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South Coogee Oceanfront Property Poised to Shatter Records at Auction

A breathtaking oceanfront property in South Coogee is poised to make waves in the real estate market as it heads to auction next month.

Read: Coogee Calling: A Coastal Odyssey from Bondi to Coogee

Located at 17-19 Seaside Parade, this architectural marvel comes with a hefty $16 million guide price, but industry insiders speculate it could surpass recent record-breaking sales in the area.

Potential Record-Breaker in South Coogee

The upcoming auction, scheduled for Saturday, October 19th, is being handled by Sydney Sotheby’s International Realty. If predictions hold true, this sale could eclipse some of South Coogee’s most notable recent transactions.

Earlier this year, two residences on Bunya Parade fetched $19 million, setting a high bar for the area. Additionally, the sale of tech guru Fred Schebesta’s oceanfront home, dubbed the “Crypto Castle,” for $16.85 million further exemplifies the booming luxury market in the region.

Property Highlights

Situated on a coveted oceanfront setting, this property boasts a rare 834 sqm double block. The architecturally exhilarating design is spread across four levels, offering jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean. With six bedrooms and seven bathrooms, the home provides ample space for luxury living and entertaining.

One of the standout features is the home cinema with metallic cork walls, adding a touch of sophistication to movie nights. Multiple alfresco terraces provide perfect spots for outdoor relaxation and entertainment, while four carport spaces ensure plenty of room for vehicles.

The listing emphasises the property’s unique connection to nature. Residents can enjoy the privilege of watching migrating whales and playful dolphins from the comfort of their home, truly bringing nature to their doorstep.

Investment Potential

The property’s history suggests significant value appreciation over time. Last sold in 2008 for $4.8 million, its current guide price of $16 million represents a potential 233% increase over 15 years. This remarkable growth underscores the enduring appeal and investment potential of premium oceanfront properties in Sydney’s eastern suburbs.

Read: Coogee Residents to Shape Future of Arden Street Amenities

As the auction date approaches, all eyes will be on this South Coogee gem to see if it will set a new benchmark in the area’s luxury real estate market. The combination of its prime location, stunning design, and impressive features makes it a strong contender to break existing records and potentially redefine the upper echelons of South Coogee’s property market.

Published 15-September-2024

Coogee Man Condemned for Abandoning Ex-Girlfriend’s Snakes

The magistrate strongly reprimanded a Coogee man for callously dumping his ex-girlfriend’s pet snakes in the street in a distressing case of animal mistreatment intertwined with domestic violence.

Justin Downs, 26, faced the consequences of his actions at the Waverley Local Court where he pleaded guilty to a charge related to the domestic violence-inflicted destruction of property. During the proceedings, Magistrate Jacqueline Milledge did not mince words, threatening severe repercussions if Downs made another court appearance, promising swift incarceration.

The incident unfolded in October 2023 shortly after Downs’ girlfriend ended their relationship via phone. In a vindictive response, Downs wrecked the enclosures of two pythons named Bagel and Mango at his Coogee residence and abandoned the helpless reptiles on the street. He was arrested nearly a week later at Randwick police station.

Photo Credit: Teja Mae/Instagram

Magistrate Milledge described the act as exceptionally cruel, pointing out the significant distress it likely caused the animals. She chastised Downs for his destructive response to personal conflict, labeling him a “bully” and highlighting his recurrent violent behavior towards property in domestic settings.

In his defense, Downs’ attorney portrayed him as remorseful, mentioning his ongoing psychological counseling and participation in an alcohol management program. Despite his criminal actions, his lawyer argued that Downs contributes to society, referencing his local business and tax contributions. She also detailed a recent personal setback where Downs suffered serious injuries from a car accident, which impacted his ability to work.

Ultimately, Downs was sentenced to a 30-month community correction order and ordered to pay restitution of $1,281.95 to his ex-girlfriend. Additionally, he received a two-year prohibition from contacting her under an apprehended domestic violence order.

The community and authorities remain vigilant in addressing such acts of cruelty and violence, ensuring support is available for victims through services like the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service.

Published: 14-Sept-2024

Get Sashimi Coogee: Fresh, Fast, and Healthy Seafood Arrives on the Coast

Photo Credit: Get Sashimi/Facebook

A new sashimi bar called Get Sashimi is set to open in Coogee, bringing over 70 types of sushi and 20 varieties of fresh sashimi to local seafood lovers in the eastern suburbs.

The highly anticipated Get Sashimi Coogee location will open on 15 September 2024, offering both dine-in and takeaway options. The two-level restaurant will feature a 10-metre wall-to-wall sashimi bar, with seating for up to 50 people upstairs. The venue has been described by the owner, Antonio Muollo, as a “seafood heaven” catering to Coogee’s family-friendly, health-conscious community.

Mr Muollo explained that the decision to expand into Coogee was an easy one. The area’s laid-back beachside vibe and focus on healthy living made it the perfect next step after the success of the first Get Sashimi location in Bondi. He said the new restaurant would offer locals a fresh, fast, and healthy dining option, adding excitement to the neighbourhood’s food scene.

Antonio Muollo’s Seafood Empire

At just 25, Mr Muollo is no stranger to the seafood business. He started his first company, Get Fish, at the age of 18, skipping university to pursue a career in an industry he had grown up in.

Mr Muollo’s father worked at the Sydney Fish Market, where Antonio began learning the trade at a young age. By the time he was a teenager, Muollo identified a gap in the market for home-delivered fresh seafood in Sydney. His seafood delivery service quickly took off, evolving into a business that now turns over $30 million a year and includes not only delivery but also wholesale operations and a dedicated fishing fleet.

The Get Sashimi Bondi location opened last year and became an instant hit. Mr Muollo said the restaurant’s focus on providing healthy, high-quality seafood in a quick and convenient format appealed to locals, leading to the decision to expand to a second location.

Bestsellers

The Coogee location is expected to offer a similar menu to its Bondi counterpart, where some of the most popular items have made it a seafood destination.

At Bondi, the toro (tuna belly) sashimi is a standout bestseller, prized for its rich, buttery texture that melts in your mouth. Other top choices include the luxurious Ora King salmon and Hokkaido scallops, known for their fresh, delicate flavours.

For those seeking something more unique, the Paradise prawns and inventive sushi creations like the salmon gunkan topped with raspberry or strawberry offer exciting twists on traditional sushi. These selections, alongside poke bowls and hand rolls, are sure to make waves in Coogee, appealing to both casual diners and seafood aficionados.

Expansion Plans

With the new Coogee store about to open, Muollo has big plans for the future. He has already hinted at further expansion for Get Sashimi, with more locations planned for 2025, including the Northern Beaches.

Mr Muollo explained that his goal is to keep the restaurants both accessible and affordable while maintaining the quality that has become a hallmark of his brand. He acknowledged that while running a seafood empire is a challenge, he is confident Sydney’s love of fresh fish and sashimi will continue to drive the business forward.

Get Sashimi Coogee is located at 252 Coogee Bay Road. Follow them on Instagram.

Coastal Flavours Reimagined: Coogee Wine Room’s Gourmet Transformation

Coogee Wine Room has undergone a remarkable transformation, elevating its status from a casual beachside bar to a gastronomic destination.

Read: Yo-Chi’s Sweet Success: Froyo Chain to Expand to Coogee and Beyond

Under the guidance of new head chef Ken Yong, this beloved local haunt has reimagined its menu, offering patrons a sophisticated dining experience that rivals the stunning ocean views.

Chef Yong brings an impressive pedigree to Coogee Wine Room, having honed his skills in some of Australia’s most prestigious kitchens, including Jonah’s, Tetsuya’s, Quay, and Oncore by Clare Smyth. His culinary philosophy, which blends modern techniques with traditional styles and emphasises the ‘farm to fork’ concept, is evident in every dish on the new menu.

Gone are the days of simple bar snacks. The revamped offerings now feature culinary masterpieces such as heirloom carrots with burratina, hazelnuts, and an innovative carrot & coffee dressing.

For meat enthusiasts, the MS6+ Wagyu rump cap tagliata, served with radicchio, pepitas, salsa macha, and jus, promises a decadent exploration of flavours and textures.

Chef Yong’s personal favourite, the Chicken Ballotine, showcases his ability to elevate classic dishes. This refined creation features a Comté fondue, cauliflower florets, sage, sherry dressing, and chicken jus – a symphony of flavours that exemplifies the new direction of Coogee Wine Room’s cuisine.

The wine bar’s commitment to culinary excellence was further demonstrated in their recent Chef Collaboration Dinner. This exclusive event, held on August 25, saw Chef Yong partnering with Chef Joshua Osborne to create a one-night-only menu that celebrated Australian produce and sustainability.

While the food has taken centre stage in this reinvention, Coogee Wine Room hasn’t forgotten its roots as a wine lover’s paradise. The establishment boasts an impressive selection of 500 bottles, representing major wine regions worldwide and offering over 50 different varietals. With 25 wines available by the glass, patrons are encouraged to explore and discover new favourites.

For those preferring other libations, a curated selection of cocktails and beers is also available.

Owners Tom Hardwick and Michelle Morales have successfully created a space that marries the sophistication of European wine bars with the laid-back charm of a beachside neighbourhood spot.

Spread across two levels, the restaurant offers a variety of atmospheres to suit any mood – from casual dining on the ground floor to intimate gatherings in the upstairs lounge.

Read: Una Mas Debuts Sunday Brunch: Spanish Pastries and More by Chef Elodie Marion

As Coogee Wine Room enters this new chapter, it stands as a testament to the evolving Sydney dining scene. By combining world-class cuisine, an extensive wine selection, and the unbeatable ambiance of its beachside location, it has positioned itself as a must-visit destination for food and wine enthusiasts alike.

Published 26-August-2024

Sydney Athletes Dive into Seaweed Restoration at Coogee Beach

Top Sydney athletes braved the winter chill to participate in the Ultimate Recovery Session at Coogee Beach, planting seaweed to support Operation Crayweed’s marine habitat restoration efforts.

The event took place on Wednesday, 14 August 2024, bringing together athletes from various sports codes to learn about and contribute to the restoration of Sydney’s underwater forests.

This initiative aimed to raise awareness and funds for Operation Crayweed, an environmental project focused on restoring vital seaweed habitats along Sydney’s coastline.

Athlete Involvement

Stars from AFL, AFLW, soccer, rugby league, netball, and surfing joined forces for this environmental initiative.

Participants included Jesse Hogan, Toby Greene, Tarni Evans, Izzy Huntington, and Nicola Barr from GWS GIANTS; Lisa Steane from Sydney Swans; Teigan Collister and Margaux Chauvet from Sydney FC; Jasmine Strange, Samantha Economos, and Brydie Parker from the Roosters NRLW team; Teigan O’Shannassy from Sydney Swifts; and WSL surfers Tully White and Ace Buchan.

Seaweed restoration in Coogee — *Photo Credit: Gemba Group/Instagram*

The athletes got hands-on experience in underwater gardening, learning to sex the seaweed and prepare ‘cray-babies’ (juvenile specimens) for planting. This practical involvement aimed to raise awareness about the importance of seaweed habitats in Sydney’s marine ecosystem.

Boyd Hicklin, Creative Director at Gemba, the company that organised the event, expressed enthusiasm about the athletes’ participation. He noted the importance of giving back to Sydney’s coastline and praised Operation Crayweed’s impact on the environment.

Operation Crayweed’s Mission

Professor Adriana Vergés from Operation Crayweed explained that the organisation’s work is crucial for Sydney’s coastline. The project uses world-first technology developed in Sydney to re-establish crayweed populations along 70 kilometres of coastline.

Vergés highlighted the significance of crayweed forests, stating that they provide essential food and habitat for diverse marine life, aid biodiversity, and even help in carbon sequestration. She compared the importance of seaweeds to Sydney reefs to that of corals in the Great Barrier Reef.

The professor expressed gratitude for the athletes’ involvement, saying it was wonderful to engage with these enthusiastic individuals and involve them in the marine restoration project. She emphasised that by reintroducing crayweed to Sydney’s reefs, they are bringing back one species and rebuilding an entire ecological community.

Community Impact

The Ultimate Recovery Session aimed to restore seaweed habitats and educate and involve the community in environmental conservation.

Nicola Barr from FrontRunners and GWS Giants emphasised the connection between climate change and sports. She noted that athletes are increasingly concerned about how a warming planet will affect the future of their sports and coming generations. Barr pointed out that with millions of passionate fans and followers, athletes and sports organisations have a unique opportunity to drive significant climate action.

The event demonstrated a growing trend of athletes using their platforms to drive significant climate action and engage their fan bases in environmental causes. It also highlighted the importance of community involvement in environmental restoration projects.

DONATE TO OPERATION CRAYWEED

Published 26-Aug-2024

Humanitarian Lawyer Conquers 92-km Swim from Italy to Albania After Coogee Training

Eva Buzo, a Sydney-based humanitarian lawyer, has completed a gruelling 92-kilometre swim from Italy to Albania, showcasing the skills she honed at Coogee Beach during the pandemic.

The 35-hour marathon swim began on 17 August 2024 at 2:00 p.m. local time. Eva, an international criminal law specialist, faced challenging conditions in the Adriatic Sea, including strong currents and complicated water movements.

Training and Preparation

Eva’s journey to this remarkable achievement began during the COVID-19 pandemic when she joined the Coogee Beach swimming club Vladswim. Under the guidance of marathon swimming coach Vlad Mravec, she trained rigorously, swimming 8km daily on weekdays and 10-15km on weekends. This intense regimen prepared her for the demanding nature of long-distance open-water swimming.

Eva Buzo Coogee — *Photo Credit: Eva Buzo/Instagram*

The lawyer’s dedication to her training at Coogee Beach was crucial to her success. The famous Sydney beach provided the perfect backdrop for Eva to build her endurance and acclimatise to open water conditions. Her commitment to the sport quickly grew, transforming her from a novice ocean swimmer to an accomplished marathon swimmer in just a few years.

Challenges Faced

During the swim, Eva encountered several significant obstacles that tested her physical and mental fortitude. Strong currents posed a major challenge, having previously thwarted her first attempt at the crossing.

Last year, she swam for 28 hours but could not complete the journey due to these powerful water movements.

As the swim progressed, fatigue-induced hallucinations became a troubling issue. Eva reported seeing “monsters out of movies” during the dark hours of her swim, adding a psychological challenge to the already demanding physical task.

The lawyer described feeling fearful during these moments, emphasising the impact of extreme fatigue on her mental state.

The physical toll of the swim was considerable. Prolonged exposure to saltwater caused numbness and swelling in Eva’s mouth, affecting her ability to control it. This condition, which she likened to the aftermath of wisdom teeth removal, necessitated a brief hospital stay after the swim for monitoring and recovery.

Despite these challenges, Eva persevered. She recounted the final moments of the swim, stating that she believed she would finish at the last 25 metres. The changing conditions and slow progress made the final stretch feel interminable, but her determination ultimately saw her through.

@evabuzoswims What does it take to be an ultra endurance swimmer? Lets find out…#womeninsport ♬ original sound – Eva Buzo

Personal Significance

For Eva, an Australian with Albanian heritage, the swim held special meaning beyond the physical achievement.

Her grandfather, Zihni Buzo, came to Australia as a refugee in 1946 after fleeing Albania during World War II. This family history added an emotional dimension to her journey, connecting her to her ancestral roots uniquely and powerfully.

Zihni’s story is remarkable in its own right. He studied engineering at Harvard on a scholarship and spent several years building water projects in Albania before the circumstances of war forced him to seek refuge in Australia.

Fundraising Efforts

Eva used the swim to raise awareness for Victim Advocates International, a charity she founded in 2020. The organisation supports victims of serious international crimes, including war crimes and genocide.

Prior to the swim, Eva had set a goal of raising $20,000 for the charity. She believed that her athletic endeavour would help bring wider public attention to her work in human rights, noting that while her professional achievements are well-known within the human rights community, swimming could reach a broader audience.

Future Aspirations

She is believed to be the first officially to swim between these two countries – Italy and Albania.

Earlier this year, she completed the earliest crossing of the English Channel by a female swimmer in the season, further cementing her status as a formidable athlete.

Having conquered this challenging swim and previously crossed the English Channel, Ea continues to push the boundaries of long-distance swimming. Her latest achievement adds to her growing list of accomplishments both in and out of the water.

Published 26-Aug-2024

Coogee Celebrates as Council Finally Removes Controversial Planter Box

After years of persistent complaints from frustrated residents, a controversial beachfront planter box in Coogee was finally removed. The concrete structure at the Arden Street and Coogee Bay Road intersection has caused numerous accidents and has been the subject of countless community grievances.

For at least two years, locals have criticised the planter box, which sometimes housed a tree and others did not—a situation the council attributed to “vandalism.” Drivers frequently reported mounting the blocks surrounding the tree space, leading to multiple instances of vehicle damage.

Many residents questioned the box’s positioning, deeming it “useless” and asking why the council thought the left-hand lane on a busy beachfront road was a suitable location for a tree.

Previously, a Randwick City spokesperson stated that removing the blocks was not an option because trees add much value to an urban environment. However, as time passed, the box became the site of many accidents, with one occurring as recently as last week. The council maintained that the blocks served as a wheel stop for the parking spots in front of them.

Locals, however, argued that it was unsafe. In July, one Coogee resident claimed to have personally heard of three cars that had smashed into it in a single week.

Photos emerged showing contractors paving over the area, giving many locals hope. A council spokesperson said that the box was no longer there. He explained that the tree on Coogee Bay Road had been subject to continual vandalism for several years, forcing the council to replace the tree on six occasions.

The coastal location and condition of the pit also made establishing the tree challenging. Given these ongoing issues, the council removed the tree and the surrounding area.

The news was met with jubilation from eastern suburb residents online. One man commented that putting it there first was a stupid idea and praised the efforts to drive some sense into the council. Another resident expressed relief that the “weird” placement was being rectified.

Others were more cautious, with one local joking that they should be more relaxed as the council might be replacing it with something bigger.

Published Date 26-August-2024

Man Charged For Suspected Arson On A Coogee Unit

A 31-year-old man faces multiple charges following a suspected arson attack on a residential unit in South Coogee around 3:35 PM on Wednesday, August 14.

Emergency services responded to reports of a fire at an apartment complex on Malabar Road. NSW Fire and Rescue crews quickly arrived on the scene and successfully extinguished the blaze, which was confined to a single unit. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident.

Eastern Beaches Police Area Command launched an immediate investigation into the fire, which they believe was deliberately lit. As a result of their enquiries, a 31-year-old man was arrested and taken to Maroubra Police Station for questioning.

The suspect has since been charged with several offenses, including damage property by fire with intent to injure, damage property by fire, and custody of a knife in a public place. These charges suggest that authorities suspect the fire was not only intentional but potentially aimed at causing harm to others.

Police have refused bail for the accused, who is scheduled to appear before Waverley Local Court today, Thursday, August 15. The court appearance is expected to provide more details about the circumstances surrounding the alleged arson attack.

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Members of the public can contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or visit https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au to submit information confidentially.

As the investigation continues, police have emphasized that they do not discuss ongoing cases on social media platforms and request that any relevant information be shared through official channels only.

Published 15-August-2024

Tributes Flow as Coogee Farewells Beloved Sports Broadcaster David Morrow

Photo Credit: 2GB Sydney

Former NRL players and fellow commentators gathered at St Brigid’s Church in Coogee to pay their respects to legendary sports broadcaster David “Thirsty” Morrow, who died aged 71 following a battle with brain cancer.

The service, held on Thursday morning, 25 July 2024, saw attendees don red clothing and ribbons in honour of Morrow’s love for the St George Illawarra Dragons. Among those present were former NRL stars Andrew Johns and Darryl Brohman, highlighting the deep impact Morrow had on the sporting community.

Service Details

A Dragons bomber jacket adorned Morrow’s casket as it was carried down the aisle to AC/DC’s “It’s A Long Way To The Top.” Loved ones also placed an Olympic flag and a 2GB cap on the casket, symbolising Morrow’s vast broadcasting career and passion for sports.

The choice of music and personal items reflected Morrow’s larger-than-life personality and significant contributions to Australian sports broadcasting. Attendees’ red-themed attire created a visual tribute to his unwavering support for the Dragons.

Family Tribute

Lucy Morrow, David’s youngest daughter, delivered a touching eulogy praising her father’s “intelligent sporting acumen” and “deep thoughtfulness for others.” She shared one of his last pieces of advice, emphasising his caring nature and wit.

Lucy recounted a poignant moment from her father’s final days in hospital, where he playfully reminded her to “be good, be careful, and if you can’t be careful, give me a ring.” Morrow’s lasting essence was captured in this story, demonstrating the strong connection he had with his family.

Career Highlights

Morrow’s illustrious 52-year broadcasting career included:

– Coverage of eight Olympic Games and six Commonwealth Games
– 44 years of rugby league commentary
– A long stint as an ABC radio and television commentator from 1980 to 2014
– Joining 2GB’s Continuous Call team in 2015

His versatility as a broadcaster was evident in his ability to commentate on various sports, making him a household name across Australia. Morrow’s distinctive voice and encyclopaedic knowledge of sports endeared him to listeners and viewers alike.

Honours and Recognition

Morrow’s contributions to sports broadcasting were widely recognised:

– Awarded an OAM for services to sport, sports broadcasting and the community in 2005
– Inducted into the Sydney Cricket Ground Media Hall of Honour in 2023
– Set to be inducted into the NRL Hall of Fame for his service to the game

Colleague’s Tribute

Mark Levy, Morrow’s colleague and friend, announced that a Nine radio Olympic studio in Pyrmont would be renamed the “David Morrow Olympic Studio” in his honour. Levy praised Morrow’s exceptional memory for sporting records and his ability to connect with listeners across generations.

Levy shared that he had been inundated with emails from listeners expressing their gratitude for having had the privilege of listening to Morrow over the years. This outpouring of support highlighted the broadcaster’s far-reaching influence and the personal connection he forged with his audience.

Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V’landys described Morrow as one of the “greatest voices of the game”, recognised nationwide for his wit, insight, and knowledge. V’landys added that Morrow was aware of his impending induction into the NRL Hall of Fame before his passing, providing comfort to both David Morrow and his family.

Published 29-July-2024

Coogee Residents to Shape Future of Arden Street Amenities

To address the needs of the community, two options have been unveiled for upgrading the Arden Street amenities buildings at Coogee Beach, seeking public input on the proposed designs.

The consultation period, running from 17 July to 28 August 2024, follows an initial round of community feedback that highlighted the need for improved facilities at the popular beachside location.

Proposed Options

1. Refurbishment Option

Randwick City Council’s first proposal involves renovating the existing structures while maintaining their current visual style. Key features include:

– Upgraded interiors with enhanced facilities
– Increased number of female toilets
– Retention of separate wash basin areas
– Nearly doubled bus stop seating area on Arden Street
– Estimated construction cost of $4 million

2. New Build Option

The alternative plan suggests demolishing the current buildings and constructing a modern replacement. This option includes:

– Design inspired by the Coogee coastline with a curved concrete roof
– Increased number of male and female toilets
– Communal washbasin area
– Extended paving for café seating
– Storage space for Council and Coogee SLSC Nippers operations
– Estimated construction cost of $6.75 million

Arden Street Amenities options — *Photo Credit: RandwickCityCouncil*

Community Feedback

Previous consultation revealed strong community sentiment.

“People told us that works should be sympathetic to the heritage character of the area, keep a similar community and village feel and not overly expand the building’s footprint,” a Council spokesperson stated.

“It’s crucial that whatever option we choose respects the character of our beloved beach. We need better facilities, but not at the expense of Coogee’s charm,” a long-time resident shared his thoughts.

Arden Street Amenities — *Photo Credit: RandwickCityCouncil*

How to Participate

Residents can engage with the project in several ways:

1. Attend on-site consultations at Goldstein Reserve:

– Wednesday 31 July, 3-5 pm
– Saturday 3 August, 9-11 am
– Thursday 8 August, 9-11 am

2. Submit comments via email to council@randwick.nsw.gov.au or by post to 30 Frances Street, Randwick 2031.

“This project will shape the future of one of Coogee’s most-used public spaces. We encourage all residents to have their say and help us create facilities that will serve our community for years to come,” said a Council official.

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