Coogee Archives - Page 4 of 16

Coogee Cafe Owner Speaks Out After Christmas Beach Bash Backlash

Photo Credit: Coogee Courtyard/Instagram

A Coogee cafe owner has spoken up after backlash over the Christmas Day beach crowds, saying better planning and facilities are needed instead of knee-jerk bans.

Christmas Day saw thousands of beachgoers, including backpackers and tourists, flocking to nearby Bronte Beach. The aftermath? Rubbish scattered across the sand and parklands despite extra bins and clean-up crews being brought in. Locals weren’t too happy about it, and there’s now talk of tighter restrictions to prevent a repeat next year.

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A Push for Smarter Solutions

Dave Martin, who runs Coogee Courtyard Cafe, reckons bans aren’t the answer. Instead, he’s calling for better event planning to handle the crowds properly.

Mr Martin believes stopping people from celebrating Christmas at the beach isn’t the solution. Instead, he suggests better management with more bins, increased security, and temporary restrooms to handle the large crowds effectively.

Mr Martin suggests that approaching the event as a well-organised festival could reduce pressure on local resources while still allowing visitors to have an enjoyable experience.

Impact on Local Businesses

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The influx of visitors brought a welcome boost to local businesses, with cafes, restaurants, and shops buzzing throughout the day. But not everyone’s thrilled. Some locals have spoken out about the mess, noise, and overcrowding.

Mr Martin acknowledged the importance of finding a balance between allowing people to enjoy themselves and ensuring the community and public spaces are treated with respect.

Community Suggestions for Improvement

Ideas being tossed around include more security, stricter rules around glass bottles, and better rubbish management. But Mr Martin reckons the key is planning ahead and working with the community rather than against it.

What’s Next for Coogee and Beyond

For now, the conversation continues. Locals, business owners, and authorities will need to come together to figure out a plan that keeps both visitors and residents happy.

Mr Martin emphasised the need for common sense and forward thinking, suggesting that better planning, rather than outright bans, is the key to managing future events effectively.

Published 29-Dec-2024

Fabbrica Bread Shop Brings Delicious Treats to Coogee

Photo Credit: Ciao Fabbrica

The Love Tilly Group is bringing its popular Fabbrica Bread Shop to Coogee, offering beachgoers a new spot for delicious pastries and bread.

*Photo Credit:* *Fabbrica Bread Shop/ Instagram*

Coogee locals and visitors can now enjoy the same quality sourdough and pastries that made Fabbrica’s Rozelle location a hit. The new shop, led by Head Baker Aniruddha Bhosekar and Sous Baker Alyce Bennett, will feature favourites like shakshuka Danishes and anchovy toast.

But there’s also something special for Coogee: the bakery will offer exclusive items like maritozzi, a traditional Roman brioche bun filled with sweet or savoury fillings. Think strawberries, Chantilly cream, vegan cherry, or curried egg and achari mayo.

Suppose you’re looking for something more substantial. In that case, Fabbrica Coogee will also have one-meter-long Roman pizzas available daily, along with a DIY focaccia bar to create your masterpiece of Italian bread. And for those after a quick and easy bite, there will be a rotating selection of toasties – perfect for grabbing after a swim.

Matthew Swieboda, co-owner of Love Tilly Group, said the new shop aims to be a local bakery, catering to everyone from early-morning swimmers to those looking for a delicious lunch. He’s excited to share Fabbrica’s new creations with the Coogee community.

Published Date 11-December-2024

Decades Later, Ellen Waugh to be Honoured in Upcoming Coogee Walkway Expansion Plans

For decades, walkers have had to navigate a steep inland detour in South Coogee. A continuous coastal path wasn’t possible, blocked by a single-family home perched on Cuzco Street. A $4.9-million purchase of the property means that will now change.

The House That Stood in the Way

The house at 49 Cuzco Street was built in the 1930s and belonged to the Waugh family. It was a treasure trove of history, a place that artist and teacher Ellen Waugh cherished for nearly her entire life.

49 Cuzco Street South Coogee — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Over the years, developers made tempting offers, but Ms Waugh turned them all down. She wanted to ensure the coastline she loved so deeply would remain accessible to the public.

In 2002, talks began with Ms Waugh, with Council securing the right of first refusal to buy the property upon her passing. A decade later, the land was rezoned for recreational use, an inch closer to Council’s vision of an uninterrupted public walkway. But Ms Waugh, determined to live out her days in her family home, wasn’t ready to leave.

She often expressed her deep attachment to her home, describing it as a place she intended to stay for many more years. True to her word, she remained there until her passing earlier this year at the remarkable age of 99, just weeks short of her 100th birthday.

A Life Dedicated to Community and Conservation

Ms Waugh was not just a lover of the coastline—she was one of its fiercest protectors. Known for her sharp wit and passion for preserving natural spaces, she often criticised developments that encroached on Coogee’s rugged cliffs. She spoke fondly of the rock pools and wild stretches of coast she had sketched for decades, lamenting areas that had been replaced by concrete and glass.

Her legacy extends beyond conservation. As a teacher, she nurtured emerging talents, and as an artist, she documented Sydney’s evolving landscape. She was even a part of history, photographing Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s famous 1969 Wrapped Coast installation at Little Bay. In her later years, Waugh remained active, taking up Chinese brush painting and even drumming, refusing to let age slow her down.

Her family remembers her as eccentric and fiercely independent, a woman who dismissed stereotypes of ageing by walking out of a rehabilitation centre after surgery and continuing to live alone at her home. Her contributions to the community extended through her bequests, including $2 million in donations to Indigenous mentoring programs and the arts.

A Coastal Walk Reimagined

With the purchase finalised in November, Randwick City Council is now working to transform the property into a vital link in the Bondi to Malabar coastal walk.

Plans for Coogee Walkway — *Photo Credit: RandwickCC*

By eliminating the detour up Malabar Road, this new stretch of pathway will bring walkers closer to the ocean, offering uninterrupted views and easier access for all.

Council plans to name the walkway after Ms Waugh, a fitting tribute to a woman who gave so much to Coogee and its community. Officials said the new connection would attract millions of visitors annually, enhancing the local area’s appeal as both a tourist destination and a cherished community space.

Published 7-Dec-2024

Coogee Carols to Sparkle with Star-Studded Christmas Extravaganza

Photo Credit: Coogee Carols

Coogee Beach will once again become a festive wonderland as it hosts the annual Coogee Carols at Goldstein Reserve Coogee Beach.

The much-anticipated event on 15 December will start at 6:30 p.m. and promises an evening filled with Christmas cheer, featuring a stellar line-up of performers and a spectacular fireworks finale.

This year’s carols will be co-hosted by the popular Amanda Keller and Luke Carroll, who will guide the audience through a joyous celebration of the Christmas spirit. Randwick Mayor Dylan Parker expressed his enthusiasm for the event, highlighting its significance as a cherished part of the Randwick City Christmas program.

He anticipates another fantastic event, encouraging everyone to sing along to their favourite festive tunes and share in the Christmas joy.

A highlight of the evening will be Santa Claus’s arrival, making a grand entrance onto the beach at 6:30 p.m. Accompanying the festivities will be a talented seven-piece band playing beloved Christmas classics that will surely get everyone singing along.

The impressive line-up boasts a mix of well-known names and local talent. Award-winning country singer Amber Lawrence, Red Wiggle Simon Pryce, Smooth FM host Cameron Daddo, and stars from stage productions like & Juliet, Well-Behaved Women, Hadestown, and SIX will all grace the stage.

Coogee Carols also proudly showcases local performers, including Joe Sullivan, a veteran of the event for over two decades, local personality Garry Scale, and Coogee’s own Phoebe Panaretos, who has returned from the West End, especially for the occasion.

They will be joined by long-time carols regular Jennifer Peers, musical theatre performer Alec Steedman, and the Coogee Carollers, ensuring a strong representation of local talent.

The event will culminate in a dazzling fireworks display at 8.30 p.m., providing a fitting end to a magical evening of Christmas celebration. With its beautiful beach setting, impressive performer list and festive atmosphere, Coogee Carols is set to be a highlight of the Christmas season.

Published Date 03-December-2024

Coogee Residents Rise Against Proposed Serviced Apartments

Photo Credit: DA/985/2024

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.

Residents have urged the council to reject the application, arguing that it is excessive and incompatible with the neighbourhood’s residential zoning.

Published Date 13-November-2024

Man Arrested in Coogee for Major ‘Pink Cocaine’ Drug Importation

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.

Published 14-November-2024

Coogee Beach Safety Program Expands to Protect Foreigners on Australian Shores

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.

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.

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.

Published 6-Nov-2024

Coogee United Set to Celebrate Historic Football Double

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.

Read: Coogee Beach Water Quality Rated ‘Poor’ Amid Faecal Pollution Concerns

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.

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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.

Read: Coogee Public School Students Explore Engineering at UNSW STEMM Event

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.

Published 31-October-2024

Coogee Beach Water Quality Rated ‘Poor’ Amid Faecal Pollution Concerns

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.

Pollution Levels at Coogee and Nearby Beaches

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.

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.

Published 30-Oct-2024

Coogee House Prices Surge $580,000, Outpacing Judicial Salaries

Photo Credit: Pixabay

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.

Published 23-October-2024