What stories do these streets whisper? Here at The Block in Redfern, Sydney, history echoes with resilience and change. The Block is more than just a residential area. It is a symbol of Aboriginal struggle and triumph.
This block is bound by Eveleigh, Caroline, Louis, and Vine Streets. For decades, it has been a focal point for the Aboriginal community. Its story began in 1973. The Aboriginal Housing Company acquired houses here. Their vision was Aboriginal-managed housing.
Imagine the 1970s. Landlords were evicting Aboriginal residents. Activists fought back and campaigned for affordable housing. Bob Bellear, a future judge, and his wife Kay led the charge. Catholic priest Ted Kennedy also stood with them. They lobbied the Whitlam government. The government then stepped in. It bought properties for the Aboriginal community. Developer Ian Kiernan sold the houses at cost price. He tasked his company with redeveloping the site. He also promised to hire Aboriginal people.
The Aboriginal Housing Committee became the Aboriginal Housing Company. In April 1973, they received a grant. It was A$530,000 from the federal government. This allowed them to purchase the first houses on The Block. The Builders Labourers Federation strongly supported this project. Bob and Sol Bellear attended auctions. Properties were acquired cheaply.
The narrow backyards transformed into a communal space. A children’s playground brought laughter and joy. But there was also resistance. The mayor of South Sydney Council protested the redevelopment.
Over time, The Block faced challenges. In 1975, funding cuts led to disrepair. Despite setbacks, the Aboriginal Housing Company persevered. By 1994, they owned all the houses on The Block.
However, fixed rents led to overcrowding. There were also rent arrears. Not enough money was coming in for maintenance. Tensions arose between residents. Alcohol abuse exacerbated the situation. A report recommended demolishing some housing. Prioritising Aboriginal culture was key.
In 2010, the Aboriginal Housing Company decided to demolish a deteriorated part of The Block. By 2014, the area was changing. Young professionals were moving in. Rents soared.
The Pemulwuy Project emerged. It was a redevelopment plan for The Block. It faced opposition. Protests erupted. The Redfern Aboriginal Tent Embassy was established.
In June 2019, the iconic Aboriginal Flag mural was demolished. In its place came an underground car park. Townhouses were constructed above it.
But progress continued. The Pemulwuy Project won an award for development excellence in 2021. New housing, a gymnasium, and an Indigenous art gallery were built. The railway wall murals were refreshed.
In July 2023, there was a celebration. It marked the Aboriginal Housing Company’s 50th birthday. It also celebrated the completion of the Pemulwuy Project.
The Block has witnessed dark times too. In 2004, the Redfern riots followed the death of an Aboriginal boy. Redfern railway station was damaged.
Today, The Block stands as a testament to resilience. It’s a place where community bonds run deep. It is a reminder of the ongoing journey towards justice and equality. The Block has undergone significant redevelopment. It now includes student accommodation. The Col James Student Accommodation building provides housing for many students. The Block continues to evolve while honouring its past. It’s a place where the spirit of the Aboriginal community endures.