A proposed seven-storey block of serviced apartments in North Coogee has ignited a fierce local backlash, with residents questioning the need for more short-term accommodation.
The development application, lodged with Randwick Council, seeks to demolish an existing building at 130-132 Coogee Bay Road and construct a 22-apartment complex.
While the proposal claims to address visitor demand and provide accommodation for hospital and university workers, residents argue that it will disrupt the neighbourhood’s peaceful character.
Concerns have been raised about the impact of increased transient residents on the area’s amenities and the potential for noise and disturbance. Residents fear the development will exacerbate the existing housing crisis by removing long-term rental options and catering primarily to wealthy tourists.
A community meeting is scheduled for 18 November to discuss the proposal and allow residents to voice their concerns.
A 21-year-old Matraville man was arrested in Coogee on Wednesday, 6 November 2024, following an Australian Federal Police (AFP) investigation into an alleged international drug trafficking operation involving over 250 kilograms of a dangerous drug cocktail known as ‘pink cocaine’.
The arrest took place in Coogee, marking a significant law enforcement action against a transnational drug syndicate. The suspect was apprehended by AFP investigators shortly after a controlled delivery operation targeting a shipment labelled as an industrial saw.
Key Details of the Case
The AFP initiated an investigation in October 2024 after intercepting a 252-kilogram consignment of ‘tusi’ — the street name for the drug mixture — which was destined for Castle Hill, New South Wales. Despite its name, the substance rarely contains actual cocaine and is instead a volatile mix of ketamine, MDMA, and other potentially dangerous adulterants.
Following a controlled delivery to a Castle Hill address, the suspect allegedly accessed the shipment. He was subsequently arrested in Coogee and charged with attempting to possess a commercial quantity of an unlawfully imported border-controlled drug.
Legal Implications
The charges carry severe potential consequences, with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. The suspect appeared at Downing Centre Local Court on Thursday, 7 November, where bail was formally refused. His next court appearance is scheduled for 29 January 2025.
Law Enforcement Response
The AFP noted the significant risks associated with the drug, emphasising the unpredictable nature of ‘pink cocaine’ and its potential to cause severe health complications, including loss of consciousness, stroke, heart attack, and potential death.
The arrest represents part of a broader effort by Australian law enforcement to combat the increasing prevalence of this dangerous drug mixture, which has seen notable detection increases throughout 2024.
At Coogee Beach, a beach safety initiative for international students is set to expand across New South Wales, following a successful pilot run that equips foreigners with essential skills to navigate Australia’s unique and sometimes hazardous beach conditions.
Driven by the program’s impact, the University of New South Wales (UNSW), in collaboration with Surf Life Saving NSW and Coogee Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC), launched the *Water Safety for International Students Community of Practice (WSIS CoP)*. This coalition of educational institutions, community organisations, and government agencies aims to increase the accessibility of beach safety education to migrants and international students across the state.
Photo Credit: UNSW
The group started its first joint initiative at Coogee Beach in early November 2024. Forty students from multiple universities participated in a three-day beach safety event sponsored by Study NSW and run in partnership with Surf Life Saving. Under the guidance of surf lifesavers at Coogee, students were introduced to essential water safety skills, from identifying rip currents to understanding wave dynamics.
UNSW Water Safety Officer Oliver Jackson noted the event’s significance, highlighting it as a major collaborative effort between NSW’s educational providers and Surf Life Saving to support international students and migrants in enjoying Australia’s beaches safely.
Photo Credit: UNSW
The initiative also launched the Beach Ocean Safe (BOS) Program Toolkit, a comprehensive resource that includes training materials, safety guidelines, and educational content. The toolkit is designed for surf clubs, educational providers, and community organisations, enabling them to implement the BOS program easily. Groups interested in running a BOS session can now coordinate directly with their local Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) to arrange courses.
With over a third of drowning deaths in Australia involving people born overseas, the BOS program and WSIS CoP aim to fill a critical gap in safety education for international and migrant communities. Mr. Jackson expressed optimism about the program’s growth, calling the event a significant step in ensuring that newcomers to Australia gain the skills and confidence needed to enjoy its beaches safely.
Coogee United Football Club will commemorate their unprecedented achievement in Football NSW history at a special presentation night, marking their status as the first club to win both men’s and women’s Champion of Champions titles in the same season.
The historic celebration, scheduled this Saturday, 2 November, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Coogee Beach, will bring together players, staff, and supporters to honour the remarkable double victory that has set a new benchmark in New South Wales grassroots football.
Coogee United create Champion of Champions history
Both championship teams carved their path to victory with matching 2-1 scorelines. The women’s side, coached by Michael Caufield, overcame Sutherland Shire FA’s Gymea United, completing a redemption story after their heartbreaking Golden Goal defeat in the 2022 final.
For the men’s team, the Champion of Champions victory carries both historic and deeply personal significance. Under the guidance of former National Premier Leagues NSW player Brad Walker, the squad defeated Northern Suburbs FA’s Lindfield FC 2-1, adding to their 2018 title triumph.
The achievement highlights the strength of the Eastern Suburbs club, demonstrating Coogee United’s status as a powerhouse in New South Wales grassroots football. While this dual championship victory may prove challenging to replicate, it establishes a legacy for future generations at Coogee United.
Coogee Beach has been rated “poor” for water quality, according to the latest report, which revealed high levels of faecal pollution across many popular swimming spots in New South Wales.
The NSW State of the Beaches 2023-24 report has found that more than a quarter of the state’s monitored swimming spots, including Coogee Beach, have been impacted by faecal pollution over the past year.
Coogee, along with Bronte, Malabar, and Shelly Beach, was among six beaches in Sydney rated as “poor” due to contamination from faecal matter. Coogee’s water quality rating has remained “stable,” with the report noting that while ocean beaches generally have good ratings, areas like Coogee are particularly susceptible to pollution, especially after heavy rain.
The report, prepared by the NSW Enviroment, emphasised that stormwater runoff after rainfall significantly contributes to pollution levels, leading to health issues such as gastroenteritis and respiratory infections. Beaches in estuaries, lakes, and lagoons were the worst affected as these areas tend to trap more runoff and contaminants. Sites such as Gymea Bay in Port Hacking and Foreshores Beach in Botany Bay were even rated as “very poor,” indicating they should be avoided most of the time.
Photo Credit: PXHere
Community Health Risks and Precautions
NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe stated that, while most of Sydney’s beaches generally have high water quality, residents should remain cautious, especially with predictions of a wet summer. The Bureau of Meteorology has forecasted above-average rainfall, expected to exacerbate water pollution levels across NSW beaches. In response, authorities recommend that swimmers check the Beachwatch website for live updates on water quality before heading to beaches like Coogee.
The Beachwatch program, which partners with Sydney Water and Hunter Water, conducted over 20 yearly audits to monitor pollution levels. According to the report, while 95% of ocean beaches in NSW were rated as “very good” or “good,” the increased rainfall has negatively impacted many other sites, including several widespread inland and harbour beaches. Swimmers are advised to avoid water contact for at least 24 hours after heavy rain, especially vulnerable groups like young children, the elderly, and those with compromised health.
Action on Water Quality
To address ongoing pollution concerns, NSW allocated $2.5 million to stormwater management at Coogee Beach and plans to present improvements to the local council next year. This investment aims to reduce the amount of contaminated runoff entering the water, providing a safer experience for beachgoers. Additionally, Penrith Beach, a manmade beach that opened on a trial basis last summer, will be added to the Beachwatch monitoring system to ensure its water quality is suitable for swimmers.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about water conditions and exercise caution during summer beach visits. With increased rainfall anticipated, checking the Beachwatch website has become more critical to avoid potential health risks linked to polluted water.
Coogee median house prices have recorded a remarkable $580,000 increase over the past year, nearly tripling the annual earnings of an average Australian judge, new PropTrack data reveals.
The beachside suburb’s median house price now sits at $4.01 million, positioning Coogee among Sydney’s top-performing property markets and ranking it 12th nationally for absolute price growth.
This substantial increase comes amid challenging economic conditions, including 13 interest rate rises that have impacted mortgage repayments across the country. Despite these headwinds, Coogee’s growth reflects the broader resilience of Sydney’s premium property market.
The eastern suburbs enclave’s performance aligns with Sydney’s dominance in the national property landscape. More than 130 Sydney suburbs recorded price increases above $204,934 — the average annual income of judicial professionals, according to the latest Australian Taxation Office figures.
Neighbouring South Coogee also demonstrated strong growth, with house prices increasing by $295,000 to reach a $4 million median, further highlighting the sustained demand for Sydney’s coastal properties.
Within the broader Sydney market, where median home prices grew 4.98% year-on-year to a new peak of $1.103 million in September, Coogee’s performance stands out. The current Sydney median sits more than 38% higher than pre-pandemic levels.
The data shows Coogee’s growth places it among an elite group of Sydney suburbs, following Bellevue Hill with a $1.15 million increase and Queens Park with a $1 million rise in median house prices over the past year.
Thousands of black, ball-shaped tar balls have washed up at Coogee Beach, prompting authorities to close the popular Sydney beach to the public while clean-up efforts continue.
The enigmatic debris was initially found on Tuesday, 16 October, and it was verified on Wednesday evening to be tar balls, which are pollutants based on hydrocarbons. Preliminary tests showed that the material was consistent with oil spills or seepage at sea, and a conclusion was reached after samples were sent for forensic testing.
The beach and nearby Gordons Bay Beach remain closed as a safety measure. Residents and beachgoers have been warned not to touch the debris, as it may be harmful. The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is working with council authorities to investigate the source of the pollution, suspected to have originated from an oil slick spotted offshore.
Photo Credit: RandwickCC
Clean-Up Efforts
Randwick City Council has deployed expert teams, including an occupational hygienist and specialist waste removal contractors, to remove the tar balls safely. This clean-up operation is expected to continue into Thursday. Council jetskis also identified the suspected oil slick off the shore, but it has not yet been officially confirmed as the source of the tar balls.
The tar balls were also found on Wedding Cake Island, about a kilometre from Coogee Beach, raising concerns about the extent of the contamination. Despite this, nearby beaches like Waverley have not reported any sightings of the debris.
Community Impact and Reactions
Randwick Mayor Dylan Parker commended the community for their patience during this time, emphasising the importance of public safety and environmental protection. He reassured residents that the council is prioritising the safe removal of the pollutants while maintaining strict protocols to ensure public health is not compromised.
“Our community is rightfully protective of our natural environment, and this has been a concerning incident,” Mr Parker said. He also cautioned against direct contact with the tar balls, warning that the material could be carcinogenic and unsafe to handle.
NSW Minister for Climate Change, Energy and the Environment Penny Sharpe stated that the EPA is thoroughly investigating the situation, working alongside other agencies and forensic scientists to determine the exact cause of the contamination and the potential risks. Sharpe described the incident as unusual but assured that efforts are underway to “get to the bottom of it as quickly as possible.”
The EPA is also exploring whether the tar balls could be linked to a potential oil spill from a ship, although no such spills have been reported by vessels in the area. Authorities are reminding all ships of their obligation to report any spills to relevant agencies, including the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.
Photo Credit: RandwickCC
Ongoing Safety Measures
As the investigation continues, authorities advise the public to stay away from Coogee Beach and Gordons Bay until further notice. Beachwatch New South Wales, which monitors water quality across the state, has also been notified about the incident.
For now, the community’s focus remains on swiftly and safely removing the tar balls while ensuring that Sydney’s beaches remain clean and safe for everyone.
A community service was held in Coogee to honour the 88 Australians killed in the 2002 Bali Bombings, including 20 victims from Sydney’s eastern suburbs.
On 12 October 2024, the Coogee gathering marked 22 years since the terrorist attack, with residents, survivors, and family members paying tribute to those lost. The bombings, which took place at the Sari Club in Bali, claimed 202 lives in total.
Among those attending the service was Ross McKean, a survivor who lost his wife, Lynn, and eldest daughter, Marissa, in the blast. Mr McKean and his youngest daughter, Kristy, were both injured but survived.
Remembering the Local Victims
Twenty of the Australians who died in the attack were from Sydney’s eastern suburbs, making Coogee a central location for annual commemoration events.
The local community has shown resilience in the face of such tragedy, with annual services reminding everyone of the impact the attack had on families from the area.
Photo Credit: CrCarolynMartin/Facebook
At this year’s service, Mayor Dylan Parker of Randwick Council emphasised the ongoing support for families and survivors, stating that the community continues to come together each year to remember those lost and to comfort those who were affected. The event featured the release of 88 white doves, symbolising the Australians who perished.
Mr Parker expressed hope that the memorial service helps those who lost loved ones to find comfort through shared memories and support from the community.
Survivor Stories of Loss and Recovery
Mr McKean spoke about his experiences following the bombing. He shared that he and his family were in Bali to celebrate a birthday when the explosion happened. Despite his own injuries and the loss of his family members, Mr McKean said his surviving daughter Kristy became a source of strength during the difficult years that followed.
Mr McKean explained that after the bombing, he was treated for burns and shrapnel wounds at a Bali hospital before being flown back to Australia for further care. He reflected on the pain of losing so many young lives in the attack, noting that many victims never had the chance to fulfil their potential.
The Coogee service concluded with attendees reflecting on the lasting impact of the Bali Bombings, which remain the deadliest terrorist event for Australians. The community’s annual gathering ensures that the memories of those who were lost continue to be honoured, and that future generations are reminded of the devastating consequences of terrorism.
A sublet listing in South Coogee has raised the alarm after a social media post revealed the cramped conditions of a $95-per-week room in a shared house with nine other tenants, prompting questions about its legality and safety.
The room, advertised as a “spacious double” with storage space, appears to be a converted wardrobe or basement. A single image of the room was shared online, showing an unmade bed beneath a visible sewage pipe, raising eyebrows on Reddit, where users described the space as cramped and unsanitary.
One commenter sarcastically remarked, “Looks like the bed is in the built-in wardrobe,”while another noted that the space resembled a basement storage unit, suggesting that sleeping there would involve listening to the sounds of toilets flushing overhead.
Despite its questionable condition, some pointed out that at $95 per week including bills, the price is significantly cheaper than most available rooms in Coogee.
“For $95 in Coogee, whoever jumps on that won’t care in the slightest,” said one user, reflecting the tough rental market that forces people into less-than-ideal accommodations.
Safety and Legal Concerns
The Tenants’ Union of NSW expressed concerns about the living conditions and legality of the rental. They noted that the room may not meet minimum lighting, ventilation, and privacy rental standards.
According to NSW laws, rental spaces must provide adequate facilities, such as power outlets and access to a bathroom with sufficient privacy. With nine other tenants in the house, it is unclear if it can adequately support this many people.
Moreover, the union highlighted the importance of ensuring subletting is legal and approved by the head tenant. If the head tenant has yet to receive permission from the landlord to sublet the room, any lease agreements between the tenant and subtenants could be invalid.
Public Reaction and Further Advice
Public reaction to the listing has been a mix of humour and frustration. While some Reddit users joked about the poor quality of the room, others expressed concern over the desperation of renters in Sydney’s overheated market.
“If it wasn’t preying on people’s desperation, it would be funny,” one user commented.
The Tenants’ Union advises renters to thoroughly investigate rental listings before committing. Prospective tenants should ensure the property meets safety and legal requirements, check for adequate lighting, ventilation, and privacy, and confirm the legality of subletting arrangements to avoid potential issues down the line.
Built in 1887 by British timber merchant Charles Saxton, Roslyn is a Victorian Italianate mansion perched on a hilltop, offering sweeping views of Coogee Beach and the surrounding coastline. The home, one of Coogee’s oldest and most historically essential properties, is a reminder of the post-gold rush construction boom. The house has remained a local landmark for over a century and is admired for its grand architecture and prominent position.
The property has undergone extensive renovations in recent years, with the latest owners investing significantly in its restoration. The renovation preserved many of the original architectural features, including pressed metal ceilings, stained glass windows, and a widow’s walk, while also updating the home for modern living. The three-storey residence now boasts more than 500 sqm of internal space, landscaped gardens, a swimming pool, and a rooftop viewing platform.
The new owners, Therese Moussa and Ramzey Choker, are well-known in Sydney’s hospitality scene as the creative minds behind The Grounds of Alexandria. While Moussa, the creative director, fell in love with the house and its heritage, the couple does not plan to live there. Instead, they intend to reserve the mansion for family use while continuing to rent in Elizabeth Bay.
Moussa described the house as a “gem” and expressed excitement about using her design skills to restore and maintain the home’s historical beauty. She sees the renovation as an opportunity to merge the mansion’s Victorian elegance with contemporary design, ensuring its rich history is preserved for future generations.
A Piece of Coogee’s Heritage
For many in Coogee, the sale and restoration of Roslyn highlight the suburb’s evolving character while paying tribute to its past. Originally constructed as a showpiece for Saxton’s timber business, the mansion later passed through several owners, including Vincent McCauley, who divided the property into flats, and Basil Burak, who restored it as a single residence in 1955.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
After being sold for £5759 in the 1950s, the property changed hands multiple times, most recently in 2015 when cardiologist Aiden O’Loughlin and his partner undertook further restorations. With the latest sale, Roslyn has once again been given a fresh start, offering a blend of historic charm and modern luxury.
The sale of Roslyn has generated buzz in the Coogee community, not just for its high price but for the rare opportunity it presents. As one of the suburb’s most recognisable and cherished homes, the mansion’s ongoing restoration contributes to maintaining Coogee’s unique blend of history and beachfront living.
