Cafe Milestone: A Fresh Sensation in Coogee’s Culinary Scene

Despite being new to the local scene, Cafe Milestone has become quite the sensation, thanks to the expertise and innovation of its seasoned owners, who have a combined experience of 15 years in the industry and are passionate about making a splash in Coogee.



The cozy and intimate café opened in June 2023, offering patrons an oasis to escape the daily grind and savour a unique blend of flavours that are already making waves. 

Found along Dudley St and taking over the site of the former Poke, Cafe Milestone is trying to make a name for itself by serving up topnotch coffee that has been roasted in Melbourne to cater to Australian taste buds. 

The menu, characterised by surprisingly complex flavour profiles, remains approachable and inviting, reflecting the owners’ commitment to culinary excellence. Drawing inspiration from the owners’ heritage, the cafe adeptly recreates Korean favourites while seamlessly integrating them into the Australian palate. 

Cafe Milestone
Photo Credit: Cafe Milestone/Facebook

The fusion of flavours has given rise to a diverse menu that spans breakfast, brunch, and lunch, offering a delightful blend of international and local tastes. One enthusiastic diner recommended the “Bacon Benedict and Amazing Coffee” as the best Coogee has to offer. Coffee connoisseurs lauded the cafe brew, emphasizing its excellence.

Cafe Milestone
Photo Credit: Cafe Milestone/Facebook

The cafe’s charm lies not only in its delicious food and superb coffee but also in its warm and welcoming atmosphere. Guests, whether dining alone or with friends, furry or otherwise, can enjoy an exceptional experience complemented by attentive service.

Located in a charming beachside area, Cafe Milestone captures the essence of Coogee’s unique ambience, creating a memorable setting for locals and visitors alike. A patron praised the cafe’s “warm, friendly service” and welcomed the departure from standard fare.

Cafe Milestone
Photo Credit: Cafe Milestone/Facebook

Newcomers to the cafe have raved about the welcoming atmosphere along with the incredible food and coffee, particularly celebrating the Korean influences.

Follow the cafe’s Facebook or Instagram page for updates and phone 0423 019 584 for table reservations and other enquiries.



“We had an absolutely fantastic experience at Cafe Milestone! The atmosphere was so inviting and cozy, making it the perfect spot to relax. The owners were incredibly friendly and made me feel right at home. And let’s not forget about the food – it was absolutely delicious! Every bite was a delight. We can’t wait to return and savour more of their culinary delights. Highly recommended!”

Galina Tikhonova

“Great new cafe in Coogee. Very friendly and homely service by the owners. Avo on toast and coffee both enjoyed. We will be back”

Mark Gorin

“Best coffee ever. Strong and hot. Lovely staff. Cute and cosy cafe.”

Heidi

Iconic Ballamac House in Coogee Set for Transformation into Luxury Apartments

Sydney-based property developer Central Element has been granted development approval to restore and redevelop the historic Ballamac House in Coogee into a collection of eight luxury apartments. 



The landmark property, nestled in the north headland, has long been considered as one of the area’s most esteemed addresses. The redevelopment project aims to fuse historical elegance with contemporary luxury, marking a new era for the 1860s icon.

Ballamac House, located at 39 Arcadia Street, has stood as a premier example of Coogee’s rich heritage for over a century. Previously converted into a strata title in the 1970s, the building’s storied history includes stints as a private residence, hotel, and infirmary, with various Australian luminaries. Even British royalty have graced its halls.

The project under DA/388/2022 encompasses the conservation of external and internal walls, fireplaces, mantel pieces, and decorative ceilings. A wrap-around verandah will be meticulously reconstructed, paying homage to the luxury of estate living from a bygone era.

The restoration will include the conversion of the heritage Victorian house into two of the eight oceanfront residences, with the additional six apartments housed in a new building to the east, affording stunning ocean views. Spanning nearly 1,500 square metres and rising to almost 15 metres in height across four stories, the development’s architectural grandeur is set to match its historical significance.

Ballamac House in Coogee
Photo Credit: DA/388/2022

Each of the eight residences, boasting three bedrooms, will command captivating ocean views from Coogee’s northern headland. The rooftop and penthouse apartments, spanning two levels, will offer an exceptional vantage point, with the penthouse featuring lavish interiors and panoramic vistas that stretch from Gordons Bay to Wylie’s Baths. 

The penthouse’s luxurious design includes multiple ensuites, a study, a flexible-use second living room, and an expansive wrap-around terrace for seamless indoor-outdoor living.

Central Element’s Managing Director, Nathan Chivas, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with renowned architectural firm Tonkin Zulaikha Greer (TZG), responsible for designing the eight luxury apartments. TZG, a seasoned collaborator with Central Element on heritage projects, will ensure the restoration retains the property’s original charm.  

“We are thrilled to partner with TZG Architects and Jane Irwin Landscape Architecture to bring the 1860s icon back to its original excellence,” Mr Chivas affirmed, highlighting the dedication to preserving Ballamac House’s legacy. 

Award-winning Jane Irwin Landscape Architecture will craft the property’s exterior spaces, adhering to the site’s historical context and panoramic views. The landscaping will incorporate original sandstone elements alongside native species, enhancing the property’s character while creating a tranquil communal outdoor area with gardens and a magnesium pool for future residents to enjoy. 



With construction anticipated to commence in late 2023, the redevelopment of Ballamac House is poised to redefine luxury living in Coogee, blending heritage charm with modern elegance to create a distinctive oceanfront residential offering.

Randwick Local Planning Panel approved DA/388/2022 in July 2023 and has been referred to the Heritage Planner. 

Published 31-Aug-2023

Bidding Frenzy for Coogee Apartment Shows Ongoing Appeal of Beachside Living

A modern Coogee apartment attracted plenty of interest at auction earlier this month, selling for $220,000 above its reserve price.


Read: Discover Gordons Bay, Home to Sydney’s Only Underwater Nature Trail


The one-bedroom apartment at 4/36 Bream Street was built in 2004 and last sold in 2010 for $576,000. It went under the hammer on August 12, with bidding from eight of the 16 registered bidders pushing the sale price to $810,000.

The competitive auction demonstrates the enduring appeal of living close to Coogee Beach. Ray White agents said around 80 percent of buyers interested in the property were first-home buyers, drawn to the easy-living beach lifestyle Coogee offers.

Photo credit: Ray White

However, it was an investor who ultimately won the keys, recognising the strong rental potential due to the apartment’s proximity to cafes, restaurants, coastal walks and bus routes to the CBD.

Photo credit: Ray White

The one-bedroom unit was described by agents as “turnkey” and ready for its new owner to move straight in. It features a lock-up garage and parking space – both highly desirable commodities in the densely populated eastern suburbs.

“Basking in natural light and sunshine from a prized northern aspect and surrounded by enchanting leafy panoramas throughout, the property is superbly situated. An outstanding live in proposition, savvy investors will also realise the immense rental potential here,” says the listing for the property.


Read: Go From Beach to Brunch at The Little Kitchen in Coogee


Coogee has seen a cooling in prices over the past year, with the median price for a one-bedroom apartment dropping 15.4 percent to $785,000 from August 2022 to July 2023 according to the latest data.

Photo credit: Ray White

This recent sale suggests there is still underlying demand in the market from both investors and owner-occupiers looking to secure an affordable entry point into the Coogee lifestyle. Well-located properties close to the beach and village are still highly sought after.

Published 22-August-2023

Coogee Bay Hotel Owner Shares Vision for Revamped $111-Million Development

In a bid to address the concerns of the local community, Coogee Bay Hotel owner Christopher Cheung has revealed revised plans for a $111-million redevelopment that aims to strike a balance between preserving the area’s character and offering modern amenities. 



The project, which has been met with mixed reactions, is set to include apartments, a hotel wing, and a public laneway running from from Coogee Bay Road to Arden Street creating a through link.

The revised development application (DA/437/2021) comes after an ongoing mediation process with Randwick City Council since 2021.

The Land and Environment Court has granted permission for the submission of the new plans, which feature 58 apartments, a three-story hotel wing, and the “eat street” concept.  

Coogee Bay Hotel
Artist’s impression of 2023 proposal. Photo Credit: Randwick City Council 

External planning consultants are currently conducting a detailed assessment of the revised documentation and amended plans.

According to Randwick City Council, the key amendments to the proposal include:

Building heights reduced from a maximum of 23.33m to 21.35m

Reduction in floor space ratio from 1.79:1 to 1.59:1

Amendments to the building mass to retain view lines to key landforms including Wedding Cake Island, Dolphin Point and the northern headland of Coogee Beach

Reduction in basement excavation by two levels.

Increased building setback to the southern boundary and accommodation of deep soil planting and additional communal open space.

Removal of the ground level supermarket tenancy and provision of residential apartments to the street frontage of Vicar Street.

Increased retention to four heritage building facades along Coogee Bay Road.

Internal reconfiguration of pub building, hotel and all residential apartments.

Inclusion of a three-storey building to the southern side of the beer garden. Provision of the car park entry from Arden Street only and removing the car park entrance from Vicar Street.

Changes to the colour and materials used on the retail tenancies fronting Coogee Bay Road to respond to the character of this streetscape.

Randwick City Council
Coogee Bay Hotel proposal
Artist’s impression of 2023 proposal. Photo Credit: Randwick City Council 

The initial development application that was lodged in 2021 was met with strong opposition from the community, triggering a petition with over 8,000 signatures expressing concerns over blocked ocean views.

The 2021 plans covered the demolition of significant parts of the current hotel and the construction of a six-storey apartment building.

Mr Cheung, the managing director of C!NC (the privately-owned hospitality group behind Coogee Bay Hotel and Circular Quay’s Cruise Bar), has said that efforts are being taken to understand the local issues and integrate them into the development.

He explained the motivation behind the changes, stating that the development would “enhance the heritage elements of the hotel building, upgrade its accommodation offering, create a wider range of entertainment, dining options and public meeting spaces, new street links, and create a more family-friendly environment.” 

He stressed that the goal was to make the Coogee Bay Hotel a more welcoming place that enhances social outcomes and contributes positively to the local economy.

However, not everyone is convinced by the new plans.

Lucy Bloom, former president of Business Coogee and an author, raised concerns over the potential negative impact of the proposed “eat street.” She argued that it could compete with existing cafes and stores, particularly during the colder months when these businesses already experience a downturn. 

Additionally, Ms Bloom expressed apprehension about the demolition of three buildings, which would result in the loss of 40 low-cost residential units, a concern echoed by some local residents.

The height of the proposed development has also been a contentious issue. Rona Wade, a community member, pointed out that the new plans exceeded the existing height limit of 12 metres, standing at 21.25 metres. This height discrepancy, according to Ms Wade, would overshadow the foreshore and detract from Coogee’s value as a seaside village.

Coogee Bay Hotel
Photo Credit: Randwick City Council 

The development remains under assessment following a public exhibition that ended in May 2023.



“A detailed assessment of the amended documentation is currently being undertaken by Randwick Council’s external planning consultants. Feedback from the community will be carefully considered as part of the Court proceedings,” Randwick City Council said.

Published 14-Aug-2023

Discover Gordons Bay, Home to Sydney’s Only Underwater Nature Trail

Tucked away along the rocky coastline between Clovelly and Coogee beaches lies Gordons Bay, home to a unique attraction – Sydney’s only underwater nature trail.


Read: Coogee to Maroubra Walk: Exploring One of Sydney’s Finest Coastal Trails


This submerged trail offers adventurous swimmers, snorkelers and scuba divers an up-close look at the diverse marine life inhabiting the bay.

The trail consists of 25 concrete-filled drums linked together by chains that stretch 600 metres along the seafloor. Plaques attached to each drum provide information about the marine species commonly found at that depth. 

At its shallowest point near the shore entry ramp, the trail sits 2 metres below the surface. It gradually descends to a maximum depth of 15 metres farther out in the bay.

What can you expect to see at the underwater nature trail? 

An Eastern Blue Groper, a regular sight for swimmers, snorkelers and divers at Gordons Bay (Photo credit: Gordons Bay SCUBA Diving Club/Facebook)

Blue groper, cuttlefish, various wrasses and rays are just some of the fish species that call Gordons Bay home. There are also thousands of marine invertebrates like giant cuttlefish, nudibranchs, sea anemones, sea stars and sea urchins. 

This abundance and diversity of ocean life make the underwater trail a self-guided tour for scuba divers and snorkelers to learn about and observe some of the bay’s most incredible flora and fauna.

Photo credit: Gordons Bay SCUBA Diving Club/Facebook

The trail was completed in 1990 and has been maintained by the Gordons Bay Scuba Diving Club since then up to this day. Their dedication over the past 30 years has kept this unique coastal attraction open for the public to enjoy. 

It typically takes about 40 minutes to complete the entire underwater journey. Or on a clear, calm day it is possible to view and identify marine species from the surface whilst snorkelling along the trail.

Photo credit: Gordons Bay SCUBA Diving Club/Facebook

Visitors can find more information about the underwater trail at the permanent sign located at the bottom of the Clovelly/Gordon’s Bay steps on Cliffbrook Parade. This informative sign provides details about the trail itself as well as the location of the 25 submerged drums that guide divers and snorkelers along the route.


Read: Kayaker Has Remarkable Encounter with Humpback Whales in Coogee


So next time you’re seeking an outdoor adventure in Sydney that offers a twist, grab your mask and fins and dive into the fascinating underwater world along the nature trail in Gordons Bay. It’s an opportunity to explore a one-of-a-kind wilderness, hidden below the waves.

Published 8-August-2023

Go From Beach to Brunch at The Little Kitchen in Coogee

After a refreshing morning spent at Coogee Beach, nothing beats heading to a local cafe for a satisfying brunch. One of the best options for beachgoers is The Little Kitchen, located on Arden Street just a short stroll from the sand.


Read: Madame Tussauds Waxwork of Harry Styles Wowed Excited Fans at Coogee Beach


Whilst it may not have the sweeping ocean views that some other beachside cafes boast, this charming spot makes up for it with top-notch food that keeps locals and visitors alike coming back for more. 

Whether you’re craving a burger stacked with bacon and egg, fluffy pancakes drizzled in maple syrup, or a wholesome bowl of granola with fresh fruit, you will find something tempting on the menu. Crumpets with smashed avocado and poached eggs are also a popular pick.

Photo credit: Lidya Savitri/Google Maps

The Little Kitchen is a cosy, family-owned establishment run by husband and wife team Neil and Amy Thompson. Their goal was simple – open a cafe with an emphasis on serving fresh, high-quality food in a relaxed setting. The result is a bright, inviting space filled with rustic wooden tables and some outdoor seating when weather permits.

Owners Neil and Amy Thompson (Photo credit: The Little Kitchen Coogee/Facebook)

Coffee is sourced from Bassett Espresso, and is reputedly one of the best cups you will find among the eastern beaches. Beer, wine, and cocktails are also available for those looking for something stronger than caffeine.

Photo credit: Claudia Pereira/Google Maps

The menu changes regularly to take advantage of the best seasonal produce. The Thompsons work with local growers and organic suppliers to bring the freshest ingredients to your plate.


Read: Louie Aims to Keep the Coogee Summer Vibe Alive All Year


The Little Kitchen is open for breakfast and lunch from 6:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. daily, with the kitchen firing up at 7:00 a.m. each morning. 

Whether you need an early caffeine fix before hitting the waves or a midday snack between beach sessions, this cafe has your cravings covered. Next time you’re exploring the Coogee shoreline, pop into this charming brunch gem for a taste of neighbourhood flavour.

Published 1-August-2023

Madame Tussauds Waxwork of Harry Styles Wowed Excited Fans at Coogee Beach

Fans of the former One Direction heartthrob Harry Stylewere in for a treat at Coogee Beach when the new Madame Tussauds waxwork of their favourite star was unveiled. 



The selfie game was strong, as beachgoers lined up to have their picture taken with ‘Harry’ as the wax museum showcased its latest masterpiece at the beach. The waxwork of the pop star immediately attracted a large crowd.

The statue portrayed Harry in a flamboyant pink outfit, similar to the attire he recently wore during his electrifying stage performances on tour, complete with his signature pink feather boa.

The attention to detail in the waxwork was remarkable; it even featured Harry’s iconic bird tattoos on his chest, mirroring the singer’s unique body art. Additionally, the figure sported painted red nails, and appeared to be capturing the essence of one of his exhilarating stage performances, waving to adoring fans.

What made this new installation all the more thrilling for fans was the announcement that Madame Tussauds would be releasing a total of seven new waxworks of Harry Styles worldwide. Each figure would capture different looks the popstar has rocked over the years, showcasing iconic concert costumes, flamboyant tour outfits, and red-carpet showstoppers.

Among the jaw-dropping looks to be featured was the green Gucci suit Harry wore at the My Policeman premiere during the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival, set to be displayed at the London’s Baker Street Museum. Another striking outfit included the glitzy rainbow sequin jumpsuit custom-made for him by designer Arturo Obegero, which Harry wore during his unforgettable Coachella festival appearance, estimated to cost around £3,000.

With his penchant for bold and outlandish fashion, one of Harry’s most memorable looks, the pink ensemble he wore head-to-toe at Coachella, will also be immortalized in wax.

The multi-launch of the wax figures stands as a testament to Harry Styles’ immense star power, rivaling that of the legendary Lady Gaga, whose waxwork was unveiled by Madame Tussauds twelve years ago.

While this isn’t Harry’s first appearance at the iconic wax museum, as he was previously featured as part of the One Direction band lineup, the retirement of that sculpture now allows Harry to shine as a solo artist in the waxwork collection.



Published 20-July-2023

Coogee to Maroubra Walk: Exploring One of Sydney’s Finest Coastal Trails

An extension of the renowned Bondi to Coogee walk, the Coogee to Maroubra trail is widely regarded as one of Sydney’s finest coastal trails, offering picturesque coastal scenery throughout its 5-kilometre stretch—a relatively easy walk suitable for all ages.



You have the choice to begin the walk from either direction, depending on what suits you best. Both Coogee and Maroubra Beach offer a pleasant atmosphere and plenty of places to take a break and grab some food after completing the walk. In this guide, we will describe the trail as you walk southbound starting in Coogee.

Coogee Beach

Coogee Beach, a well-loved destination in the Eastern Suburbs, offers visitors a wide stretch of sandy shoreline and top-notch facilities, including toilets, showers, changing rooms, and free lockers. Before starting the walk, visitors can indulge in a delicious meal at the renowned Coogee Pavilion—a three-story establishment famous for its mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine, perfect for fuelling up before your adventure.

Trenerry Reserve

The trail meanders through Trenerry Reserve, where walkers can relish breathtaking views of Coogee Beach, Dunningham Reserve, and the coastal cliffs of Mistral Point. This open grassed area also serves as an off-leash dog exercise zone, allowing furry friends to frolic freely.

 Exploring One of Sydney’s Finest Coastal Trails
Photo Credit:  Randwick City Council / randwick.nsw.gov.au

South Coogee Wetlands

One special aspect of the Eastern Beaches Coastal Walkway is the South Coogee Wetlands—a protected coastal environment nurturing rare water plants and various wildlife species, including frogs and birds. Informative boards along the trail offer intriguing details about the area’s captivating history, providing valuable insights into its rich natural heritage.

Ivor Rowe Rockpool

The Ivor Rowe Rockpool, a hidden gem and local favourite, charms visitors despite its small size. As you reach the midpoint of the walk, you’ll encounter the stunning rock pool, accessed via stairs. Continuing from there, a narrow staircase between two properties leads to Cuzco Street, where you’ll walk through a suburban street to reach the Maroubra side of the coastal walk and its low tide trail.

 Exploring One of Sydney’s Finest Coastal Trails
Photo Credit:  Randwick City Council / randwick.nsw.gov.au

Please note that the low tide trail in Maroubra may be inaccessible during high tide. In such cases, retracing your steps back to Malabar Road, turning left into Torrington Road, and then left again into Inman Street will allow you to reconnect with the coastal trail toward Maroubra Beach.

Maroubra Low Tide Trail

Arriving in Maroubra, walkers are delighted by the exhilarating low tide trail, exploring coastal rocks and platforms along the ocean’s edge. This adventure may involve some rock scrambling, adding an exciting element to the journey. Keep an eye out for the Rob Walker Rock Pool—a natural swimming pool blending seamlessly with the ocean.

Mistral Point

Mistral Point, located north of Maroubra Beach, offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the ocean from its rocky headland. Though the walking track doesn’t extend onto the headland itself, taking the time to explore the unique rock formations and immerse oneself in the mesmerising vistas is highly recommended.

Mahon Pool

 Exploring One of Sydney’s Finest Coastal Trails
Photo Credit: Sydney.com / sydney.com

A short detour from the main path leads to Mahon Pool—one of Sydney’s premier ocean pools nestled against the seaside rock. This naturally formed pool provides swimmers with a serene environment and stunning views. Convenient amenities like toilets, changing rooms, and nearby parking facilities enhance the experience.

Maroubra Beach

Finally, the coastal journey culminates at Maroubra Beach—a popular beachside suburb with a long stretch of golden sands. Numerous cafes and restaurants along Marine Parade and McKeon Street offer opportunities to relax and rejuvenate after the invigorating walk.

 Exploring One of Sydney’s Finest Coastal Trails
Photo Credit: Moatazayman, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Whether starting in Coogee or Maroubra, the Eastern Beaches Coastal Walkway is easily accessible. Buses connect both locations to various parts of Sydney, and ample parking options are available near the starting points. Visitors should be mindful of parking restrictions to ensure a leisurely and stress-free walk.



Prepare for a lifetime experience as you lace up your hiking shoes and embark on the Eastern Beaches Coastal Walkway. With breathtaking vistas, natural wonders, and convenient amenities, this scenic trail will leave you with cherished memories.

Published 14-July-2023

NRL Legend Andrew Johns Inspires Wallabies Ahead of Rugby Championship Opener

In preparation for their Rugby Championship opener against South Africa, the Wallabies welcomed rugby league legend Andrew Johns into their training camp.



Wallabies head coach Eddie Jones, who had previously tried to sign Johns during his tenure in 2005, expressed his admiration for the icon’s teaching skills as Johns provided guidance to the team with his expert knowledge of playmaking strategies and techniques.

Wallaby Talents Seek Wisdom from Andrew Johns

During a sun-drenched session in Coogee, five-eighths Bernard Foley, Carter Gordon and Ben Donaldson took the opportunity to refine their skills under Johns’ tutelage. A notable absence from the group, however, was Quade Cooper, who was attending a wedding. 

Jones paid tribute to the established relationship between Johns and the Wallabies. He stressed that it was a tremendous learning experience for young talents such as Carter.

Jones also took a playful dig at footy supremo Peter V’landys, highlighting the competitive tension but also the cooperative spirit that characterises Australian sport. 

Brett Hodgson, another accomplished former rugby league star and the Wallabies’ defence coach, took part in the training sessions alongside Johns.

The Wallabies played an intense 15 against 15 training match on Friday, with a particular focus on kicking. Jones dispelled the notion that the “good old days” of rugby were defined solely by the running game. He pointed out that historically, kicking played a significant role in the game.



Reflecting on the training session, Jones emphasised the interconnectedness of the skills. “Well, when I played the game, some of the best kickers of the ball were the best runners of the ball and some of the best runners of the ball were the best passers of the ball”. 

Such wisdom, along with tutelage from the great Andrew Johns, has surely left a lasting impression on the Wallabies’ playmakers.

Published 3 July 2023

Kayaker Has Remarkable Encounter with Humpback Whales in Coogee

A kayaker had an unforgettable encounter with four majestic humpback whales and his entire experience was fortuitously captured on a remarkable piece of drone footage.  



The incredible incident, which took place in mid-June 2023, left the kayaker in awe by the indescribable experience. 

Danny was on his routine journey from North Bondi to Coogee one Monday morning when he noticed two pairs of humpback whales breaching approximately two kilometers off Bronte. Enraptured by the sight, the local found himself sharing an extraordinary 30-minute moment with the marine giants, paddling together towards North Bondi.

“It’s an amazing feeling to be so close to them. It’s indescribable,” Danny expressed in an interview with other media. “It’s a feeling like nothing else I have experienced, especially when I can see their huge eyes looking at me and hearing the high-pitched songs.”

Fortunately, a quick-thinking photographer, Robin Cooiman, captured the entire encounter using a drone as the whales and the kayaker approached Ben Buckleri. Originally from the Netherlands, he recognised the significance of the footage.  

Mr Cooiman said that he has filmed whales next to boats before but he has yet to capture a moment next to a kayaker. Impressed by the spectacle, Mr Cooiman whistled intensely to catch Danny’s attention, leading to a grateful response.

“I knew it was special footage,” he said.

The heartwarming footage has since generated widespread interest and online admiration. Social media users praised the kayaker’s astonishing encounter, with one person humorously suggesting the nickname “Jonah” in reference to the biblical story of a man swallowed by a whale. 

“Amazing shot! You’re so lucky!” a netizen said whilst another commenter described the moment as “magical.”

Amid the public fascination, concerns have been raised regarding the appropriate proximity of humans to humpback whales. However, in this instance, the massive creatures appeared unfazed by Danny’s company, merely continuing their leisurely journey. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting wildlife while enjoying their presence.



Humpback whales are a protected species commonly found along the Australian coast. They can be observed in the Eastern Suburbs during the winter months of June, July, and August. 

Published 24-June-2023