both Beijing South and Shanghai Hongqiao are much further from their respective CBDs than Parramatta is to Sydney, and I'd say it still compares favourably to travelling to the airport once you factor in security and bag collection

Considering Sydney is the biggest city in the region I'd imagine journey times passing through aren't a high priority. Building outside the CBD would definitely make sense to save money though. No idea where you could fit an ~8 platform through station near central

for the record Derrick Gee convinced me Ed Sheeran is the greatest artist of our time

Going via the north shore and CBD as opposed to Strathfield is a surprising choice. Surely another harbour crossing and tunnel through the CBD would be pretty difficult

Eight minutes is the current timetabled journey time from Bondi Junction all the way to Martin Place

Did you switch to a 24hr gym? 👀

I had this exact experience in LA as an Australian

Happy Wednesday!