Neighbourhood Media Surry Hills Magazine | July 25
THE ANGRY INCH
BUILDING
Hedwig & The Angry Inch
YHey Surry Hills & Darlinghurst,
YOUR latest issue of 2010 Magazine has landed!
Unravel the fascinating history behind the iconic Griffiths Tea Building — a landmark locals pass daily, often without knowing its remarkable past. Go behind the scenes of Hedwig and the Angry Inch, playing at Carriageworks now!
We catch up with acclaimed chef Nelly Robinson to hear about his playful new British-inspired menu at NEL. You’ll also find a jawdropping $15 million property story, a look at humpback whale migration along Sydney’s coastline, and a chilling true crime feature set right here in Darlinghurst.
There’s plenty happening on the arts front too — from Sydney Fringe’s outdoor spectacle Fool’s Paradise at the Entertainment Quarter to the grand relaunch of the Eternity Playhouse, Fringe Festival energy is taking over. We also round up the best local roasts, spotlight new venue openings, and wrap it all up in a jam-packed What’s On guide to keep you in the loop.
If you’re after some wellness inspiration, check out the new CorePlus Darlinghurst — a beautiful reformer Pilates and yoga studio that’s just opened its doors. Plus, don’t miss our Members Only feature, or flip ahead for pets, puzzles and plenty more to explore.
Grab a coffee, find a sunny stoop, and settle in — your neighbourhood stories start here.
We’ll see you in October for Issue #12
Darlo’s $15 Million
HUMANS OF 2010
Nelly Robinson Brings Britain To 2010
WATCH
The Humpback Highway Is Open
Sydney Fringe Re-Opens
PUBLISHER - Neighbourhood Media
CONTRIBUTORS - Rob Everett, Lucy Pearson, Jen Keates, Alec Smart, Tahney Fosdike, Elliot Lindsay, Lisa Ferron, Melissa Mantle, Rita Bratovich
FOR over a century, the Griffiths Teas building has stood with prominence at the point where Wentworth Ave and Commonwealth Street meet Goulburn Street in Surry Hills. Once a warehouse for a famous tea company, it fell into dormancy for 30 years until a major redevelopment saw it rightfully restored to glory.
Thanks to its irregular roads, based more on random paths created by horse-drawn carriages than diligent city planning, Sydney has a variety of unusually shaped buildings. Many of our most distinctive structures are wedge-shaped buildings (known architecturally as flatiron) designed to fit on triangular plots of land formed where two streets meet at a tight angle.
The Griffiths Teas buildings is an excellent example of a flat-iron building. It was designed by Henry Budden of Kent, Budden & Greenwell Architects and completed in 1915, but its history, arguably, goes back much further. In 1882, John and James Griffiths, two brothers who immigrated to Australia from England, established the Griffiths Brothers Tea company in Melbourne. They began by importing tea (as well as cocoa and coffee), catering for what was then one of the highest tea-consuming populations in the world. Later, they experimented with growing tea locally.
Within a few short years, Griffiths Brothers Teas was successful enough to expand into Sydney, Adelaide, and Brisbane, commissioning bespoke warehouse/retail buildings in each city.
It wasn’t just the quality of their products that underpinned the success of the Griffiths brothers, they had a particular acumen for marketing. They were among the first tea merchants to sell factory-packaged branded tea (at the time, many grocery items were sold loose, weighed and packed by a grocer).
The Griffiths brothers also used promotions such as selling hampers that included confectionary items, tea accessories, treats and, of course, packs of Griffiths Brothers tea. One canny idea (excuse the pun) was packaging their teas in smartly designed tin canisters that could later be repurposed in the kitchen to hold other items such as flour, spices etc.
Their most famous marketing concept — one that outlived the product itself — was the placement of signs at railway stops and along transit routes giving the mileage to the nearest Griffiths Brothers Teas outlet.
The distinctive blue and white signs became as iconic as the famous red and white Coca Cola signs.
By the 1950s, Griffiths Brothers had diversified into several other horizontal ventures, including finance, retail furniture and electrical goods. Tea became a diminishing interest for the brand until it became virtually non-existent.
In 1970, the company sold its famous warehouse building in Surry Hills, however, its legacy lives on in the large white “Griffiths Teas” lettering that remains on the parapet.
The new owners of the property were the famous, wealthy, socialite couple, Susan and Isaac Wakil, whose own story has become a colourful part of Sydney’s history.
Immigrating to Australia in the 1940s (Susan from what is now Romania, and Isaac from Iraq), they met and married in 1955, then proceeded to amass a fortune via the clothing industry. They were very high profile, arriving at exclusive parties and events in a cream Rolls Royce, dressed in European designer couture.
In the 1970s, they began building their extensive real estate portfolio, mainly purchasing disused or derelict excommercial properties close to the city and inexplicably leaving them empty and untouched for decades. As well as the Griffiths Teas building, they owned the Terminus Hotel in Pyrmont which became rundown and overgrown with ivy.
In the midst of an ever worsening housing crisis, the Wakil’s indifference drew ire from activist groups. In 2012, frustrated protestors breached the Griffiths Teas building demanding it and other empty properties be used for housing. Their cries were ignored.
Then, in 2014, the Wakils began selling off their
Jerrawa | Former Post Office
SURRY HILLS
properties, with the bulk of the proceeds being donated to philanthropic causes. Susan Wakil died in 2018. Isaac is still alive and the 98-year-old has recently put the couple’s Vaucluse home of 65 years on the market. Its estimated value is $70 million.
Back to the Griffiths Teas Building; it was purchased for around $22 million by Cornerstone Property Group and received a makeover designed by PopovBass architects and constructed by Growthbuilt. Featuring 31 luxury apartments, seven penthouses and two retail levels, the refurbished warehouse has preserved the original facade and retained many interior
CLINICAL SKIN MASSAGE
In the heart of Surry Hills, MANKiND has been redefining men’s grooming and wellness for over 20 years. What started as Australia’s first male-focused spa has evolved into a boutique medi-spa offering world-class skin, body, and aesthetic treatments. Led by a biomedical engineer and champion of diversity, MANKiND is powered by a highly skilled team of nurses, physiotherapists, dermal and beauty therapists, and skin and massage specialists who are dedicated to helping you feel your best.
elements. The interiors honour the building’s industrial history through exposed brick and timber beams, large sash windows and open spaces. At the same time, there is a strong sense of modernity and elegance, with wooden floors and stylish fixtures helping to create a sense of domesticity.
One of the building’s main public attractions is Chin Chin restaurant, which occupies the entire ground floor. The acclaimed Asian establishment, whose flagship Melbourne store is a local icon, debuted its Sydney restaurant in 2017 as part of the opening of the Griffiths Teas Building. Integrating its interior with the general industrial-cum-urban aesthetic of the building, Chin Chin has an scintillating atmosphere that complements its cuisine. If you’d like to try it out, join the (very long) queue that invariably winds around the corner.
Susan & Isaac Wakil
Chin Chin
COVER STAR
SEANN MILEY MOORE RAW POWER UNLEASHES HEDWIG’S
Fin Electrifying Sydney Season
FRESH from a smash-hit season at the Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre, Hedwig and the Angry Inch is set to bring its fierce and fearless energy to Sydney’s Carriageworks from 17 July 2025. Presented by GWB Entertainment and Andrew Henry Presents, this groundbreaking musical is a bold celebration of identity, love, and rock ‘n’ roll attitude.
Described by Rolling Stone as “the best rock musical ever,” Hedwig and the Angry Inch defies genre and convention, winning over audiences and critics alike with its raucous spirit and emotional depth. It’s a production that blends outrageous humour with heartfelt storytelling and unforgettable music.
Leading the charge is powerhouse performer Seann Miley Moore, whose electrifying portrayal of Hedwig has left critics raving. Known for his work in Miss Saigon and his unforgettable presence on The X Factor UK, Seann takes centre stage in a performance hailed as “lightning in a bottle” (InDaily) and “nothing short of astounding” (Australian Arts Review). His Hedwig is equal parts vulnerable and defiant, delivering every line and lyric with charisma and courage.
Joining Seann is the talented Adam Noviello, a triple-threat performer with credits including Priscilla: Queen of the Desert, Matilda The Musical, and Jesus Christ Superstar. Adam stars as Yitzhak—Hedwig’s loyal, long-suffering partner—and also understudies the title role, adding a layer of artistic depth to the production. Their chemistry on stage adds emotional complexity to a show already brimming with raw energy.
From the iconic The Origin of Love to the anthemic Midnight Radio and cheeky Sugar Daddy, the show’s legendary soundtrack fuels its story of survival and
self-discovery. Backed by a blistering live band, this is musical theatre with an unapologetic rock edge.
Directed with razor-sharp precision and delivered with heart, Hedwig and the Angry Inch is more than a musical— it’s a cultural phenomenon that explores gender, trauma, reinvention, and the search for wholeness. It’s a story that has resonated with queer audiences since its debut in the 1990s and continues to ignite new generations.
This 85-minute, no-interval production is a high-octane theatrical experience—intense, immersive, and utterly unforgettable.
The Sydney season promises to be one of the most talkedabout events of the year. Tickets on sale to the public at hedwig.com.au.
Don’t miss your chance to witness this glittering, gut-punching, glam-rock triumph live on stage. Hedwig is back—and she’s louder, prouder, and more dazzling than ever.
1—30 SEPTEMBER 2025
IN THE HOOD
Australia’s third richest citizen, Mike Cannon-Brookes, is the new owner of the stunning penthouse apartment in the ideally located Angus House in Darlinghurst.
TTHE distinctive flat-iron shaped building sits on the corner of Stanley and Palmer Streets, an easy walking distance to Hyde Park, Oxford Street, Kings Cross and the CBD. Though it is only four-levels high, its fortuitous position on a hill and among other lower level buildings means residents get a decent panoramic view of the cityscape from the rooftop.
Built in the 1930s, 99 Stanley Street had previous lives as a warehouse and commercial headquarters before it received a complete makeover at the turn of the millennium. Billionaire businessman James Packer and property tycoon Theo Onisforou converted the building into an 18-unit residential block, retaining many of its original features and incorporating the warehouse aesthetic.
The penthouse, which occupies the entire top level, was given an award-winning renovation recently. It now has the look and feel of a stylish New York warehouse glam-up. Cannon-Brookes purchased the property in March this year for the exact amount of $15,200,000. Apart from a great location and enviable views, that $15m and change bought four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a four-car garage, stateof-the-art kitchen and a whole host of architectural goodies. The floor plan is 585sqm (approx.) of luxurious indoor and outdoor spaces including: outdoor entertaining/dining/
barbecue area with heaters * misters, outdoor shower & irrigation to outdoor terrace * 3 living areas, dining seats 12 or more people * large chef’s kitchen, sub-zero fridge, Pitt gas burners & scullery * cocktail bar, wine cellar & bar fridges, gym, sauna/steam, gas fireplace * 4 bedrooms: master bedroom with walk-in-robe & ensuite & study * 3.5 bathrooms, laundry, five storerooms, ducted air/con.
There’s a dedicated billiards room with table and accessories and adjoining outdoor area. The bar features a wrap around counter, overhead wine glass rack, shelves and wine racks. It opens onto an outdoor entertainment area via a servery window.
The outdoor areas are expertly landscaped with luscious plants and rustic decor, and kept cosy with gas heating.
The interior is comfortable and chic while boasting a spacious, industrial design. Exposed brick walls, lofty ceilings, metal and natural wood finishes, and big open rooms, allow it to feel cosy and luxurious all at once.
Mike Cannon-Brookes is an entrepreneur, best known as the co-founder and CEO of software company Atlassian. This penthouse in Darlinghurst adds to an impressive property portfolio. He won’t be living in the apartment, so if you’re keen to get a feel for billionaire living, you can rent 17/99 Stanley Street for a mere $7000 a week.
HUMANS OF 2010
By Melissa Mantle
TWith a new British-inspired menu and ten years under his belt, chef Nelly Robinson reflects on building NEL from scratch, feeding David Attenborough, and the joy of a good curry on a cold night.
for a long time. I liked Surry Hills. I picked it because at the time, it was very, very vibrant up on Crown Street with very successful restaurants. Around Wentworth Avenue there was a lot of redeveloping needing to be done, and I found a space that was affordable for me.
What does a work day in the life of Nelly Robinson look like?
TEN years ago, British-born chef Nelly Robinson opened NEL on a stretch of Surry Hills’ Wentworth Avenue that needed some love. A decade later, the chic bunker-esque restaurant is a cult favourite, known for its theatrical tasting menus and events and its inventive takes on modern cuisine.
Nelly, who moved to Sydney in 2010, talks us through his journey – from a Michelin kitchen hand at fourteen, to becoming one of Sydney’s most notable chefs, and to the new menu that will please and tease the palette of all Anglophiles.
Nelly, tell us a bit about your background and how you came to run NEL in Surry Hills. My background is Northern England, Blackburn, north of Manchester. Born to two amazing parents and a brother. Started cooking as a young lad and got my first job in a kitchen at fourteen as a kitchen hand in a Michelin star restaurant. I became an apprentice at fifteen. I came to Sydney in 2010, opened NEL in 2015; so we’ve just recently celebrated 10 years of NEL. You’re originally from the UK. What drew you to Sydney and specifically, Surry Hills?
Well, actually I was in a pub and had Melbourne, Sydney, and New York on the back of beer mats as choices of where to go. My best mate and I decided to come to Sydney because there were actually beaches. We knew that it was hot. We needed a change of lifestyle after working in Europe
My alarm goes off at 7AM, and my daughter wakes me up. Then I have breakfast and come straight to work. I’m at work usually between thirteen and fourteen hours a day doing all admin and creating new dishes for new menus. Also, a few meetings in there.
And on your day off? What are your hobbies apart from food?
A day off is really good. I’ve learned to spend time with my family. I’ve got an amazing wife, Danielle, and Lottie, my daughter, and my two dogs, Louie and Lola. Hobbies that I love are football, Formula One, and golf. I love getting out on the course - playing nine to eighteen holes, depending on the day - which really takes my brain away from food. What have been the highlights (and lowlights) since you opened in 2015?
The highlight of the restaurant is that I’m still here after ten years as an independent operator. It is no small feat in Sydney to be around for ten years and also be recognised on the world stage with different awards. The lowlight is COVID-19 and laying-off staff, which was definitely very hard.
What’s the Surry Hills’ community like – do you have regulars?
Yes. We change our menus four to five times a year, depending on seasons, which really excites our locals. We have amazing locals around the Surry Hills’ community, but we also have a lot of people traveling to NEL from different suburbs of Sydney, different regions of Australia, and also the world.
Tell us all about the new British menu and what inspired it. The new British menu is definitely very close to my heart.
I love showing people that British food can be, one: fun, two: tasty and not grey and bland, and three: that we have amazing dishes in the UK that we can elevate into a degustation menu like we do now.
What’s your favourite dish on the menu?
I’ve got two. The chip butty, which I absolutely adore, originates from Oldham. We’ve got the original picture of the first ever fish and chip shop from 1864 – Mister Lee’s, where the chip butty was created. Number two is the baked Greggs
pasty. It just takes me back to eating Greggs in the UK, and it comes out in a special bag as well.
Googling you, a few celebrity names come up. Have you ever been starstruck?
Yes. I got to cook for David Attenborough. It was probably one of the most amazing times of my life. I’ve also cooked for the Queen of England when she was alive, but I didn’t get that starstruck with that. It was more David Attenborough – when I got to cook for him at the Sydney Opera House. I actually got to have a conversation with him, and I was absolutely in awe. He described food like he described animals.
When I was younger, I also was in the presence of David Beckham. As a football fan, seeing David Beckham right in front of my face was actually quite an amazing moment. What’s your favourite winter comfort meal to cook at home, or order in?
Number one, and the only one I love to do, is Indian curries.
On a cold winter’s night, when Lottie’s in bed, me and the wife get to have a really amazing curry – samosas, papadams, naan bread, and rice - I’m the happiest man in the world! And a good bottle of Chablis.
What’s next for you and for the restaurant?
To continue building the restaurant and bringing new guests in and elevating each menu. And to work out the best way of running a business and being a dad and a loving husband. But I think what’s next is just to be happy and content in where we are right now. We’re doing a fabulous job, and we’ll continue to keep doing that.
WILDLIFE WATCH
By Alec Smart
HIGHWAY
THE annual whale migration season is in full flight, as an estimated 40,000 cetaceans make their way up the east coast to warmer waters for feeding and breeding.
HUMPBACK T
Between early May until late August, whales journey northwards through the Tasman Sea to the Coral Sea, and out into the South Pacific Ocean, many of them in close proximity to the shore.
From mid-August until late November the cetaceans return; the early southbound travellers on route to the Southern Ocean bypass the late northbound, often socialising as they cross paths.
Humpbacks, which feature distinctive fluted chins and long fins with up to 11 bumps known as ‘tubercles’, are, along with southern right whales, the most common of the migratory cetaceans in our waters. Around 30,000 (of the approximately 80,000 humpbacks worldwide) travel up and down the east coast of Australia every year.
Humpbacks and grey whales travel the longest distances of all whales – some swim a 10,000km round trip during their migratory cycle! Males often leap completely out of the water - known as ‘breaching’during demonstrations of strength generally intended to impress females.
However, only a few species of dolphins migrate, often travelling in pods among the whales, and they trek significantly shorter distances, preferring instead to follow the seasonal movements of their favourite fish prey.
Cetacean facts
The word ‘cetacean’ is derived from the Ancient Greek ‘ketus’, meaning ‘monster-sized fish’, although they are not fish but warm-blooded mammals that give birth to live young, breathing air through a nostril ‘blowhole’, not filtered through gills.
There are 86 species of whales, dolphins and porpoises worldwide - all marine-dwelling carnivores with diets that range from miniscule plankton to fish to other whales. 45 species of cetacean are found in Australian waters, including 10 large whales, 20 smaller whales, 14 dolphins and a single breed of porpoise. Some of them are seasonal, others resident all year round.
Cetaceans can be divided into two categories of feeders: Baleen, which have thin, frayed-end strainers for teeth through which they filter small marine creatures like plankton and fish.
Toothed, which generally prey on fish and squid, although some, like orca (aka “killer whales”, which are
actually large dolphins and not whales, despite their name), also hunt seals or other cetaceans.
Humpbacks and Bryde’s whales engage in ‘bubble net’ feeding, an intelligent hunting tactic requiring group cooperation and coordination. After surrounding a school of fish, one whale dives beneath the shoal, then exhales carbon dioxide from its blowhole. This has the effect of enshrouding the fish in clusters of spiralling bubbles, disorienting them.
Then, another whale emits a loud noise beneath the confused fish, which panics them into swimming upwards in fright. The cluster of whales then forms a tight circle and follows their prey upward, their mouths agape to swallow the doomed fish at the ocean surface. Humpbacks have been recorded remaining underwater for up to an hour. Orcas seldom remain underwater longer than 15 minutes and when hunting need to breathe frequently.
Whales and dolphins can’t breathe while they’re asleep, but they’re adept at snoozing parts of their brain while an active part enables them to stay afloat, breathe and watch for predators.
Where to watch whales?
There are several great vantage points around Mosman for whale watching, and humpback whales are sometimes spotted swimming into the harbour. Top spots include Middle Head, Bradley’s Head, and nearby North Head. Don’t forget your binoculars — the first sign a whale might be nearby is a big puff of mist as they surface for a breath.
If you want to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures, we recommend booking a trip with Ocean Extreme. There are two cruises daily, with pick up options from Circular Quay or Manly Wharf. As soon as you’re aboard, you’re headed straight into the action - at speed! The best part, you’re guaranteed to see a whale or you cruise again for free. Book in advance, cruises fill up quickly - you can check availability online: oceanextreme.com.au
Whale Watching boat cruises around Sydney: https://oceanextreme.com.au/ https://www.captaincook.com.au/sydney-harbour-cruises/ explore/whale-watching/
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
TRUE CRIME
By Elliot Lindsay
In sunlit elegance the last waltz of a butterfly ends with a bullet and a mystery that lingers in Darlinghurst’s long shadow.
THE door to Flat 11, Harrow Mansions, creaked open under the weight of Inspector Tom Lynch’s hand, and the air inside hit him like a whispered secret - warm, heavy, and tinged with tragedy.
TIt was just past 11 a.m. on July 12, 1926, and the golden late morning sun poured through the large window overlooking Darlinghurst’s bustling streets, bathing the room in a warm, radiant glow. The light danced across a luxurious pile carpet, its rich fibres catching the rays like a stage under a spotlight.
But the star of this scene had only a few breaths left before the curtain call. Ruth Alma Brandt lay crumpled at the foot of her bedroom door, her golden hair splayed across the carpet, blood pooling beneath her head, glistening in the sunlight like a dark, accusing stain. Two bullet wounds marred her skull, a brutal finale to a life that had fluttered through Sydney’s jazz-soaked nights.
The flat at 14 Clapton Place was a jewel box of 1920s decadence, its small size belying its opulence. Pink satin curtains framed the window, softening the sun’s glare. A polished mahogany table held a bronze nymph statuette, its curves gleaming as if mocking the stillness of death.
melody wove through the room, a ghostly partner in her final dance, chilling the detectives to their core.
Nothing was out of place. No chair overturned, no vase shattered. A newspaper lay carelessly tossed on a chintzcovered armchair, the only sign of disruption in this otherwise pristine stage. Two empty cartridge shells glinted on the carpet near Ruth’s body, and a single bullet hole pierced the partition between the bedroom and sitting room, marking the path of the first shot.
The precision of it all was unnerving - death had slipped in quietly, though it lingered in the shadows, patiently waiting, leaving the flat’s elegance untouched. The unconscious woman lay still, her blue eyes forever closed.
“Two bullet wounds marred her skull, a brutal finale to a life that had fluttered through Sydney’s jazz-soaked nights.”
Persian cushions, vibrant as a bazaar, spilled across a pink satin divan, their colours clashing with the sombre scene. Reproductions of Rembrandt’s Night Watch and Franz Hals’ Laughing Cavalie r hung on the walls, their stoic figures bearing witness to the crime. Egyptian tapestries draped elegantly, and a polished gramophone cabinet stood proud, its needle tracing the grooves of a record that spun relentlessly.
Chopin’s The Last Waltz wafts through the air, its mournful notes curling like smoke, eerie and relentless, as if the melody itself was a requiem for an emerald dream. The
Outside, a small canary sang in a cage by the window, its trill clashing with the gramophone’s haunting waltz. Across the way, white-capped nurses read in the garden of a private hospital, oblivious to the horror unfolding. Inspectors Lynch and Gallagher, joined by Constable Stuckey, stood frozen, the weight of the scene pressing against them.
The ambulance arrived too late - death carried her away before it reached Sydney Hospital.
As the detectives surveyed the room, the gramophone’s needle scratched to the end, and The Last Waltz fell silent, leaving only questions in its wake. What shadows had driven this butterfly to her end?
Rewind to the Jazz Age, where Sydney’s Kings Cross pulsed with the rhythm of the 1920s. Ruth Alma Brandt was a vision in furs and silk, her blonde hair and blue eyes catching every light in her lofty Darlinghurst flat.
A butterfly, they called her - a flirt, fond of life, flitting through the high-rent courts of Harrow Mansions. But her wings were fragile, weighed down by debts and secrets. Married once to Frederick Brandt, a man who vanished after months, she had spun a web of glamour to mask her financial ruin.
Pawning jewellery, borrowing £100 against her furniture, Ruth lived a lie of wealth, her flat a stage for a performance she could not sustain.
Then came Maurice Strymans, a Belgian sea captain, his face etched with the salt and scars of a life at sea. Master of the Knockfierna, he spun romantic tales of the Pacific Islands, juxtaposed by the revolver that was ever holstered by his side. Dreamy and dangerous; he was her very own Errol Flynn.
They had met two years prior, her charm anchoring him at
every port - Newcastle, Adelaide, Melbourne. They played house in the finest hotels, posing as man and wife, dreaming of Paris or New York. Ruth flashed rings, claiming they had wed, though her mother insisted she was still bound to Brandt, never divorced.
Strymans, too, was married, his wife and child in Liverpool, his eventual resignation from the Knockfierna prompted by a war wound and whispered money troubles. Their love was a tangled dance. Ruth told friends she was radiant, yet confided to her mother she feared Strymans, saying he would “put a bullet through her” without hesitation.
On the fateful morning, as tradesmen worked on the street below and a painter brushed away in a neighbouring flat, the telephone rang in Ruth’s Clapton Place flat. A man’s voice - James Henry Whipp, asked for Ruth. Ruth had known Whipp for two-and-a-half years. Strymans claimed that Ruth was deeply distressed by the call. Ruth told him that Whipp had been “persecuting” her for years to marry him and had colluded with her family to “tie up her money,” preventing her from leaving Australia with Strymans.
He recounted Ruth’s words after the call: “The old devil has got us beat, poor old Snookes,” referring to Strymans by her pet name, suggesting Whipp’s actions had finally pushed her to despair.
The debts, the lies, the unravelling dreams, it built up like an angry storm, too much for a gentle butterfly’s wings to bear. She spoke of a death pact, begging him to end it. “You’d do anything for me, Maurice. Let’s finish it now.” He drew his revolver, hoping to jolt her senses, but her hand grazed the gun, and it fired twice - or so he claimed.
The Crown called it murder, driven by jealousy or the sting of Ruth’s deception about her wealth. Ruth saw Strymans as passage to a new life on a distant and romantic shore; he saw Ruth as access to a life of wealth and society. Both were tragic characters in one another’s carefully crafted lies.
At the Central Criminal Court, under Chief Justice Street, Strymans faced the jury. His deep voice, laced with a foreign accent, traced his war-torn past and eternal love for Ruth. The jury, unmoved, found him guilty, though they pleaded for mercy. “Your crime was callous,” Street declared, sentencing him to hang, later commuted to life in a bleak Long Bay cell.
As The Last Waltz faded, Darlinghurst’s melodies played on, but Ruth’s dance was done. Was it love, betrayal, or a deeper shadow that pulled the trigger? The flat still holds its secrets, silent as the gramophone’s final note.
FOOL’S PARADISE SYDNEY FRINGE’S
Step Right Up To Fool’s Paradise - A Dazzling New Destination of Circus, Comedy and Burlesque at The Entertainment Quarter
TTHIS spring, Sydney’s Entertainment Quarter transforms into a glittering playground of high-octane performances, jaw-dropping acrobatics and unapologetic spectacle. In collaboration with Sydney Fringe and the internationally renowned Head First Acrobats, the precinct is proud to present Fool’s Paradise — a pop-up circus experience like no other.
Running from 29 August to 12 October, Fool’s Paradise brings together the wildest, funniest and most jawdroppingly talented performers in the business. Curated by the award-winning Head First Acrobats — the creators of the global smash-hit GODZ — this immersive entertainment hub will host two electric circus domes showcasing a dynamic lineup of shows from circus to burlesque, comedy to cabaret.
If you caught GODZ on its world tour, you’ll know to expect nothing less than extraordinary from the team behind Fool’s Paradise. With rave 5-star reviews from The Scotsman, Glam Adelaide, The Clothesline and North Edinburgh News, Head First Acrobats are masters of spectacle — and they’re not holding back.
ELIXIR
REVIVED | 29 AUG - 12 OCT
Step into a post-apocalyptic fever dream with Elixir Revived, where Cirque du Soleil meets Magic Mike in a genre-defying circus comedy. Expect gravity-defying stunts, sculpted physiques, cheeky humour and just the right amount of chaos. Athletic, hilarious, sexy, and outrageous — this is Head First Acrobats at their best.
BURLESQUE WITH EVANA DE
LUNE | 16 - 21 SEPT
Don’t miss this exclusive run from Evana De Lune, who brings high-glamour burlesque to Fool’s Paradise with razor-sharp wit, dazzling costumes, and just a touch of filth. Think old Hollywood meets new rebellion — this is burlesque with bite.
LASH OUT | 23 SEP - 12 OCT
Get ready to be blown away by Lash Out, a fierce, female-led circus cabaret that’s equal parts sass and strength. Hosted by burlesque legend Memphis Mae, this bold and electric performance showcases some of the most powerful women in the Australian circus scene. Expect flips, feathers and fire — with a whole lot of attitude.
FOOL’S PARADISE FOR FAMILIES: FRINGE KIDS AT EQPRESENTED BY INGENIA HOLIDAY PARKS
Fool’s Paradise isn’t just for grown-ups. During the October school holidays, the precinct will come alive with two weeks of Fringe Kids programming, presented by Ingenia Holiday Parks. This is the ultimate destination for curious minds, big imaginations, and little adventurers. Expect magic, bubbles, balloons, circus acts, and non-stop fun. Whether it’s your little one’s first time under the big top or they’re seasoned miniFringers, there’s something for every child to love.
CAMP
CULTURE | 29 SEPT - 5 OCT
A hilarious and heartwarming romp through cultural identity and connection, all told through circus and comedy.
A BEE STORY | 4 - 12 OCT
A buzzing, ecological tale told through acrobatics, dance, and whimsy.
THE GIANT BALLOON SHOW | 6 - 12 OCT
Expect big laughs, bigger bubbles, and the biggest balloon tricks you’ve ever seen.
Whether you’re in the mood for a risqué circus spectacular, a riotous comedy set, or an afternoon of family-friendly fun, Fool’s Paradise promises unforgettable entertainment in a totally unique setting.
Come for the spectacle, stay for the joy — and discover why Fool’s Paradise is Sydney’s mustvisit destination this spring.
ETERNITY PLAYHOUSE RETURNS
ADon’t miss your chance to catch these extraordinary performances at Eternity Playhouse this September. Off Broadway Hub brings top Sydney Fringe shows to Eternity Playhouse.
AFTER more than a year, Darlinghurst’s iconic Eternity Playhouse reopens for the 2025 Sydney Fringe Festival, hosting the Off Broadway Hub from 2 to 27 September. This beloved venue welcomes audiences back to experience a unique blend of Broadway polish and Fringe creativity, featuring bold theatre, music, dance and cabaret. Highlights include Triptych, a captivating triple bill from rising dance star Lewis Major, fresh from a world tour. The Ghana Road Show brings vibrant West African culture to life with circus, music and dance, while Kate Bush Unmoored reimagines the legendary artist’s work through soaring choral arrangements and immersive visuals by
The reopening marks a new chapter for Eternity Playhouse, reaffirming its place as a vital cultural hub in Darlinghurst. The Off Broadway Hub offers a rich program that celebrates innovation and community spirit, making it a must-visit destination at Sydney Fringe 2025.
Eternity Playhouse | 39 Burton St, Darlinghurst Check out the full program: sydneyfringe.com/off-broadway-hub/
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vocal ensemble Eklektika.
SURRY HILLS & DARLO THE BEST EVENTS IN
Live, Local & Loud: Your Guide to Concerts, Culture & Community Close to Home
Why go far when some of Sydney’s best experiences are happening right here? From local gems to new favourites, our What’s On guide celebrates the people, places and happenings that keep Surry Hills, Darlinghurst and the city fringe buzzing.
DRUMSTICKS & DICE | MONDAYS
Darlo Bar
306 Liverpool St, Darlinghurst
Mondays just got a whole lot better at Darlo Bar. Drumsticks & Dice kicks off from 5pm with $8 chicken wings, board games, free pool, and a laid-back vibe that feels like you’ve crashed a mate’s place — only with better snacks and no washing up! Round up your crew and make a night of it.
HEDWIG & THE ANGRY INCH | FROM JULY 17
Carriageworks
245 Wilson St, Eveleigh
Seann Miley Moore steps into the glittering heels of Hedwig in a fierce, fearless staging of Hedwig and the Angry Inch. This bold, genre-defying rock musical is a raw, raucous celebration of identity, survival and selfdiscovery.
Packed with iconic anthems and razor-sharp humour, it’s a high-voltage theatrical experience that’s equal parts outrageous, heartbreaking and unforgettable. A cultural touchstone reborn for a new generation — and a show you won’t want to miss. Tickets: hedwig.com.au
ORLANDO | AUG 30- SEPT 21
Belvoir St Theatre
25 Belvoir St, Surry Hills
Virginia Woolf’s most beloved and audacious novel comes to life in this bold new stage adaptation by Carissa Licciardello and Elsie Yager. Orlando is a joyous, timetravelling adventure that follows its hero — or heroine — through 400 years of love, war, decadence and revolution, all while challenging ideas of identity, gender and power. Starring Shannen Alyce Quan, Nyx Calder and Janet Anderson, this is theatrical storytelling at its smartest and most playful.
Tickets: belvoir.com.au/productions/orlando/
THE GHANA ROAD SHOW | SEPT 2-6
Off Broadway Hub, Eternity Playhouse
39 Burton St, Darlinghurst
Enjoy A vibrant, high-energy performance that celebrates the richness and diversity of West African culture through a dynamic blend of circus arts, music, and dance. This immersive show invites audiences on a sensory journey across Ghana and beyond, capturing the pulse of African tradition with a contemporary twist.
More than just a performance, The Ghana Road Show is a celebration of identity, resilience, and creative collaboration. It invites audiences of all backgrounds to experience the joy and depth of African culture through movement, music, and shared rhythm.
Queen Out (Verb) comes to Australia featuring Drag Duo Annie & Lorelei straight from Los Angeles! Winner: Sydney Fringe Tour Ready Award (Hollywood Fringe Festival). In an epic one-hour comedy-variety show, Los Angeles drag duo Annie and Lorelei come face to face with oil giants from ExxonMobil who threaten to build a fracking drill over their home drag bar.
This absurd buddy-comedy utilizes a variety of mediums: Drag, Video Projection, Singing, Tap Dancing, Comedy, Reality TV, Roller Skating, and more!
Tickets: sydneyfringe.com/events/queen-out-verb/
LA RONDE | FROM OCT 16
The Grand Electric 199 Cleveland St, Surry Hills
Save the date: a captivating new experience for the bold and the curious is coming to Sydney. From the creators of Blanc de Blanc and LIMBO comes La Ronde, an intoxicating blend of circus, cabaret, live music and twisted theatre, showing exclusively at The Grand Electric. Tickets on sale now, book early: strutnfret.com/ shows/la-ronde-sydney/
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A roast lover’s guide to Newtown and Enmore — the pubs, plates and places worth planning your meal times around.
THE CLOCK HOTEL
470 Crowns St, Surry Hills
Could the Clock be home to Surry’s perfect Sunday sesh? Head down for their Sunday Roast ($30) - a hearty plate of tender roast beef, honey & mustard parsnips, golden roast potatoes, carrots, rainbow chard, a crispy Yorkshire pudding and rich, comforting gravy. Pair it with $2 oysters from 12–6pm and $15 margaritas all arvo — because Sundays are for good food, good drinks and even better company.
FORRESTER’S
336 Riley St, Surry Hills
- Sunday
Forrester’s in Surry Hills has reimagined the classic roast with The Big Yorkie — and you don’t have to wait for Sunday. Served daily until sold out, this epic dish features tender roast of the week, crispy potatoes, seasonal veg and rich gravy, all loaded into a giant, golden Yorkshire pudding. Created by Applejack’s Patrick Friesen, it’s a cult favourite among locals, chefs and critics alike.
TRINITY BAR
505 Crown St, Surry Hills
Settle in for a hearty feed with your choice of tender roast beef or crispy roast pork ($30), served with all the classic trimmings. Pair it with a perfectly poured pint of Guinness and you’ve got yourself the perfect Sunday session. Available from 12pm until sold out - now taking pre-orders to guarantee your plate!
Craving a roast Monday-Saturday? Run, don’t walk to Harry’s, whose Famous Rotisserie is available from 11:30am til late, 7 days a week. Featuring Chickens served by the half ($27) or whole, ($46) Kinross Lamb Leg ($28) and Berkshire Porchetta ($28) by the thick and juicy - tucked into a fresh sourdough baguette or plated up solo with your choice of crunchy cos salad and fries or rotisserie veg, potatoes and gravy. Grab some sides to amp up your rotisserie picks: a good old Yorkshire Pudding or buttery mash with chicken gravy for the classic lovers, or freshen up your plate with thinly sliced pastrami and pickles.
But wait, there’s more! Harry’s are now bringing their Sunday Roast A-game, having just launched a new range of specials that includes (you guessed it) a proper Sunday Roast. From 12pm until sold out, dig into rotisserie beef ($25), Yorkshire pudding, Beef dripping vegetables, roast potatoes, and gravy.
SOME MORE WORTHY MENTIONS FOR YOUR SUNDAY ROAST CRAWL: SOME MORE WORTHY MENTIONS FOR YOUR SUNDAY ROAST CRAWL:
BAT & BALL
495 Cleveland St, Redfern: Pork belly or classic beef ($25)
CHEZ CRIX
106 Fitzroy St, Surry Hills: Sunday roast with a little French flair, pepperrubbed roast beef, potato-crusted pork neck, or coronation chicken, served with luxe sides like peas, carrots glacé, Yorkshire puds, and apricot & raisin rice.
ROYAL ALBERT
140 Commonwealth St, Surry Hills: Slow cooked beef rib or quarter smoked chicken ($27) with roast veg and all the trimmings.
The Clock Hotel
Harry’s
Get ready to taste, toast and dance your way through the hottest new spots lighting up the neighbourhood.
AURA NIGHTCLUB
16
Flinders St, Darlinghurst
TTHE neighbourhood is buzzing like never before, with a fresh wave of restaurants and a brand-new nightclub bringing bold flavours, vibrant vibes and nonstop energy to the streets of Surry Hills & Darlo.
AMA SURRY HILLS
47
Cooper St, Surry Hills
A heartwarming Thai-Chinese eatery founded by sisters Rowena and Kate Chansiri. Drawing inspiration from their grandmother’s cherished recipes, Ama offers authentic street-food dishes that evoke nostalgia and celebrate family traditions. The restaurant’s name, “Ama”, meaning ‘grandmother’ in Hokkien Chinese, reflects this deep-rooted heritage.
BESSIE’S
111-115 Albion St, Surry Hills
The latest venture from the team behind Bar Copains, Bessie’s has ignited Surry Hills with its bold, wood-fired Mediterranean cuisine. Nestled in the historic Chef’s Warehouse building on Albion Street, this restaurant offers a vibrant dining experience where fire takes centre stage. The menu features share-style plates like woodfired prawns draped in lardo, Moreton Bay bug sandwiches, and slow-roasted pork belly with quince aioli. Each dish is crafted for communal enjoyment, reflecting the team’s philosophy of “food, fire, and friends”.
Aura Nightclub has officially opened, ushering in a new chapter in Sydney’s nightlife scene. Located at the former site of the iconic ARQ nightclub, Aura has undergone a $2.5 million transformation, blending state-of-the-art design with a rich legacy. The venue features a cutting-edge L-Acoustics sound system and immersive visuals, creating an unparalleled clubbing experience.
MEJICO
355
Crown St, Surry Hills
After 11 years of serving Sydney’s best tacos and margaritas on Pitt Street, Mejico has made a vibrant move to 355 Crown Street in Surry Hills. The new space embraces the neighbourhood’s relaxed charm with warm pastel tones, neon accents, and a modern, intimate vibe. The menu remains true to Mejico’s signature style - marketfresh, share-style plates with bold Mexican flavours.
AVIA
371 Bourke St, Darlinghurst
A refined Italian eatery in Darlinghurst, brought to life by chef Stefano Marano and hospitality expert Jack Reid. Drawing inspiration from Marano’s childhood in Naples, Avia offers a modern take on traditional Italian dishes, emphasizing sustainability and locally sourced ingredients. The intimate 60-seat venue features a menu that includes house-made pastas, focaccia, and seafood dishes, like crispy snapper tail with tomato and grapefruit sauce
COREPLUS LANDS IN DARLINGHURST
CorePlus Opens Its First Studio in Sydney: Bringing Mindful Movement, High Vibes and Hot Pilates to the Darlinghurst Community.
AAFTER a decade of building a fitness empire across Melbourne — with 30 studios and counting — CorePlus has officially landed in Sydney. The boutique fitness brand, known for its killer playlists and vibe-led approach to movement and community, opened the doors to its brand-new Darlinghurst studio on April 5th, 2025 — and Sydneysiders are already loving the early morning classes. Founded by Amy King in Melbourne ten years ago, CorePlus has expanded thoughtfully and intentionally across Australia. With recent studio openings in Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, and Adelaide, Sydney was the next natural step — and the vibrant, diverse community of Darlinghurst proved the perfect fit.
Hot Yoga – A fast flow-based yoga in the infrared heated studio.
Warm Slow Flow Yoga – a slower paced yoga flow in the heated studio under a slightly lower temperature. Warm Yin Yoga - Wind down, stretch out, and calm your nervous system in the heated studio under the lower temperature.
CorePlus Darlinghurst is led by sisters-in-law Sally and Danni, who share a genuine passion for movement. With backgrounds in dance, triathlons, and endurance events, the pair were drawn to the unique blend of strength, mindfulness, and community CorePlus offers. Sally, a long-time CorePlus devotee, introduced Danni to the studio during a visit to Melbourne. She was instantly hooked — but couldn’t find anything like it back in Sydney. That moment sparked a mission to bring the brand to the harbour city.
SO, WHAT MAKES COREPLUS DIFFERENT?
It’s fitness with feeling. CorePlus offers Hot Mat Pilates, Reformer Pilates, Hot Strength, Hot Strength Cardio, and yoga.
The Darlinghurst studio is a reflection of the CorePlus philosophy: inclusive, elevated, and welcoming. There are two studios: a Reformer Studio, and an infrared heated multi-use room for Pilates, strength, cardio, and yoga classes. With a combination of breath, burn, and beats for a workout that leaves you sweaty, grounded, clear-headed and ready to take on your life!
Hot Mat Pilates – Controlled, Pilates flows with small props and light weights under the infrared heat panels.
Hot Strength – A high-intensity mix of medium to heavy weights, Pilates and strength moves under the infrared heat panels.
Hot Strength Cardio – A heart-pounding, sweaty fusion of strength and cardio.
With the importance of building strength & resilience into our muscles, CorePlus has the range of offerings that you need – the ability to mix up your routine under one roof. The signature offering is Infrared Hot Mat Pilates where you’ll have a natural glow after this 45 min movement session. Unlike dry heat, infrared warms the body from the inside out, enhancing circulation, easing tight muscles, and helping the body naturally detox through a deeper, more comfortable sweat. It’s Pilates & movement with added benefits: improved strength, recovery, and stress relief — all wrapped in a delicious 45 min sweat session.
CorePlus is more than a workout – it is where you are supported, challenged and celebrated. Whether you’re deep into your fitness journey or just starting out, the studio welcomes everybody and every level. The focus is on feeling good, physically and mentally. Members quickly find themselves part of a vibrant, uplifting community. The response so far? Electric. Early morning & evening classes are already booking out, a sign that Darlinghurst locals were ready for a fitness experience with connection at its core.
READY TO MOVE?
CorePlus Darlinghurst has these amazing intro offers to kick start your fitness journey today:
HILLS
L MEMBERS ONLY:
YOU’RE a lucky lot in this neighbourhood. 2010 is home to some seriously high-quality fitness and wellness spots. Whether you’re keen to move more, feel better, or just switch up your routine, these top local studios offer standout classes and treatments and maybe even a free trial or intro deal.
COREPLUS DARLINGHURST
152 Riley St, Darlighurst
Movement That Moves You at CorePlus Darlinghurst. After 10 successful years in Melbourne, CorePlus has officially landed their first Sydney location, right here in Darlinghurst. Bringing their iconic and much-loved Hot Mat Pilates & Strength classes along with Reformer, and Hot & Warm Yoga classes to Sydney’s Inner City. The brand has built a reputation of bringing the energy with killer playlists and strong workouts in an infrared-heated studio. The addition of 3 styles of reformer classes, and Hot & Warm Yoga they have everything under one roof. Add a genuine sense of community and it really is more than just a place to work out. It’s a space to recharge, connect, and move in a way that makes you feel good. Expect to get sweaty, to be energised and to feel the energy of the passionate instructors who know how to lift the vibe. Sisters-inlaw Sally and Danni have brought the brand to life in Darlinghurst and are already making waves, with early morning and weekend classes hitting max numbers. Join the movement at coreplus.com.au
FLUIDFORM
Suite 102/58 Marlborough St, Surry Hills
Fluidform has made a home in Surry Hills — and it’s everything locals hoped it would be. Known for its personalised, technique-driven approach to movement, Fluidform delivers expert-led reformer, mat and strengthbased classes in a calm, light-filled studio that feels like your second home.
Founded by sought-after Pilates educator Kirsten King, Fluidform has built a loyal following for its focus on mindful movement, strong form and nurturing community. Whether you’re chasing core strength, injury recovery or just a feel-good sweat, there’s a class - and an encouraging, friendly instructor - waiting for you. Perfect for beginners or seasoned Pilates lovers alike, it’s a studio where you’ll see progress and feel supported every step of the way. Check out the latest class timetable at fluidformpilates.com
STUDIO PILATES
425 Elizabeth St, Surry Hills
Studio Pilates Surry Hills delivers dynamic 40-minute reformer workouts designed for all ages and fitness levels. Set in a chic, boutique studio with luxe reformers and polished hardwood floors, each class is physiotherapistdesigned and guided by experienced instructors for safe, effective results. With classes running from early mornings to evenings, it’s a convenient way to build strength, tone and fitness — whatever your schedule.
LEARN SURRY HILLS
LOCAL OPEN DAYS
Use our Open Day Guide to find the best courses, enrol with confidence, and unlock the next level of your education journey.
THE UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME
SAT AUG 30 | 9AM - 3PM
128/140 Broadway, Chippendale
Explore Notre Dame’s Sydney Campus on Broadway and get all your questions about uni life answered. Learn more about the early offer program, scholarships, degrees, work placements and the support on offer to students. Discover the global community and see why Notre Dame is more than just a university. Register your interest today: notredame.edu.au/ engage/visit-us/openday
INTERNATIONAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL
THURS AUG 4 & THURS AUG 14 | 9AM - 10AM 4-8 Kelly St, Ultimo
Be Among the First to Explore IGS’ New Kindergarten Space. In May 2025, IGS launched its new Kindergarten Centre – a vibrant, purpose-built space designed to nurture the creativity, curiosity and confidence of IGS’ young learners in their very first year of School. You and your child are invited to an exclusive Open Morning at IGS, hosted by Head of Kindergarten to Year 2 Julia Preece, and Deputy Head of Primary School, Gerard Elms. Step into the heart of Kindergarten life with a joyful morning of play, storytelling, language, music and creativity. Register now: igssyd.nsw.edu.au/open-mornings/
AUSTRALIAN FILM TELEVISION AND RADIO SCHOOL
SAT AUG 9 | 9.30AM - 4.30PM
130 The Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park
Interested in the world of film, television, radio and podcasting? The Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS) welcomes future creatives to its stateof-the-art purpose-built campus. Discover everything you need to know about AFTRS and its courses, including the Bachelor of Arts Screen: Production, Graduate Diploma in Radio and Podcasting; Master of Arts Screen: Business; and the nine disciplines of the Master of Arts Screen. Register at: aftrs.edu.au/event/ aftrs-open-day-2025
UNIVERSITY OF TASMANIA
SAT SEPT 6 | 10AM - 2PM
Corner Church & Glover St, Lilyfield
The University of Tasmania’s Sydney Campus is opening its doors to those interested in exploring what UTAS has to offer. Tour the Rozelle campus, connect with academic staff, and learn about the study options available in Sydney. Whether you’re finishing school, starting a new degree, or considering a career change, it’s the perfect chance to get a feel for campus life and have your questions answered. Attendees can also discover the wide range of study pathways across UTAS’s Sydney, Hobart, and Launceston campuses. Register your interest today: utas.edu.au/ about/events/open-day
THE ATHENA SCHOOL
FRI OCT 24 | 10AM - 12PM
28 Oxford St, Newtown
All are welcome to explore the Athena School grounds, meet the welcoming community and see the dedicated teachers in action. This Open Day is a chance to experience firsthand how the school inspires and supports every child to reach their full potential. The day will include entertainment, guided tours, information packs and a complimentary morning tea. A warm, inclusive environment and a strong sense of community are at the heart of what makes The Athena School a place where students thrive.
KINDERGARTEN CENTRE OPEN MORNINGS
NEW 2026 CLASSES ADDED!
Experience our newly opened Kindergarten Centre designed by internationally renowned Australian architects BVN.
Early Learning to Year 12
Immersive Language Programs
Ultimo Campus, near Sydney CBD
Unique Music Programs
Diverse STEAM Opportunities
Kangaroo Valley Rural Campus
Careers and University Guidance Out of School Hours Care
DARLO’S DARLING DOGS
BOBO
This fabulous four-year-old Chinese Crested fits right into Surry Hills. With his signature hairless look and extensive wardrobe of stylish outfits, he’s always dressed for the occasion - whether it’s a trip to the beach or a stroll down Crown Street. Bobo is a true people dog: charming, affectionate, and far more interested in humans than other pups. When he’s not chasing birds or barking at unsuspecting passers-by, he’s soaking up the sun or striking a pose in his latest ensemble. Stylish, sassy and full of personality - Bobo is truly one of a kind.
If you’d like to see your furry or feline friend featured in our next issue, send us an email: info@neighbourhood.media.com.au
DAISY
Full of energy and personality, this two-yearold Australian Silky Terrier is as curious as she is outgoing. She loves being the centre of attention and carries herself with the confidence of someone who knows just how pretty she is. Known affectionately as Daisy, the Darling of
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
4. Which local venue is hosting La Ronde? A circus-based cabaret experience coming in October.
Across
Popular restaurant now housed in the Griffiths Tea building?
4. Which local venue is hosting La Ronde? A circus-based cabaret experience coming in October.
Style of Pilates offered in a heated room at CorePlus?
6. Popular restaurant now housed in the Griffiths Tea building?
Theatre hosting Orlando, based on a novel by Virginia Woolf.
Dining style the restaurant nel. is famous for?
The flamboyant lead character in the cult rock musical playing at Carriageworks.
Street where the Griffiths Teas Building is located.
9. Style of Pilates offered in a heated room at CorePlus?
10. Theatre hosting Orlando, based on a novel by Virginia Woolf
13. The flamboyant lead character in the cult rock musical playing at Carriageworks.
14. Street where the Griffiths Teas Building is located.
Down
1. Named after a popular dairy product, and serving up Ramen in July?
Named after a popular dairy product, and serving up Ramen in July?
2. Sydney Fringe is re-opening which local 'Playhouse'
Sydney Fringe is re-opening which local ‘Playhouse’.
12. Dining style the restaurant nel. is famous for?
3. Entertainment Quarter is home to Fool's during this year ' s Fringe Festival.
Entertainment Quarter is home to Fool’s ________ during this year’s Fringe Festival.
Fitness brand that opened its first Sydney studio in Darlinghurst.
5. Fitness brand that its first Sydney studio Darlinghurst.
7. What type of Whal currently being spott swimming past Sydne
8. Where can you pla Games and eat $8 Wi Monday?
11. This well-known has recently re-locate Crown St after years CBD.
What type of Whale is currently being spotted swimming past Sydney?
Where can you play Board Games and eat $8 Wings on Monday?
This well-known restaurant has recently re-located to Crown St after years in Sydney’s CBD.
EAT & DRINK EAT & DRINK
THE CLOCK
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.
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
THE DOLPHIN HOTEL
The Dolphin Hotel spans three levels, five bars and an open-air Terrace. Open for lunch, dinner and all day dining, the iconic Surry Hills pub features a menu of elevated classic Italian dishes, wine list focusing on natural and minimal intervention wines plus a seasonal lo-fi, all-day fun-drinking cocktail list.
A historic Surry Hills tavern reimagined by Applejack Hospitality, Forrester’s serves as a community hub where locals and visitors gather to enjoy live sports, dog-friendly events, and celebrations. This beloved local spot offers great food and drinks in a space made for connection and fun.
Step inside the wonderful world of GOROS, your favourite latenight venue in Surry Hills. From 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!
The independent, heritage-listed Harry’s is set in the cultural heart of Surry Hills. The building marries century-old architecture with a speakeasy feel and stylish, contemporary service across five versatile spaces over two levels. Harry’s is open for lunch, dinner or drinks, seven days a week from 11:30am till late.
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 - without leaving the neighbourhood.
Your go-to spot for award-winning craft beers and ciders, just a short stroll from Central Station. Born in Surry Hills in 2005, the brewery now also operates in Alexandria and the Hunter Valley. Celebrating 20 years in 2025, Sydney Brewery has garnered hundreds of medals over this time, including the inaugural ‘Champion Cider Producer’ Trophy at AIBA 2025 at the Melbourne Royal Show. Executive Chef Kevin Weng serves up elevated pub classics alongside daily blackboard specials, so there’s always a new flavour to discover. There’s also a brew for every palate, from juicy NEIPAs and bold Choc Chilli Porters to crisp Lemon Twist Ciders. Grab a drink, enjoy a tasty dish, and soak up the atmosphere.
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-ofthe-art. Enjoy a free class with the code: COREPLUS2010.
Work smarter, not longer - Studio Pilates offer high-energy 40 minute reformer classes, delivering an exceptional workout every time. The scientifically-based total bodyworkouts, precisely sequenced by physiotherapists, deliver the results you want, fast! Work the body on all planes of movement - sitting, lying and standing - so that muscles are worked from different directions, boosting metabolism and producing a total body sculpting transformation: long, lean muscles and flexibility, dramatically flattened abs, increased muscle strength and tone, and improved body mechanics. Classes are suitable for everyone no matter your level of expertise, and instructors can modify the class to suit your needs.
425 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills studiopilates.com/studios/surry-hills - 0451366095
FLUIDFORM
Tucked into the heart of 2010, Fluidform Surry Hills is a light-filled sanctuary dedicated to movement, balance and strength. Founded by Kirsten King, Fluidform is renowned for its expertled Pilates and wellness programs, specialising in injury rehabilitation, prenatal and postpartum care, and athletic performance. Each class is designed to help you move more efficiently and feel stronger in your body. The warm, open-plan studio on Marlborough Street offers a curated range of small group Reformer Pilates, Small Equipment, Barre, Swiss Ball and Private Studio sessions - all delivered with highly personalised support in an intimate setting.
Suite 102/59 Marlborough St, Surry Hills www.fluidformpilates.com/our-studios
MANKIND
In the heart of Surry Hills, MANKiND has been setting the standard in men’s grooming and wellness for over 20 years. Originally launched as Australia’s first male-focused spa, it has evolved into a boutique medi-spa offering world-class skin, body, and aesthetic treatments in a welcoming, inclusive space. Led by a biomedical engineer and proud advocate for diversity and inclusion, MANKiND is backed by an expert team including nurses, physiotherapists, dermal therapists, beauty therapists, and specialists in skin and massage therapy. This breadth of experience means every treatment is delivered with clinical precision, deep care, and a commitment to results. Whether you’re after a high-performance facial, a tension-releasing massage and wellbeing, or advanced skin and body treatments, MANKiND offers next-level care in a space that always feels like yours.
NSW’s leading health promotion organisation specialising in community health, inclusion and HIV responses for sexuality and gender diverse people. Established in 1985, we’re here to provide support and resources for LGBTQ people in relation to HIV prevention and support, mental health, ageing, alcohol and other drugs, safety and inclusion, domestic and family violence, LGBTQ+ women’s health, cancer screening and prevention, and trans and gender diverse health. 02 9206 2000 | acon.org.au
PARTY
THE JACKSON
Sydney’s newest and most luxurious superyacht have partnered with Veuve Clicquot and opened their gangways to the public for an exclusive Summer event series, ‘In the Sun’ featuring Veuve Clicquot. Enjoy a few of the finer things in life while soaking up the panoramic views of Sydney Harbour.
Book now - thejackson.com.au
CELEBRATE IN UNMATCHED STYLE
if you want your business listed - email Info@neighbourhoodmedia.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 globally-focused bilingual education, rich in the study of music and the arts.
SHOP TEAMM8
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
SCREENWISE FILM & TV ACTING SCHOOL
Established 22 years ago to provide specialist, career-focused training in acting for film & television. Overseen by Multi-Award Winning Actress Denise Roberts, Screenwise was the first to recognise the need for a drama school specifically designed to teach the art of screen acting. Screenwise offers full-time, parttime and short courses.(Screenwise RTO: 91699) info@screenwise.com.au | 02 9281 4484 Screenwise.com.au
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.
10/417 | 421 Bourke St, Surry Hills | teamm8.com
THE STANDARD STORE
Established in 2011 by Sydney based husband and wife team Nicola and Orlando Reindorf, The Standard Store is their vision for bricks and mortar fashion retail. With its unique mix of handpicked labels from Europe, Scandinavia and the US, The Standard Stores in Surry Hills and Melbourne’s Fitzroy, feature a tightly curated selection of sought-after labels, accessories and lifestyle must-haves. Each store is edited to reflect the style fingerprint of their individual districts.
499 Crown St, Surry Hills | 0434 019 937
SERVICES
MURRAY PROPERTY DARLINGHURST
A boutique real estate agency based in Darlinghurst, specialising in premium property management and leasing across Darlinghurst, Surry Hills, and the Eastern Suburbs. With over 20 years of experience, their team offers personalised service tailored to investors and property owners. Whether buying, selling, or leasing, Murray Property provides expert guidance and local market knowledge to ensure seamless results.
If you’re looking for the ultimate coastal holiday north of Sydney, you can’t go past Port Stephens. Overlooking the spectacular port is Bannisters Port Stephens, a four-star hotel featuring coastalchic accommodation, three dining options including Rick Stein’s signature seafood restaurant, a Day Spa and local favourite, Cheeky Dog pub. Set amongst beautifully landscaped gardens, Bannisters is the perfect location for an indulgent, relaxed holiday any time of the year.
147 Soldiers Point Rd, Soldiers Point | 02 4919 3800 | bannisters.com.au
