It’s been almost a year since Sydneysiders got the first official sneak peek at the new Sydney Fish Market – the huge revitalisation of Sydney’s enormous harbourside market. The major makeover was announced way back in 2016, with a $750-million upgrade getting the green light back in 2020. Now, after a few wobbles (including one of the contractors going into voluntary administration), the market is on track – and it’s just unveiled the jewel in its crown.
The market’s 200-metre-long floating roof canopy established itself as the key feature early in the piece based on its unique shape – a striking wave-like form, comprising more than 400 individual roof panels, weighing a hefty 2,500 tonnes and held up by 594 timber roof beams. And the roof has just turned its main character energy up – revealing its dynamic lighting system which will be able to create Vivid-like visuals any day of the year.
It turns out, each of the 400 shell-like panels features lighting technology that can turn the roof into a dynamic display – expected to be turned on to mark special events. The huge, 200-metre long light feature on the edge of the harbour is operated by four kilometres of cabling, and a recent “test performance” proved that it’s ready to put on a show.
“The roof with its magnificent wave-like form and fish-scale design is a sight to behold during the day, and even more spectacular at night when it is lit up,” said Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper.
Turning technicolour isn’t the roof’s only magic trick – it’s designed to naturally illuminate the inside of the building (redirecting natural sunlight at different times in the day), generate solar energy and collect rainwater for recycling.
The huge new market will be a key feature in the full transformation of Blackwattle Bay, which is set to welcome 300 new homes, new commercial spaces, a public waterfront park and a brand new ferry wharf connecting Sydneysiders straight to the market.
You can learn more about the new Sydney Fish Market over here.