A 31-year-old man faces multiple charges following a suspected arson attack on a residential unit in South Coogee around 3:35 PM on Wednesday, August 14.
Emergency services responded to reports of a fire at an apartment complex on Malabar Road. NSW Fire and Rescue crews quickly arrived on the scene and successfully extinguished the blaze, which was confined to a single unit. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident.
Eastern Beaches Police Area Command launched an immediate investigation into the fire, which they believe was deliberately lit. As a result of their enquiries, a 31-year-old man was arrested and taken to Maroubra Police Station for questioning.
The suspect has since been charged with several offenses, including damage property by fire with intent to injure, damage property by fire, and custody of a knife in a public place. These charges suggest that authorities suspect the fire was not only intentional but potentially aimed at causing harm to others.
Police have refused bail for the accused, who is scheduled to appear before Waverley Local Court today, Thursday, August 15. The court appearance is expected to provide more details about the circumstances surrounding the alleged arson attack.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Members of the public can contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or visit https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au to submit information confidentially.
As the investigation continues, police have emphasized that they do not discuss ongoing cases on social media platforms and request that any relevant information be shared through official channels only.
Former NRL players and fellow commentators gathered at St Brigid’s Church in Coogee to pay their respects to legendary sports broadcaster David “Thirsty” Morrow, who died aged 71 following a battle with brain cancer.
The service, held on Thursday morning, 25 July 2024, saw attendees don red clothing and ribbons in honour of Morrow’s love for the St George Illawarra Dragons. Among those present were former NRL stars Andrew Johns and Darryl Brohman, highlighting the deep impact Morrow had on the sporting community.
Service Details
A Dragons bomber jacket adorned Morrow’s casket as it was carried down the aisle to AC/DC’s “It’s A Long Way To The Top.” Loved ones also placed an Olympic flag and a 2GB cap on the casket, symbolising Morrow’s vast broadcasting career and passion for sports.
The choice of music and personal items reflected Morrow’s larger-than-life personality and significant contributions to Australian sports broadcasting. Attendees’ red-themed attire created a visual tribute to his unwavering support for the Dragons.
Family Tribute
Lucy Morrow, David’s youngest daughter, delivered a touching eulogy praising her father’s “intelligent sporting acumen” and “deep thoughtfulness for others.” She shared one of his last pieces of advice, emphasising his caring nature and wit.
Lucy recounted a poignant moment from her father’s final days in hospital, where he playfully reminded her to “be good, be careful, and if you can’t be careful, give me a ring.” Morrow’s lasting essence was captured in this story, demonstrating the strong connection he had with his family.
– Coverage of eight Olympic Games and six Commonwealth Games – 44 years of rugby league commentary – A long stint as an ABC radio and television commentator from 1980 to 2014 – Joining 2GB’s Continuous Call team in 2015
His versatility as a broadcaster was evident in his ability to commentate on various sports, making him a household name across Australia. Morrow’s distinctive voice and encyclopaedic knowledge of sports endeared him to listeners and viewers alike.
Honours and Recognition
Morrow’s contributions to sports broadcasting were widely recognised:
– Awarded an OAM for services to sport, sports broadcasting and the community in 2005 – Inducted into the Sydney Cricket Ground Media Hall of Honour in 2023 – Set to be inducted into the NRL Hall of Fame for his service to the game
Colleague’s Tribute
Mark Levy, Morrow’s colleague and friend, announced that a Nine radio Olympic studio in Pyrmont would be renamed the “David Morrow Olympic Studio” in his honour. Levy praised Morrow’s exceptional memory for sporting records and his ability to connect with listeners across generations.
Levy shared that he had been inundated with emails from listeners expressing their gratitude for having had the privilege of listening to Morrow over the years. This outpouring of support highlighted the broadcaster’s far-reaching influence and the personal connection he forged with his audience.
Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V’landys described Morrow as one of the “greatest voices of the game”, recognised nationwide for his wit, insight, and knowledge. V’landys added that Morrow was aware of his impending induction into the NRL Hall of Fame before his passing, providing comfort to both David Morrow and his family.
To address the needs of the community, two options have been unveiled for upgrading the Arden Street amenities buildings at Coogee Beach, seeking public input on the proposed designs.
The consultation period, running from 17 July to 28 August 2024, follows an initial round of community feedback that highlighted the need for improved facilities at the popular beachside location.
Proposed Options
1. Refurbishment Option
Randwick City Council’s first proposal involves renovating the existing structures while maintaining their current visual style. Key features include:
– Upgraded interiors with enhanced facilities – Increased number of female toilets – Retention of separate wash basin areas – Nearly doubled bus stop seating area on Arden Street – Estimated construction cost of $4 million
2. New Build Option
The alternative plan suggests demolishing the current buildings and constructing a modern replacement. This option includes:
– Design inspired by the Coogee coastline with a curved concrete roof – Increased number of male and female toilets – Communal washbasin area – Extended paving for café seating – Storage space for Council and Coogee SLSC Nippers operations – Estimated construction cost of $6.75 million
Photo Credit: RandwickCityCouncil
Community Feedback
Previous consultation revealed strong community sentiment.
“People told us that works should be sympathetic to the heritage character of the area, keep a similar community and village feel and not overly expand the building’s footprint,” a Council spokesperson stated.
“It’s crucial that whatever option we choose respects the character of our beloved beach. We need better facilities, but not at the expense of Coogee’s charm,” a long-time resident shared his thoughts.
Photo Credit: RandwickCityCouncil
How to Participate
Residents can engage with the project in several ways:
1. Attend on-site consultations at Goldstein Reserve:
– Wednesday 31 July, 3-5 pm – Saturday 3 August, 9-11 am – Thursday 8 August, 9-11 am
2. Submit comments via email to council@randwick.nsw.gov.au or by post to 30 Frances Street, Randwick 2031.
“This project will shape the future of one of Coogee’s most-used public spaces. We encourage all residents to have their say and help us create facilities that will serve our community for years to come,” said a Council official.
Residents of Coogee are once again voicing their frustrations over a long-standing issue: a problematic planter box at the intersection of Arden Street and Coogee Bay Road, which they claim has been causing vehicle damage and traffic congestion for years.
The controversy resurfaced this week when a local cafe worker reported hearing about three cars crashing into the concrete blocks in just seven days, highlighting the ongoing nature of the problem.
Years of Community Complaints
The planter box, designed to house a tree, consists of two concrete blocks at the busy intersection. However, it frequently sits empty, leading to confusion among drivers and repeated calls for removal.
A long-time Coogee resident expressed that the planter box has been a headache for the community for far too long. She noted that residents have been complaining about it for years, but nothing seems to change and she believes it’s time for the council to listen to the community.
A business owner in the area stated that this has been an issue the entire time. He mentioned that they’ve seen countless accidents and near-misses, describing the issue as “beyond frustrating” as their concerns continue to fall on deaf ears.
Photo Credit: Courtyard/Facebook
Council’s Persistent Stance
Despite years of complaints, Randwick City Council maintains its position on keeping the planter box. A spokesperson confirmed that the latest tree planted on the box had been “vandalised” and will be replaced.
In previous statements, the council has consistently defended the planter box as “adding value to an urban environment.” They also noted that the blocks serve as a wheel stop for nearby parking spots.
The incident occurred on Thursday, 27 June 2024, at approximately 8:30 p.m. Eastern Beaches Police Area Command officers responded to a welfare concern at the Baden Street reserve.
Emergency services, including a Toll rescue helicopter, were quickly dispatched to the scene. A witness at the scene reported overhearing emergency responders stating they could not find the victim’s pulse.
Photo credit: Shuyu He/Google Maps
Upon reaching the scene, officers attempted to engage with the woman, but she died after she fell. Authorities have not yet released further details about the latest incident or the identity of the deceased.
The NSW Police Force has confirmed that the investigation is subject to an independent review, underscoring the seriousness of the incident.
Details surrounding the circumstances of the fall remain unclear as investigators work to piece together the events leading up to the tragedy. Authorities are expected to examine factors such as safety measures at the site, weather conditions, and any potential witnesses’ accounts.
Photo credit: Alan Garny/Google Maps
This incident marks the third fatal fall at Dunningham Reserve in recent years, following the deaths of a 17-year-old boy in 2023 and a 20-year-old man in 2022. These previous cases may also be revisited as part of a broader safety review of the area.
Dunningham Reserve, located on the northern headland of Coogee Beach, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering stunning coastal views, but visitors are strongly urged to exercise extreme caution near the cliff edges.
As the investigation progresses, local residents and visitors are advised to adhere to any safety guidelines or restrictions put in place by local authorities.
Entertainer Rove McManus has reaped a property boom windfall from the sale of his Coogee beach house. The comedian and TV producer sold his contemporary 4-bedroom home for an impressive $7.29 million on Friday, netting a profit of over $3 million in just three years.
McManus purchased the property in March 2021 for $3.76 million, according to property records. He then invested $340,839 in renovations a year later, transforming it into a “brand-new masterpiece” as described in the property listing.
The sale price reflects the broader trend in Coogee’s property market. PropTrack data shows the median house price in the eastern suburbs enclave has now reached $3.6 million, with McManus’s property far exceeding this benchmark.
Located just minutes from the popular Gordon’s Bay, the home boasts luxurious finishes across its three levels. The property features four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a sunny entertainer’s courtyard, a pool, and a lock-up garage. Spanning 285 square meters, the residence is described as a “designer masterpiece” with “exceptional attention to detail.”
This sale underscores the continued strength of Sydney’s premium property market, particularly in desirable beachside suburbs. For McManus, it represents a savvy investment that has paid off handsomely in a relatively short period.
As Sydney’s property market continues to evolve, sales like this one demonstrate the potential for significant returns in sought-after locations. Whether McManus plans to reinvest in the area or seek new horizons remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: his Coogee gambit has resulted in a very profitable payday.
A Coogee couple was in the process of demolishing the bungalow they bought to turn it into the duplex of their dreams when an unexpected reversal of approval and issuance of a heritage order dashed their hopes of an uneventful build. Now down by $700k in legal and mortgage fees, they anxiously await the decision that will determine the fate of their future home.
In 2022, Ali and Amanda Hassan bought a property at 3 Berwick Street in Coogee for $3.8 million, intending to replace it with a modern duplex. At first, Randwick City Council approved their plan but they faced an unexpected obstacle when the Council reversed their decision and issued a heritage order for the property. (DA/432/2022)
Initially, the NSW Land and Environment Court ruled in favour of the Hassans, but the Council managed to obtain an emergency stop-work order just a few days after the demolition had started. The order was due to the home’s supposed significance as Coogee’s first purpose-built dental surgery, dating back to the 1920s.
The ongoing battle has cost the family an estimated $700,000 in legal and mortgage fees already paid.
The court is on the brink of delivering its ultimate verdict after two prior hearings, with immense consequences looming. Mr Hassan disclosed that should the ruling be unfavourable, the property’s value would decrease by $1 million, causing significant distress.
Advocates of progress have become enraged by the Hassans’ situation, citing that Councils in Sydney are hindering new developments and making the housing affordability crisis worse.
Property lawyers in the city follow the Berwick Street case unfold as the Hassans’ ordeal represents the current housing dilemma faced by homeowners whose development goals clash with Council’s preservation agendas, hurting affordable housing.
Coogee has witnessed a new real estate record with a local buyer purchasing an off-the-plan penthouse in the prestigious Ballamac development for $20 million.
With this sale, the buyer, a resident of Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, has secured a luxurious residence and cemented Coogee’s reputation as a prime destination for ultra-luxury living.
The acquisition has set a new precedent in Coogee’s property market, surpassing the previous record of $13.1 million set in 2022. The penthouse, boasting three bedrooms and spanning 241 square meters internally, is part of Central Element’s ambitious project to transform the historic Ballamac House into a modern masterpiece.
Unrivalled Luxury and Views
Situated on Coogee’s north headland, the Ballamac development promises unparalleled views of Wedding Cake Island and the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean. The buyer, drawn to the site’s rich history and panoramic vistas, plans to make this penthouse their primary residence, further underlining the allure of Coogee’s elevated lifestyle.
Central Element’s head of sales, Cameron Porter, has noted a significant shift in the preferences of ultra-luxury buyers, with many opting for Coogee over traditional hotspots like Bondi and Bronte. This trend reflects the growing appeal of Coogee’s blend of coastal charm, historical significance, and modern amenities, making it a magnet for discerning homeowners seeking the epitome of luxury living.
Photo Credit: Central Element
Renovation and Transformation
Originally established in 1860, Ballamac House boasts a storied past, having served as a private residence, hotel, and infirmary over the years.
Central Element’s meticulous Ballamac development aims to restore the property to its former glory while infusing it with contemporary design elements. The result will be a harmonious blend of heritage charm and modern sophistication, offering residents an unparalleled living experience.
Did you know that Norman Hill, the Coogee Surf Life Saving Club’s most enduring member and oldest club captain, undertook 36 daring missions across Europe during World War II, embodying an ANZAC legacy that marks a significant chapter in the storied history of the suburb?
The Coogee Surf Life Saving Club has a long and proud history, dating back to its establishment in 1907. Many young club members bravely answered the call to serve their country during World War I and II.
Norman Hill was just one of the many young men who left the peaceful shores of Coogee to fight for freedom in the challenging and dangerous conditions of the European and Pacific battlefields. Despite their difficulties, the community remained proud of their sons’ courage and sacrifice.
Mr. Hill, who was lovingly called “Nob” by his peers, was not only a member of the Coogee Surf Life Saving Club but also a symbol of resilience, bravery, and resourcefulness.
Nob was born and raised in Coogee, a close-knit community where he grew up around the surf club. As a teenager, he embodied the Australian values of camaraderie and adventure.
However, with the looming threat of war, Nob shifted from the waves to the battlefield. Initially, he was rejected when he tried to enlist as an apprentice fitter and turner, as he was deemed essential to the homefront.
During WWII, key industries were exempt from conscription to keep operating effectively. “Apprentice fitter and turner” was a crucial mechanical trade, fabricating and repairing military and civilian equipment. The government protected Nob’s skills to balance military and industrial needs. However, the call to serve his country was too strong to ignore.
Nob changed his surname to pose as a dairy farmer to help the war effort. When caught, a recruitment officer gave him a choice. Nob chose to abandon his old life and become a serviceman.
After receiving military training as a wireless air gunner, Nob was sent on various European missions. He was assigned to the Lancaster aircraft and served in 36 missions crucial to the Allied war effort. These missions were dangerous and tested his character in the crucible of war. Despite being far from the familiar settings of his hometown Coogee, Nob persevered and proved himself as a skilled and dedicated defender of his homeland.
After returning to Coogee following the war, Nob had been changed by his experiences, yet his fundamental principles remained intact. Upon rejoining the surf club, he found familiar faces in his friends and fellow servicemen. They shared a deep understanding of sacrifice and survival, as many had served in the conflict alongside Nob. This brotherhood of surf lifesavers carried the weight of their experiences, each looking to rebuild their lives in the hard-won peace.
Nob’s contributions to Coogee Surf Life Saving Club went beyond membership. He became a pivotal figure in the club’s evolution, embodying the spirit of service.
During his leadership, the club paid tribute to the memory of those who had served and focused on the future by supporting innovation and community involvement. Nob was a strong advocate for establishing the Coogee Penguins Winter Swimming Club and the Coogee Minnows, which were programs that enriched the club’s cultural diversity and ensured its longevity for future generations.
Photo Credit: Coogee SLSC
Nob’s efforts to give back to the community that had supported him highlighted his deep commitment to the principles of the surf lifesaving movement: vigilance, service, and camaraderie. Through his actions, he laid the foundations for a lasting legacy, ensuring that his cherished values would continue to inspire and guide the Coogee Surf Lifesaving Club long after he departed from its shores.
Photo Credit: Coogee SLSC
Farewell to Coogee: A New Chapter
Nob, then 92, decided to sell his Coogee apartment on Bream Street in 2017 and move to Coffs Harbour to be closer to his son, Greg, and his family. It was not an easy choice as Coogee was not just a home for Nob but a place where he had spent some of the most significant moments of his life. Despite this, Nob embraced the change positively, motivated by the value of preserving family bonds and friendships he had woven in Coogee.
In March 2020, the community bid a solemn farewell to Norman ‘Nob’ Hill, as he passed away at 95, leaving behind a legacy of bravery, service, and community.
Photo Credit: Coogee SLSC
Nob’s life story is a powerful reminder of the resilience and spirit of the ANZACs, a legacy that continues to inspire and shape the identity of Coogee and its surf club.
The Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel is poised to review a comprehensive redevelopment plan for the Coogee Bay Hotel. The decision will determine the future of this iconic establishment and its surroundings.
On 30 April 2024, the Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel will convene to deliberate on DA/437/2021 the proposed overhaul of the Coogee Bay Hotel.
This decision follows Randwick City Council’s approval of the project with specific conditions, focusing on demolishing existing structures in favour of a new three-storey hotel, a five-storey apartment building, and 11 new ground-level food and beverage tenancies.
In its meeting on 26 March 2024, the Council outlined several modifications to the proposal.
Key concerns addressed include reducing building heights, enhancing setbacks from Arden Street to preserve local flora, and including more affordable housing options. The council also advocated for measures to mitigate potential overshadowing and prevent the removal of the century-old Washington Palms, emphasising a balance between development and environmental preservation.
These adjustments aim to mitigate potential overshadowing, preserve local heritage, and support community members who need affordable living solutions.
Amidst the ongoing deliberations about the redevelopment, the project has encountered strong community opposition, underscored by concerns over its environmental impact, potential loss of heritage, and fears that the new development could disrupt the area’s cherished low-key ambience and directly affect the availability of affordable housing in Coogee.
This ambitious project was introduced in 2021 and subsequently revised in 2023 and 2024. Constrained by a 1995 regulation that reduced allowable building heights, developers face challenges in modernising the site to its former stature.
As the planning panel’s decision looms, both sides of the debate remain entrenched, highlighting the delicate balance between growth and preservation in one of Sydney’s beloved coastal locales.
