Renewed appeal on the 20th anniversary of Redfern man's disappearance - $250,000 reward
Monday, 21 July 2025 09:58:54 AM
Police are renewing an appeal for information into the disappearance of a Redfern man 20 years ago.
Simon Knight, aged 32, was last seen at a hotel on Crown Street, Surry Hills, on the morning of Thursday 21 July 2005.
When Mr Knight, a chef, did not arrive for his shift at a café in Newtown later that day, he was reported missing to police.
Despite extensive investigations at the time, and over the years, Simon has never been found with a second coronial inquest in 2015 finding it was likely Simon had died. However, a body has never been located and the circumstances are unknown.
Detectives from South Sydney Police Area Command are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Mr Knight’s disappearance under Strike Force Glenlea.
In November 2020, a NSW Government reward was increased to $250,000 for information into Simon’s disappearance.
At the time of his disappearance, Simon was described as being of Caucasian appearance, 183cm tall, with blue eyes, a fair complexion, red hair and facial hair.
When he was last seen, it is believed he was wearing a dark green T-shirt and blue jeans.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley said that despite the passage of time, Simon’s family needed answers.
“Losing a loved one is devastating, but the not knowing makes the loss so much harder.
“Today we appeal to anyone who might have the smallest piece of information, which can help police bring answers about Simon’s disappearance for the Knight family,” she said.
South Sydney Police Area Commander, Acting Superintendent Christopher Hill said police believe there is someone out there that knows something about Simon’s disappearance.
“To support this search for answers, anyone who may have held onto information since Simon’s disappearance, is urged to come forward,” A/Supt Hill said.
“We are keen to speak with anyone who lived or frequented Crown and Oxford streets, Surry Hills, in July 2005, particularly if they knew Simon and have not yet spoken to police.
“Any piece of new information – no matter how seemingly insignificant – could be the key to solve this case and help provide much-needed answers to Simon’s family about what happened to him.”
Simon’s father, Bob Knight said although it has now been 20 years since Simon’s disappearance, our family are very grateful to the police for their assistance and the work they have done to find out what happened to Simon.
“Our family are still waiting, hoping one day we will get answers and closure,” said Mr Knight.
“So please if you know anything, please get in touch with the police or Crime Stoppers.”
The $250,000 reward is available for information leading to the discovery of Simon Knight’s whereabouts or disclosing the circumstances of his disappearance.
Anyone with information about Mr Knight’s disappearance is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Information is treated in strict confidence. The community is reminded not to report crime via NSW Police social media pages.