Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 3 of 29

Fluorescent Green Water Reported At North Coogee After Dye Release

Photo Credit: RandwickCityCouncil/Facebook

Fluorescent green water appeared at North Coogee after a plumbing dye entered the stormwater system, prompting safety warnings for beachgoers to stay clear of the affected section of the shoreline.

Investigation Into The Green Water

Bright green water was seen at North Coogee on the morning of 28 November 2025 after liquid flowed from a stormwater outlet and discoloured the surrounding area. Images shared online showed the fluorescent colour along the shoreline, drawing immediate attention from residents and swimmers.

Environmental Health Officers inspected the site shortly after the first reports were made, focusing on the northern end of the beach where the water appeared most concentrated.

fluorescein dye — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Cause Identified As Plumbing Dye

The assessment determined that the substance was fluorescein, a water-soluble dye commonly used by plumbers to trace the movement of water through sewer and stormwater systems. The dye is designed to be highly visible so that leaks or flow paths can be located quickly.

Officers advised that fluorescein is considered non-toxic and odourless in the environment. However, it can cause skin irritation for some people, leading to safety advice for beachgoers to avoid touching the discoloured water.

Safety Advice And Beach Conditions

Council officers confirmed that North Coogee remained open during the incident, though lifeguards directed swimmers away from the green-coloured area as a precaution. Authorities explained that the dye typically disperses naturally within a few hours once it enters open water.

No further risks were identified during the investigation, and the discolouration was expected to fade without ongoing impact.

North Coogee dye spill — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Community Reactions In North Coogee

Residents shared concerns online, linking the dye incident to broader frustrations about stormwater drainage and pollution at Coogee Beach. Comments noted recent occasions where storms had washed debris, rubbish and microplastics into the area.

Others remarked that similar dye-related discolouration had occurred previously. These remarks reflected community sentiment expressed through public comments rather than official findings.

Next Steps

The council indicated that no additional actions were required once the dye dispersed. The event renewed local discussion about how quickly substances can enter the water from stormwater systems at North Coogee, with community members continuing to raise wider environmental concerns.

Published 2-Dec-2025

Coogee Road Dispute Erupts Into Sudden Street Fight

Photo Credit: r/PublicFreakout/Reddit

A roadside argument in Coogee turned into a public fight after a brief exchange between a pedestrian and a driver escalated in front of families and weekend visitors.

Rising Tension At A Busy Crossing

The confrontation unfolded on a Sunday around midday in the beachside suburb. A witness said the trouble began when a pedestrian walked through a crowded crossing and the driver moved forward before the man reached the other side.

Road Rage Fight in Ritzy Beachside Sydney (Australia) Suburb
byu/Corner_Post inPublicFreakout

Both sides exchanged sharp comments, and the pedestrian stepped closer to the vehicle window. A passenger opened the door several times before returning to the seat. The witness described the discussion as heated but still controlled during those early moments.

A Single Insult Sparks The Brawl

The argument changed when the pedestrian directed an insult at the woman inside the car. The witness said the driver reacted at once and ran toward the pedestrian as tempers broke.

The two men wrestled on the street while people nearby stepped in to separate them. Traffic stopped for several minutes while the pair continued shouting. The driver’s dog stayed close throughout the clash.

Witnesses Concerned About Safety

The witness said he had two young children with him and struggled to explain the situation to them as they watched from the car. He said one child even wanted to imitate what he saw.

He later contacted the local council and raised concerns about safety at the crossing. He noted that confusion about pedestrian right of way in Coogee often leads to tense moments, especially on busy weekends.

Community Wants Clearer Crossing Rules

People living in the area often talk about issues at that crossing. Heavy crowds arrive each Sunday, and visitors who are not familiar with the traffic rules sometimes move through without noticing pedestrians.

Locals say this adds pressure to drivers and walkers who use the same space. NSW Police said they had no record of the incident. Residents hope the council will review the crossing layout to prevent similar confrontations.

Published 01-December-2025

South Coogee Advocate Marie Tesoriero Named 2025 Fred Hollows Humanitarian of the Year

South Coogee disability advocate and community fundraiser Marie Tesoriero has been named the 2025 Fred Hollows Humanitarian of the Year for her work to promote inclusion and raise funds for causes that support people in need.

Read: Coogee Cancer Survivor Sets Three Records, Wins National 48-Hour Ultramarathon

Born with multiple disabilities, she underwent three major surgeries at Sydney Children’s Hospital in Randwick, an experience that led to her commitment to giving back.

Photo credit: Instagram/Made by Cool Marie

Now aged 45, she channels that determination through her social enterprise, Made by Cool Marie, where she creates and sells handmade art and craft pieces.

Proceeds from her sales have funded medical and community programs; to date her enterprise has raised more than $16,000 for the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation, with her work reaching buyers across Australia, Germany, England and the United States.

“I want to improve the lives of people with a disability,” Marie said.

“My message is that even though I have a disability, I am able and worthy because to this day, there are still people, when they see a person with a disability, they instantly think lesser of us. I want to show that we are capable and worthy.”

Marie Tesoriero has also fundraised for Meals on Wheels, Guide Dogs Australia, Parkinsons NSW and Northcott Disability Service. She volunteers on the Bayside Council Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) Working Group, helping to make her local area more accessible and inclusive.

Her efforts were recognised at a ceremony hosted by The University of Sydney, where she was presented with the national honour by Nakari Thorpe, a journalist, Fred Hollows Foundation ambassador and Gunnai, Gunditjmara and Gooreng Gooreng woman.

Speaking at the event, Gabi Hollows, Founding Director of the Fred Hollows Foundation, congratulated Marie and the award nominees.

“Fred was an ordinary person with an extraordinary dream,” she said. “He worked tirelessly to end avoidable blindness, here in remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait communities and overseas. The Fred Hollows Foundation continues his legacy, and I am proud to say that Fred’s vision lives on.”

The awards ceremony also recognised seven Junior Ambassadors from across Australia as part of the Foundation’s Humanity Award, which celebrates Year 6 students who show kindness and empathy in their communities.

The event was supported by Specsavers, which donated $50,000 to help The Fred Hollows Foundation continue its global mission to prevent avoidable blindness.

In 2024, the Foundation delivered more than 8.1 million eye screenings, distributed 16 million doses of antibiotics for trachoma, performed 168,000 cataract operations, and conducted education programs reaching more than 3.6 million people worldwide.

Read: Community Celebrates Children’s Story Festival at Coogee Beach

Marie’s connection to Randwick’s hospital and her advocacy with Bayside Council demonstrate her long-term commitment to improving lives in her community.

Published 12-November-2025

Coogee Diggers, Paddington RSL Members Weigh Merger Plan

Members of the Paddington-Woollahra RSL Memorial & Community Club are considering a proposal to amalgamate with Coogee Diggers after both clubs released documentation outlining the plan.

According to a notice from Coogee Diggers, the club would be the continuing organisation and Paddington-Woollahra would be the dissolving club under the proposed amalgamation. The public notice for members stated that a general meeting was held on Sunday, 9 November 2025, and that a special postal ballot on the proposal will run from 17 to 27 November 2025.

Key points of the proposal

According to the memorandum of understanding (MOU), all assets of Paddington-Woollahra RSL would transfer to Coogee Diggers, and Coogee’s existing board and management would take charge of the combined operations.

Coogee Diggers’ published material presents the amalgamation as a way to reinvest in facilities, expand services for members, strengthen community links and maintain veterans’ welfare support, describing the plan as vital for long-term stability.

However, North Bondi RSL and some local business figures have raised concerns about transparency and whether an alternative rescue proposal was fully presented to Paddington-Woollahra members.

Paddo RSL — *Photo Credit: Google Maps screengrab*

Community and membership impact

The decision affects members of Paddington-Woollahra RSL and residents in Sydney’s eastern suburbs who support or use the club. If the amalgamation is approved and the regulatory requirements are met, Coogee Diggers would become the continuing club, and Paddington-Woollahra would be dissolved, with its assets transferred under the MOU.

Paddington-Woollahra has made documents such as the MOU, financial statement and letters to members available on its official website and has notified members of the meeting and postal ballot dates.

Next steps and timing

The general meeting has concluded, and the postal ballot will open on 17 November and close on 27 November. The outcome will determine whether the amalgamation proceeds under the terms set out in the MOU.

Questions about veterans’ welfare support, the future of the Paddington premises and consideration of alternative proposals remain linked to whether members approve the amalgamation.

Published 10-Nov-2025

Flash Mob Sparks Community Spirit on Coogee’s Rainbow Walkway

Coogee locals and weekend visitors were stopped in their tracks when a spontaneous flash mob burst into dance along the suburb’s iconic Rainbow Walkway, turning the popular beachfront into an open-air stage.

The vibrant performance featured professional Latin dancers, drummers, and acrobats from Dargie Entertainment, who came together to spread excitement for The Big Dance — a $3 million race meeting set for 4 November at Royal Randwick Racecourse.

The performance unfolded late Sunday morning, where unsuspecting beachgoers enjoying their stroll were swept up by the sudden beats of live drums and dazzling choreography. Onlookers cheered as dancers, initially blending into the crowd, revealed themselves one by one in a perfectly timed burst of rhythm.

Energy and Excitement at the Beach

Performers described the flash mob as a joyful effort to connect the community through shared excitement. Dancer Emma Biviano said the experience was filled with energy and positivity, noting how the group aimed to surprise and uplift locals while promoting the spirit of Cup Day.

Fellow performer Izzy George, who has been dancing for over sixteen years, said the races always brought people together for a fun, social experience where “everyone turns up dressed to impress and ready for a good time.”

From the steps overlooking the sand, Coogee resident Daniel Cassie said he was thrilled to see such creativity energising the area. He added that events like this made Coogee “feel alive,” and hoped more performances would brighten up weekends for locals.

Community Spirit Ahead of Race Day

The flash mob was part of a promotional campaign for The Big Dance, a relatively new addition to Sydney’s racing calendar that runs alongside Melbourne Cup Day festivities. Organised by the Australian Turf Club, the event offers millions in prize money and aims to celebrate local racing culture while providing entertainment beyond the track.

The dancers’ performance at Coogee not only highlighted Sydney’s coastal vibrancy but also encouraged community involvement in the week’s festivities. Visitors lingered long after the show ended, capturing videos and sharing the moment online — a reflection of how the city’s beaches continue to serve as both scenic retreats and cultural stages.

Published 4-Nov-2025

Malabar Wastewater System Linked to Beach Debris in Coogee

Photo Credit: RCC/Facebook

Sydney Water’s Malabar Wastewater Treatment System has been identified as the likely source of debris balls that washed up on Coogee and other NSW beaches between October 2024 and February 2025.

Background and Findings

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) confirmed the findings following an investigation that traced the origin of the debris to the Malabar system. The determination was based on evidence collected by Sydney Water under a Preliminary Investigation Notice. An independent wastewater expert panel reviewed the findings in September 2025 and advised further studies to identify specific sources within the system.

Coogee beach debris — *Photo Credit: RCC/Facebook*

Scientific Explanation

A scientific report obtained by other media found that fats, oils and greases had accumulated inside sewer pipes before being dislodged by heavy rainfall and expelled through the Malabar ocean outfall. These materials later formed the debris balls that appeared on beaches, including Coogee.

Wave action and ocean conditions allowed the debris to move across several beaches between October 2024 and February 2025.

Composition and Contributing Factors

Tests indicated that the debris balls contained soap scum, cosmetics, human hair, petroleum hydrocarbons, fatty acids, and bacteria linked to wastewater. The main cause was the build-up of fats, oils and grease within the network. Population growth and an increasing number of food outlets were identified as contributing factors.

Preventive Measures and Upgrades

Sydney Water said investigations are continuing to shape short-, medium-, and long-term measures to prevent future incidents, with completion expected by the end of 2025.

The utility is implementing new programs to reduce fats, oils and grease entering the wastewater system and upgrading infrastructure across Sydney. Planned projects include upgrades to the Malabar, Bondi, and Georges River systems, improvements at North Head, and a new facility at Camellia by 2031.

Support for Local Councils

Sydney Water has acknowledged the financial impact of clean-up operations and committed to assisting local councils with related costs. Claims between Palm Beach and Gerroa will be reviewed based on wind and tide data.

Community Awareness and Next Steps

Residents are urged not to touch debris balls and to report sightings immediately through Sydney Water’s 24-hour hotline. The EPA will continue working with Sydney Water as investigations progress and will update the public when new information becomes available.

Published 3-Nov-2025

Rick Stein and Infinity Pool Coming as Coogee Welcomes New Luxury Hotel

Photo Credit: intercontinentalcoogeebeach/Instagram

IHG Hotels & Resorts is set to bring coastal indulgence to Coogee this summer, with the InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach combining Rick Stein’s signature seafood dining and a sweeping infinity pool overlooking the ocean. The launch marks the first phase of IHG’s wider Sydney expansion, which also includes a business-focused hotel in Parramatta.

This major local development is the first part of a wider story of hotel growth across Sydney. The Coogee location is set to begin welcoming guests on 1 December 2025, offering 198 rooms and 22 suites. Bookings for stays and dining are now open.

A second hotel project from the same parent company is also planned for Parramatta, aimed at the growing business market in Western Sydney.

Coogee’s New Coastal Escape

The InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach is focused on blending coastal life with high-end comfort. It stands as the only luxury beachfront hotel within a 20-minute drive of the city. The design aims to connect guests with the ocean, using wave-like shapes in the joinery and light, sun-washed colours. Rooms, especially the premium suites, feature large lounges, outdoor baths, and a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces.

While the rooms and a new restaurant, Shutters Restaurant &Bar, will be ready in December 2025, the hotel plans a second stage of work. In March 2026, a leisure deck is scheduled to be finished. This area will include an infinity pool facing the ocean, a poolside bar, a day spa, and the exclusive Club InterContinental for certain guests.

Food and wellness are central to the hotel’s community offering. Renowned chef Rick Stein will bring his famous “fresh seafood, simply prepared” style to his Australian flagship restaurant, Rick Stein at Coogee Beach.

The 224-seat venue will feature a relaxed coastal design with a sun-drenched courtyard and ocean views. Head Chef Colin Chun, who has worked alongside Stein for several years, will lead the kitchen.

Guests can expect signature dishes such as blue swimmer crab Singapore chilli crab, mahi mahi with lime butter, and local Sydney rock oysters, alongside a carefully curated wine list focused on Australian coastal producers.

Parramatta’s Rise as a City Centre

While Coogee focuses on leisure, IHG Hotels & Resorts is also looking west. The company has announced a partnership with developer Urban Property Group to build a new Crowne Plaza in Parramatta, right in the heart of Sydney’s booming “second CBD.”

This 217-room hotel is planned for a 2029 opening. It will be built in a landmark development directly opposite Parramatta Train Station and will be connected to the Westfield shopping centre. The plans include a rooftop infinity pool, flexible meeting spaces, an all-day restaurant, and a lobby bar.

A Dual Strategy for Sydney

The two new hotels show a clear plan to cater to different parts of the Sydney market. Matt Tripolone, an IHG managing director, stated that Western Sydney is one of the country’s most dynamic growth areas, helped by huge infrastructure spending and the new Western Sydney International Airport. He said the Parramatta hotel will be a flagship destination for travellers.

Patrick Elias of Urban Property Group added that his team is proud to create a must-visit destination. He explained the hotel will bring quality hospitality and unmatched connectivity to Parramatta as it grows into a major city centre. The Crowne Plaza brand is one of the world’s fastest-growing upscale hotel brands, known for blending work and leisure spaces.

Meanwhile, in Coogee, anticipation is already building for the December opening — combining Rick Stein’s signature seafood experience with the comfort of InterContinental luxury and coastal design.

Published Date 28-October-2025

Coogee Cancer Survivor Sets Three Records, Wins National 48-Hour Ultramarathon

Photo Credit: Heather Hawkins/Facebook

From the coastal streets of Coogee to the national stage of ultramarathon running, Heather Hawkins has once again shown that age is no barrier to remarkable endurance. The veteran runner and ovarian cancer survivor captured the women’s title at the Australian 48-Hour Championships, covering an extraordinary 244.729 kilometres, smashing a few records while she’s at it!

A Landmark Achievement for Coogee

The event, held from 26–28 September 2025 in Campbelltown, tested runners’ stamina and resilience as they raced continuously over two full days. Hawkins emerged as the first female finisher, according to results shared by the event organisers and her own official page. In her post-race reflections, Hawkins said she surpassed previous benchmarks in the W60-64 category, pending formal confirmation by athletics authorities.

Her performance was widely shared by ultrarunning groups and community pages across Australia, and local supporters in Coogee hailed the result as a significant milestone. Official results confirm her distance and victory, while record ratification remains in progress.

From Cancer Recovery to Ultramarathon Success

Hawkins’ endurance journey began after surgery and recovery from ovarian cancer diagnosed in late 2006. Determined to rebuild her life, she turned to running and gradually embraced longer distances, eventually entering some of the world’s most demanding endurance events.

She has completed the World Marathon Challenge — seven marathons on seven continents in seven days — and claimed victory in the North Pole Marathon in 2015. In 2019, she conquered The Track, a 522-kilometre foot race across central Australia.

Her most recent 48-hour win builds on that legacy, demonstrating her sustained success over nearly two decades in endurance sport. Hawkins also shares her experiences as a Can Too ambassador and patient advocate, using her platform to encourage others navigating cancer recovery and promoting physical activity as a source of strength.

Community Pride and National Recognition

Hawkins’ story resonates deeply in Coogee, where she continues to train and inspire fellow runners. She was inducted into the Randwick City Council Sporting Hall of Champions in 2016, a recognition of her outstanding contributions to sport and the community.

As officials review her record-setting claims, Australian ultrarunning groups and local supporters have already celebrated her achievement online, highlighting her run as one of the standout performances of the year. Her latest success is more than a sporting result; it is a powerful reminder of perseverance and possibility.

Published 17-Oct-2025

Community Celebrates Children’s Story Festival at Coogee Beach

Photo Credit: Samera Kamaleddine Author/Facebook

Families and local authors gathered at Coogee Beach for a Children’s Story Festival, offering an afternoon of storytelling, art, and writing activities for young readers.

Storytelling Afternoon Engages Local Families

The Children’s Story Festival took place at Coogee Beach Club on 12 October from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., bringing together authors, illustrators, and children from across Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. Organised by the Eastern Suburbs branch of the Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA), the event was designed to encourage creativity and a love of reading among preschool and primary school-aged children.

Activities and Creative Sessions

Attendees joined a range of free activities, including drawing, writing, and craft workshops led by local creators. Visitors also met children’s authors such as Samera Kamaleddine and illustrators like Carla Hoffenberg, who guided interactive sessions designed to spark imagination and inspire storytelling.

Children’s Story Festival — *Photo Credit: Samera Kamaleddine Author/Facebook*

Local Authors Join the Celebration

Australian author Susanne Gervay participated in the festival, joining other creators to share stories and creative insights. Earlier in the week, Gervay and Hoffenberg visited La Perouse Public School, engaging students in storytelling and art as part of the broader celebration of children’s literature.

Community Involvement at Coogee Beach

The event was supported by Coogee Beach Club, which hosted the afternoon’s activities, and Harry Hartog Bondi Junction, which provided book sales on-site. The festival formed part of the local spring school holiday program, drawing families and book enthusiasts to the beachside venue for a relaxed and educational experience.

CBCA Eastern Suburbs — *Photo Credit: Samera Kamaleddine Author/Facebook*

Fostering a Love of Reading

The Children’s Story Festival at Coogee Beach reflected a shared community goal of promoting reading and creativity among young audiences. With the participation of local authors and illustrators, the event highlighted the continuing strength of children’s literature in Sydney’s coastal communities.

Published 13-Oct-2025

Police Issue Fines Over E-Bike Rules in Coogee

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

Police have issued fines in Coogee as part of a crackdown on riders using footpaths, with new signs along the beachfront leaving some residents confused.

Crackdown at Coogee Beach

Police carried out enforcement operations along the Coogee promenade, targeting people riding bikes, e-bikes and scooters on footpaths. Officers issued fines under New South Wales road rules, which prohibit riders aged 16 and over from using footpaths. On-the-spot penalties of $114 can be applied.

Signage Raises Questions

Randwick Council recently installed purple corflute signs on Arden Street near Coogee Beach as part of an ongoing campaign with police. The “walk your ride” posters, showing figures holding a skateboard, bike and scooter, were designed to encourage people to dismount on footpaths. Some locals said the messaging was unclear, while others found the signs straightforward.

Coogee e-bike crackdown — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Wider Safety Concerns

The campaign followed complaints from residents about near misses and collisions involving bikes and pedestrians on busy walkways. Police and council rangers also carried out a joint operation on 29 and 30 August across Coogee, Maroubra, Kensington and Randwick. Authorities said the aim was to reduce conflict between delivery riders, cyclists and pedestrians in crowded areas.

Rules for E-Bike Riders

Under NSW law, riders must wear approved helmets, keep speeds below 25 km/h, and use pedal assistance rather than motor-only propulsion. Illegal modifications, petrol-powered bikes or exceeding power limits can result in fines over $800. Revenue NSW has reported 408 infringement notices statewide so far in 2025.

Community Reaction in Coogee

Reactions from the community have been divided. Some residents supported the crackdown, saying bikes on footpaths posed risks, particularly to elderly pedestrians. Others described the enforcement as heavy-handed and called for clearer signage and improved cycling infrastructure. Social media comments ranged from support for police to criticism of revenue raising.

Looking Ahead

Randwick Council has stated that more “walk your ride” signs will appear across eastern suburbs town centres. Police have indicated that visible patrols and enforcement will continue in Coogee to address safety concerns around shared spaces.

Published 28-Sep-2025