulden and Chad Warner began cementing themselves as emerging stars with the skills and composure to shape the team’s future. The experience and stability of seasoned ruckman Brodie Grundy proved invaluable, anchoring contests and providing a steadying presence in key moments.
A NEW CHAPTER: CHARLIE CURNOW’S ARRIVAL
One of the season’s most talked-about developments was the acquisition of two-time Coleman Medallist Charlie Curnow (who left Carlton). Curnow’s move to Sydney
brought a potent scoring weapon to the Swans’ forward line, adding both depth and a new dimension to their attacking structures. His decision to join the club, seeking a fresh start and the opportunity to contribute to a side on the rise, reflects a broader culture shift within the team.
Curnow’s integration was smooth, with his impact felt immediately. Paired with established forwards and supported by the creative midfield, Sydney’s forward structures became more dynamic and unpredictable, keeping opposition defenses on constant alert.
LOOKING AHEAD
As 2025 winds down, reflection is inevitable. While the Swans fell short of their ultimate goal - a premiership - the season provided encouraging signs that the club is on the right path. The blend of experience and youth, the guidance of head coach Dean Cox, and the lessons learned from both setbacks and triumphs have all contributed to a more cohesive, resilient unit.
The foundation laid this year bodes well for the future. Fans can be confident that the Swans are not only learning from 2025’s challenges but also building toward a stronger 2026 campaign. With emerging stars ready to step up, proven leaders providing direction, and exciting new additions like Curnow strengthening the squad, Sydney is poised to remain a force in the AFL for years to come.
For more insights and updates on the Sydney Swans, visit the official Swans website: sydneyswans.com.au
A recently sold Italianate mansion smack in the middle of Darlinghurst was once the home of Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin.
TTHE celebrity couple purchased the rare inner-city property, named Iona, in 2006 for a mere $10million. Featuring 22 rooms, including seven bedrooms and bathrooms, a temperature controlled cellar, caterer’s gas kitchen, conservatory, sunrooms, gym, large basement, library, as well as spacious balconies, expansive landscaped garden, in-ground heated pool and parking for 12 vehicles, this grand manor house might normally be found on a sprawling country estate. Instead, it is ensconced at the end of an unassuming culde-sac, minutes from the hubbub of some of the city’s trendiest precincts.
During their tenure, Luhrmann and Martin hosted parties with a glitterati guest-list and ran their successful production company. They sold their stately home in February 2016 at a $6million profit on their purchase price.
The purchasers, Tim Eustace, principal adviser at Mercury Private, and his partner Salvador Panui, made some notable upgrades while retaining the existing original features of the beautifully preserved circa 1880s building. They refurbished the kitchen and cultivated plants in the garden that helped provide more privacy.
After almost 10 years, Eustace and Panui were also ready to move on. By then, Iona had soared in value, with estimates putting it up around the $40million mark. Its first outing on the market, last year, saw it receive tepid interest. The second go around, new agents Sydney Sotheby’s International, put it in the window with a very conservative price estimate. That attracted a handful of very serious contenders and led to a four-hour private bidding battle. Eventually the esteemed property was attained by an Eastern Suburbs family for $37.5 million.
The Bookshop, a much-loved pillar of
Sydney’s LGBTIQ+ community, is closing it’s doors on Dec 24th.
SSINCE it first opened its queer friendly doors in 1982, The Bookshop has been a sanctuary, a hub, and a veritable treasure chest for the LGBTQ+ community and for booklovers as a whole. It began after founders Les McDonald and his partner, Wayne Harrison, took a trip to the US and saw that there was enough demand for LGBTQ+ literature to make a business venture viable.
They began importing books and selling through mail order, operating from their home, but the business grew so rapidly that within a short time they opened a bricks and mortar store on Crown Street in 1982. Two years later, they moved to their location at 207 Oxford Street, establishing the store as a landmark for locals and tourists.
The early 1980s was a volatile time for Sydney’s LGBTQ+ community: homosexuality was still illegal until 1984; the Sydney Gay Mardi Gras was in its infancy after a tumultuous start; gay hate crimes were rampant; and of course, the AIDS pandemic had descended like a toxic black cloud.
It was a challenging time for queer people to come out, be out, or find enough information to help them make that decision.
In a time before the internet, The Bookshop was a rare, safe place to ask questions and seek answers, to explore possibilities and imbibe a new culture.
The Bookshop was one of the few places that sold books, magazines, and other paraphernalia that catered to the queer community.
In its time, it has hosted many books launches and signings with local and international authors.
The recent developments along Oxford Street have made life and future impossible for The Bookshop, and it will close its doors on December 24 this year. Until then, you can visit the store, buy incredible books, and be part of its legacy.
Dear
Surry Hills residents,
The Albanese Labor Government’s number one priority is addressing cost of living pressures
Support payments
From 1 July 2025, a range of rates, thresholds, and limits will increase by 2 4 per cent to ensure they keep pace with the cost of living, helping more than 2.4 million recipients of social security payments
Wage increases
Also on 1 July, 2 9 million Australians who serve our daily coffees, look after our children and our aging parents, and help run our recreation, health and arts centres will receive a pay rise
A Fair Work Commission decision to increase the national minimum award wage by 3 5 per cent means these workers will receive an extra $1,669 20 a year
Indexation keeps payments in line with the wider economy, like the Family Tax Benefit, which help Australian families to cover the costs of raising children and ensures that the social security system remains a safety net that Australians can rely on
For families receiving Family Tax Benefit Part A, the maximum rate of payment for children aged under 13 will increase to a new rate of $227 36 a fortnight, an increase of over $36 since the election of the Albanese Labor Government in 2022 For children aged 13 or over, the rate will increase to $295 82 a fortnight
The maximum rate of Family Tax Benefit Part B will increase to $193 34, an increase of over $30 since May 2022 For families with a youngest child aged five or over, the rate will increase to $134 96 a fortnight
The Paid Parental Leave (PPL) annual income limits will also increase The individual annual limit will rise to $180,007 and the family limit will increase to $373,094 The Albanese Labor Government reforms to PPL, introduced on 1 July 2023, have already helped over 380,000 parents
Other key changes from 1 July 2025 include increases to: Family Tax Benefit Part A and Part B income thresholds and related supplements asset limits for recipients of JobSeeker Payment, Youth Allowance, Austudy, ABSTUDY Living Allowance, Parenting Payment, and Special Benefit the income threshold for Parenting Payment Single income and assets thresholds for Age Pension, Disability Support Pension and Carer Payment the rate of Essential Medical Equipment Payment
Payment rates and thresholds are indexed on a regular basis, with youth and student payments indexed in January, and pensions and allowances in March and September
Through a combination of tax cuts, increased wages, cheaper medicines, cuts to student debt, and energy bill relief, Labor is making a real difference to help ease the cost of living
In the three years since the election of the Albanese Labor Government, the national minimum wage has increased by $4 62 an hour, more than $175 a week or $9,120 a year, delivering a 22 7 per cent increase since 2022
Annual real wages have now grown 18 months in a row after going backwards under the previous Liberal Government
Under Labor, real wages are up, inflation is down, unemployment is low, incomes are growing and we’ve had two interest rate cuts in three months
Boosting wages, cutting taxes for every taxpayer and creating more jobs are central to our efforts to help with the cost of living
Under Labor, more Australians are working, earning more and keeping more of what they earn
Tax help
This year, my electorate office is again providing free assistance to low income earners preparing tax returns.
Should you wish to book an appointment, please contact my office on 02 9379 0700
Our volunteer accountant is available, 1pm-4pm on:
Friday 8, 15, 22 and 29 August Friday 5 September Friday 3 and 10 October
We know that people are still under pressure and that’s why our ongoing cost-of-living relief measures are so important.
If you need help with any Federal issues please get in touch
COMMUNITY
By Rita Bratovich
I
In the mid 1990s, NSW became one of the first jurisdictions in the world to decriminalise certain forms of sex work. Inspired by this, local artist, Loui May (then Fraser), created a statue depicting a sex worker standing in a doorway. Slightly bigger than life-sized, the statue was made from cement and marble dust, giving it a striking white finish. The doorway was a rectangular frame made from metal and painted bright red. In her original pose, she was leaning against the door jamb holding a cigarette in one hand. May named her “Joy” to echo the sentiments of sex workers at the changing laws, and also to reflect the service they provide.
Joy was installed on Stanley Street in 1995 as part of a local council program to promote artists and activate unused spaces. It was only meant to be in place for 18 months, however many residents immediately objected to the artwork, or more specifically, to what it depicted. The statue was vandalised many times and the outcry was continuous. It was finally removed in 1997 and taken to Macquarie University where it was put on permanent display, seemingly without as much controversy. While conservative locals were happy to see Joy go, many others were not, especially sex workers and allies for whom the statue meant so much. Joy was widely considered to be the first statue anywhere in the world, that honoured sex workers. She represented legitimacy, visibility, and acceptance.
After overwhelming public objection saw its removal in 1997, Joy has finally returned to Yurong Reserve, Surry Hills.
launched in the early 2020s.
In 2023, after a petition was lodged by an advocacy group, City of Sydney sought feedback from residents on whether to return the statue to its original spot; 80% of respondents said yes.
It was great news…except…Macquarie University didn’t want to give the original statue back.
This actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise as it led to a replica being cast in bronze.
“To have a bronze in Sydney it’s the sculptor’s dream come true,” May told ABC News.
“To have a bronze in Sydney it’s the sculptor’s dream come true,”
Macquarie Uni gladly loaned the original statue out so that a mould could be made. Casting technician, Matthew Crawford oversaw the making of the new statue.
It’s a mostly faithful reproduction but a few significant changes: the colours of the statue and door frame and, most notably, the absence of the cigarette which was removed in deference to new attitudes towards smoking.
In a statement, sculptor Loui May said:
“While my hands may have created this sculpture, it is the women who have lived and worked in this area through history that JOY represents. On their behalf, I give thanks to the hundreds of supporters who believed this sculpture was important, including writers, academics, journalists, artists, podcasters, poets and others.”
There was a quiet desire among many in the community to have the Statue of Joy returned to what was considered her rightful place. Over the years, that quiet wish became louder and built momentum until a full blown campaign was
The new statue of Joy was unveiled on Nov 8, 2025 and now stands in Yurong Reserve, just off Yurong Street in East Sydney.
IIN an ochre-brick, white-topped heritage building on the corner of Riley and Arthur Streets, Surry Hills, is an oasis for disenfranchised kids and teens. It’s a place where they can find reprieve from danger, boredom, and mischief and instead find friendship, creativity, and hope. It began in 1882 when two influential newspaper executives recognised the vulnerability of young boys living on the streets of the inner city. They set up The Boys Brigade which provided a safe haven as well as entertainment and education in practical work skills. The Brigade evolved to include girls and offer many more services, helping literally thousands of youths and families across the decades.
Today, The Girls and Boys Brigade continues to provide a range of services and programs free of charge to families in need in the City of Sydney catchment. They cater for young people aged 5 to 18, but can continue support in some instances beyond adulthood.
Programs are designed around educational support, recreation, life skills, vocational workshops and tailored assistance for family challenges.
The Riley Street building is a welcoming space for kids and teens who, for a number of reasons, find themselves bored, scared, or susceptible to temptation or danger in the hours between school and bedtime. Here, they can spend time with other people, play games and sports, be creative, or receive mental health support and specialised care.
The Girls and Boys Brigade is not affiliated with any religious organisations, nor does it receive government funding. It relies on major donors, corporate partners, trusts and foundations and most importantly, on the generosity of the wider community.
From November to January, the organisation is running a special appeal to raise money to help children heal from trauma.
“We are looking at the rise in cases of child maltreatment across Australia and how insurmountable the costs of healing from trauma can be for our families and communities,” says Sarah from The Girls and Boys Brigade.
“Through our service we are able to connect children with life-saving mental health support, trauma informed activities, and child psychologists and paediatricians to provide specialised care, especially during this time when children are particularly vulnerable.»
Please help this worthy cause by making a donation, especially during this time when children are particularly at risk.
If you are unable to give money, there are other ways you can help. Visit the website for more information: girlsandboysbrigade.org.au
11TH SEASON JAN 23Ð25, 2026
GALA FINALS SCREENING & AWARDS JAN 23, 8:30PM SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE
SF3 KIDS SCREENING & AWARDS JAN 24, 1:30PM
SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE
SF3 MINI & FEATURE FILM SCREENING JAN 25, 1:30PM PALACE CHAUVEL CINEMA
TRUE CRIME
By Elliot Lindsay
OThe 1945 Surry Hills murder that left a notorious gangster dead and Sydney’s criminal underworld shaken.
ON the 29th of January 1945, the Red Army was advancing into Germany from the East, Americans were advancing into the Rhineland from the west and Australian soldiers were in a fierce offensive against Imperial Japan in New Guinea. Meanwhile, back in Surry Hills in the early hours a shabby terrace at 428 Crown Street, Surry Hills, became the stage for one of the most dramatic underworld killings of wartime Sydney.
The house - wedged between Foveaux Street and the bustle of Crown Street, just up from the old Frog Hollowwas already notorious. Inside its dim, liquor-soaked rooms, black-market grog flowed freely, American servicemen slipped in and out without leaving their names, and the fractured domestic life of a gangster was grinding toward its violent end.
Donald Day was known throughout Sydney’s underworld as “Donald the Duck,” a former jockey turned brothel boss, liquor racketeer and king-hit artist. He was no stranger to violence. But even for Surry Hills, a neighbourhood used to standover men, slygrog traders and razor-wielding enforcers, his death was shocking in its suddenness and brutality.
A BREWING STORM: JEALOUSY, BEER AND THE MAXINE CLUB
Two nights before the shooting, tensions between Day and his longtime partner, Irene Merle Day, ignited in public. At the Maxine Club at 80 Oxford Street Woollahra, Day arrived with a new mistress: Joyce Cusack, a young blonde machinist from Darlington. Irene spotted them across the cabaret floor. She crossed the room like a storm front.
What followed became the talk of Surry Hills: accusations, a glass of beer thrown, and a retaliatory punch with a glass that split Joyce’s eye open. The two women ended up at St
Vincent’s Hospital - the first of many injuries in a weekend that would spiral into chaos.
Joyce later told the court that Irene hissed at her: “If you want him, you can have him - dead.”
Whether it was threat, heartbreak, or theatre, the remark hung over everything that followed.
Later that night, Day returned to Crown Street to collect four bags of beer he claimed had been taken from him. As he lugged the bags out to his car, a brawl erupted on the footpath. American servicemen, local girls, Day, his rival Keith Kitchener Hull, and hangers-on were all swinging. Hull was knocked down - some said kicked while he lay on the pavement. He would later show the court a broken nose and bruised face.
The bad blood was now set.
THE NIGHT OF THE SHOOTING
Shortly after 1:45 a.m. on January 29, Day and his associate Reeves pulled up outside 428 Crown Street again. The door was opened by Irene and another girl. Day marched inside. Reeves lingered in the hallway.
Upstairs, in a small bedroom facing Crown Street, Hull was waiting. The Americans staying in the house - George Miller and Bill Simponis - had been drinking most of the night. At some point, Miller’s loaded revolver, hidden under his mattress, had gone missing. He later admitted he asked Hull about it.
“Yes, I took it,” Hull said. “I needed it. They’re after me.” Reeves reported that Day walked upstairs and “half-closed the door.” Muffled voices followed, then three or four cracks - like muffled fireworks.
Simponis said he looked out of his door and saw a man running up the stairs holding a gun. Miller shouted: “Donald Day has got a gun - look out!”
When they reached the back bedroom, Day was lying on the
floor, shot through the cheek, the chest, and the abdomen. Blood soaked the scattered clothing on the floor. Hull stood nearby, shaking, a gun in his hand. The Americans helped lift Day onto the bed, where he died almost instantly - one bullet had pierced his heart.
Meanwhile, Irene Day knelt beside him, holding his hand, weeping:
“Speak to me, my Donnie… he’s my Donnie… my Donnie…” Neighbours on Crown Street later recalled the sound of women screaming and the thud of feet on floorboards.
GUNS UNDER THE BATH
When police arrived, the scene was chaotic. Empty cartridges littered a neighbouring bedroom. The wardrobe had a bullet hole clean through its door. Under the bath in the adjoining house in Foveaux Street, detectives found the evidence that would haunt the courts for months: two heavy-calibre revolvers, one wrapped in a facecloth, the other a fully loaded American Navy pistol wrapped in a white handkerchief.
Who moved the guns? Who wiped them clean? And why?
The Coroner later declared the two Americans had “prevaricated, evaded, and committed perjury.” For a time, he even suspected they might have been accessories after the fact.
A FUNERAL FIT FOR A KINGPIN
Despite the sordid circumstances of his death, Day’s funeral at Kinsela’s, Taylor Square, and later at South Head Cemetery, was a spectacle. More than 1,500 people crowded outside the parlours. His cedar coffin, silvermounted, held the embalmed and surgically repaired body of a man who had lived - and died - hard. A wreath from Irene and their baby son was placed beside tributes from “The Chow,” “Bronze,” “La Belle,” and others from the Surry Hills criminal milieu. As detectives watched from a nearby hill, women sobbed at the graveside. The crime queen Tilly Devine was even seen watching from the air-raid shelter at Taylor Square. Surry Hills had lost a villain - and a folk hero.
THE COURTROOM WAR
In the weeks that followed, Crown Street’s gossip made its way into the Central Court. All four people present during the shooting - Hull, Irene Day, Daphne Kenny, and Nancy
Burley - were charged with murder.
The court was a theatre:
• Joyce Cusack, in velvet hat and fur coat, testified dramatically.
• Americans contradicted themselves mid-sentence.
• Detectives sparred with lawyers about hidden pistols, wiped fingerprints, and missing cartridges.
• The Coroner criticised witnesses for “hampering instead of helping” the court.
But the turning point came when Hull’s injuries were examined. His broken nose, bruised face, and punctured elbow seemed to support his claim of a violent attack just hours before the shooting.
Hull’s statement was simple: “He came at me pointing a gun. I fired in self-defence.”
No gun was ever proven to have been in Day’s hand. But doubt lingered enough for a jury.
THE VERDICT
On 11 June 1945, after a trial lasting only a day, the jury took just 50 minutes.
Not guilty. Justifiable homicide.
Hull walked free - a rare victory for a man who had shot one of Sydney’s most feared racketeers at near-pointblank range.
CROWN STREET’S GHOST
Today, Crown and Foveaux look different - trendy cafés replacing sly-grog dens, apartments rising where old terraces leaned. 428 Crown Street is presumably no longer a den of vice as the murder house has been converted into a trendy pizza restaurant. The patrons all blissfully unaware of the gun smoke, the shouting, the chaos and violent demise of one of Sydney’s most feared gangsters in the room above them.
In Surry Hills, history hides in plain sight. And some stories, like the last night of Donald the Duck, refuse to stay buried.
WHAT’S ON
SPRING & SUMMER Event Guide
Your guide to the best events, culture and community happening in Surry Hills, Darlinghurst and nearby neighbourhoods.
MOV’IN BED | NOW TILL MAR 2026
Barangaroo Harbour Park
SURRY HILLS
DARLO NIGHT MARKET | SAT DEC 20
120 Darlinghurst Rd
Get ready for a night of fashion, food, and threads at Darlo Night Market – your go-to pop-up boutique market for preloved clothes, new designers and mouthwatering street food.
SF3 FILM FESTIVAL | JAN 23 - 25, 2026
Experience the world’s most innovative smartphone film festival — SF3 — where creativity meets the big screen! Join us for three unmissable days of groundbreaking cinema: the Gala Finals Screening & Awards (Jan 23, 8:30pm) and SF3 Kids Screening & Awards (Jan 24, 1:30pm) at the Sydney Opera House, then the SF3 Mini & Feature Film Screening (Jan 25, 1:30pm) at Palace Chauvel Cinema. Bold stories. Limitless imagination. Only at SF3.
Details: Sf3.com.au
BLACK CHERRY | SAT FEB 14, 5PM - 11PM
This summer, Barangaroo transforms into a city beach with 280 tonnes of sand, complete with luxurious queen and king-size beds and Australia’s largest outdoor screen. Watch new releases and timeless classics with noise-cancelling headphones, bedside service, and an immersive cinematic experience like no other. Outdoor cinema, reimagined. Details and tickets: movinbed.com
CAROLS
AT THE HOUSE
SYDNEY PHILHARMONIA CHOIR
DEC 12 - 8 PM | DEC 13, 8PM | DEC 14, 2PM
Sydney Opera House, Concert Hall
Sydney Philharmonia Choirs brings festive cheer with its family-friendly Carols at the House at the Sydney Opera House. Conducted by Brett Weymark, the event features singers, musical theatre stars, and an orchestra performing favourites like Joy to the World, Silent Night, and Jingle Bells, plus choral highlights from Bach, Whitacre, Franck, and contemporary Australian composers. Join in the singing or sit back and enjoy this much-loved seasonal tradition that makes Christmas truly magical.
Tickets: sydneyphilharmonia.com.au/events/carolsat-the-house
National Art School
A trans-diverse event rooted in themes of redemption and transformation. It’s about revisiting a time when taking risks meant growth, and youth offered both safety and freedom. Details: whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/events/ black-cherry
AFTERGLOW | FEB 26 - MAR 22 (VARIOUS SHOW TIMES)
Eternity Playhouse
When Josh and Alex, a married couple in an open relationship, invite Darius to share their bed for a night, a new and intimate connection is ignited. As all three men come to terms with their individual definitions of love, loyalty, and trust, relationships are challenged and futures are shaken. A raw, funny, and sensual exploration of polyamory, commitment, and modern love.
Details: afterglowplay.com/australia
TTHIS 11th installment of the festival attracted more than 450 entries (!) from over 60 countries, reflecting SF3’s truly global reach. Submissions came from filmmakers aged four to 79, including creators living with disability, neuro-diverse school groups, and Indigenous filmmakers supported through SF3’s workshops.
After more than 450 submissions from filmmakers of all ages and walks of life; the planning has begun for the 11th SmartFone Flickfest, kicking off on Friday January 23 when the Gala Finals light up The Playhouse at the Sydney Opera House.
Then, the SF3 Kids Finals on Saturday 24 January. On Sunday 25 January, the festival shifts to the Palace Chauvel Cinema in Paddington for a day dedicated to innovation and experimentation. The SF3 Mini finalists present films three minutes or less – this year responding to the theme ‘Breath’ – while the Feature Film finalists highlight just how far smartphone cinema can go.
Festival Director Angela Blake says this year’s program represents the most diverse and creatively ambitious selection to date:
“The quality of storytelling and cinematic use of phones blew us away this year. We’re so proud to screen these films at the Sydney Opera House – it’s a phenomenal moment for smartphone cinema and independent filmmakers everywhere.”
Whether you’re into boundary-pushing shorts, international cinema, emerging young talent, or simply love seeing creativity thrive, SF3’s 11th season is set to be a standout celebration of filmmaking without limits.
Smartfone FlickFest 2026 | January 23-25
Sydney Opera House & The Palace Chauvel Cinema Tickets on sale now: sf3.com.au SmartFone Flick Fest (SF3) is back for its 11th year at
paddington | potts point | mosman byfreer.com made in sydney.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT SURRY HILLS
By Adeline Teoh
SYDNEY DANCE COMPANY’S: NEW BREED
Now
in its 12th season, Sydney Dance Company’s New
Breed continues to stand as one of Australia’s most vital platforms for rising choreographic talent.
BBODIES as landscapes, dancers as pigeon people –there’s so much choreography can say if you understand the language of dance, and so much you can feel even if as a newcomer to the form.
For 12 years the Sydney Dance Company’s New Breed program has placed emerging Australian choreographers in the spotlight. A collaboration between Neil Balnaves AO, of principal partner The Balnaves Foundation, and Sydney Dance Company artistic director Rafael Bonachela, New Breed has commissioned 49 new works by 47 choreographers, giving Australian dance the platform to develop new talent.
“Over 12 seasons we’ve experienced thrilling, compelling, and deeply original works that have left a lasting impact on Australian dance,” says Bonachela. “New Breed has been an anchor of Sydney Dance Company’s vision to nurture and platform the voices of emerging choreographers.”
The December 2025 presentation is the finale for the New Breed program and sees four world premieres by fresh faces Emma Fishwick, Ngaere Jenkins, Harrison RitchieJones and Ryan Pearson.
Fishwick’s marathon, o marathon examines the desire to continue performing personal convictions in a time of exhaustion. “I interviewed 12 people with frontline professions – this included paramedics, nurses, psychiatrists, teachers, carers, social workers, and climate activists. The focus was on what they know to be true about what they do and how it functions within society today,” she says of the genesis of the work. Key ideas of persistence, doubt, trust, and resistance emerged. “Then it sprawled out from there to find different references and aesthetics as
a way of expanding how the dancers and audience might relate these ideas to present day realities.”
Though the Perth-based choreographer says she never seeks to force an understanding of her work, she invites people to relate to what unfolds on the stage. “I hope that people leave feeling more aware of their relationship to persistence and resistance, and how that impacts the way they move through the world today.”
Jenkins, a Sydney Dance Company dancer, makes her debut as a choreographer with From the horizon thereafter, an homage to her native Aotearoa/New Zealand. The hardest part of transitioning from dancer to choreographer was “having infinite possibilities and deciding which path to follow to get to the river,” she says. “I’m grateful for many wise words from friends, mentors and my colleagues in the piece. I’ve loved getting a glimpse into what it takes to craft a work from the outside, far from where I feel most at home – being inside the movement as a dancer.”
From the horizon thereafter centres Jenkins’ homeland, “drawn from memories and stories my grandparents shared about the land, our ancestry and the wairua (spirit) of the ever-shifting landscape. There’s a sense of arrival or migration, a movement through the cycle of Te Kore (the void), Te Pō (the night), into Te Ao Mārama (world of light),” she elaborates. “This work is a personal reflection, an ode to the ephemeral beauty and memory of the land, to the sense of something that can never fully be held. It grieves the spaces once tenderly walked upon, the land that breathes through us.”
The world that Ritchie-Jones creates with his work Pigeon Humongous marks a distinct change of genre, underlining
the expansive possibilities of contemporary dance. The award-winning choreographer, also known as a dancer and filmmaker, presents a dystopian vision in which a global virus gives rise to a post-apocalyptic world of punk pigeon people.
“In this work I am really enjoying exploring this new world logic and pushing into creating strange tension in the work, both physically and dramaturgically,” he says. “I’m less focused on trying to impart a particular reaction when I make work and enjoy the act of offering up themes and ideas for an audience to negotiate for themselves. I invite the audience to come into my vision and to enjoy the rigour of my obsessions.”
For Pearson, that obsession is video games. Save Point sits at the nexus of nostalgia and invention and blends dance and combat choreography. “I really wanted to have a concept that was very close to me and I knew a lot about. I like creating works about moments of my past, usually when I was growing up,” says the Sydney Dance Company dancer, who previously choreographed for Bangarra Dance Theatre’s Dance Clan program. “Save Point is about my memories playing on my PS2 and computer. It gives me a sense of confidence to create opinions about my own life, and with that confidence I can create things that make me happy.”
While creating the work, Pearson saw interesting similarities between the gaming screen and the dance
stage. “Gaming choreography shares similar dramatic moments that you might see on a stage rather than on a battlefield. That’s what’s so fun about these games, they can blur the reality of what’s possible in the real world, escaping you into these fantasy worlds where you can control elements, wield humongous weapons and ride on the backs of dragons. With this inspired melodrama we’ve created a lovely blend of dance and gaming combat, with a little hint of kids’ play.”
Although the New Breed program has come to an end, The Balnaves Foundation will continue its partnership with the Sydney Dance Company through its Artist in Residence program, which strives to support the next step of emerging artists’ creative development. For now, the finale of New Breed promises to be a momentous presentation of Australian contemporary dance.
Tickets for New Breed (3-13 December) at Carriageworks are on sale now at sydneydancecompany.com
THE REVIEW ROOM SURRY HILLS
By Rita Bratovich
Intimate yet spectacular, brimming with talent and charisma
LA RONDE JUST FOR LAUGHS ALL-STAR GALA 2025
One night, countless laughs - The All Star Gala is Just For Laughs at rapid fire and full strength.
SCOTT Maidment and the Strut & Fret team have curated a beautiful selection of theatrical sweets and presented them as delicacies on a plate that is La Ronde. This production feels more intimate and pure in the way it allows the performers to be the central focus.
The La Ronde performers have enough personality to fill the spacious theatre tenfold. Expertise, sexiness, humour, and charm are paramount and present in spades. The mood is set with red-hued lighting and a giant mirror ball on stage. Then the spotlight hits powerhouse singer, Geniris (Dominican Republic) who enters like royalty, with a majestic voice to match.
Each act performs twice or more, with comic interludes and songs breaking up the heart-stopping action.
An exciting and classy show that you’ll want to see with a bunch of friends.
On now at The Grand Electric 199 Cleveland St, Surry Hills larondetheshow.com
Each year, Sydney’s Just For Laughs Festival brings comedians from every corner of the comedy world for a jam-packed, multi-day festival of laughs. A centrepiece of the festival is the star-studded All Star Gala - an event I attended for the first time this year, and one I’m certain will become a permanent fixture on my annual calendar.
This year’s event was hosted at the iconic Sydney Opera House, hosted by Australian actor, comedian, TV presenter and writer, Shaun Micallef. He shone in this role, delivering quick-fire wit and intermission banter that had the audience laughing just as hard as they did during the headline sets (if not a little harder).
Now talk about a line-up! International heavyweights like Reggie Watts, Preacher Lawson and Melanie Bracewell brought the house down. But what really delighted me was the huge showcase of homegrown talent. Wil Anderson, Joel Creasey and Celia Pacquola each delivered standout sets - so good, in fact, that I’d urge you to catch their solo shows while you can.
The All Star Gala is the perfect pick for anyone wanting to experience some of the world’s best comedy in a fast-paced, varied format. Sets run a punchy 20–30 minutes, each with its own energy, style and sense of humour. You’ll be fully engaged, constantly surprised and counting down the moments to whatever brilliance comes next.
I’m Allegra Spender, your independent MP for Wentworth.
I am delighted to represent parts of our vibrant Surry Hills and Darlinghurst neighbourhoods in this 48 term of Parliament. I will continue fighting for the rights and safety of our rainbow community, particularly in my role as the co-chair of the Parliamentary Friends of LGBTIQ+ Australians. th
As always, if you have any concerns or feedback please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office. We are here to help.
TNelly Robinson’s “Story Of Christmas” kicks off the festive season.
THIS November, acclaimed chef Nelly Robinson and the team invite diners to unwrap the magic of the festive season through food with the return of The Story of Christmas, a dazzling, 12-course degustation menu at NEL restaurant. This year’s iteration brings together nostalgic flavours, reimagined classics, and forgotten traditions from across the globe. Menu highlights include Summer Pine – a savoury sorbet of pineapple, green chilli and coriander wrapped in dolmades leaf - and the French-inspired Noel Terrine – a rich duck terrine layered with foie gras, truffled chicken mousse and blueberry jelly.
The devilishly indulgent Cherry & Custard Tart is a Christmas-spiced custard nestled in a delicate pastry shell, topped with juicy cherries soaked in warming mulled syrup, finished at the table with a flurry of icing sugar ‘snow’. From Europe’s ancient customs to the unique tastes of an Australian summer, The Story of Christmas is more than just a meal — it’s an experience that captures the spirit,
Iheritage, and whimsy of the season with Australian flair. “This menu is about nostalgia, tradition, and fun,” says Chef Nelly. “We’re drawing inspiration from history, from childhood memories, and from cultures across the globe — all with our own cheeky NEL twist. We’re inclusive too – for the naughty and nice!”
Seasonal, sustainable and Australian native produce are championed, and in the festive spirit, chef Nelly has raided the cellar to bring out some absolute cracker wine offerings. This exquisite 12-course degustation menu is $195pp, with a matched wine journey for $165pp or the $95pp non-alcoholic.
The Story of Christmas (Available Nov 18th - Dec 23rd) NEL Restaurant, 75 Wentworth Ave, Sydney nelrestaurant.com.au
IN the heart of Surry Hills - a community known for both its vibrancy and vulnerability - The Girls & Boys Brigade has been a beacon of hope for over 144 years. Recently, while seeking a prize donation for an upcoming event, they were introduced to the team at ESCA Hospitality (masterminds behind Nour, Henrietta’s, Aalia & more).
What began as a simple request blossomed into an extraordinary partnership. ESCA introduced menu items where $1 from every sale would directly support the Brigade, and launched ‘family dinners’ - communal meals offering more than just nourishment, but also connection, relief, and a sense of belonging. In another generous act, ESCA hosted a fundraising dinner that raised tens of thousands of dollars for the cause.
Perhaps the most powerful outcome of the partnership has
been the ten-week hospitality course ESCA created for the Brigade’s teenagers, offering them the chance to learn directly from some of Sydney’s most renowned chefs. For one young participant, the experience proved life-changing — leading to a position at an ESCA restaurant and a path away from hardship towards a promising culinary career. Together, The Girls & Boys Brigade and ESCA Hospitality have crafted a story of hope and transformation — proving that with genuine community support, even the most vulnerable can rise to fulfil their potential.
You can support and learn more about the Girls & Boys Bridge at: girlsandboysbrigade.org.au
Join our community @
SSURRY HILLS and Darlinghurst continue to cement their reputations as two of Sydney’s most vibrant precincts for dining, drinks, and entertainment. These recent openings reflect a renewed energy, with post-work crowds, weekend diners, and late-night revellers well and truly back in full force.
EL PRIMO SANCHEZ
�� 410 Crown St, Surry Hills
�� Opened: October
AFTER two and a half years of serving tacos, tequila, and late-night karaoke in Paddington, El Primo Sanchez has arrived in Surry Hills! The new location offers an elevated cocktail experience, refined Latin American street food menu and, of course - the signature karaoke room. You can even grab a free Tequila Passport and sip your way through Mexico, earning stamps along the way. Collect them all and earn your bragging right, plus win prizes like premium tequila shots and cocktails.
Website: elprimosanchezsydney.com
LE FRÉROT
�� 81 Macleay St, Potts Point
�� Opened: October
LE FRÉROT, the spirited younger sibling to Franca Brasserie, is bringing Parisian charm to Potts Point. From morning croissants to late-night bistro classics, at Le Frérot you’ll find a relaxed yet refined dining experience. The menu features elevated dishes like Moreton Bay bug benedict and roast Wollemi duck breast, all complemented by an extensive wine list. Website: lefrerotbyfranca.com.au The best new bites, brews and buzzworthy spots in Surry Hills & Darlinghurst.
Check out our extended version online that includes some neighbouring hotspots.
Raising the Standard of Pet Dental Care & Grooming
The service menu is just as thoughtful. The ULTI-MUTT Full Groom is the most popular choice: a soothing wash, pawdicure, ear clean, breed-specific cut, and a spritz of Rufus & Coco’s 4-in-1 Pamper Spray.
Other favourites include the Dapper Doggo tidy and dematting treatments, while puppies are welcomed with a free first groom - a gentle way to build trust from day one. And it’s not just for dogs. The Fur Salon also caters to cats, with a dedicated feline menu delivered in a quiet, catfriendly space. The Great Catbsy package offers a complete pamper: bath, blow-dry, de-shed, clip, nail trim, ultrasonic teeth cleaning and more!
Amazing service! The vet nurse was gentle and very kind; my usually nervous dog was not stressed, and she did an amazing cleaning that removed a lot of plaque. I would highly recommend them!
STHE FUR SALON
STEP inside The Fur Salon in Queens Park and you’ll notice something different, there’s no mad barking or chaos in the atmosphere. The air smells fresh, the space is calm, and the interior fit-out makes it feel more like a day spa than a grooming salon.
That’s because The Fur Salon was designed with one mission: to raise the standard of pet care. Founded by Anneke van den Broek, creator of Rufus & Coco and lifelong animal advocate, The Fur Salon values pets as family - offering comfort and expert care every visit. Unlike most salons, there are no cages here. Every pet enjoys a private suite with a comfy bed, toys and treats, so they can feel relaxed and at home.
Herb used to be so anxious after some bad experiences at other salons, but she loves her visits here. Thank you for always making her look and feel amazing - we really appreciate the cuddles and care.
A LUXURY EXPERIENCE
Before every appointment, expert Furologists spend time with each pet parent, to tailor the experience to suit the pet’s temperament, coat type, and lifestyle. Whether your pup has sensitive skin, a tangled coat, or first-groom nerves, the The Fur Salon team works at your pet’s pace to ensure a calm, positive experience.
THE FUR DENTAL
Integrated within each salon is The Fur Dental, a nonsedation teeth cleaning service for dogs and cats. Run by Anneke van den Broek and performed by qualified vet nurses, The Fur Dental uses gentle technology to remove plaque and tartar from your pet’s teeth without the use of anaesthetic.
The Fur Dental’s mission is to keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy, helping to prevent dental disease while giving them fresher breath and brighter smiles.
Services include puppy introduction cleans, full dog cleans, and cat dental services - all carried out in the same calm salon environment.
WHY CHOOSE THE FUR SALON & THE FUR DENTAL?
Since opening, The Fur Salon and The Fur Dental have built a loyal following, with more than 6,700 happy customers across three Sydney locations.
From soundproofed washrooms and electric grooming tables to salon-inspired Rufus & Coco products made from all-natural ingredients, free from nasties, every detail is designed for wellbeing. With no cages, tailored style cuts, 24/7 online bookings and the added convenience of insalon dental care, it’s no wonder locals are calling this their go-to destination for personal care for their pets.
Because here, it’s not just about a cut or clean - it’s about creating happier, healthier pets and lasting relationships with the people who love them.
SPECIAL NEW CLIENT OFFER:
25% off first groom with code QUEENSPARK25
$50 off first teeth cleaning with code QUEENSPARK50
We never forget the pets who share our lives and give us their unconditional love. The bond we share with them, and the love we feel, is like no other. Including a gift in your Will to RSPCA NSW allows you to give back and say thank you to the special pets who enrich your life. Find out how your love for all animals can live on through a gift in your Will to RSPCA NSW. Visit rspcansw.org/wills or call 02 9782 4419.
PUZZLES
SURRY HILLS
Across
ACROSS
Non-profit organisation supporting Surry Hills youthGirls & Boys _______.
The organisation that declared Cleveland House of state significance.
4. Non-profit organisation supporting Surry Hills youthGirls & Boys .
6. The organisation that declared Cleveland House of state significance.
Iconic Sydney venue hosting the SmartFone Flickfest Gala Finals in 2026, Sydney_____ _____.
Last name of architect who designed Cleveland House.
15. Tanya Plibersek is Minister for Services.
16. Sydney Dance Company's program for emerging choreographers.
Notorious Surry Hills gangster murdered in 1945_______ Day.
Down
11. Notorious Surry Hills gangster murdered in 1945Day.
The Bookshop initially operated via this method before opening a physical store.
12. The Bookshop initially operated via this method before opening a physical store.
5. Theme for SmartFone Flickfest 3 Mini films in 2026?
Street where The Bookshop’s landmark store was located.
7. Which Hospitality group is behind local faves Nour and Henrietta?
Theme for SmartFone Flickfest 3 Mini films in 2026?
1. Iconic Sydney venue hosting the SmartFone Flickfest Gala Finals in 2026, Sydney .
What happened at 428 Crown St in 1945?
14. What happened at 428 Crown St in 1945?
8. Name of the local mansion once owned by Baz Luhrmann.
9. Tanya Plibersek is the Member for this electorate.
Which Hospitality group is behind local faves Nour and Henrietta?
2. Last name of architect who designed Cleveland House.
3. Street where The Bookshop’s landmark store was located.
Tanya Plibersek is Minister for ______ Services.
Sydney Dance Company’s program for emerging choreographers.
10. Artistic director of Sydney Dance Company, Rafael .
Name of the local mansion once owned by Baz Luhrmann.
13. Tanya Plibersek's dogs are called Frankie & .
Tanya Plibersek is the Member for this electorate.
Artistic director of Sydney Dance Company, Rafael _________.
Tanya Plibersek’s dogs are called Frankie & ______.
THE GIRLS & BOYS BRIGADE
For more than 144 years, the Girls & Boys Brigade has supported children, youth, and families in need across Sydney. Operating out of Surry Hills, they offer educational, recreational, and family support programs that help families build life skills, overcome challenges, and access new opportunities for growth and connection.
404 Riley St, Surry Hills | 02 9319 4509 girlsandboysbrigade.com.au
ACON
NSW’s leading health organisation specialising in community health, inclusion and HIV responses.. Established in 1985, ACON provides support and resources to the LGBTQ community in relation to HIV prevention and support, mental health, ageing, alcohol and drugs, safety/inclusion, domestic and family violence, LGBTQ+ women’s health, cancer screening and prevention and trans/gender diverse health.
02 9206 2000 | acon.org.au
THE CLOCK
Settle in for endless drinks on the iconic balcony overlooking Crown Street, or soak up the serenity in the sunken Courtyard. Hit the dance floor upstairs on the weekends or enjoy a drink and a feed in our Street Bar. You’ve got to love The Clock, there’s always something new happening from weekly specials and cocktail takeovers to special events and parties.
470 Crown St, Surry Hills | 02 9331 5333 clockhotel.com.au
EAT & DRINK
DARLO BAR
Bursting with personality and a vibrant history , Darlo Bar, is a quirky locals bar in the heart of Darlinghurst. Over the decades we’ve been home to politicians, art students, medical professionals and Darlo locals who are looking for a happy time and good vibes. Come and kickback to cocktails and killer tunes, or check out our attractive accommodation for those nights when you get a little too rowdy.
306 Liverpool St, Darlinghurst | (02) 8587 4800 darlobar.com.au
GOROS
Step inside the wonderful world of GOROS, full of custom-built karaoke rooms, yakitori, arcade games, DJs, and an extensive sake and cocktail list, to the venue’s infamous mascot Garfield, there’s nowhere quite like the playground that is GOROS.Grab your mates make a booking to save waiting in line, and let’s bust a move!
84 - 86 Mary Street, Surry Hills | 02 9212 0214 goros.com.au
KANDI LUXE SYDNEY
Tucked away in Woolloomooloo, Kandi Luxe is the perfect mix of elegance, edge, and excitement. Just minutes from Surry Hills and Darlinghurst, this hidden gem is ideal for any occasion - from date nights and birthday celebrations to after-work drinks or a weekend boogie. Expect plush velvet lounges, exquisite cocktails, sparkling chandeliers, and stylish share plates. Add in live DJs, sultry saxophone sets, and burlesque performances, and you’ve got a night out that feels a world away.
120 Bourke St, Woolloomooloo | 0401 462 846 kandiluxe.com.au
EDUCATION
INTERNATIONAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL SYDNEY
A unique independent, coeducational, secular school offering quality teaching for early learning, primary and high school students through to Year 12.
IGS opened its doors in 1984 with a unique vision to provide its students with a globallyfocused bilingual education, rich in the study of music and the arts.
4-8 Kelly St, Ultimo - 9219 6700 igssyd.nsw.edu.au
UNIVERSITY OF TASMANIA
As the only university in Tasmania, the entire island serves as its campus. Students have unique opportunities to perform at globally renowned arts festivals or conduct sea life research in the Southern Ocean, enabling learning experiences beyond traditional expectations. In addition to its Tasmanian campuses, the university also operates a Sydney campus, which offers health and medicine courses. Contact the Uni of Tasmania on 03 6226 2999 or visit utas.edu.au
FITNESS
COREPLUS DARLINGHURST
CorePlus Darlinghurst is more than just a studio – it’s a space where movement, connection, and community come together. With three disciplines, 10 unique class styles, and two movement spaces, all under one roof, there is a movement style for everyone. Enjoy mat Pilates, strength and yoga in our infrared heated mat studio, or reformer Pilates in our non-heated studio. From Allegro II reformers to Pilates and strength props, our equipment is nothing short of state-of-the-art
Enjoy a free class with the code: COREPLUS2010
152 Riley St, Darlinghurst darlinghurst@core-plus.com.au
“For many, Sydney, and particularly the Shire, of the wlifestyle by the beach with children and teenagers roaming freel.”
According to Kachor’s podcast, similar claims were made about Elaine and Kerry - police allegedly dismissed Elaine as a runaway when her father, Clifford, reported her missing to police.
A 2016 New South Wales state coroner’s report found that “That Elaine Johnson and Kerry Anne Joel, who were last seen together in the Cronulla area in 1979 or 1980, on the balance of probabilities are both deceased, having died soon after that sighting.” These findings were made some thirty-six years after the girls were reportedly last seen. When asked about her own theories, Kachor remains cautious. “There are many theories,” she admits. “If I’m honest, having to distill a 45-year search into an eightepisode podcast series was a little daunting. I was fortunate that given this series is about Helen and Wendy’s search, facts always led the way.”
That 45-year search would see Elaine’s family scour different areas of Sydney and New South Wales including
trips taken by Elaine’s parents to Kings Cross, canvassing locals for information about the missing girls.
On October 15 2025, a proposed inquiry into long-term missing people was referred to the NSW parliament. This inquiry would look into the Unsolved Murders and long-term missing persons cases in New South Wales between 1965 and 2010. The parliamentary support was secured by NSW MLC Jeremy Buckingham, as reported by the ABC.
Founded in 2008 in Sydney, TEAMM8 creates stylish, highquality men’s underwear, swimwear, and activewear. They focus on empowering men to feel confident and unique through innovative designs and exceptional comfort. TEAMM8’s mission is to support everyday champions, ensuring they stand out with confidence in every situation. Their vision emphasises individuality, sustainability, and sexiness in men’s fashion.
“The proposed inquiry into long-term missing persons cases in NSW is crucial. Cases like Elaine and Kerry’s have remained dormant, in terms of the public consciousness, so knowing that potentially their cases and so many others will be reviewed by a new generation of trained police investigators is heartening.” Kachor says.
Recent speculation has linked the girls’ disappearance to notorious serial killer Ivan Milat. While Kachor acknowledges the connection, she urges restraint.
“It’s little surprise his name has surfaced in connection with Elaine and Kerry. However, for the sake of the families, facts should really be the focus, not speculation and rumour.”
Crimestoppers report that each year, police across Australia receive around 38,000 reports of missing persons. While the majority are located within a short timeframe, approximately 2,600 individuals remain missing for longer than three months.
Kate Kachor has reported on a number of unsolved cold cases, including that of Lois Roberts as detailed in the fourpart online series Dirty Little Secrets. She founded Happy Tuesday Productions in December 2021.
“The more people who know about Elaine and Kerry’s disappearance the more chance of people coming forward with information, so to get listeners to the podcast and share it with family and friends is a great help.
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“As we’ve already experienced, even the smallest piece of information can be a huge help. Someone might remember one detail from back in the 1980s and another person could remember a separate piece. But together, it’s a crucial piece of information.”
You can follow Kachor’s investigation into Elaine and Kerry’s disappearance by searching “Out From the Cold: Searching for Elaine” wherever you get your podcasts.
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Anyone with information is urged to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.
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