04-07-2025
Aussie parents lose it over who the neighbours are next to Sydney Grammar's new $39million building
Parents of students at a prestigious private school in Sydney are grumbling over the institution's new land grab after learning it borders one of the city's oldest brothels.
Sydney Grammar, which was officially opened in 1857, announced in October last year that it had purchased 1-19 Hargrave Street in Darlinghurst.
The large office block, which was purchased for $39million, is due to be transformed into a sports and recreation centre for the students.
In a letter to parents, seen by The Sydney Morning Herald, headmaster Richard Malpass - who is leaving for Singapore to run a senior school - told parents the site had 'extraordinary potential value and historical significance'.
But, the 'historic' importance of the building has since been turned on its head as it was pointed out the building next door is a brothel.
A street view of the property, which was formerly Sony Australia's headquarters, reveals an old building with the sign: 'Sydney Baby Massage'.
Its website advertises an hour-long 'remedial and body nude massage' for $140 or $270 for an hour-long 'double body nude massage'.
Open seven days a week, the business also lists it 'masseuses' aged between 19 and 23-years-old dressed in lingerie, with descriptions listing their height and bra size.
The website regularly uses 'super young sweet uni girl' and 'innocent uni girl but really professional massage skill' to describe the women.
The private school, which costs $45,000-a-year, prides itself on its heritage.
'Since its foundation, the School and its Old Boys (called 'Old Sydneians') have played an important part in the history of this country,' its website states.
Sydney Grammar has also started construction of its $54million Weigall Sports Complex, which will be based in Rushcutters Bay.
The worksite, which can be seen from the T4 train line, was approved in 2021 despite opposition from residents.
