[Everybody at ACFR] Re: attention J18 Level 2 residents
Thanks Nick.
We have escalated this and we are expecting Airmaster to be on site within the next 20 minutes.
Levels 1 and 2 are not good. Until we investigate what this is, can I request for all occupants of level 2 to leave the building and anyone else that may not feel comfortable or have respiratory issues.
We will provide updated information as soon as know.
Many thanks Annette Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics +61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097 CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Nick McCouat nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.au Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:53 PM To: David Hickling david.hickling@sydney.edu.au; everybody everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Re: attention J18 Level 2 residents
Just an update, there is now thicker (visible) white smoke throughout level 2, especially down near the J19 end.
I had to go in to retrieve my bag, but I wouldn't recommend doing so unless you really need to, as it is pretty dense and smells bad. And this is coming from someone who sits in the software office most days.
If you do need to enter L2, it may be worth wearing one of the P100 masks from the workshop, and if in any doubt, perhaps get David Hickling to go in first.
Nick ________________________________ From: David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:10 PM To: everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] attention J18 Level 2 residents
Hi J18 Level 2 people,
As you know there a smoky odour wafting around your level. Level 3 and 4 are OK at the moment. We think that it is coming in from outside. We have asked the Air conditioning people to inspect urgently.
If the smell bothers you maybe you should leave the building and take a break or go home?
Cheers David
David Hickling
Administrative and Technical Assistant
The University of Sydney
Faculty of Engineering
Australian Centre for Robotics
Level 2, Sydney Robotics Lab J19
74-80 Abercrombie St
Chippendale 2008 NSW
M 0404 349 074 | T 02 8627 8279
sydney.edu.au/acfrhttp://sydney.edu.au/acfr
_______________________________________________ Everybody mailing list -- everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au To unsubscribe send an email to everybody-leave@acfr.usyd.edu.au
Hi All,
I have spoken to our H&S partner, Vanessa Davie, who has advised that we should evacuate all J18 until we understand what is happening.
If anyone is currently in J18, could you please evacuate the building immediately.
If you have any issues or concerns, please let me know. Kind Regards Annette Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics +61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097 CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Annette Karydis annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:59 PM To: Nick McCouat nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.au; David Hickling david.hickling@sydney.edu.au; everybody everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Re: attention J18 Level 2 residents Importance: High
Thanks Nick.
We have escalated this and we are expecting Airmaster to be on site within the next 20 minutes.
Levels 1 and 2 are not good. Until we investigate what this is, can I request for all occupants of level 2 to leave the building and anyone else that may not feel comfortable or have respiratory issues.
We will provide updated information as soon as know.
Many thanks Annette Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics +61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097 CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Nick McCouat <nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.aumailto:nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:53 PM To: David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au>; everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Re: attention J18 Level 2 residents
Just an update, there is now thicker (visible) white smoke throughout level 2, especially down near the J19 end.
I had to go in to retrieve my bag, but I wouldn't recommend doing so unless you really need to, as it is pretty dense and smells bad. And this is coming from someone who sits in the software office most days.
If you do need to enter L2, it may be worth wearing one of the P100 masks from the workshop, and if in any doubt, perhaps get David Hickling to go in first.
Nick ________________________________ From: David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:10 PM To: everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] attention J18 Level 2 residents
Hi J18 Level 2 people,
As you know there a smoky odour wafting around your level. Level 3 and 4 are OK at the moment. We think that it is coming in from outside. We have asked the Air conditioning people to inspect urgently.
If the smell bothers you maybe you should leave the building and take a break or go home?
Cheers David
David Hickling
Administrative and Technical Assistant
The University of Sydney
Faculty of Engineering
Australian Centre for Robotics
Level 2, Sydney Robotics Lab J19
74-80 Abercrombie St
Chippendale 2008 NSW
M 0404 349 074 | T 02 8627 8279
sydney.edu.au/acfrhttp://sydney.edu.au/acfr
_______________________________________________ Everybody mailing list -- everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au To unsubscribe send an email to everybody-leave@acfr.usyd.edu.au
Hi Annette,
Did the source of that smell last week get identified? I think I'm smelling it again…
Stef
[Description: USY_MB1_RGB_1_Colour_Standard_Logo.jpg] Prof. Stefan B. Williams Professor of Marine Robotics
stefan.williams@sydney.edu.aumailto:stefan.williams@sydney.edu.au +61 0403 849 183
From: Annette Karydis annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au Date: Friday, 1 May 2026 at 3:21 pm To: everybody everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au Cc: Vanessa Davie vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.au; Ian Manchester ian.manchester@sydney.edu.au; David Hickling david.hickling@sydney.edu.au Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Attention J18 residents
Hi All,
I have spoken to our H&S partner, Vanessa Davie, who has advised that we should evacuate all J18 until we understand what is happening.
If anyone is currently in J18, could you please evacuate the building immediately.
If you have any issues or concerns, please let me know. Kind Regards Annette Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics +61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097 CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Annette Karydis annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:59 PM To: Nick McCouat nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.au; David Hickling david.hickling@sydney.edu.au; everybody everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Re: attention J18 Level 2 residents Importance: High
Thanks Nick.
We have escalated this and we are expecting Airmaster to be on site within the next 20 minutes.
Levels 1 and 2 are not good. Until we investigate what this is, can I request for all occupants of level 2 to leave the building and anyone else that may not feel comfortable or have respiratory issues.
We will provide updated information as soon as know.
Many thanks Annette Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics +61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097 CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Nick McCouat <nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.aumailto:nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:53 PM To: David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au>; everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Re: attention J18 Level 2 residents
Just an update, there is now thicker (visible) white smoke throughout level 2, especially down near the J19 end.
I had to go in to retrieve my bag, but I wouldn't recommend doing so unless you really need to, as it is pretty dense and smells bad. And this is coming from someone who sits in the software office most days.
If you do need to enter L2, it may be worth wearing one of the P100 masks from the workshop, and if in any doubt, perhaps get David Hickling to go in first.
Nick ________________________________ From: David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:10 PM To: everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] attention J18 Level 2 residents
Hi J18 Level 2 people,
As you know there a smoky odour wafting around your level. Level 3 and 4 are OK at the moment. We think that it is coming in from outside. We have asked the Air conditioning people to inspect urgently.
If the smell bothers you maybe you should leave the building and take a break or go home?
Cheers David
David Hickling
Administrative and Technical Assistant
The University of Sydney
Faculty of Engineering
Australian Centre for Robotics
Level 2, Sydney Robotics Lab J19
74-80 Abercrombie St
Chippendale 2008 NSW
M 0404 349 074 | T 02 8627 8279
sydney.edu.au/acfrhttp://sydney.edu.au/acfr
_______________________________________________ Everybody mailing list -- everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au To unsubscribe send an email to everybody-leave@acfr.usyd.edu.au
Hi Stef,
Nothing was found.
Its coincidental that the smell has started again at almost the same time.
I have to ask, is anyone in J18 doing anything that could be causing a smell. The garage has been checked, the neighbouring buildings have been checked.
The smell is strongest on Level 2 near the kitchen, corridor near our software office.
@David Hicklingmailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au can you please submit a work request if the smell continues and pass it on to Charlotte and Judy. Kind Regards Annette Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics +61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097 CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Stefan Williams stefan.williams@sydney.edu.au Sent: Friday, 8 May 2026 12:33 PM To: Annette Karydis annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au; everybody everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au Cc: Vanessa Davie vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.au; Ian Manchester ian.manchester@sydney.edu.au; David Hickling david.hickling@sydney.edu.au Subject: Re: Attention J18 residents
Hi Annette,
Did the source of that smell last week get identified? I think I'm smelling it again…
Stef
[Description: USY_MB1_RGB_1_Colour_Standard_Logo.jpg] Prof. Stefan B. Williams Professor of Marine Robotics
stefan.williams@sydney.edu.aumailto:stefan.williams@sydney.edu.au +61 0403 849 183
From: Annette Karydis <annette.karydis@sydney.edu.aumailto:annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au> Date: Friday, 1 May 2026 at 3:21 pm To: everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Cc: Vanessa Davie <vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.aumailto:vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.au>; Ian Manchester <ian.manchester@sydney.edu.aumailto:ian.manchester@sydney.edu.au>; David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Attention J18 residents Hi All,
I have spoken to our H&S partner, Vanessa Davie, who has advised that we should evacuate all J18 until we understand what is happening.
If anyone is currently in J18, could you please evacuate the building immediately.
If you have any issues or concerns, please let me know. Kind Regards Annette Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics +61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097 CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Annette Karydis <annette.karydis@sydney.edu.aumailto:annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:59 PM To: Nick McCouat <nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.aumailto:nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.au>; David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au>; everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Re: attention J18 Level 2 residents Importance: High
Thanks Nick.
We have escalated this and we are expecting Airmaster to be on site within the next 20 minutes.
Levels 1 and 2 are not good. Until we investigate what this is, can I request for all occupants of level 2 to leave the building and anyone else that may not feel comfortable or have respiratory issues.
We will provide updated information as soon as know.
Many thanks Annette Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics +61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097 CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Nick McCouat <nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.aumailto:nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:53 PM To: David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au>; everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Re: attention J18 Level 2 residents
Just an update, there is now thicker (visible) white smoke throughout level 2, especially down near the J19 end.
I had to go in to retrieve my bag, but I wouldn't recommend doing so unless you really need to, as it is pretty dense and smells bad. And this is coming from someone who sits in the software office most days.
If you do need to enter L2, it may be worth wearing one of the P100 masks from the workshop, and if in any doubt, perhaps get David Hickling to go in first.
Nick ________________________________ From: David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:10 PM To: everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] attention J18 Level 2 residents
Hi J18 Level 2 people,
As you know there a smoky odour wafting around your level. Level 3 and 4 are OK at the moment. We think that it is coming in from outside. We have asked the Air conditioning people to inspect urgently.
If the smell bothers you maybe you should leave the building and take a break or go home?
Cheers David
David Hickling
Administrative and Technical Assistant
The University of Sydney
Faculty of Engineering
Australian Centre for Robotics
Level 2, Sydney Robotics Lab J19
74-80 Abercrombie St
Chippendale 2008 NSW
M 0404 349 074 | T 02 8627 8279
sydney.edu.au/acfrhttp://sydney.edu.au/acfr
_______________________________________________ Everybody mailing list -- everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au To unsubscribe send an email to everybody-leave@acfr.usyd.edu.au
Hi All
Can everyone on level 2 of J18 vacate the building while we investigate the issue again.
Judy and Charlotte we need a mechanical person to look at the air con. Bringing plans will be helpful.
David is submitting request now.
Kind regards
Annette Karydis Operations Manager ________________________________ From: Annette Karydis annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au Sent: Friday, May 8, 2026 12:49:01 PM To: Stefan Williams stefan.williams@sydney.edu.au; everybody everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au; David Hickling david.hickling@sydney.edu.au Cc: Vanessa Davie vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.au; Ian Manchester ian.manchester@sydney.edu.au; Charlotte Caldow charlotte.caldow@sydney.edu.au; Judy Martin judy.martin@sydney.edu.au Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Re: Attention J18 residents
Hi Stef,
Nothing was found.
Its coincidental that the smell has started again at almost the same time.
I have to ask, is anyone in J18 doing anything that could be causing a smell. The garage has been checked, the neighbouring buildings have been checked.
The smell is strongest on Level 2 near the kitchen, corridor near our software office.
@David Hicklingmailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au can you please submit a work request if the smell continues and pass it on to Charlotte and Judy.
Kind Regards
Annette
Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics
+61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097
CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Stefan Williams stefan.williams@sydney.edu.au Sent: Friday, 8 May 2026 12:33 PM To: Annette Karydis annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au; everybody everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au Cc: Vanessa Davie vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.au; Ian Manchester ian.manchester@sydney.edu.au; David Hickling david.hickling@sydney.edu.au Subject: Re: Attention J18 residents
Hi Annette,
Did the source of that smell last week get identified? I think I'm smelling it again…
Stef
[Description: USY_MB1_RGB_1_Colour_Standard_Logo.jpg]
Prof. Stefan B. Williams
Professor of Marine Robotics
stefan.williams@sydney.edu.aumailto:stefan.williams@sydney.edu.au +61 0403 849 183
From: Annette Karydis <annette.karydis@sydney.edu.aumailto:annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au> Date: Friday, 1 May 2026 at 3:21 pm To: everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Cc: Vanessa Davie <vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.aumailto:vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.au>; Ian Manchester <ian.manchester@sydney.edu.aumailto:ian.manchester@sydney.edu.au>; David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Attention J18 residents
Hi All,
I have spoken to our H&S partner, Vanessa Davie, who has advised that we should evacuate all J18 until we understand what is happening.
If anyone is currently in J18, could you please evacuate the building immediately.
If you have any issues or concerns, please let me know.
Kind Regards
Annette
Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics
+61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097
CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Annette Karydis <annette.karydis@sydney.edu.aumailto:annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:59 PM To: Nick McCouat <nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.aumailto:nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.au>; David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au>; everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Re: attention J18 Level 2 residents Importance: High
Thanks Nick.
We have escalated this and we are expecting Airmaster to be on site within the next 20 minutes.
Levels 1 and 2 are not good. Until we investigate what this is, can I request for all occupants of level 2 to leave the building and anyone else that may not feel comfortable or have respiratory issues.
We will provide updated information as soon as know.
Many thanks
Annette
Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics
+61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097
CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Nick McCouat <nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.aumailto:nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:53 PM To: David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au>; everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Re: attention J18 Level 2 residents
Just an update, there is now thicker (visible) white smoke throughout level 2, especially down near the J19 end.
I had to go in to retrieve my bag, but I wouldn't recommend doing so unless you really need to, as it is pretty dense and smells bad. And this is coming from someone who sits in the software office most days.
If you do need to enter L2, it may be worth wearing one of the P100 masks from the workshop, and if in any doubt, perhaps get David Hickling to go in first.
Nick
________________________________
From: David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:10 PM To: everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] attention J18 Level 2 residents
Hi J18 Level 2 people,
As you know there a smoky odour wafting around your level. Level 3 and 4 are OK at the moment. We think that it is coming in from outside. We have asked the Air conditioning people to inspect urgently.
If the smell bothers you maybe you should leave the building and take a break or go home?
Cheers David
David Hickling
Administrative and Technical Assistant
The University of Sydney
Faculty of Engineering
Australian Centre for Robotics
Level 2, Sydney Robotics Lab J19
74-80 Abercrombie St
Chippendale 2008 NSW
M 0404 349 074 | T 02 8627 8279
sydney.edu.au/acfrhttp://sydney.edu.au/acfr
_______________________________________________ Everybody mailing list -- everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au To unsubscribe send an email to everybody-leave@acfr.usyd.edu.au
It’s not just smelly. It is hazy in there - smoke of some sort.
Salah ________________________________ From: Annette Karydis annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au Sent: Friday, May 8, 2026 12:49:01 PM To: Stefan Williams stefan.williams@sydney.edu.au; everybody everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au; David Hickling david.hickling@sydney.edu.au Cc: Vanessa Davie vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.au; Ian Manchester ian.manchester@sydney.edu.au; Charlotte Caldow charlotte.caldow@sydney.edu.au; Judy Martin judy.martin@sydney.edu.au Subject: [Rio] [Everybody at ACFR] Re: Attention J18 residents
Hi Stef,
Nothing was found.
Its coincidental that the smell has started again at almost the same time.
I have to ask, is anyone in J18 doing anything that could be causing a smell. The garage has been checked, the neighbouring buildings have been checked.
The smell is strongest on Level 2 near the kitchen, corridor near our software office.
@David Hicklingmailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au can you please submit a work request if the smell continues and pass it on to Charlotte and Judy.
Kind Regards
Annette
Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics
+61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097
CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Stefan Williams stefan.williams@sydney.edu.au Sent: Friday, 8 May 2026 12:33 PM To: Annette Karydis annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au; everybody everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au Cc: Vanessa Davie vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.au; Ian Manchester ian.manchester@sydney.edu.au; David Hickling david.hickling@sydney.edu.au Subject: Re: Attention J18 residents
Hi Annette,
Did the source of that smell last week get identified? I think I'm smelling it again…
Stef
[Description: USY_MB1_RGB_1_Colour_Standard_Logo.jpg]
Prof. Stefan B. Williams
Professor of Marine Robotics
stefan.williams@sydney.edu.aumailto:stefan.williams@sydney.edu.au +61 0403 849 183
From: Annette Karydis <annette.karydis@sydney.edu.aumailto:annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au> Date: Friday, 1 May 2026 at 3:21 pm To: everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Cc: Vanessa Davie <vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.aumailto:vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.au>; Ian Manchester <ian.manchester@sydney.edu.aumailto:ian.manchester@sydney.edu.au>; David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Attention J18 residents
Hi All,
I have spoken to our H&S partner, Vanessa Davie, who has advised that we should evacuate all J18 until we understand what is happening.
If anyone is currently in J18, could you please evacuate the building immediately.
If you have any issues or concerns, please let me know.
Kind Regards
Annette
Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics
+61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097
CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Annette Karydis <annette.karydis@sydney.edu.aumailto:annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:59 PM To: Nick McCouat <nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.aumailto:nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.au>; David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au>; everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Re: attention J18 Level 2 residents Importance: High
Thanks Nick.
We have escalated this and we are expecting Airmaster to be on site within the next 20 minutes.
Levels 1 and 2 are not good. Until we investigate what this is, can I request for all occupants of level 2 to leave the building and anyone else that may not feel comfortable or have respiratory issues.
We will provide updated information as soon as know.
Many thanks
Annette
Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics
+61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097
CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Nick McCouat <nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.aumailto:nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:53 PM To: David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au>; everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Re: attention J18 Level 2 residents
Just an update, there is now thicker (visible) white smoke throughout level 2, especially down near the J19 end.
I had to go in to retrieve my bag, but I wouldn't recommend doing so unless you really need to, as it is pretty dense and smells bad. And this is coming from someone who sits in the software office most days.
If you do need to enter L2, it may be worth wearing one of the P100 masks from the workshop, and if in any doubt, perhaps get David Hickling to go in first.
Nick
________________________________
From: David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:10 PM To: everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] attention J18 Level 2 residents
Hi J18 Level 2 people,
As you know there a smoky odour wafting around your level. Level 3 and 4 are OK at the moment. We think that it is coming in from outside. We have asked the Air conditioning people to inspect urgently.
If the smell bothers you maybe you should leave the building and take a break or go home?
Cheers David
David Hickling
Administrative and Technical Assistant
The University of Sydney
Faculty of Engineering
Australian Centre for Robotics
Level 2, Sydney Robotics Lab J19
74-80 Abercrombie St
Chippendale 2008 NSW
M 0404 349 074 | T 02 8627 8279
sydney.edu.au/acfrhttp://sydney.edu.au/acfr
_______________________________________________ Everybody mailing list -- everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au To unsubscribe send an email to everybody-leave@acfr.usyd.edu.au
Hi all
Can everyone please evacuate J18 now while we investigate again.
My apologies for doing this. Kind Regards Annette Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics +61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097 CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Salah Sukkarieh salah.sukkarieh@sydney.edu.au Sent: Friday, 8 May 2026 2:14 PM To: Annette Karydis annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au; Stefan Williams stefan.williams@sydney.edu.au; everybody everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au; David Hickling david.hickling@sydney.edu.au Cc: Vanessa Davie vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.au; Ian Manchester ian.manchester@sydney.edu.au; Charlotte Caldow charlotte.caldow@sydney.edu.au; Judy Martin judy.martin@sydney.edu.au Subject: Re: Attention J18 residents
It’s not just smelly. It is hazy in there - smoke of some sort.
Salah ________________________________ From: Annette Karydis <annette.karydis@sydney.edu.aumailto:annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, May 8, 2026 12:49:01 PM To: Stefan Williams <stefan.williams@sydney.edu.aumailto:stefan.williams@sydney.edu.au>; everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au>; David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au> Cc: Vanessa Davie <vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.aumailto:vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.au>; Ian Manchester <ian.manchester@sydney.edu.aumailto:ian.manchester@sydney.edu.au>; Charlotte Caldow <charlotte.caldow@sydney.edu.aumailto:charlotte.caldow@sydney.edu.au>; Judy Martin <judy.martin@sydney.edu.aumailto:judy.martin@sydney.edu.au> Subject: [Rio] [Everybody at ACFR] Re: Attention J18 residents
Hi Stef,
Nothing was found.
Its coincidental that the smell has started again at almost the same time.
I have to ask, is anyone in J18 doing anything that could be causing a smell. The garage has been checked, the neighbouring buildings have been checked.
The smell is strongest on Level 2 near the kitchen, corridor near our software office.
@David Hicklingmailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au can you please submit a work request if the smell continues and pass it on to Charlotte and Judy.
Kind Regards
Annette
Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics
+61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097
CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Stefan Williams <stefan.williams@sydney.edu.aumailto:stefan.williams@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 8 May 2026 12:33 PM To: Annette Karydis <annette.karydis@sydney.edu.aumailto:annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au>; everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Cc: Vanessa Davie <vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.aumailto:vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.au>; Ian Manchester <ian.manchester@sydney.edu.aumailto:ian.manchester@sydney.edu.au>; David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au> Subject: Re: Attention J18 residents
Hi Annette,
Did the source of that smell last week get identified? I think I'm smelling it again…
Stef
[Description: USY_MB1_RGB_1_Colour_Standard_Logo.jpg]
Prof. Stefan B. Williams
Professor of Marine Robotics
stefan.williams@sydney.edu.aumailto:stefan.williams@sydney.edu.au +61 0403 849 183
From: Annette Karydis <annette.karydis@sydney.edu.aumailto:annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au> Date: Friday, 1 May 2026 at 3:21 pm To: everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Cc: Vanessa Davie <vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.aumailto:vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.au>; Ian Manchester <ian.manchester@sydney.edu.aumailto:ian.manchester@sydney.edu.au>; David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Attention J18 residents
Hi All,
I have spoken to our H&S partner, Vanessa Davie, who has advised that we should evacuate all J18 until we understand what is happening.
If anyone is currently in J18, could you please evacuate the building immediately.
If you have any issues or concerns, please let me know.
Kind Regards
Annette
Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics
+61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097
CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Annette Karydis <annette.karydis@sydney.edu.aumailto:annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:59 PM To: Nick McCouat <nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.aumailto:nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.au>; David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au>; everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Re: attention J18 Level 2 residents Importance: High
Thanks Nick.
We have escalated this and we are expecting Airmaster to be on site within the next 20 minutes.
Levels 1 and 2 are not good. Until we investigate what this is, can I request for all occupants of level 2 to leave the building and anyone else that may not feel comfortable or have respiratory issues.
We will provide updated information as soon as know.
Many thanks
Annette
Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics
+61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097
CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Nick McCouat <nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.aumailto:nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:53 PM To: David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au>; everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Re: attention J18 Level 2 residents
Just an update, there is now thicker (visible) white smoke throughout level 2, especially down near the J19 end.
I had to go in to retrieve my bag, but I wouldn't recommend doing so unless you really need to, as it is pretty dense and smells bad. And this is coming from someone who sits in the software office most days.
If you do need to enter L2, it may be worth wearing one of the P100 masks from the workshop, and if in any doubt, perhaps get David Hickling to go in first.
Nick
________________________________
From: David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:10 PM To: everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] attention J18 Level 2 residents
Hi J18 Level 2 people,
As you know there a smoky odour wafting around your level. Level 3 and 4 are OK at the moment. We think that it is coming in from outside. We have asked the Air conditioning people to inspect urgently.
If the smell bothers you maybe you should leave the building and take a break or go home?
Cheers David
David Hickling
Administrative and Technical Assistant
The University of Sydney
Faculty of Engineering
Australian Centre for Robotics
Level 2, Sydney Robotics Lab J19
74-80 Abercrombie St
Chippendale 2008 NSW
M 0404 349 074 | T 02 8627 8279
sydney.edu.au/acfrhttp://sydney.edu.au/acfr
_______________________________________________ Everybody mailing list -- everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au To unsubscribe send an email to everybody-leave@acfr.usyd.edu.au
Hi All,
An update on the smell issue for J18. After some detective work and a bit of door knocking, (thanks Jag!) it appears that an adjoining neighbour has had a BBQ at the same time over the past two weeks, positioned very close to our adjoining wall.
The resident apologised profusely and won’t be placing the BBQ close to our adjoining wall in future.
To end on a nice note, Happy Mother’s Day to all the mums for this weekend. Kind Regards Annette Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics +61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097 CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Annette Karydis annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au Sent: Friday, 8 May 2026 2:26 PM To: Salah Sukkarieh salah.sukkarieh@sydney.edu.au; Stefan Williams stefan.williams@sydney.edu.au; everybody everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au; David Hickling david.hickling@sydney.edu.au Cc: Vanessa Davie vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.au; Ian Manchester ian.manchester@sydney.edu.au; Charlotte Caldow charlotte.caldow@sydney.edu.au; Judy Martin judy.martin@sydney.edu.au Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Re: Attention J18 residents Importance: High
Hi all
Can everyone please evacuate J18 now while we investigate again.
My apologies for doing this. Kind Regards Annette Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics +61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097 CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Salah Sukkarieh <salah.sukkarieh@sydney.edu.aumailto:salah.sukkarieh@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 8 May 2026 2:14 PM To: Annette Karydis <annette.karydis@sydney.edu.aumailto:annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au>; Stefan Williams <stefan.williams@sydney.edu.aumailto:stefan.williams@sydney.edu.au>; everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au>; David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au> Cc: Vanessa Davie <vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.aumailto:vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.au>; Ian Manchester <ian.manchester@sydney.edu.aumailto:ian.manchester@sydney.edu.au>; Charlotte Caldow <charlotte.caldow@sydney.edu.aumailto:charlotte.caldow@sydney.edu.au>; Judy Martin <judy.martin@sydney.edu.aumailto:judy.martin@sydney.edu.au> Subject: Re: Attention J18 residents
It’s not just smelly. It is hazy in there - smoke of some sort.
Salah ________________________________ From: Annette Karydis <annette.karydis@sydney.edu.aumailto:annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, May 8, 2026 12:49:01 PM To: Stefan Williams <stefan.williams@sydney.edu.aumailto:stefan.williams@sydney.edu.au>; everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au>; David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au> Cc: Vanessa Davie <vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.aumailto:vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.au>; Ian Manchester <ian.manchester@sydney.edu.aumailto:ian.manchester@sydney.edu.au>; Charlotte Caldow <charlotte.caldow@sydney.edu.aumailto:charlotte.caldow@sydney.edu.au>; Judy Martin <judy.martin@sydney.edu.aumailto:judy.martin@sydney.edu.au> Subject: [Rio] [Everybody at ACFR] Re: Attention J18 residents
Hi Stef,
Nothing was found.
Its coincidental that the smell has started again at almost the same time.
I have to ask, is anyone in J18 doing anything that could be causing a smell. The garage has been checked, the neighbouring buildings have been checked.
The smell is strongest on Level 2 near the kitchen, corridor near our software office.
@David Hicklingmailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au can you please submit a work request if the smell continues and pass it on to Charlotte and Judy.
Kind Regards
Annette
Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics
+61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097
CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Stefan Williams <stefan.williams@sydney.edu.aumailto:stefan.williams@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 8 May 2026 12:33 PM To: Annette Karydis <annette.karydis@sydney.edu.aumailto:annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au>; everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Cc: Vanessa Davie <vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.aumailto:vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.au>; Ian Manchester <ian.manchester@sydney.edu.aumailto:ian.manchester@sydney.edu.au>; David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au> Subject: Re: Attention J18 residents
Hi Annette,
Did the source of that smell last week get identified? I think I'm smelling it again…
Stef
[Description: USY_MB1_RGB_1_Colour_Standard_Logo.jpg]
Prof. Stefan B. Williams
Professor of Marine Robotics
stefan.williams@sydney.edu.aumailto:stefan.williams@sydney.edu.au +61 0403 849 183
From: Annette Karydis <annette.karydis@sydney.edu.aumailto:annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au> Date: Friday, 1 May 2026 at 3:21 pm To: everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Cc: Vanessa Davie <vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.aumailto:vanessa.davie@sydney.edu.au>; Ian Manchester <ian.manchester@sydney.edu.aumailto:ian.manchester@sydney.edu.au>; David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Attention J18 residents
Hi All,
I have spoken to our H&S partner, Vanessa Davie, who has advised that we should evacuate all J18 until we understand what is happening.
If anyone is currently in J18, could you please evacuate the building immediately.
If you have any issues or concerns, please let me know.
Kind Regards
Annette
Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics
+61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097
CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Annette Karydis <annette.karydis@sydney.edu.aumailto:annette.karydis@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:59 PM To: Nick McCouat <nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.aumailto:nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.au>; David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au>; everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Re: attention J18 Level 2 residents Importance: High
Thanks Nick.
We have escalated this and we are expecting Airmaster to be on site within the next 20 minutes.
Levels 1 and 2 are not good. Until we investigate what this is, can I request for all occupants of level 2 to leave the building and anyone else that may not feel comfortable or have respiratory issues.
We will provide updated information as soon as know.
Many thanks
Annette
Annette Karydis | Operations Manager The University of Sydney Faculty of Engineering, Australian Centre for Robotics
+61 2 9351 8146 | +61 419 207 097
CRICOS 00026A This email plus any attachments to it are confidential. Any unauthorised use is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error, please delete it and any attachments.
From: Nick McCouat <nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.aumailto:nick.mccouat@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:53 PM To: David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au>; everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] Re: attention J18 Level 2 residents
Just an update, there is now thicker (visible) white smoke throughout level 2, especially down near the J19 end.
I had to go in to retrieve my bag, but I wouldn't recommend doing so unless you really need to, as it is pretty dense and smells bad. And this is coming from someone who sits in the software office most days.
If you do need to enter L2, it may be worth wearing one of the P100 masks from the workshop, and if in any doubt, perhaps get David Hickling to go in first.
Nick
________________________________
From: David Hickling <david.hickling@sydney.edu.aumailto:david.hickling@sydney.edu.au> Sent: Friday, 1 May 2026 12:10 PM To: everybody <everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.aumailto:everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au> Subject: [Everybody at ACFR] attention J18 Level 2 residents
Hi J18 Level 2 people,
As you know there a smoky odour wafting around your level. Level 3 and 4 are OK at the moment. We think that it is coming in from outside. We have asked the Air conditioning people to inspect urgently.
If the smell bothers you maybe you should leave the building and take a break or go home?
Cheers David
David Hickling
Administrative and Technical Assistant
The University of Sydney
Faculty of Engineering
Australian Centre for Robotics
Level 2, Sydney Robotics Lab J19
74-80 Abercrombie St
Chippendale 2008 NSW
M 0404 349 074 | T 02 8627 8279
sydney.edu.au/acfrhttp://sydney.edu.au/acfr
_______________________________________________ Everybody mailing list -- everybody@acfr.usyd.edu.au To unsubscribe send an email to everybody-leave@acfr.usyd.edu.au
participants (3)
-
Annette Karydis -
Salah Sukkarieh -
Stefan Williams