Coogee Archives - Page 5 of 16

Mystery Tar Balls Force Closure of Coogee Beach

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.

Discovery and Immediate Response

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.

Tar balls Coogee beach — *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.

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.

Published 17-Oct-2024

Coogee Commemorates 22nd Anniversary of Bali Bombings

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.

Bali Bombings Coogee Memorial — *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.

A Community That Will Never Forget

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.

Published 14-Oct-2024

Room in South Coogee Sparks Concerns Over Rental Standards

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.

Living Conditions Questioned

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.

Arden St South Coogee — *Photo Credit: Reddit*

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.

Published 11-Oct-2024

$10.4 Million Sale of Historic Coogee Mansion ‘Roslyn’ Draws Attention

A historic mansion in Coogee, known as “Roslyn,” has been sold for $10.4 million, marking a significant moment in the suburb’s property market.

Historic Significance and Location

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.

Roslyn Coogee — *Photo Credit: realestate.com.au*

Purchase and Renovation Plans

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.

Published 05-Oct-2024

Coogee Bay Hotel Gears Up for NRL Grand Final Extravaganza

Photo Credit: Coogee Bay Hotel

As the Labour Day long weekend approaches, the iconic Coogee Bay Hotel is treating Sydney football enthusiasts to an NRL Grand Final celebration this Sunday, 6th October.

Selina’s, the hotel’s renowned entertainment venue, will open its doors at 4 pm, offering patrons an unparalleled viewing experience of the season’s biggest match. The main event kicks off at 7:30 pm, with Selina’s exclusive live broadcast promising to capture every thrilling moment on its expansive big screen.

For those preferring a different atmosphere, the hotel’s popular Sports Bar will also be screening the game live, ensuring that no fan misses out on the action.

more details on the NRL grand final festivities

The hotel is anticipating a vibrant crowd, with management preparing for an influx of passionate supporters and casual viewers alike. Cold beverages and a variety of food options will be available at Coogee Bay Hotel, adding to the festive atmosphere expected on NRL Grand Final Day.

Local residents and visitors to Coogee are encouraged to arrive early to secure their spots for what promises to be an exciting conclusion to the NRL season.

Published 25-September-2024

Green Light: $111-Million Revamp of Coogee Bay Hotel Approved After Years of Community Battle

The controversial $111-million overhaul of the iconic Coogee Bay Hotel has finally been approved, paving the way for a substantial facelift that will partially demolish the heritage-listed seaside venue to make way for apartments, retail spaces and upgraded hotel facilities.

In early May 2024, the Sydney East Planning Panel granted deferred commencement consent for the redevelopment of Coogee Bay Hotel following a tense two-hour public meeting. The 4-1 vote in favour came after developers agreed to major revisions to address concerns raised by vocal community groups over issues like excessive bulk, overshadowing of views and potential disruptions.

The Redevelopment Vision

The approved plans will transform the landmark 8,500 sqm-site overlooking Coogee Beach through:

Demolition of several existing buildings
Construction of a five/six-storey residential block with 58 apartments
A new three-storey hotel wing adding 13 keys to the accommodation for a total of 31 boutique rooms
An internal “Selina’s Lane” featuring 11 retail tenancies like cafes and restaurants
Provision of 158 basement parking spaces
Refurbishments and heritage upgrades to the remaining historic hotel structures

This scaled-back proposal replaces the developer’s initial 2021 plans for up to 60 apartments and a supermarket.

A Saga of Staunch Opposition

For years, the redevelopment has faced staunch community resistance. A petition with nearly 10,000 signatures called for the scrapping of a development project, citing fears it would damage Coogee’s low-rise seaside village character.

At last week’s fiery public hearing, a litany of objections were raised by residents:

Excessive height and bulk creating a “canyon” effect along Coogee Bay Road
Loss of iconic views of the ocean and Wedding Cake Island
Demolition of the famed Selina’s music venue, which hosted legends like Elton John
Noise impacts from construction works and the completed development
Disruption that could turn the bustling beachside hub into a “ghost town”

At last week’s fiery public hearing, a litany of objections were raised by residents. David Burden, a local resident, cautioned the panel that the biggest issue was the sheer scale of the redevelopment, which he felt was simply too large for the intimate confines of Coogee Village. In his view, a development of this magnitude would permanently alter the character of the area.

Compromise and Conditions

To secure approval, the developer C!NC Hotels made significant concessions like reducing the maximum height to 21.35m, cutting basement excavation, retaining more heritage facades, and scrapping the planned supermarket.

However, some objectors felt these amendments still fell short. Lone dissenting panellist and former Randwick mayor Danny Said argued that “community expectations” weren’t fully addressed.

Among the conditions imposed, the developer must complete a comprehensive noise management plan addressing resident concerns over future disruptions.

The Way Forward

With deferred commencement approval now granted, the onus is on C!NC to finalise designs and construction timelines for transforming the ageing hotel site over the coming years.

Managing director Chris Cheung, whose company has operated the venue for 30 years, said the “renewed Coogee Bay Hotel will reinvigorate the precinct” and better integrate the site with the surrounding area and village atmosphere.

Published 17-Sept-2024

Coogee Schools Maintain Demountable Trend as Numbers Soar Across NSW

Whilst demountable classrooms have become a common sight at schools across New South Wales, figures reveal Coogee schools have remained relatively stable in their demountable numbers over the past decade.

This statistic comes as a stark contrast to the wider trend across the state, where demountable buildings have exploded in number, raising concerns about a lack of permanent learning spaces and diminished play areas for students.

Demountable Dynamics Across NSW

In the broader landscape, the proliferation of demountables has been palpable, with a significant increase observed from 2014 to 2023. This surge has led to concerns among parents regarding the long-term implications of these supposedly temporary structures on students’ learning environments and recreational spaces.

Coogee Schools Defy Trend

*Clovelly Public School*
*Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map*

However, within Coogee and the Easter Suburbs, schools have shown remarkable stability in demountable numbers. Clovelly Public School, Coogee Public School, South Coogee Public School, Randwick Boys High School, and Waverley Public School have maintained the same number of demountables over the years, bucking the statewide trend.

Regional Variations in Demountable Density

*Carlingford West Public School*
*Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map*

Whilst Coogee schools boast consistent demountable numbers, other regions, particularly Greater Western Sydney, have experienced a proliferation of these temporary structures. Riverbank Public School, The Ponds High School, Girraween Public School, Carlingford West Public School, and Northbourne Public School stand out as examples of institutions grappling with high demountable densities, highlighting the varying challenges faced by different communities.

Community Concerns and Advocacy

Parents and community leaders have been vocal in expressing their concerns regarding the impact of demountables on students’ learning experiences and overall well-being. Calls for action range from advocating for permanent infrastructure solutions to highlighting the need for adequate recreational spaces to support children’s physical and cognitive development.

Government Response and Future Plans

In response to mounting pressure, Education Minister Prue Car has acknowledged the need for long-term planning to address infrastructure backlogs, particularly in areas experiencing rapid population growth. Whilst efforts are underway to provide permanent facilities in response to sustained enrolment demand, the issue remains complex and multifaceted.

Published Date 15-Sept-2024

Coogee Man Condemned for Abandoning Ex-Girlfriend’s Snakes

The magistrate strongly reprimanded a Coogee man for callously dumping his ex-girlfriend’s pet snakes in the street in a distressing case of animal mistreatment intertwined with domestic violence.

Justin Downs, 26, faced the consequences of his actions at the Waverley Local Court where he pleaded guilty to a charge related to the domestic violence-inflicted destruction of property. During the proceedings, Magistrate Jacqueline Milledge did not mince words, threatening severe repercussions if Downs made another court appearance, promising swift incarceration.

The incident unfolded in October 2023 shortly after Downs’ girlfriend ended their relationship via phone. In a vindictive response, Downs wrecked the enclosures of two pythons named Bagel and Mango at his Coogee residence and abandoned the helpless reptiles on the street. He was arrested nearly a week later at Randwick police station.

Photo Credit: Teja Mae/Instagram

Magistrate Milledge described the act as exceptionally cruel, pointing out the significant distress it likely caused the animals. She chastised Downs for his destructive response to personal conflict, labeling him a “bully” and highlighting his recurrent violent behavior towards property in domestic settings.

In his defense, Downs’ attorney portrayed him as remorseful, mentioning his ongoing psychological counseling and participation in an alcohol management program. Despite his criminal actions, his lawyer argued that Downs contributes to society, referencing his local business and tax contributions. She also detailed a recent personal setback where Downs suffered serious injuries from a car accident, which impacted his ability to work.

Ultimately, Downs was sentenced to a 30-month community correction order and ordered to pay restitution of $1,281.95 to his ex-girlfriend. Additionally, he received a two-year prohibition from contacting her under an apprehended domestic violence order.

The community and authorities remain vigilant in addressing such acts of cruelty and violence, ensuring support is available for victims through services like the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service.

Published: 14-Sept-2024

Get Sashimi Coogee: Fresh, Fast, and Healthy Seafood Arrives on the Coast

Photo Credit: Get Sashimi/Facebook

A new sashimi bar called Get Sashimi is set to open in Coogee, bringing over 70 types of sushi and 20 varieties of fresh sashimi to local seafood lovers in the eastern suburbs.

The highly anticipated Get Sashimi Coogee location will open on 15 September 2024, offering both dine-in and takeaway options. The two-level restaurant will feature a 10-metre wall-to-wall sashimi bar, with seating for up to 50 people upstairs. The venue has been described by the owner, Antonio Muollo, as a “seafood heaven” catering to Coogee’s family-friendly, health-conscious community.

Mr Muollo explained that the decision to expand into Coogee was an easy one. The area’s laid-back beachside vibe and focus on healthy living made it the perfect next step after the success of the first Get Sashimi location in Bondi. He said the new restaurant would offer locals a fresh, fast, and healthy dining option, adding excitement to the neighbourhood’s food scene.

Antonio Muollo’s Seafood Empire

At just 25, Mr Muollo is no stranger to the seafood business. He started his first company, Get Fish, at the age of 18, skipping university to pursue a career in an industry he had grown up in.

Mr Muollo’s father worked at the Sydney Fish Market, where Antonio began learning the trade at a young age. By the time he was a teenager, Muollo identified a gap in the market for home-delivered fresh seafood in Sydney. His seafood delivery service quickly took off, evolving into a business that now turns over $30 million a year and includes not only delivery but also wholesale operations and a dedicated fishing fleet.

The Get Sashimi Bondi location opened last year and became an instant hit. Mr Muollo said the restaurant’s focus on providing healthy, high-quality seafood in a quick and convenient format appealed to locals, leading to the decision to expand to a second location.

Bestsellers

The Coogee location is expected to offer a similar menu to its Bondi counterpart, where some of the most popular items have made it a seafood destination.

At Bondi, the toro (tuna belly) sashimi is a standout bestseller, prized for its rich, buttery texture that melts in your mouth. Other top choices include the luxurious Ora King salmon and Hokkaido scallops, known for their fresh, delicate flavours.

For those seeking something more unique, the Paradise prawns and inventive sushi creations like the salmon gunkan topped with raspberry or strawberry offer exciting twists on traditional sushi. These selections, alongside poke bowls and hand rolls, are sure to make waves in Coogee, appealing to both casual diners and seafood aficionados.

Expansion Plans

With the new Coogee store about to open, Muollo has big plans for the future. He has already hinted at further expansion for Get Sashimi, with more locations planned for 2025, including the Northern Beaches.

Mr Muollo explained that his goal is to keep the restaurants both accessible and affordable while maintaining the quality that has become a hallmark of his brand. He acknowledged that while running a seafood empire is a challenge, he is confident Sydney’s love of fresh fish and sashimi will continue to drive the business forward.

Get Sashimi Coogee is located at 252 Coogee Bay Road. Follow them on Instagram.

Sydney Athletes Dive into Seaweed Restoration at Coogee Beach

Top Sydney athletes braved the winter chill to participate in the Ultimate Recovery Session at Coogee Beach, planting seaweed to support Operation Crayweed’s marine habitat restoration efforts.

The event took place on Wednesday, 14 August 2024, bringing together athletes from various sports codes to learn about and contribute to the restoration of Sydney’s underwater forests.

This initiative aimed to raise awareness and funds for Operation Crayweed, an environmental project focused on restoring vital seaweed habitats along Sydney’s coastline.

Athlete Involvement

Stars from AFL, AFLW, soccer, rugby league, netball, and surfing joined forces for this environmental initiative.

Participants included Jesse Hogan, Toby Greene, Tarni Evans, Izzy Huntington, and Nicola Barr from GWS GIANTS; Lisa Steane from Sydney Swans; Teigan Collister and Margaux Chauvet from Sydney FC; Jasmine Strange, Samantha Economos, and Brydie Parker from the Roosters NRLW team; Teigan O’Shannassy from Sydney Swifts; and WSL surfers Tully White and Ace Buchan.

Seaweed restoration in Coogee — *Photo Credit: Gemba Group/Instagram*

The athletes got hands-on experience in underwater gardening, learning to sex the seaweed and prepare ‘cray-babies’ (juvenile specimens) for planting. This practical involvement aimed to raise awareness about the importance of seaweed habitats in Sydney’s marine ecosystem.

Boyd Hicklin, Creative Director at Gemba, the company that organised the event, expressed enthusiasm about the athletes’ participation. He noted the importance of giving back to Sydney’s coastline and praised Operation Crayweed’s impact on the environment.

Operation Crayweed’s Mission

Professor Adriana Vergés from Operation Crayweed explained that the organisation’s work is crucial for Sydney’s coastline. The project uses world-first technology developed in Sydney to re-establish crayweed populations along 70 kilometres of coastline.

Vergés highlighted the significance of crayweed forests, stating that they provide essential food and habitat for diverse marine life, aid biodiversity, and even help in carbon sequestration. She compared the importance of seaweeds to Sydney reefs to that of corals in the Great Barrier Reef.

The professor expressed gratitude for the athletes’ involvement, saying it was wonderful to engage with these enthusiastic individuals and involve them in the marine restoration project. She emphasised that by reintroducing crayweed to Sydney’s reefs, they are bringing back one species and rebuilding an entire ecological community.

Community Impact

The Ultimate Recovery Session aimed to restore seaweed habitats and educate and involve the community in environmental conservation.

Nicola Barr from FrontRunners and GWS Giants emphasised the connection between climate change and sports. She noted that athletes are increasingly concerned about how a warming planet will affect the future of their sports and coming generations. Barr pointed out that with millions of passionate fans and followers, athletes and sports organisations have a unique opportunity to drive significant climate action.

The event demonstrated a growing trend of athletes using their platforms to drive significant climate action and engage their fan bases in environmental causes. It also highlighted the importance of community involvement in environmental restoration projects.

DONATE TO OPERATION CRAYWEED

Published 26-Aug-2024