It is quite common to the have the record date be the first day...

It is quite common to the have the record date be the first day that the halt is lifted. Unfortunately though, it does mean that you won't qualify for the offer if you purchase shares on Fri, because settlement takes place on T+2 basis.

However, given that the rights will be trading on the ASX, you can buy the rights to the shares and partake in the retail offer through this pathway. Buying the rights would eat into some of the discount being offered by SYD, but you might still be able to pick up shares at a decent price.