Coogee Archives - Page 15 of 16

3 Facts You Might Not Know About Wedding Cake Island in Coogee

Wedding Cake Island is more of a rock platform than an actual island, located about one kilometre southeast of Coogee Beach. The rocks serve as the beach area’s natural protection from swells.

Twice a year, in April and November, the Coogee Surf Life Saving Club holds a 2.4-km swim event from Coogee Beach which circumnavigates the island. The Coogee Island Challenge has been running for more than 20 years, attracting thousands of swimmers every year.

Locals also frequent the island each year, on ANZAC Day. Surfers honour local war heroes with a pilgrimage on the island. From early morning until late afternoon, Wedding Cake Island would be filled with surfers paddling to and from Coogee Beach to the rocky spot to pay tribute to the memory of Australia’s fallen heroes.

Although the area has been a prominent spot in the Coogee seascape for quite some time, here are some facts you might not know about Wedding Cake Island.

1. No one really knows why it’s called Wedding Cake Island.

Many locals will say that the island was named Wedding Cake Island because the white caps frequently adorning the rock formation when the surf breaks look like icing on a wedding cake from a distance. Some also say that bird droppings on the island resemble icing on a cake.

Wedding Cake Island is apparently known as Bridal Rook and Lemo’s Island to some of the older folks. Although the area was never really formally referred to by those names in existing historical records, the fanciful names became part of local folklore but the more romantic “Wedding Cake Island” became the most enduring moniker for the spot.

The island was only officially named “Wedding Cake Island” in 1977 by the Geographical Names Board of NSW. Newspaper accounts from the early part of the 20th century show, however, that the name may have been in use as early as the 1920s, half a century before the official naming ceremony of the island.

2. The iconic ’80s instrumental music dedicated to the island actually had lyrics.

In the 1980s, Australian band Midnight Oil released instrumental music immortalizing the Coogee rock spot which quickly became the unofficial surfers’ anthem for the place. Interestingly, both Peter Garrett and Martin Rotsey spent part of their lives in Coogee, a detail that’s thought to have served as inspiration for the piece.

Did you know that Midnight Oil’s music originally had lyrics?

Lyricist Peter Garrett originally penned words for the Wedding Cake Island music but the version with lyrics never made it past the final cut at the studio. Musician Rob Hirst, one of Midnight Oil’s founding members, claims that he is the only person who has a copy of the music+lyrics version.

These are, allegedly, the lyrics to Wedding Cake Island by Midnight Oil:

The raising of children, the rearing of young
Used to be simple but look what it’s become
The choice of career, the proper vocation
Out of your hands, all for the needs of the nation
No inhibitions with the modern child
Wasted lessons or pleasure or pain
Easy to follow your natural instinct
Easy to follow, much too hard to learn
Useless expressions and sporting aggression
Don’t waste my time, I can’t wait for the end of the session
What opportunity, the modern child?
Waste passion and wasted mind
Some kids got no time for playtime
Some kids got no time for games
Some kids got no time for playtime
Some kids got no time for games

3. Someone planned a fairy tale proposal on Wedding Cake Island that became a “titanic nightmare.”

It took a full year for Hilton Robinson to prepare his wedding proposal for Talia Mayerovitch on Wedding Cake Island. After meticulous coordination with family, friends and some island residents, the big day finally came. Unfortunately, it wasn’t quite the fairy tale moment he had hoped for.

First, their boat ran out of petrol and Hilton and Talia were stranded and had to be rescued by Coogee Beach lifeguards. A second attempt to head out to sea ended in another rescue when a sudden squall came and big waves threatened to capsize their boat.

Things still ended on a high note despite the low points of the day, however, when Talia said yes to marrying Hilton. Interestingly, the couple managed to capture most of it on film. Today, Hilton and Talia are parents to two adorable children who will one day get to see (if they haven’t already) the adventure that their parents’ engagement day turned out to be.

Rainbow Walkway Installation Planned on Coogee Beach

The Randwick City Council has proposed to install a temporary 50-metre rainbow walkway at the Coogee Beach promenade to celebrate diversity, inclusivity and equality.

As part of the Council’s partnership with the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras, which will take place on 6 March 2021, the rainbow walkway is expected to be ready by February 2021. It will be in place on the promenade for months.

Following the Council meeting on 8 Dec 2020, Randwick Mayor Danny Said that the walkway will deliver a strong statement of support for the LGBT community in Sydney.

“For many years, Council has raised the rainbow flag at Randwick Town Hall as part of our ongoing support for the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. This proposal enhances that tradition and makes a strong public statement of support for our wonderfully diverse local community,” the mayor said. “The rainbow walkway will follow the existing shape of the lower promenade at the bottom of the Coogee Beach steps forming a natural rainbow shape.”

Randwick City Council is also looking at options for materials to use for the installation, including pavement paint or a non-slip outdoor vinyl shaped like a rainbow.

‘Wonderland’ Building on Baden Street to be Demolished for New Residential Flat

Did you use to watch this Channel 10 Gen-Y TV series, which filmed in Coogee from 2013 to 2015? The show, titled Wonderland, was set in a beachside apartment on Baden Street. The famous building, however, might soon be demolished if Randwick City Council approves the development application.

Lodged on 2 Oct 2020, DA/523/2020 will entail knocking down the existing structures, which will be replaced with a 4-storey residential flat and basement car parking.

Residents, however, are objecting to the demolition, with some locals suggesting to save the Wonderland building by turning it into heritage-listed.

“What a dreadful shame it would be to lose this magnificent building with all of its unique character and charm. Coogee is already crowded with non-descript concrete boxes, making these extraordinary gems even more critical to preserving the history and integrity of our lovely beachside suburb. Coogee’s recent transformation is not sensitive to its village vibe. Please do not demolish this building,” one local said.

The Wonderland building was built in 1922 for the family of garage operator William Duncan McLeod. Featured with the gorgeous view of the Coogee beach, this house is easily recognizable and can be spotted from the water for its blue and white bay windows. It also has two distinctive sandstone pillars on the front door.

This apartment was originally called the Dunvegan Flats after the Scotland castle of the Clan MacLeod (no relation to the McLeods).

By the 1940s, however, the property became a five-apartment site owned by the Whiteman family. In 1980, the Whitemans sold the house to the Newton family but they remained in the penthouse flat until 1989.

In 2013, Channel 10 rented the house for their Gen-Y dramedy. When the show ended, the Wonderland apartment became a tourist attraction and a site for selfies.

“Having lived on Baden St for 11 years, I would hate to see this classic building disappear. It really helps add colour and vibrance to Coogee, something we don’t get with the modern concrete constructs, and Coogee would be poorer if it were to go,” another resident said in a message to the planning authority.

Meanwhile, a design panel review will submit its assessment on the planned demolition and development on 9 Nov 2020 whilst a public notification was provided and opened for 14 days.

A Consistent Standout on Clovelly Road: Out of the Blue Fish Burgers

Many local kids have strolled by Clovelly Road after Nippers and stopped over at Out of the Blue for some tasty burgers and chips. For nearly two decades, this nondescript eatery has attracted a long line of people who patiently wait outside to get their tasty fill.

Out of the Blue is consistently a standout when other eateries have come and gone at this busy street corner bordering Coogee and Clovelly.

At times, especially when the weather is beautiful, the queue of people may extend all the way to the beach so it’s might be a good idea to call in advance for your orders or expect the long waiting time (it’s worth it!).

The variety of burgers at Out of the Blue is plentiful and reasonably priced. Julien’s Famous Fish Burger really lives up to its name because it is the most popular choice.

But what makes the burgers truly irresistible is the chili mayo. Thick, creamy and with the right amount of kick, batches of chili are made fresh and in-store every day.

This takeaway shop has been a family-run business ever since. Every order is prepared right in front of the customers.

“We don’t believe in compromising on quality or taste, thats why we put a great emphasis on homemade,” Jean Marc and Sophie Gubian said.

When Chef Jean Marc and Sophie Gubian arrived in Sydney from France to set their roots in the 1980s, they also dreamt of having their own restaurant. Today, the couple’s children are managing Out of the Blue.

For the store’s opening hours, visit their website or Instagram for the details. The shop takes cash payments only.

“You can get fish and chips here and it’s outlived many good competitors, the serving staff are always friendly and like to connect, dudes hang out on the pavement out front with their skateboards and spandex beach gear, there always seem to be a mixture of earthy beach goers and happy tourists hanging out there.”
studentini, TripAdvisor

“Have been eating here for years and have always had a good experience – I like the veggie and the fish burger – also the chicken with chilli mayo. Chips are great and generous portions. So good that you can get a half-small serve of chips – enough for one person. Order ahead if you don’t want to wait. Friendly staff.”
Sophi_AKS, TripAdvisor

“Food is well priced and most importantly delicious. I’ve been here multiple times and food is always high quality. The Julien’s famous is a must! Only downside is the wait time because they get busy so best to call in advance.”
Jeremy, Google Reviews

Sugarcane Restaurant: Best Bang for Your Buck at this Carr Street Thai Eatery

Sugarcane Restaurant continues to surprise and delight its patrons four years since opening its beachside location on Carr Street in Coogee. The Thai eatery just updated its menu to keep bringing the best bang for the buck choices with great-tasting food, large portions, a friendly vibe and excellent service.

The star of this season’s menu is the newest dessert dish: black sesame parfait with a sticky blackcurrant glaze and shredded coconut.

Frequent Sugarcane Restaurant guests, however, usually order favourites like the Crisp Tortilla (crab, green apple, coconut, lime), Chicken Pad Thai, bao buns and the Hiramasa Kingfish (roasted rice, chili, lime, coriander).

First-time diners are highly recommended to pick the “Trust Me” choice off the menu, which is good for two to five people. The trustworthy selection is up to the creativity of the chef and owner, Milan Strbac, who will fill the servings with generous quantities.

Outside of Thailand, Sydney perhaps has the most developed and distinct Thai food culture, where other cities have mash-ups or fusions. Sugarcane Restaurant often tops most diners’ lists for the best Thai food on this side of the coast because the dining experience always meets expectations.

The eatery encourages communal dining but since reopening in June, the staff has committed to making the place safe for guests.

“We’re still serving the same delicious food, but we’ve adapted our processes around hygiene and record-keeping, including a new sign in to dine in policy and single-use menus,” the owner said.

For updates on its trading hours, menu and deals, follow Sugarcane Restaurant on Facebook.

“Great location, delicious food, excellent service. I couldn’t decide on the wine, so they let me taste a couple before I chose. Also mentioned we were celebrating a bday, they took the initiative and brought out a dessert with a candle in it at no charge. It’s the little things, the attention to detail that matter the most. Have already recommended you to friends. Thanks for a wonderful afternoon.”
Hilla Irani, Facebook

“We had a great night at Sugarcane tonight. The food was spot on, great mix of flavours and spices we tried the recommendations from the wait staff and were delighted. The staff were so friendly and knowledgable. Our first night out for months and felt safe and totally satisfied with the choice of restaurant. We will be coming back to sample more from this menu. Thanks Sugarcane.”
Keith Young, Facebook

“Been to Sugarcane for dinner twice now and each time the food has been excellent. The staff are also attentive and professional and the wines well chosen. It’s quite pricey for Asian food but the quality makes it well worth it – you definitely get value for money. 4 of us ate really well being pleasantly stuffed, with 2 cocktails, a beer, sparkling water and 1 bottle of wine for under $100 a head including tip. If you’re up for spending that kind of money do yourself a favour and try it. You will NOT be disappointed!”
Micael Neuman, Google Reviews

Wylie’s Baths Upgrade Completed in Time for Summer

Upgrades to the Wylie’s Baths Rock Pool in Coogee have been completed as the summer season approaches. Work done on the public pool took over 100 days but the effort and improvements have been worth the wait.

The community pool closed in mid-May for the installation of new valves vital to the pool’s maintenance. Demolition of the existing stars and the replacement of compliant concrete stairs were also undertaken, along with several much-needed repairs.

“We’ve taken this closure period as an opportunity to do some cleaning, sanding, painting, pressure washing, stair-building, valve-installing, leak-plugging, gardening, scrubbing, reviewing, organising, pest-controlling, irrigating, sewer pump servicing, urinal repairing, roof-sealing, sanding, painting, sanding, painting, sanding, and painting,” the Wylie’s Bath staff posted on social media. “We’re pretty stoked with the results so far and we think you will be too!”

This undertaking was possible with the collaboration of The Wylie’s Baths Trust, Randwick City Council and the contractors from Antoun Civil, along with other tradespeople from GardenLink, Venice Projects, Men In White Painting, GJ Electrical, ESS, The Lone Drainer & Pronto.

The Council shared the video of its completed redevelopment on its Facebook page:

The tidal pool, built in 1907 by Henry Wylie, was where Wilhelmina Wylie, Henry’s daughter, and Sarah Durack trained to swim. They went on to become the first Australian Olympic female swimming champions.

Alteration and repairs of Wylie’s Baths were undertaken several times to maintain and preserve the site, given the harshness of the sea environment. In 2003, the state recognized Wylie’s Baths as a heritage site.

Coogee Dive Wreck Plan Gains 10,000 Signatures of Support

A community initiative to establish a dive wreck four kilometres off the coastline of Coogee has reached over 10,000 signatures. Supporters of the initiative agree that sinking a decommissioned navy vessel to create an artificial reef will bring economic and environmental benefits.

Gordons Bay Scuba Diving Club (GBSDC) is spearheading the creation of the dive wreck with the help of the Coogee Chamber of Commerce. These groups said that a dive wreck will be a more sustainable option than selling the ship parts for scraps.

A dive wreck may become a habitat for many types of marine life for hundreds of years, increasing the biodiversity. The site may also serve as an attraction for scuba divers who want to learn challenging skills on wreckage penetration.

“The advantage of a purpose sunk wreck is it can be cleaned and made safe for divers first. This means that wildlife are safe to use the artificial reef from the beginning,” per the Sydney Dive Wreck campaign.

Dive wreck historical artefacts and and other archaeological resources may also boost underwater cultural heritage and provide a rich story and interesting story for history and science buffs.

As the sinking of the ship will be miles off the coastline, the beauty of the Coogee beach will be preserved whilst improving the recreational spots in the area.

With more than a million locals diving, snorkeling and “treasure hunting” every year, the potential for business revenue is at $12.5 to $48 million within five years, especially when managed well.

“Our estimates for the economic benefits are based on advice from the Sydney Dive industry and validated against Australian and International research on the economic benefits of Dive Wrecks worldwide. We are confident that the dive wreck will be a great economic benefit to NSW, in addition to the recreational, scientific and environmental benefits it will provide.”

If you’re interested in supporting this cause or learning more about the dive wreck proposal, phone John Rowe, Marine Scientist, Founder, Gordons Bay Scuba Diving Club Inc at +61 412 099 453 or send an email to jcprowe@bigpond.net.au

Estate in Coogee Offers Big Mac Risotto for a Limited Time

Estate at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Coogee Beach is supersizing things up! Following its opening in March, the restaurant is serving a fast food favourite — the Big Mac — with an interesting twist. However, it will only for a limited time.

Chef Matthew Butcher will recreate a Big Mac-inspired risotto dish created by Chef Ryan Clift from the Tipping Club in Singapore. Mr Butcher trained under Mr Clift, who happily passed along his super secret recipe for this sinfully delicious dish.

View this post on Instagram

Next weeks live workshop kicks off our whacky risotto masterclasses we will be teaching you how to make our famous Big Mac risotto ! Each guest will receive a full pack with all the ingredients to feed up to 3 people and a half bottle of makers mark to wash it down ! Www.tipplingclub.com @tipplingclub @deji89 @makersmark @andyloudon85 #risotto #whacky #masterclass #live #livestream #signup #bigmac #wagyu #pickle #burger #foodpornography #recipe #workshop #zoom #demo #savefnbsg #picoftheday #photography #notfastfood #secretsauce #dineinmovement #follow #lovemyjob #team #thanks #sanitizer #staysafe

A post shared by Ryan Clift (@chefryanclift) on Jun 4, 2020 at 12:25am PDT

The Big Mac Risotto is the star of Estate’s new spring menu and will cost $26 a plate. The meal consists of wagyu beef, homemade cheese and special mustard based sauce, dill, fermented cucumber pickles, sesame seeds, and a fold of lettuce.

Mr Ryan said that he tried to copy the McDonald’s Big Mac sauce recipe unsuccessfully. The fluke, however, turned out to be a blessing since he created his own secret sauce to use for the risotto.

Meanwhile, Estate’s formal dining space and taqueria follow different trading hours amidst the COVID-19 restrictions. Government restrictions remain in place for all of the eateries at the site, whilst the outdoor deck, the Terrace, has reopened effective 3 Sept. 2020.

The taqueria’s Private Karaoke Room has also reopened for late night, small group parties.

Photo Credit: Estate Coogee Beach/Google Maps

The restaurant has brought back its Taco Tuesdays, which has actually extended until Wednesdays. Deals during these days include 2 for 1 tacos and $10 margaritas.

Booking in advance is highly encouraged for guests who want to dine-in at Estate. For more details about trading hours, deals and other offers, follow Estate’s Facebook page.

Cat Owners Reminded to Desex Feline Pets Amidst Tougher New Government Guidelines

Cat owners across New South Wales are asked to desex their pets once they are four months old or risk paying the $80 fine amidst new and tougher government guidelines.

The new guidelines were in effect since 1 July 2020. Desexing cats will help “address concerns about feral, stray and roaming cats.” Studies show that desexing also improves the feline’s health and wellbeing.

Local vets, the Cat Protection Society or the RSPCA conducts desexing regularly. Cat owners will receive a certificate after the procedure, which will entitle them to a pet registration discount.

Learn More About the Policy

Indulge in Milky Lane’s Loaded Donut Fries in Coogee This June

Milky Lane is not holding back on the sweets as it launches a new dessert creation. Dubbed the Loaded Donut Fries, this fantastic treat will be available in Coogee and its other branches all throughout June.

This sweet concoction is a bowl full of crunchy donut fries coated with cinnamon sugar. It’s topped with a generous helping of ripened cherry bits, to look like bacon, and shaved milky bar, to look like cheese.

An order of this dessert also comes with sweet salted caramel sauce and dollops of strawberry jam custard. Needless to say, this treat is a rich and delicious indulgence that would make a trip Milky Lane worth the visit.

The Loaded Donut Fries will be available on the menu until the end of June only but Milky Lane’s perpetual favourite burgers and sides, as well as cocktails and mocktails selections, will always satisfy.

Milky Lane Coogee opened in October 2018 just a few metres off the sandy beaches. Trading hours begin from 12 p.m. until 10 p.m.