The long-awaited $836 million Sydney Fish Market, a timber and glass behemoth overlooking Blackwattle Bay, may not open in time for Christmas lunch, despite assurances from officials. The New South Wales government announced on Thursday that keys to the structure will be handed over next month to the market operator, but an exact opening date remains uncertain.
CEO Daniel Jarosch expressed confidence that Sydneysiders will have prawns for Christmas, but declined to specify whether they will come from the new or old site. He stated an official opening date will be revealed 'imminently', as 40 vendors and restaurants work on fit-outs. The project, originally scheduled for late 2024, faced construction delays and tense lease negotiations.
Premier Chris Minns acknowledged the challenges, comparing the project to iconic builds like the Opera House. The government has allocated an additional $70 million for transport upgrades, including a $30 million commuter ferry wharf and $40 million for light rail accessibility.
The new market will double public trading hours until 10pm, feature a working wet market visible through glass walls, and host restaurants from Luke Nguyen and others. It aims to attract 6 million visitors annually, doubling current numbers.
