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The Mystery of Juanita Nielsen

The Mystery of Juanita Nielsen

The infamous unsolved murder of Juanita Nielsen is one that rocked the Potts Point community.

Keep reading to find out about Juanita’s story & what led to her disappearance.

The Story

Juanita Nielsen was a passionate activist and journalist from Victoria St, Kings Cross in the 70s. She lived in a terrace house in Victoria Street, Kings Cross, and her father bought her a local newspaper, Now, which she published from her home during this period.

Juanita conducted a vigorous editorial campaign in support of the ‘green ban’ movement against the redevelopment of Victoria Street by F. W. Theeman’s real-estate company, Victoria Point Pty Ltd. With her neighbour and trade-union activist Jack (‘Mick’) Fowler, she played a prominent role in mobilising residents against the demolition of Victoria Street’s historic terraces and the eviction of their tenant around the time of her disappearance.

It is said that she visited Carousel Club for a business appointment one morning and was never seen again. Her body was never found and no one was charged with her murder 44 years later.

In July 1983 the Sydney City Council opened a recreation centre in the Juanita Nielsen Building, near her former residence at Woolloomooloo.

Visit the recreation centre >>

Juanita’s Bar

 Juanita’s Bar was born in remembrance of a political hero who died standing up for her community.

Sitting at street level, the bar is a private nook to enjoy bar snacks and cocktails, pre-dining drinks or to hire exclusively for events up to 40 people cocktail style. The bar adjoins to the mezzanine balcony that overlooks the dining room and has views of the city skyline. The menu follows suit of The Butler and dishes up flavoursome bar food, accompanied with seasonal cocktails and a carefully selected wine list. The interior is made up of sandstone walls, fresh timber, rattan finishes and a fireplace, complemented with abundant tropical plants.

We have created an intimate and quirky space that encourages small group catch ups, perfect to discuss the mystery and provides a range of beverages and share plates to enjoy.

Pop by to pay tribute to an influential figure and her determination that saved the building in which The Butler and Juanita’s reside.