Uncover 235 years of Sydney Ferries - a story of innovation, rivalry, and resilience on the harbour. By Alec Smart The History of Sydney Ferries - From 1789 The history of Sydney’s ferries began with a single sailboat between Sydney Cove and Rose Hill. However, the Sydney penal colony was under strict orders not to build boats, partly to reduce the possibility of convicts escaping, but primarily to prevent any challenge to the monopoly the East India Company enjoyed on maritime mercantile operations. Subsequently, passenger transport along navigable water made a slow start in the rapidly expanding colony. There is no record of the Indigenous clans around Sydney Harbour operating shuttle vessels around the waterways, although they were a maritime people that utilised nawi (Dharug Aboriginal word for bark canoes) for fishing, transport and recreation. PS Huntress approaching Manly Wharf, 1856. Illustration: S.T. Gill c/o State Library NSW Parramatta River Ferry History The first passenger ferry service operating on Sydney Harbour was a small hoy (single-masted vessel) launched on Monday 5 October 1789, just 37 weeks after British colonists established their settlement at Warrane/Sydney Cove. It could carry up to 30 passengers to and from newly-occupied farmlands at Rose Hill along the Parramatta River, and from 1795 stopping at ‘Hunter’s Hills’ (farms around Huntley’s Point and Woolwich peninsula) on the Lower North Shore. Initially known as the Prince William, and the first purpose-built sailing vessel constructed in Australia, the 12m x 5m sailboat was constructed by convicts, who renamed it the Rose Hill Packet. This was due to its principal use as a ‘packet boat’ – the term for vessels that carried freight and domestic mail in packets. Made of heavy red gum (Angophora costata) under the supervision of First Fleet carpenter Robinson Reid, the Rose Hill Packet weighed a hefty 12 tonnes, and due to its rounder, barge-like shape, it was nicknamed ‘The Lump’ by detractors. The round trip from Sydney Cove to the Parramatta settlement took up to a week – a significant contrast to the two-hour return journey today – and the vessel was fitted with six oars for when the wind and tides weren’t favourable. Government House on the East shore of Sydney Cove, 1790. Historians believe the Rose Hill Packet, aka ‘The Lump’, is the boat in the centre foreground. Illustration: George Raper With the discovery of malleable, durable timbers, such as Sydney blue gum (Eucalyptus saligna), independent boatbuilders began constructing small vessels to service the rapidly expanding colony, so in April 1791 Governor Philip issued an order restricting them to ‘fourteen feet from stem to stern’. Expansion Begins Soon wharves sprung up on the harbour front and by the end of 1793 a number of emancipists were operating along the lucrative Parramatta River trade route. Meanwhile, because of its ponderous progress, and the construction of the King’s Dockyard in Sydney Cove in 1797 making faster, streamlined vessels, the Rose Hill Packet was superseded, and in 1800 retired and broken up. A three-tonne, ¾ sized replica hangs in the foyer of the 233m skyscraper at 6 Parramatta Square. On 1 June 1831, the first Australian-built, steam-powered, paddle-wheel ferry, PS Surprise, commenced a regular passenger service between Sydney Cove and Parramatta. Funded by Henry Gilbert Smith, chairman of the Commercial Banking Company (now NAB), unfortunately, it was not financially successful, and Smith sold the vessel to a Hobart operator the following year. In 1834, Edye Manning launched a timetabled regular ferry service along the Parramatta River, with three paddle-wheel steamers, Emu, Black Swan and Pelican, the journey taking approximately 90 minutes from Sydney Cove to Parramatta. The service was taken over by successive ventures that expanded the fleet. PS Black Swan, c1844, stopping at a wharf on Sydney Harbour. The Hunters Hill Museum reveals, “On 7 March 1835, the Australian Steam Conveying Co. was formed to take over Mr. Manning’s venture. Subsequently this service was taken over by CE Jeanneret who added the Pheasant to his fleet in order to compete with the Lane Cove River service, which had now been established by DN Joubert... “Joubert’s ferries subsequently included Kirribilli, Wommerah and Aegeria. Over the passage of years a great rivalry developed between the two French families (Joubert and Jeanneret) and their respective ferry services… “In the early part of the 20th century, there were no less than 12 ferry wharves on the Parramatta and Lane Cove Rivers for which the Council was responsible.” The Paramatta River Steam Company, 1865 The Parramatta River Steam Company was formed in 1865 to take over the Parramatta River operations. However, although the service was popular, there were limited wharves along the route, so boatmen waited at popular points and charged commuters a fee to row passengers ashore from the tarrying ferries. One of these was near Tarban Creek Lunatic Asylum, where two punts shuttled across Parramatta River between Abbotsford and Bedlam Point. One catered to disembarking ferry passengers, the other, Bedlam Ferry (founded 1834), carried road traffic from the historic Great North Road (since renamed Punt Rd on the north bank). The tidal Parramatta River silted up over time, making it impossible for deep-hulled ferries to travel up-river. From 1928, the service stopped at Meadowbank Bridge for 64 years. It wasn’t until December 1993, after dredging of the river and the introduction of shallow-hulled RiverCat catamarans, that ferries were able to resume carrying passengers further upstream to Rydalmere and Parramatta, then Wentworth Point for the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games. PS Comet. From 1843 she plied the Parramatta ferry service. Moved to Melbourne in 1853, then sold to New Zealand in 1862 but sank en-route. North Shore Sydney Ferry History In 1790, a military encampment was established at Woodford Bay in Cameraygal country on the Lane Cove River, which repelled the Indigenous inhabitants over the next 15 years – including battles with resistance leader Pemulwuy. In October 1794, the first land grants in the district of 25-30 acres apiece (10-12ha) were issued to 27 soldiers of the NSW Corps. Timber cutters established themselves in the region, followed by tanners, manufacturers, settlers, and ex-convicts. The history of Sydney ferries would not be complete without the story of one ex-convict, Billy Blue. He was a Jamaican soldier who was originally transported to Australia to complete the last two years of a seven-year sentence for stealing sugar, was made a water bailiff by Governor Lachlan Macquarie. Initially an oyster seller, in 1807 Blue was granted an exclusive license to establish a north-south ferry shuttle rowing across Port Jackson, from Dawes Point to McMahon’s Point, servicing the expanding settlements on the North Shore. Ferry operator Billy Blue alongside Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, Botanic Gardens, 1834. (This portrait was made shortly before Billy died in May). Painting: John B East In 1817 Macquarie granted him 80 acres (32.3ha) of land on the southern tip of McMahon’s Point, now known as Blues Point. By 1830 he had enlarged his fleet to 11 vessels, which he commanded wearing a blue naval officer coat and top hat, earning him the nickname ‘The Old Commodore’ by Governor Macquarie. In 1830, a regular Sydney ferry service began operating between Balmoral Beach in Mosman and Balgowlah in North Harbour, in close proximity to Manly. Meanwhile, other operators set up ferry services criss-crossing Sydney Harbour. With the introduction of steam-powered vessels, regular services operated between the city and northern suburbs from 1942, eventually coalescing in a public company, the North Shore Steam Ferry Co. Ltd, in 1878. In 1900, this entity was reincorporated as Sydney Ferries Ltd, which in time took over most of the independent operators – except rivals the Port Jackson & Manly Steamship Company. After repurposing several old vessels and commissioning new, Sydney Ferries coalesced as the world’s largest ferry operator in both fleet size and the number of passengers. Between 1891 and 1922 they operated 27 K-class double-ended steam ferries (all named after Aboriginal words), many of which were decommissioned after the opening of Sydney Harbour Bridge in March 1932, when passenger numbers halved from a peak of over 44 million a year. Following the NSW Government’s takeover of Sydney Ferries in 1951, due to financial difficulties, more of their fleet was sold or broken-up. PS Huntress (centre left) paddle-wheel ferry en-route to Manly Cove, c1855 Manly Ferry History Henry Smith, who financed the first paddle-wheel steamer ferry service to Parramatta in 1831, was also known as the ‘Father of Manly’ after he began developing some of his land between Manly Cove and the Pacific Ocean as a tourist resort in 1853. Smith initially chartered a paddle-wheel steamer, PS Huntress, to bring tourists for occasional day trips from the city. However, without a wharf, it had to anchor in Manly Cove, with passengers transferring to row boats to reach the shore - risky in choppy seas. Smith then purchased an interest in the Phantom steam-powered ferry and built a wharf in Manly Cove, which, at 61 metres long, enabled the double-ended vessel to safely dock. The first ferry laden with tourists moored at Manly Wharf on 6 October 1855. By 1859, Smith had established a regular shuttle service between Manly and Sydney Cove. After extending Manly Wharf by 50 metres in 1868, and adding new vessels, five years later, in 1873, Smith sold the lease on the wharf and his share in the Manly commuter ferries to new operators, who within two years sold the interest to John Carey, founder of the Daily Telegraph newspaper. In 1877, in partnership with three other businessmen, Carey formed the Port Jackson Steamboat Co. Ltd, which was reincorporated in 1881 as the Port Jackson & Manly Steamship Company (PJ&MSC). The successful venture acquired new larger vessels to cater to public demand, most of them double-ended, to avoid the difficulty of having to turn around in the tight confines of Sydney Cove. According to the history of Sydney ferried archived in the State Library of NSW, Port Jackson and Manly Steamship Company “during the 1890s depression and, in a dispute with Manly Council in 1893, lost its access to the main Manly wharf. “In the same year a group of disgruntled Manly residents formed the Manly Co-operative Steam Ferry Company Limited. The rival operators engaged in a fare cutting war until the new co-operative was absorbed by the Port Jackson company in May 1896.” PS Narrabeen, 1898, on route to Manly. Photo: Henry King Current Sydney Ferry Services The NSW Government, following their acquisition of Sydney Ferries in 1951, contracted its operations and maintenance to the Port Jackson & Manly Steamship Company. However, in 1974, they assumed control of Port Jackson and Manly Steamship Company too. Sydney Ferries Corporation is the NSW Government agency that owns the current fleet, overseen by Transport for NSW, and the public ferry network services are operated under contract by Transdev Sydney Ferries (a subsidiary of French multinational Transdev). Sydney Ferries operates services on ten routes, with its central hub at Circular Quay, although other private operators, such as Captain Cook Cruises and NRMA (My Fast Ferry) run ferries along parallel or separate routes. Other operators run commuter services in Pittwater to the north and Port Hacking to the south. There are no ferries operating in Botany Bay, although the NSW Govt is building public wharves at La Perouse and Kurnell to create a water connection between the north and south at the entrance to the bay. Since the introduction of the fast hydrofoils in 1965 (retired 1991), which skimmed the 10km journey between Manly and Circular Quay in 15 minutes, a dual express and regular commuter service has operated between Manly and the city. The hydrofoils were replaced by JetCats (1991-2008), succeeded by the current Manly Fast Ferry (2009-). MV Freshwater, launched March 1982, seen here at Manly Wharf in Feb 2023. Photo: Alec Smart Sydney Harbour has recently seen the return of three of the four Freshwater-Class ferries, the first of which, MV Freshwater, began service in 1982 on the City to Manly route. These large 1150-capacity, double-ended vessels have endured through all weather conditions and remained popular with commuters, unlike their successors – the trouble-prone Emerald-class II ferries. Three Emerald IIs, Fairlight, Clontarf and Balmoral, were introduced in 2021 with much-publicised ‘wave-piercing hulls’, designed to overcome the large swells that rolled in occasionally from Sydney Heads, which their predecessors, the Emeralds were not built to withstand. Meanwhile, the Freshwaters were scheduled to be phased out. However, public pressure to reintroduce all four of the Freshwater ferries increased after the three new Chinese-built Emerald-class IIs recorded approximately 80 major defects in their first year of service. List of Sydney Harbour ferries here Ferry routes and timetables, public and private: https://transportnsw.info/routes/ferry Ferry information, Transport for NSW: https://transportnsw.info/travel-info/ways-to-get-around/ferry#/ Sydney-Manly ferry history here To read more stories about Sydney's colourful history, go to Balmain history here, Cronulla history here and Marrickville history here.

Your essential guide to Marrickville’s best live music venues - featuring intimate stages where jazz, folk, blues, and world music come alive. There’s not much else cooler than music, so it’s no surprise that Marrickville, recently dubbed “Sydney’s Coolest Suburb” is home to a plethora of venues that live and breathe live music that support local artists. Did you know that there's a gig happening almost every night of the week, every week? 🎷 Lazybones Lounge Restaurant & Bar 📍 294 Marrickville Rd, Marrickville First up, is Lazybones Lounge, which has been operating since 2013. A cosy, quirky & live music venue that has live music Tuesday - Sunday every week, often over 2 levels. Head to Lazybones Lounge & take in some of Sydney’s most exciting musical acts. The venue’s decked out with velvet curtains and eclectic decor, creating an extravagant atmosphere. There is a small cover charge that goes directly to the artists. Sounds Like: Across the span of a week Lazybones Lounge welcomes a wide array of Sydney best acts, whether that be pop, soul, RnB, world music or jazz. Eat & Drink: There is an ever-changing food menu; freshly made pizzas to South African fusion curries, fries, wedges & charcuterie boards. Add to this a lengthy list of cocktails, microbrew beers & wines from around the globe & you really can’t go wrong. Check out their gig guide HERE. 🎸 Butcher's Brew Bar 📍 294 Marrickville Rd, Marrickville Next, Butchers Brew Bar, a small bar and live performance venue nestled in the neighbouring Dulwich Hill, at the top end of Marrickville Road. There's a rotating smorgasbord of music on offer with a gig happening almost every night of the week. It’s super easy to access via public transport and there is a heap of free parking options. Sounds Like: Every night is different! You can see diverse local and international talent (established and emerging) across a wide range of genres; jazz, funk, blues, reggae, soul, indie pop, Americana, folk, Brazilian and world music. They also host book nights, workshops and other cultural/social events. Eat & Drink: 20+ quality wines by the glass, plus bottled and craft beers and ciders, premium spirits and amazing cocktails, as well as a selection of low and zero-alcohol options. There isn’t an in-venue menu, but there’s a heap of options in the immediate surroundings and you are more than welcome to BYO! Check out their gig guide HERE. While Lazybones Lounge & Butchers Brew Bar are outstanding, and there's so much more to check out! 🥁 Gasoline Pony 📍115 Marrickville Rd, Marrickville A standout on the Marrickville live music scene, Gasoline Pony hosts performances most nights of the week. Run by musicians for musicians, it’s a beloved and respected hub within Sydney’s Inner West creative community. Showcasing an eclectic range of genres- from pop and Appalachian blues to Mexican salsa, jazz, and community choirs. Gasoline Pony is a vibrant venue that consistently supports diverse and emerging talent. Definitely one to watch for unique live music experiences. Check out their gig guide HERE. 🎻 Camelot Lounge 📍 19 Marrickville Rd, Marrickville If you’re looking for a live music venue with variety and atmosphere, Camelot Lounge in Marrickville delivers. The venue features two intimate stages - the main Camelot Lounge upstairs and the Django Bar downstairs - offering a unique 2-for-1 experience. You’ll find an eclectic mix of live performances here, ranging from singer-songwriters, world music, jazz, folk, blues, cabaret, to comedy acts. It’s a boutique venue known for showcasing outstanding Australian and international talent across diverse genres. Check out their gig guide HERE. More on Marrickville

Marrickville's best fun and educational cooking, art, and leisure workshops and classes. Image via Class Bento, Kiss Ready Lips Arts Adult Education in Marrickville Spring has sprung, the sun is shining - and there's never been a better time to get a bunch of friends together and go learn something new! We've rounded up the best workshop/classes Marrickville has to offer - we can guarantee they're all educational and entertaining. Sydney Seafood School - Cooking Classes Sydney Fish Market, 25 Bank St, Pyrmont NSW 2009 FB: @SydneySeafoodSchool IG: @sydneyseafoodschool Web: sydneyfishmarket.com.au Operating since 1989, Sydney Seafood School has taught 200,000 aspiring poissonier’s how to prepare and cook a wide range of Australian and New Zealand seafood. Sydney Seafood School offers a hands-on premium class where you watch, cook, and eat. If you prefer to begin with an observant approach to your learning, their Sundowner sessions involve a relaxing demonstration accompanied by a tasting with a matched beverage. If you prefer to learn in a group, Sydney Seafood School provides tailored events catered to your specific needs. Image via Sydney Seafood School Facebook Mark Eliott Glass - Glass Blowing Class IG: @markeliottglass Among the Trees Marrickville 27 Sydney Street, Marrickville NSW It’s a rare skill to come by these days, but glass artist Mark Eliott will have you blowing glass and creating in no time. This two-hour taster session covers all the tips and techniques on how to use a blow torch and sculpt your glass into your desired shape. Of course, at the end of the session you will be able to take your creation home and admire the result of your new skill! Image via Class Bento Kiss Ready Lips - Eco-luxe Bath Bomb Making IG: @kissreadylips Naturally Ready Studio Naturally Ready, 100D Sydenham Road, Marrickville NSW If you love to relax while you learn, then Bath Bomb making with Kiss Ready Lips is perfect for you. This beginner’s hands-on workshop is all about creating your own handcrafted botanical pods, bath bombs, and foot soaks. This workshop is a fun and creative way to put in the effort for a bit of you time, or as a gift for friends or family. Image via Class Bento Book your glass blowing and bath bomb classes via www.classbento.com.au or find them on Instagram @classbento

Whether you’re craving a cocktail, a cold beer, or some delicious bites to go with your drinks, these local Surry Hills & Darlinghurst hot-spots have unbeatable happy hour specials. More on Surry Hills Check out these top spots and happy hour deals to enjoy your favourite drinks and tasty treats without breaking the bank in Surry Hills. Ouzo Bar & Dining Bad Mama 📍 403 Crown St, Surry Hills 🌐 badmamabar.com.au 🕒 Everyday: 4-6pm $7 Beers and House Wines $12 Cocktails (Charlie San, Lychee Sau Wau, Negroni, Espresso Martini) $6 Bucket Dumplings & Pork Buns after 10pm The Beresford 📍 354 Bourke St, Surry Hills 🌐 merivale.com/venues/theberesford 🕒 Mon - Sun: 6-8pm $9 Schooners of Premium Craft Beers $11 Pints of Guinness $9 Pints $7 Schooners of Tap Beer $7 House Spirits $14 Aperol Spritz $16 Tommy’s Margarita Fonda Mexican 📍 379 Crown St, Surry Hills 🌐 fondamexican.com.au 🕒 Mon - Fri: 4pm-7pm $15 House Margaritas $10 Frozen Cocktails $7 Selected Wines $6 Balter Cerveza $6 Non-Alcoholic Cocktails Forresters 📍 336 Riley St, Surry Hills 🌐 forresters.com.au 🕒 Mon - Fri: 4-6pm Selection of House Wine & Beer for $7.50 $12 Aperol Spritz $15 Steak & Chips on Monday Hotel Harry cocktail Hotel Harry 📍40-44 Wentworth St, Surry Hills 🌐 hotelharry.com.au 🕒 Every day: 4-6pm $7 Beer $8 Wine $8 Spirits $10 Cocktails Food Specials: Mon - $15 Panko-Crumbed Chicken Schnitzel Tues - $4 Taco (Fish, Al Pasto Chicken, Al Pastor Pork, Veggie) Wed - $10 Burgers (Harry’s Beef, Fried Chicken, Crumbed Fish, Veggie Smash) Kandi Luxe 📍 120 Bourke street, Woolloomooloo 🌐 kandiluxe.com.au 🕒 Wed - Fri: 5pm to 7pm All Cocktails $15 House Spirits $10 Beer $8 Wine $6 The Ladies League 📍 245 Oxford St, Darlighurst 🌐 theladiesleague.com.au 🕒 Thurs - Fri: 4pm to 6pm House Beer & Wine starting from $8 Li’l Darlin Surry Hills 📍425 Elizabeth St, Surry Hills 🌐 thedrydock.com.au 🕒 Mon-Sat: 4-6pm & Fri-Sat: From 10pm $12.50 Cocktails $15 Classic Pizzas Fonda Mexican Ouzo Bar & Dining 📍 259 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst 🌐 ouzobardining.com.au 🕒 Tues-Fri: 4pm to 6pm All Bar Snacks Half Price $10 Mini Martini $6 House Beer & Wine Sydney Brewery 📍 28 Albion St, Surry Hills 🌐 sydneybrewery.com 🕒 Everyday: 4-6pm $7 House Beer, Wine, Cider, Spirits. Classic Cocktails available for $18 Mon - $18 Pasta All Day Tues - $18 Nachos Wed - $20 Burgers + Sandwiches Thurs - $20 PIzza, $20 Sydney Brewery Jugs Fri - $1 Buffalo Wings Sun - Chicken Schnitty + Schooner $22 The Soda Factory 📍 16 Wentworth Ave, Surry Hills 🌐 sodafactory.com.au 🕒 Wed - Thurs: 5-7pm $7 House Beer, Wine, Spirits $12 Signature Cocktails Tues - $1 Hotdogs ($2 Chicken, $3 Vegan) 3 rounds of music bingo + DJs til late Wed $1 Wings $10 Fried Chicken & Waffles $10 Fried Chicken Burgers $10 Buckets of Fried Chicken The Taphouse 📍 122 Flinders St, Darlinghurst 🌐 taphousesydney.com.au 🕒 Tues - Fri: 4pm to 6pm $7.50 Drinks Menu including: Philter ‘Super Cool’ Lager Hawke’s Patio Pale Applejack “Luce Del Sole” Pinot Grigio Applejack “Rose Des Amis” Shiraz Grenache Applejack ‘Otis’ by Margan Shiraz Applejack ‘Status Quo’ Prosecco The White Horse 📍 381 Crown St Surry Hills 🌐 thewhitehorse.com.au 🕒 Wed - Thurs: 5pm to 7pm 🕒 Fri - Sat: 9pm to Late 🕒Sun: 5pm to 7pm $8 Schooners $8 House Wines $14 Tommy’s, Negronis, Aperol Spritz and Amaretto Sour

Fresh from a smash-hit season at the Adelaide Festival that earned five-star reviews across the board, Hedwig and the Angry Inch is set to bring its fierce and fearless energy to Sydney’s Carriageworks from 17 July 2025. More on Sydney CBD 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. Adam Noviello & Seann Miley Moore in Hedwig And The Angry Inch 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 follows a run at Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre from 13 June and promises to be one of the most talked-about events of the year. Tickets go on sale to the general public at 10am Tuesday 29 April via 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.

Darlinghurst’s historic Eternity Playhouse theatre reopens with cutting-edge performances, dance, cabaret and world premieres this September. More on Surry Hills 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. Eternity Playhouse. PHOTO: Daniel Boud 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 vocal ensemble Eklektika. 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. Don’t miss your chance to catch these extraordinary performances at Eternity Playhouse this September. Check out the full program here: sydneyfringe.com/off-broadway-hub Eternity Playhouse39 Burton St, Darlinghurst

From tea empire to urban revival: How a century-old Surry Hills warehouse became a luxury landmark — and home to Chin Chin. More on Surry Hills For over a century, the Griffiths Teas building has stood with prominence at the point where Wentworth Avenue 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. The Griffiths Teas Building 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 flat-iron) 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. History Of Griffiths Teas Griffiths Teas advertisment on side of former post office and store. 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. New Owners Susan and Isaac Wakil 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 ex-commercial 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 that it and other empty properties be used for housing. Their cries were ignored. Then, in 2014, the Wakils began selling off their 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. Major Makeover of Griffiths Teas Building 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 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.

Brigidine College’s 2026 Excellences Scholarships Are Here To Enable Gifted Students To Turn Their Passions Into Purpose, And Excellence Into Impact. Brigidine College, located at 325 Mona Vale Rd, St Ives, is now inviting applications for its 2026 Excellence Scholarships. A program designed to support and inspire outstanding students in the fields of Drama, Music and Sport. These prestigious scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional talent and a strong commitment to their area of expertise. Open to both current and prospective students, the Excellence Scholarships offer more than financial support, they create a pathway for young people to thrive, grow and contribute in a meaningful way to all aspects of life at Brigidine College. At the heart of the program is Brigidine’s commitment to empowering students through cocurricular endeavour. Whether it’s centre stage in the theatre, playing the piano or representing the College on the sporting field, each scholarship recipient is nurtured to excel not only in their discipline, but in their academic and personal development as well. “The Excellence Scholarships are about recognising talent and creating opportunities for young people to flourish,” says College Principal, Mr Shane Hogan. “They are an invitation for students to step forward and embrace all that Brigidine has to offer.” Scholarship recipients benefit from a robust support system, including mentorship from senior staff and dedicated scholarship reviews each year. These annual reviews help to ensure each student is progressing, achieving goals and actively contributing to College life. With a broad cocurricular program and diverse curriculum, Brigidine provides the ideal environment to balance high-level performance with academic success. Students are encouraged to pursue their passion while developing their strengths and character within a vibrant and inclusive school community. Applications are competitive and assessed on the strength of the student’s application, recent school reports, and for Drama and Music applicants, an audition and interview is part of the process. Applications close Friday 29 August 2025 2026 Excellence Scholarships available Drama Scholarship Music Scholarship Sport Scholarship For more information and to apply, visit the Brigidine College website: brigidine.nsw.edu.au or contact the school directly on 02 9988 6200.

Inside the Jazz Age love affair, secrets, and scandal that led to a fatal shooting in a glamorous Darlinghurst flat By Elliot Lindsay More on Surry Hills In sunlit elegance, the last waltz of a butterfly ends with a bullet and a mystery that lingers in Darlinghurst’s long shadow & has become one of Sydney's most notorious murders. Ruth Alma Brandt - 1926 Discovering Sydney's notorious 1920s murder scene 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. It 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. 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 Cavalier 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 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 chintz-covered 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. 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? The Jazz Age of Sydney 14 Clapton Place 1921, City of Sydney Archives 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. What exactly happened on that fateful day? 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.

Tour the $15 Million Award-Winning New York-Style Penthouse Apartment at 99 Stanley Street More on Surry Hills Australia’s third-richest citizen, Mike Cannon-Brookes, is the new owner of the stunning $15 million penthouse apartment in the ideally located Angus House in Darlinghurst. The 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. History of 99 Stanley Street 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, state-of-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. Who is Mike Cannon-Brookes? 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.

Fresh Eats, New Restaurants and After-Dark Energy: What’s New in Surry Hills and Darlo More on Surry Hills Get ready to taste, toast and dance your way through the hottest new spots lighting up the neighbourhood Aura Nightclub The 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. Aura Nightclub 16 Flinders St, Darlinghurst 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 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, emphasising 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. 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 wood-fired 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”. 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 - market-fresh, share-style plates with bold Mexican flavours.

Where to Find the Best Sunday Roasts in Surry Hills & Darlinghurst (2010) More on Surry Hills Craving a proper Sunday roast? Explore Surry Hills and Darlinghurst’s best roast dinners — from pub classics and daily rotisserie meats to gourmet twists with rich gravy, crispy potatoes and Yorkshire puddings. The Big Yorkie from Forrester's 🔥 The Clock Hotel 📍 470 Crown St, Surry Hills 📆 Sunday 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. 🔥 Harry’s 📍40/44 Wentworth Ave, Surry Hills 📆 Monday - Saturday 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. Harry's roast pork 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. 🔥 Forrester’s 📍336 Riley St, Surry Hills 📆 Monday - Sunday Forrester’s in Surry Hills has redefined the classic roast with The Big Yorkie — and the best part? You don’t have to wait for Sunday. This epic dish is served every day of the week, until sold out. Picture this: melt-in-your-mouth roast of the week, crispy roasted potatoes, seasonal veggies and rich, house-made gravy, all piled into a giant Yorkshire pudding. Light and crunchy on top, soft and gooey underneath, it’s the perfect vessel to soak up every last drop of gravy. Created by Applejack Culinary Director Patrick Friesen, The Big Yorkie has made headlines as the roast to rule them all. Loved by locals, chefs and food critics alike, it’s a hearty, over-the-top feast you’ll want to book in for — any day you like. 😇 Trinity Bar 📍505 Crown St, Surry Hills 📆 Sunday Trinity Bar roast beef. Photo: Leigh Griffiths 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! 🌹 The Waratah 📍308-310 Liverpool St, Darlinghurst 📆 Sunday Sundays are for slowing down and tucking in at The Waratah. Each week, the kitchen serves up a different roast ($38) — think succulent lamb, crispy pork or tender beef — with all the proper trimmings: crispy hasselback potatoes, buttery carrots, fresh green beans, a golden Yorkshire pudding and rich, glossy gravy. Available Sundays only, until sold out. Some more worthy mentions for your Sunday Roast crawl: Clock Hotel roast beef 🏏Bat & Ball (495 Cleveland St, Redfern): Pork belly or classic beef ($25). 🗼 Chez Crix (106 Fitzroy St, Surry Hills): A Sunday roast with a little French flair, pepper-rubbed 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. For more suburbs, check out our complete list here