Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 6 of 30

Noise Dispute Emerges Over $111m Coogee Bay Hotel Redevelopment

A $111-million redevelopment of the Coogee Bay Hotel has come under scrutiny after project planners sought to remove a key noise control condition, prompting concerns about potential noise impacts from local officials and residents.

Background to the Redevelopment

The Coogee Bay Hotel’s redevelopment plans were approved in 2024 by the Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel following a lengthy planning and community engagement process.

Originally lodged in 2021, the plans faced strong local resistance due to concerns about height, bulk, and the impact on the area’s character. Amendments reduced the proposed height to 21.35 metres and removed a supermarket component.

The panel granted deferred commencement consent, requiring resolution of a noise management plan with Randwick City Council before the approval becomes operational.

Scope of the Development

The redevelopment covers an 8,500-square-metre site and includes the demolition of several structures. Key elements include a five to six-storey residential block with 58 apartments, 11 retail tenancies, basement parking for 158 vehicles, and a new hotel wing bringing total accommodation to 31 rooms.

Refurbishments to heritage features of the existing hotel and landscaping works are also planned.

Noise Control Dispute

Despite initially agreeing to submit a noise masterplan and provide noise modelling data, planners representing the Coogee Bay Hotel are now seeking the removal of the said requirement.

The move has drawn criticism from members of the Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel and Randwick Council, who view the condition as essential to protecting residential amenity.

Panel Response and Legal Action

Planning chair Carl Scully criticised the handling of the issue, highlighting delays and refusal to provide noise modelling data. He expressed concern that the push to remove the condition raised suspicion about potential noise impacts.

The hotel has launched legal action against Randwick Council in the NSW Land and Environment Court to remove the condition. A hearing is expected in July, although the panel will have final say on any proposed settlement.

Coogee development — *Photo Credit: Randwick City Council*

Community Sentiment

Residents have raised concerns about increased noise, particularly from proposed outdoor areas near homes. Some believe current noise levels are already disruptive. While developers claim the change will not create negative impacts, locals maintain the noise condition is necessary to protect the neighbourhood.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The Coogee Bay Hotel redevelopment cannot proceed until the noise condition is resolved. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between large-scale development and community expectations in Coogee.

Published 13-Apr-2025

75 Tonnes of Waste Cleared from Sydney Beaches

Photo Credit: Randwick City Council/Facebook

Coogee Beach, along with beaches in the eastern suburbs, became part of a widescale clean-up that resulted in 75 tonnes of toxic waste and debris collected for disposal. The past few weeks have seen hardened balls of sewage wash up on various beaches, prompting an immediate investigation and the clean-up operation.

Toxic Waste Cleared from Sydney’s Beaches in Massive Clean-Up

First reported in late 2024 and continuing into early 2025, the pollution prompted closures at beaches including Bondi, Coogee, Manly, Bronte, and Dee Why. The waste, made up of cooking oil, soap scum, faecal matter and harmful chemicals like PFAS, formed into hardened black and white balls that washed ashore in large numbers.

What Was Found

The EPA confirmed the balls contained high levels of bacteria, including E. coli, along with hydrocarbons and fatty acids. The material is believed to have formed in sewer systems before being discharged into the ocean, although the exact source has not been confirmed.

*Photo Credit: Randwick City Council/Facebook*

Clean-up crews removed the waste from both sand and water, with more than 75 tonnes collected across the eastern and northern beaches. Temporary fencing and beach closures were enforced to protect public health.

Community Concerns and Health Risks

Water testing showed unsafe bacteria levels, raising concerns from councils and residents. Authorities warned that exposure could lead to skin infections and stomach illnesses. Beachgoers were urged to avoid affected areas and follow council alerts.

Randwick and Northern Beaches councils called for stronger environmental protections and faster responses to coastal pollution.

The Ongoing Investigation

The EPA is continuing to investigate potential sources, including illegal dumping, sewer failures, and waste from vessels. Sydney Water is also involved in tracing the contamination.

Improved sewer monitoring and coastal water testing are being planned to help prevent future incidents. Councils are urging the public to report unusual waste sightings along the shoreline. Most beaches have since reopened, though some still face monitoring. Authorities say the event highlights the need for stronger safeguards to protect Sydney’s coastline during peak swimming season.

Published 1-April-2025

Coogee Bay Road Power Outage Delayed After Business Pushback

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons/Creative Commons 4.0 International

A planned overnight power outage on Coogee Bay Road has been postponed after strong opposition from local business owners who feared major losses during one of their busiest weekends of the year.

The outage, originally scheduled for Sunday, 6 April from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. the next morning, was set to affect at least 13 businesses along the popular Coogee Bay Road strip. The timing of the shutdown clashed with the Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale at Rosehill, an event that typically draws thousands of visitors and boosts weekend foot traffic for nearby retailers and eateries.

Local Businesses Speak Out

Business owners raised serious concerns over the timing, saying they were not properly consulted and that the power cut would disrupt vital systems such as refrigeration and payment machines. Several operators described the weekend of the Easter sale as a peak trading period they rely on for a large share of their weekly revenue.

Coogee Bay Road — *Photo Credit: RandwickCC*

Maurice Lombardo, who runs the long-standing Italian restaurant La Spiaggia, believed the outage would have had a severe impact. He said the weekend brings consistent crowds and likened its importance to that of a major annual tradition for Coogee.

Others echoed his concerns, pointing out that the lack of early and open consultation made it difficult to prepare for or challenge the plan in time. Café and shop owners feared they’d be forced to close or operate under limited conditions, with some estimating significant losses in takings.

Ausgrid Responds

Energy provider Ausgrid confirmed it had postponed the maintenance work following feedback from affected businesses. The company acknowledged that the original date overlapped with a high-traffic weekend and stated it is now working with traders to find a better time to carry out the necessary repairs.

Ausgrid explained that the works involve replacing a rusted kiosk and making a customer connection, which requires power to be shut off for safety reasons. A spokesperson said they are liaising with local businesses to agree on a new date and time that will minimise disruption.

Although a new date has not been confirmed, it’s understood that Sunday nights remain the preferred option for the work due to the earlier closing hours of venues like the Coogee Bay Hotel, which shuts at midnight on Sundays but stays open until 4:00 a.m. or later on other nights.

Calls for Better Planning

East ward councillor Carolyn Martin said the postponement was a good outcome, but noted it should not have come to this. She believed local businesses should have been considered from the beginning, particularly when planning maintenance work in a busy hospitality precinct.

Business owner Brenton McHatton also weighed in, saying it would be “common sense” to schedule work on a Monday night instead. Mondays, he pointed out, are generally the quietest night of the week for Coogee, and would pose less risk to trade.

The incident has reignited calls for more consistent and transparent communication between infrastructure providers and small businesses, especially in areas that rely heavily on weekend trade.

Published 28-March-2025

Hero Moment at Coogee: Paenga-Amosa Steps In to Save Beachgoer

Photo Credit: Carlo Tizzano/YouTube

A man struggling in the surf at Coogee Beach was pulled to safety earlier this month by Wallabies hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa, who later admitted he “can barely swim.”

The incident happened in early March, while Paenga-Amosa was in town with his Super Rugby team, the Western Force, ahead of their match against the NSW Waratahs.

Footage of the rescue quickly made its way online, showing the 29-year-old dragging the man from shallow water to dry sand. The moment drew attention not just for the act itself, but for the unlikely hero—an elite rugby player with limited swimming ability.

A beach moment that turned serious

Paenga-Amosa had been at Coogee Beach when he noticed a man struggling to stay upright in the surf. The water was only knee-deep, but the swimmer appeared to be in trouble. The rugby star moved quickly and helped guide the man out of the water before lifeguards arrived.

He later said he was simply in the “right place at the right time.” Speaking after Western Force’s dominant 52–15 win over Fijian Drua on Sunday, Paenga-Amosa said he wasn’t planning to jump into action—he just happened to be near the man when help was needed. He added that he didn’t rush in from afar, saying the swimmer had drifted toward him.

Paenga-Amosa laughed when recalling the moment, saying that if the swimmer had been in deeper water, he might not have made it to him in time. He described himself as a weak swimmer and said he might have only offered a friendly wave if the situation had been worse.

Locals caught off guard, but grateful

Questions were raised about the timing of the lifeguards’ response. Paenga-Amosa joked in an interview that the lifeguards arrived just as the situation was wrapping up. He said they looked at him, he looked at them, and he told them he was doing their job for them.

Despite the light-hearted tone, his actions didn’t go unnoticed. Members of the local community and his team have praised him for stepping in without hesitation. In a beach as popular and busy as Coogee, especially during the rugby season, unexpected dangers can still emerge, even in shallow waters.

More than a rugby career

Paenga-Amosa, who made his Super Rugby debut in 2018 with the Queensland Reds, has built a strong rugby resume over the years. After a stint with French club Montpellier, where he played more than 50 matches, he returned to Australia to join the Western Force.

He has also represented the Wallabies 16 times and was part of the team that played against Wales during the autumn internationals in 2024.

Off the field, he recently spoke about how becoming a father has helped him focus and grow as a player. He said that fatherhood taught him to worry less about the small things and concentrate on what really matters, like his family and supporting his teammates.

A quiet act of courage

While Paenga-Amosa didn’t seek attention for the rescue, the moment has stuck with fans and beachgoers. It’s a reminder that help can come from anyone, and that even those who admit they aren’t strong swimmers can make a difference when someone is in trouble.

Published 25-March-2025

Coogee Bay Road Businesses Call for Change to Planned Power Outage

Photo Credit: Coogee Bay Hotel/Facebook

A planned power outage on Coogee Bay Road has sparked concern among business owners, who fear it will force closures and cut off essential services.

Coogee Bay Road Businesses Call for Ausgrid to Rethink Power Outage Amid Financial Hit

Coogee Bay Road traders are urging Ausgrid to reconsider a planned power shutdown, warning it will severely impact their weekend trade and cause significant financial losses.

While the shutdown is for routine maintenance, business owners argue the timing is especially damaging for cafes, restaurants, and shops that rely on steady foot traffic.

Businesses Raise Alarm Over Revenue Loss

Small business owners on Coogee Bay Road say the outage will severely impact weekend operations, disrupting essential equipment like refrigeration and payment systems. Without steady customers, they expect significant sales losses

A local café owner voiced frustration, noting weekends make up a large share of weekly revenue, forcing them to close or operate under restrictions. Others acknowledge the need for maintenance but urge better consultation to reduce the impact.

Ausgrid’s Response and Planned Works

Ausgrid, which manages Sydney’s electricity distribution, stated that planned outages are essential for maintenance and upgrades. A spokesperson said businesses were notified in advance, but local operators argue the short notice doesn’t prevent financial losses.

Ausgrid has yet to confirm if they will adjust the timing or offer alternatives, while some traders urge rescheduling to off-peak hours to reduce economic impact.

A Call for Greater Business Consultation

The situation highlights ongoing tensions between critical infrastructure maintenance and business continuity in busy retail districts. Local operators are urging Ausgrid and government authorities to develop better communication strategies and consider economic factors when planning outages.

While no final decision has been announced, Coogee Bay Road businesses continue to push for a compromise that ensures both reliable power and business stability.

Published 14-March-2025

Coogee’s Waters Will Breathe Again: Shark Nets Set to Go

Photo Credit: Nick D/CC-BY-SA-4.0

For years, the shark nets at Coogee Beach have loomed beneath the waves—silent, unseen, and deadly. Sold as a safeguard for swimmers and surfers, they’ve tangled more than just fears; they’ve ensnared endangered marine life, turning Coogee’s iconic waters into a trap for creatures that were never meant to be caught. But now, that era is coming to an end.

People have made it clear where they stand. The shark nets at Coogee will be removed, aligning with all other NSW councils that have taken a stand against the outdated practice. The vote was the final piece of a movement years in the making, driven by science, community voices, and the undeniable evidence that shark nets don’t work.

A False Sense of Security

For some, the news might come as a shock. Shark nets have been part of Coogee’s identity for decades, a fixture of the beachscape that few questioned. But the truth? The nets have done little to keep people safe.

Lauren Sandeman, a marine biologist and expert on human-shark interactions, has spent years studying the impact of these nets. She presented her findings before the council vote, stating that since 2020, Coogee’s shark nets have failed to catch a single target shark. Instead, they’ve become a graveyard for marine life—critically endangered grey nurse sharks, sea turtles, and harmless rays caught in the mesh, never making it out alive.

More unsettling is the revelation that shark nets may be making the water more dangerous. Freedom of Information (FOI) requests have uncovered images showing large sharks feeding on dead animals trapped in the nets. This reinforces a long-held theory: rather than keeping predators out, the nets lure them in.

The Community’s Call for Change

This wasn’t a decision made lightly. The people of Sydney Eastern Suburbs—swimmers, surfers, locals, and conservationists—led the charge. Across the community, a shift has occurred: an understanding that shark nets belong to the past, and better solutions exist for the future.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sea Shepherd Australia (@seashepherdaustralia)

Alternative shark safety measures have been years in development, with the NSW Government investing in technology that is far superior to nets. Drones now scan the waves, listening stations detect tagged sharks and send alerts, and SMART drumlines catch and relocate sharks safely. For those wanting extra security, personal shark deterrents are readily available. The science is clear—these modern methods are not just more humane but actually more effective at keeping beaches safe.

For locals like lifelong Coogee swimmer James Donnelly, the change is long overdue.

“We’ve been told for decades that the nets are here for our protection, but now we know they’re just killing marine life for no reason,” he said. “I’d rather see a turtle swimming past me than floating dead in a net.”

With all eight NSW councils rejecting shark nets in the 25 February vote, the next step is in the hands of the country’s leaders, which are expected to announce its shark safety strategy in the coming months formally. While there may still be debate, one thing is clear: Coogee is ready for change.

NSW’s Next Move

NSW will take down shark nets under the Shark Meshing (Bather Protection) Program a month earlier than usual, on 31 March, to reduce the impact on turtles, which become more active in April. Additionally, discussions with local councils could lead to permanent changes in the shark netting program.

Published 27-February-2025

Bali Bombings Survivor and Coogee Hero Erik de Haart Dies at 67

Photo Credit: Coogee Dolphins Juniors/Instagram

Sydney’s eastern suburbs are mourning the loss of Erik de Haart, a Coogee local and Bali bombings survivor. Mr de Haart died of a suspected heart attack at the age of 67.

He was a life member of the Coogee Dolphins Rugby League Club and was heralded for his bravery in rescuing victims from the 2002 terrorist attack that claimed 202 lives, including six of his teammates.

A Night That Changed Lives: The 2002 Bali Bombings

In October 2002, Mr de Haart was in Bali with 11 Coogee Dolphins Rugby League Club members. Two bombs detonated in Kuta’s tourist district. The explosions, which targeted Paddy’s Bar and the Sari Club, resulted in 202 deaths, including 88 Australians. Among those killed were six of his teammates.

Coogee local and Bali bombings survivor — *Photo Credit: Coogee Dolphins Juniors/Instagram*

After the blasts, Mr de Haart ran towards the destruction. Despite the danger, he repeatedly entered the devastated Sari Club. Mr de Haart helped to carry the wounded to safety. He sustained burns and injuries but remained focused on rescuing others. The chaotic scene, particularly the victims he was unable to reach, weighed on him for the rest of his life.

Commitment to Community and Resilience

Following the tragedy, Mr de Haart returned to Coogee and continued his work professionally and within the community. He was a life member and sponsor of the Coogee Dolphins for many years. Mr de Haart’s dedication extended beyond sport. He also contributed to Indigenous programs and charitable causes.

A highly regarded accountant, Mr de Haart was a partner at CTBS Partners, where he was known for his professionalism and generosity. Beyond his career, he embraced physical challenges, including completing a 250-kilometre endurance race across Chile’s Atacama Desert to raise funds for the Sydney Children’s Hospital.

Mr de Haart attended memorial services at Dolphins Point in Coogee, honouring those who lost their lives in the bombings. During these events, he reunited with fellow survivors, including medical professionals who assisted in the aftermath.

A Lasting Legacy

The Coogee Dolphins confirmed Mr de Haart’s passing. They paid tribute to his contributions to the club and his heroism in Bali. Friends and community members have described him as always willing to help others, both in times of crisis and in everyday life.

His funeral will be held at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart in Randwick on 26 February 2025, where family, friends, and the Coogee community will gather to honour his memory.

Published 25-Feb-2025

The Lion & Buffalo: A Fusion of Flavour, Culture, and Comfort Food in South Coogee

Photo Credit: The Lion & Buffalo/Instagram

Nestled in South Coogee, The Lion & Buffalo is far more than just a corner café. With a globally inspired menu curated by chef Tomislav Martinovic, this local favourite combines traditional brunch staples with inventive dishes like house-cured salmon and standout seasonal ramen.

Poached Perfection — *Photo Credit: The Lion & Buffalo/Instagram*

A Café with a Global Twist

Located at 203 Malabar Road, South Coogee, The Lion & Buffalo prides itself on a menu that reflects the diverse backgrounds of its staff. Mr Martinovic, who previously worked under Heston Blumenthal, infuses international influences into every dish, making the café a unique brunch and lunch destination.

The Tantanmen ramen ($39), with sesame and chilli paste, a soy-infused egg, nori and caviar, is a signature dish that keeps locals coming back. Other standout options include:

Halloumi with Chicken ($22 + $6 for Chicken) – The grilled halloumi served with organic freekeh, pickled beetroots, cucumbers, chickpeas, and preserved lemon, was particularly praised.
French Toast ($24 | With Caviar: $39) – A sweet and indulgent option featuring white chocolate mousse, saffron syrup, and freeze-dried mandarin.
Jerk Chicken Sandwich ($24 + $6 for Bacon) – A flavour-packed sandwich with Hazeldene’s free-range chicken, chilli fried egg, smoked chilli onion mayo, cucumbers, and cabbage slaw.

Steak sandwich — *Photo Credit: The Lion & Buffalo/Instagram*

The café also offers house-made cakes, adding to its reputation as a go-to spot for both indulgence and comfort food.

VIEW MENU

Coffee, Drinks, and a Dog-Friendly Atmosphere

The café serves Single O Coffee ($5), offering everything from cold brew and lattes to turmeric and chai teas. For those looking for something different, options like flowering tea ($8.5), loose-leaf selections ($5.2), and fresh juices provide a refreshing alternative.

Latte with Single O Coffee at The Lion & Buffalo. — *Photo Credit: The Lion & Buffalo/Instagram*

For a more indulgent experience, the café also serves boozy brunch drinks, including:

Vodka & Apple ($16) – Freshly pressed apple juice with Zubrowka vodka.
Disco Disco ($18.5) – A cocktail with fresh coconut and Bacardi.
Beers and Wine – Local selections to complement the café’s hearty dishes, such as:
- Curly Lewis Clean Cut Lager ($10.5)
- Angove organic shiraz ($9.5)
- Angove sauvignon ($9.5)

Adding to its appeal, The Lion & Buffalo is dog-friendly, welcoming furry companions in its outdoor dining area.

Customer Reviews: A Local Favourite with a Loyal Following

The Lion & Buffalo continues to receive strong praise from its customers, who appreciate both the menu’s creativity and the café’s welcoming atmosphere.

Many diners have singled out the ramen as a standout dish, with some expressing a preference for an earlier version that left a lasting impression. The halloumi with chicken and French toast have also been highly rated for their well-balanced flavours and quality ingredients.

Families find the café particularly convenient, noting that it offers kids’ meals and has easy wheelchair accessibility, making it an inclusive space for all visitors. The availability of free street parking nearby adds to the café’s accessibility, making it a hassle-free stop for breakfast or brunch.

Beyond the food, the service and atmosphere contribute to the café’s popularity. The jerk chicken sandwich with bacon is frequently mentioned as a must-try dish, while the chai tea has also been praised as an excellent choice for those seeking a comforting drink.

The Lion & Buffalo café in South Coogee. — *Photo Credit: The Lion & Buffalo/Instagram*

With consistently high ratings, The Lion & Buffalo remains a well-loved destination for both locals and visitors looking for a standout brunch experience in South Coogee.

Opening Hours & Booking Policy

The Lion & Buffalo operates seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. While the café doesn’t take bookings, customers can walk in and be seated by the friendly staff.

With its globally inspired menu, standout ramen, and dog-friendly atmosphere, The Lion & Buffalo has cemented its place as one of the top café destinations in the suburb. Whether stopping by for a quick coffee, a leisurely brunch, or a taste of its famous seasonal dishes, this café offers something unique for every visitor.

Published 14-Feb-2025

Littering Crisis at Coogee Beach: Volunteer Uncovers Shocking Rubbish

Photo Credit: Pexels

Coogee Beach, one of Sydney’s most popular coastal destinations, has become a hotspot for littering, with partygoers and tourists leaving piles of rubbish every weekend. Frustrated by the growing problem, local resident Paige Smith cleans up the beach every Monday, uncovering an array of bizarre items.

Coogee Beach littering crisis — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Weekend Aftermath: A Beach Under Siege

Coogee Beach attracts visitors year-round, but the weekend influx of revellers has led to an escalating waste problem. By Monday morning, rubbish litters the sand, parks, and walkways.

Ms Smith, 29, decided to take action, heading to the beach each week with a bucket and stick to collect trash. In one morning, she collected 20 kilograms of rubbish.

Bizarre Finds Among the Rubbish

Beyond beer bottles and food packaging, Ms Smith has discovered men’s trousers, high-heeled shoes, used condoms, and dirty nappies. A particularly troubling find is discarded Snus sachets—a Scandinavian tobacco product contaminating the sand.

Microplastics—tiny plastic fragments—are among the hardest to remove, and cigarette butts remain a major concern. With 4.5 trillion cigarette butts discarded annually, they leach toxic chemicals into the environment.

Community Action: A Local Effort to Restore Coogee Beach

To tackle the issue, Ms Smith has registered a volunteer group under Clean Up Australia, which provides free clean-up kits and insurance for participants. She encourages others to spend just five minutes picking up rubbish, believing small efforts can make a big difference.

What’s Next for Coogee Beach?

The ongoing littering at Coogee Beach raises broader questions about public responsibility and waste management. While community-driven clean-ups play a vital role in maintaining the beach’s natural beauty, authorities may need to consider stricter regulations or increased enforcement to curb the problem.

For now, Ms Smith and her team of volunteers continue their efforts, hoping to inspire others to take action and preserve Coogee Beach for future generations.

Published 8-Feb-2025

Sydney’s Picnic Spot Reservation Trend Reaches Coogee

Photo Credit: Pexels

A growing trend of Sydneysiders paying others to reserve public picnic spots has reached Coogee, sparking debate over accessibility to shared spaces.

Public parks across Sydney, including Coogee Beach and Alison Park in Randwick, have become the centre of a growing trend where people are offering cash to secure picnic tables for events such as birthdays and weddings.

Recently, an Airtasker advertisement was posted offering $50 for someone to hold a picnic table at Alison Park from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. for a children’s birthday party. The post was widely shared online, with many criticising the idea of treating public spaces as private reservations.

Picnic Spot Reservation — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Mixed Reactions

Some locals expressed their support for the trend. One resident acknowledged that finding suitable outdoor spaces for gatherings can be difficult, especially for families in units. The local also stated the challenges of not having a backyard for parties, so she will probably reserve a spot in advance too.

However, online responses to the trend have been overwhelmingly negative. Many Reddit users ridiculed the Airtasker ad, with one person suggesting that a fold-out table from Bunnings costs less than $50 and another saying the man should simply arrive early himself.

How Widespread Is the Trend?

Coogee is not the only location where people are paying to hold public spaces. Other Airtasker ads show similar offers:

$175 to hold a park space for seven hours in Milperra ahead of a wedding.
$230 to set up chairs and tables for an event in Cabarita from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m.
$150 to reserve a picnic area at Ramsgate Beach.

This growing commercialisation of public spaces raises concerns over fairness and accessibility, as parks are meant to be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

What’s Next for Sydney’s Public Spaces?

As the trend spreads, it is unclear whether city authorities will step in to regulate the practice. If the demand continues, official reservation systems may be considered for popular parks such as those in Coogee, Randwick, and Milperra.

For now, public spaces remain free for all—as long as someone arrives early enough to claim them.

Published 7-Feb-2025