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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A small café in Coogee has been forced to pay more than $23,000 to replace its windows and secure approval after a compliance complaint disrupted business only weeks after opening.
Lox in a Box, a Jewish-style café in Coogee, was ordered to replace its canteen-style glass windows after they were deemed a safety risk and said to encroach into public space. The order came following a compliance complaint, and the business had to shut its doors temporarily while the changes were made.
The owner, Candy Berger, had invested heavily in bringing the café to the community, spending more than $400,000 on renovations before opening. The unexpected ruling created financial and operational strain at a time when the café was still trying to establish itself in the neighbourhood.
Thousands spent to meet demands
The window replacement alone cost around $8,000. On top of this, the café was required to pay a further $15,000 to secure certification and lodge a development application for approval. Altogether, the total bill for compliance reached approximately $23,000.
The financial setback forced the business to close temporarily, disrupting customer access and reducing income during what should have been a crucial growth period.
Photo Credit: Lox in a Box/Instagram
Frustration over red tape
Berger voiced frustration at the decision, pointing out that older and potentially riskier fixtures in neighbouring businesses remained untouched. She argued the rules were being applied inconsistently and placed an unfair burden on new operators.
The café’s experience reflects a broader concern among Sydney small business owners who feel weighed down by compliance costs. The situation highlights how regulatory processes can hinder small operators from contributing to their local community.
Business NSW has reported growing frustration with planning and regulatory systems across the state. In its latest survey, 72 per cent of businesses in New South Wales rated regulatory requirements as “demanding,” a sharp increase from 53 per cent in August 2023.
The report also found that small businesses typically spend two to ten hours a month on compliance. Medium-sized businesses spend 11 to 20 hours monthly, while larger operators can dedicate more than 40 hours a month to meeting regulatory demands. Business NSW has called for reforms to reduce development application fees and streamline approval processes to ease the pressure on local operators.
A young buyer has landed a one-bedroom art deco apartment in Coogee for $1,195,000, with the help of his parents as competition pushed bidding from six registered parties.
The sale, held in late August, highlighted the enduring role of parental assistance in Sydney’s property market. The one-bedroom unit at 2/125 Mount Street, Coogee drew strong local interest before ultimately being secured by a young man whose purchase was bolstered by his family.
Market context in Coogee
Six bidders registered for the auction, reflecting the tight competition in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. The apartment, part of a classic art deco block, is typical of the style that continues to attract buyers looking for character homes close to the beach.
While the final hammer price placed the property just under $1.2 million, the key factor was not just market demand but the support of parents stepping in to make the purchase possible.
The deal underscored the continuing trend of younger Australians leaning on the so-called “bank of mum and dad” to break into one of the nation’s most expensive property markets.
For residents of Coogee, stories like this are becoming increasingly familiar. With rising property values, parental help remains a defining feature of many first-time purchases in the area.
The sale of the Mount Street apartment shows how family backing continues to play a central role in keeping younger generations rooted in the community despite soaring housing costs.
A 32-year-old man will appear in court this week following an alleged drug-affected police pursuit that began in Coogee and ended nearly 30 kilometres away in Turramurra.
The incident started just before 11pm on Sunday when police responded to reports of a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Oberon and Arden Streets in South Coogee. Witnesses told officers that the drivers of a red hatchback and black sedan had crashed, but the hatchback driver left the scene without providing details to the other motorist.
Police later spotted the red hatchback on Canberra Street in Randwick. When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver allegedly refused to pull over, sparking a pursuit that would traverse multiple Sydney suburbs.
The chase wound its way through Maroubra and along Anzac Parade towards Surry Hills. Police deployed road spikes at the intersection of Anzac Parade and Gardeners Road in an attempt to stop the vehicle, but the driver allegedly continued towards Oxford Street.
Officers temporarily called off the pursuit before re-engaging with the vehicle on Liverpool Street in the Sydney CBD. The hatchback then headed north through Elizabeth Street, onto the Cahill Expressway and across Sydney Harbour Bridge.
The pursuit continued up the Pacific Highway through various North Shore suburbs before coming to an end at the intersection of Pacific Highway and Ray Street in Turramurra shortly before midnight.
The driver, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle, was arrested by officers from the Raptor Squad. Police allege he returned a positive roadside drug test and was subsequently taken to Hornsby Police Station for additional testing.
The man has been charged with police pursuit – not stop – drive recklessly, failing to provide particulars to another driver, and hindering or resisting a police officer in the execution of duty.
Hollywood star Pedro Pascal has put the Sydney beachside suburb of Coogee on the global foodie map after naming the oysters at Mimi’s restaurant as his standout meal in Australia.
The actor’s revelation during a recent red carpet interview has sent both locals and visitors rushing to book a table at the iconic waterfront venue, giving Coogee residents a fresh reason to celebrate their vibrant dining scene.
How a Hollywood Star Sparked a Local Food Frenzy
“The Last of Us” and “Narcos” actor, who visited Sydney for the promotion of Marvel’s “Fantastic Four” reboot, didn’t hesitate when asked about his most memorable Australian meal. Speaking to media on the red carpet, Pascal singled out the oysters at Mimi’s in Coogee, describing them as his favourite. He added that there is no such thing as too many oysters, sharing his genuine enthusiasm for the local dish.
Pascal, known internationally for his film and television roles, was in Australia for media appearances related to Fantastic Four, where he will play Reed Richards. His endorsement quickly went viral, as a TikTok video capturing the moment amassed millions of views and sparked a surge in interest for the Coogee restaurant.
The Mimi’s staff and regulars took notice, with many locals expressing pride that their suburb was now in the international limelight.
Mimi’s, part of the Merivale hospitality group, is already well regarded among Sydneysiders for its seafood menu, refined décor, and panoramic ocean views. The restaurant has long attracted high-profile guests, but Pascal’s unexpected recommendation has boosted its reputation even further.
The oysters served at Mimi’s are sourced from Australian farms and are prepared to order, earning praise for their freshness and presentation. Diners have also celebrated other menu items such as the Blue Fin Toro crumpet, hand-cut pasta with spanner crab, and baked mud crab with caramelised hollandaise.
Pascal’s choice of the oysters, rather than more traditional local fare, has sparked conversation among the community and led to fresh appreciation for Coogee’s diverse food culture. Social media creator Tom, who visited Mimi’s following Pascal’s mention, described the oysters as the best he had ever tasted, echoing the star’s high praise.
As the buzz continues, locals and business owners say Pascal’s comments are not only good for Mimi’s but for Coogee as a whole. Many see it as a chance to showcase the suburb’s evolving dining options and friendly atmosphere.
Three dedicated volunteers from Coogee Surf Life Saving Club are among 107 surf lifesavers from across the country recognised in Surf Life Saving Australia’s (SLSA) National Medal Batch 53 — a significant acknowledgement of long and diligent service within the organisation.
Altin Bunaj, Scott Parker, and Clive Stiff, all members of Coogee Surf Life Saving Club in New South Wales, were awarded National Medals for their ongoing commitment to keeping their local beach and community safe. The award, part of the Australian honours system, celebrates individuals who have risked their safety in emergencies and natural disasters over a sustained period.
This year’s batch includes 95 recipients of the National Medal for 15 years of service and 11 recipients of the 1st Clasp for 25 years. A special mention was also given to Stephen Leahy OAM of Fingal Beach SLSC, who received the 2nd Clasp for an extraordinary 35 years of dedicated service.
Photo credit: GetUsThereAlready/Google Maps
SLSA President John Baker AM ESM praised all recipients, saying:
“On behalf of Surf Life Saving Australia, I would like to congratulate the 107 surf lifesavers who have been honoured with National Medals for outstanding service. Each recipient should be very proud of the incredible impact they have made on the lives of many, through their long-standing commitment to keeping our coastlines and communities safe.”
The National Medal, first established in 1975, acknowledges service by those in roles that carry potential risk and who protect life and property in times of crisis. SLSA encourages eligible members to apply through the SLS Members Area. To see the full list of awardees this year, visit Surf Life Saving Australia’s website.
A program in Coogee is seeking residents aged 65 and over to volunteer as ‘Grandfriends’ in a local trial pairing older adults with preschoolers to explore health benefits.
A new initiative in Coogee invites older residents to take part in a research trial connecting seniors with preschool children. The program forms part of The George Institute’s INTEGRITY trial and is supported by Randwick City officials. Participants, known as ‘Grandfriends’, will engage with children at Moverly Children’s Centre in South Coogee.
The study involves a 20-week schedule, with volunteers spending two hours a week with preschoolers. Activities include light physical tasks such as dance and play, as well as assisting children with creative exercises guided by an Early Childhood Educator. Sessions cover themes like transport, animals, and space. The program aims to assess how intergenerational interaction influences health outcomes for seniors and developmental progress in young children.
Requirements for Participation
Eligible participants must be aged 65 or older, living independently, and willing to commit to weekly sessions for the trial’s duration. Volunteers are required to undergo eligibility assessments and complete a consent form. A working with children check is also necessary, which is provided free of charge for those without one.
Community Support and Research Goals
Randwick City Council has expressed support for the study, highlighting potential benefits such as improved physical, cognitive, and emotional health for older adults, as well as developmental advantages for preschoolers. The program is part of broader efforts to explore how intergenerational connections can enhance wellbeing in the community.
Residents interested in volunteering can register via The George Institute’s platform or contact 8052 4365. The program also provides an opportunity for seniors to contribute to research that may shape future intergenerational initiatives.
The $7 million project, funded through the NSW Government’s 2025–26 budget, will be delivered with Randwick City Council and Sydney Water. It involves building a new underground pump station and pressure mains to divert stormwater further offshore.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Coogee Beach has long faced water pollution issues after rain, with stormwater carrying debris and waste directly onto the sand. This has led to repeated “poor” water quality ratings and safety warnings from Beachwatch.
Locals have often avoided the beach after storms, despite its popularity. The upgrade is expected to improve stormwater management and make the beach safer for public use.
What the Project Involves
The core of the project is a new pump station that will intercept stormwater before it reaches the beach. This water will then be moved through new pressure pipes and into a previously unused Sydney Water tunnel, which leads to a discharge point further offshore. This offshore location will help break down and dilute contaminants away from swimmers and shoreline users.
Photo Credit: Randwick Council
The NSW Government is contributing $3 million, with the remaining funds coming from Randwick City Council and Sydney Water. Construction is expected to begin later in 2025, following planning approvals.
Community and Council Response
Local officials say the project directly addresses community concerns about beach pollution and closures. Randwick Mayor Dylan Parker said improving Coogee Beach’s water quality has been a key council priority. Minister for Water Rose Jackson stated that residents are fed up with stormwater pollution and this upgrade is a major step forward.
She said the goal is to keep the beach clean and safe, even after heavy rain. Sydney Water’s acting CEO Paul Plowman said the works will improve the swimming experience by keeping runoff out of the surf.
What It Means for Locals and Visitors
The upgrade is expected to improve conditions at Coogee Beach, especially during Sydney’s wetter months. Cleaner water will mean safer swimming, fewer closures, and a better experience for locals and visitors.
Many hope the beach’s reputation will finally match its water quality. While experts note it won’t stop all pollution during major storms, it’s a major step in managing coastal runoff. The project follows years of community calls to address the issue, with work now underway.
We’ve combed Coogee and South Coogee for the best reviewed restaurants in the area where people waxed lyrical about their dining experience and what they love most about it. Here’s our list!
Yeonji S ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Yesterday marked my third visit to the restaurant. The crowd I take to the restaurant gets larger and larger. That’s how much I like the restaurant. The ambience of the restaurant is exceptional. Service is impeccable. All the dishes are extremely delicious and they change their menus every so often. I love their butter that comes with the sourdough. Love the zucchini flowers, calamari & bait, steak and market fish and all the pasta dishes! Tiramisu is good but the salted caramel housemade ice cream is divine. The bar has a great selection of drinks. Another perk is that you can walk down to Coogee beach after a fully satisfied dinner. Would like to suggest lunch pre fixe menu!! I’m so happy we have Louie in our neighborhood. Hoping they can continue that concept 🙂🥂🎈
Becca S ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The best food we have had in a long time! Every dish we ordered was a stand out. Our Cocktails were great too. Looking forward to trying their selection of wines next time. Our waitress Naomi was absolutely wonderful! We will definitely be back on our next special occasion 🥰
Nicole O ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We were there last night for dinner, food was divine (and we’re vegetarian!), agnolotti and eggplant parmigiana were delicious, tiramisu was the best I’ve ever had and the service was brilliant (thanks Richard!). It gets a bit noisy with big groups so maybe not for a quiet meal but the ambience is lively – definitely recommend!!
Luana M ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had an amazing experience, The service was outstanding – Vini was incredibly attentive and took the time to explain everything on the menu in detail. His warm and friendly approach really made us feel welcome. The food was absolutely delicious, full of flavor and beautifully presented. We truly enjoyed every moment and will definitely be coming back. Highly recommended!
Leah J ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The food was SO GOOD!! We had the pasta tasting menu, where you get 2 starters, 2 pastas, a salad, and dessert! For only $75 pp which I felt like was very fair. Perfect amount of food and everything tasted so authentic and was full of flavor. My highlight would have to be the gnocchi & the burrata. But don’t count out the tiramisu- that was also to die for. Had such a lovely time with my mother and grandma. And aside from the food being 10/10, our server Arturo was also a 10/10 with the service, recommendations, and of course wit and good looks. 😆 Give this place a try, it will be well worth it!
Jan C ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Welcomed beautifully, amazing service Arturo waiter extraordinaire. Chose many dishes from the menu… my favourites oysters, octopus, Brussel sprouts, pork(oh spices and fennel) gnocchi with porcini’s and truffle. The salad! Then the desserts….EVERYTHING WAS AMAZING! Just go there, do yourself a favour!!
N Alan ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A truly great experience, not just from the food but also from the exceptional customer service. The bartender and waiter, with his sweet appearance and kind demeanor, made our day. His attentiveness and warmth added so much to our visit. The tuna tartare and scallops were good—so fresh and full of flavor. Huge thanks to the amazing staff for their hospitality. I was truly impressed by his kindness!
Kristina P ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very delicious food and nice service. We came to celebrate International women’s day. We did our booking trough the app and it was a mistake there. But the guy Oliver did his best to feel us welcome and comfortable. Thank you very much to him. And also chef did wonders with seafood and fish. Everything looked and tasted perfect. Everything was very fresh and delicious
Aachal B ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ From the moment you walk in, the vibe is warm and welcoming. The service? Spot on. The drinks? Crafted to perfection. But the food… Mobit Gurung, your food is more than just ingredients on a plate — it’s heartfelt, comforting, and unforgettable. Truly next-level. 5 ⭐️
Juliette F ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely the most enjoyable lunch I’ve ever had, from the staff to the drinks and food it was amazing. The bread is made fresh and the butter is divine, it’s fine dining and if it’s in your budget then I highly recommend this restaurant. The staff were amazing to be honest probably the best and they all know how to pair drinks with what we ordered to eat. I highly recommend their cocktails! I just highly recommend this restaurant and I can’t express that enough!
Pattywack B ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Honestly the best restaurant experience I’ve ever had in Sydney. If I could give it 7 stars I would.From the minute we arrived we were seated by the window with a coogee beach view. The service was fantastic and I loved the waiters who walk around with champagne/vodka and caviar bumps. The bread and other pastry items are all made in house. The caviar potato scallops are an absolute must try. We had a bit of everything – sashimi, fresh oysters from my favourite Tathra location, fresh lobster pasta omg the best!!! They made my birthday feel special with a beautiful dessert, caviar ice cream and a candle. Yes prices are high but if you truly truly want the most special service and restaurant service ever this is the place to go. The restaurant is on level 2 – downstairs beach bar was even busy and a great vibe – I wanted to stay longer. After dinner we went upstairs which was a very busy beach style venue with multiple bars with DJ and snack style kitchens that were still open. We will def be back
Richard G ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Cannot fault a single thing. The restaurant has been beautifully designed. The service was unobtrusive, there was always someone there when we needed something. Everything we ordered was exceptionally presented and tasted fresh and delicious.
Mery ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A great meal enjoyed on the outside tables. Chicken schnitzel, crispy crust and juicy chicken. Broccolini with almond flakes and zucchini frites, one crunchy and one soft cooked, both delicious. Friendly sparodic service. Menu suits sharing and grazing.
Nami T ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The pavilion rooftop bar offers fantastic views of Coogee Beach. Their menu has limited choices as main dishes, mostly nibbles and appetizers. Their fries are to die for. They offer jugs of beer and have a good variety of nice beers. It is highly recommended for a weekend chill with beer and munchies.
Sushant B ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amazing spot right by the beach! The food was fresh and full of flavor, the service was quick and friendly, and the overall vibe was just perfect for a chill afternoon. Definitely coming back again!
