Russell Crowe rips it up at Redfern

So much so that Crowe and fellow South Sydney owner Peter Holmes a Court ripped up a street sign yesterday to show their respect for Redfern Town Hall.

The newly erected sign for a bicycle lane was temporarily removed for a better line of photographic sight during filming for a documentary on their takeover of the historic club.

"There's the first line of your story mate," grinned Crowe as Holmes a Court neatly placed the sign on the footpath.

Within minutes three council workers turned up to demand an explanation - but pottered off after the millionaire pair promised to replace the sign, as they later did.

It was one short moment among many yesterday as it became apparent the privileged pair have been accepted by the working-class Rabbitoh heartland.

Residents peered from doorways, cafes and passing cars but none were razzle-dazzled by Crowe or Holmes a Court as they prepared to film a segment for the ABC series.

"It happens a lot," said Crowe of the understated welcome and acceptance by locals.

"We get a lot of support from this district and the people have a deep understanding of what we're trying to do.

"That's not about vanity - it's really got nothing to do with us. It's their team."

The pair took over the team via a club vote in March last year and an independent documentary crew has since followed them and the team's fortunes.

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