Authorities are once again seeking public assistance in the investigation into the 2005 disappearance of Simon Knight, a 32-year-old chef from Redfern, Sydney. Simon was last spotted at a hotel on Crown Street, Surry Hills, on Thursday, July 21, and was reported missing later that day when he failed to arrive for his café shift in Newtown.
Two decades since Simon’s disappearance, his family continues to search for closure. A second coronial inquest held in 2015 concluded that it was likely Simon had died, yet no remains have ever been discovered. Bob Knight, Simon’s father, stated that the family remains hopeful for a breakthrough, persisting in their quest for answers.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley has emphasised the pain of loss amplified by uncertainty, acknowledging the emotional toll it has taken on Simon’s loved ones, including his siblings. In 2020, Knight expressed his firm belief that his son “wouldn’t just disappear”, underscoring the profound impact the situation has had on his family.
Authorities believe there may be individuals who possess crucial information related to Simon’s case, particularly those who lived in or frequented the Crown and Oxford streets area in Surry Hills during July 2005. Acting Superintendent Christopher Hill has urged anyone with even seemingly minor details to come forward, stressing that such information could be vital in resolving the case and providing Simon’s family with the answers they seek.
At the time of his disappearance, Simon was described as a white male, approximately 183 cm tall, with blue eyes, a fair complexion, and red hair complemented by facial hair. When last seen, he was reportedly wearing a dark green T-shirt and jeans.
With the inquiry now reopened, police are looking for any leads that could shed light on the circumstances surrounding Simon Knight’s disappearance, two decades after his family was left waiting for the information that could eventually bring them closure.