Coogee Archives - Page 6 of 16

Humanitarian Lawyer Conquers 92-km Swim from Italy to Albania After Coogee Training

Eva Buzo, a Sydney-based humanitarian lawyer, has completed a gruelling 92-kilometre swim from Italy to Albania, showcasing the skills she honed at Coogee Beach during the pandemic.

The 35-hour marathon swim began on 17 August 2024 at 2:00 p.m. local time. Eva, an international criminal law specialist, faced challenging conditions in the Adriatic Sea, including strong currents and complicated water movements.

Training and Preparation

Eva’s journey to this remarkable achievement began during the COVID-19 pandemic when she joined the Coogee Beach swimming club Vladswim. Under the guidance of marathon swimming coach Vlad Mravec, she trained rigorously, swimming 8km daily on weekdays and 10-15km on weekends. This intense regimen prepared her for the demanding nature of long-distance open-water swimming.

Eva Buzo Coogee — *Photo Credit: Eva Buzo/Instagram*

The lawyer’s dedication to her training at Coogee Beach was crucial to her success. The famous Sydney beach provided the perfect backdrop for Eva to build her endurance and acclimatise to open water conditions. Her commitment to the sport quickly grew, transforming her from a novice ocean swimmer to an accomplished marathon swimmer in just a few years.

Challenges Faced

During the swim, Eva encountered several significant obstacles that tested her physical and mental fortitude. Strong currents posed a major challenge, having previously thwarted her first attempt at the crossing.

Last year, she swam for 28 hours but could not complete the journey due to these powerful water movements.

As the swim progressed, fatigue-induced hallucinations became a troubling issue. Eva reported seeing “monsters out of movies” during the dark hours of her swim, adding a psychological challenge to the already demanding physical task.

The lawyer described feeling fearful during these moments, emphasising the impact of extreme fatigue on her mental state.

The physical toll of the swim was considerable. Prolonged exposure to saltwater caused numbness and swelling in Eva’s mouth, affecting her ability to control it. This condition, which she likened to the aftermath of wisdom teeth removal, necessitated a brief hospital stay after the swim for monitoring and recovery.

Despite these challenges, Eva persevered. She recounted the final moments of the swim, stating that she believed she would finish at the last 25 metres. The changing conditions and slow progress made the final stretch feel interminable, but her determination ultimately saw her through.

@evabuzoswims What does it take to be an ultra endurance swimmer? Lets find out…#womeninsport ♬ original sound – Eva Buzo

Personal Significance

For Eva, an Australian with Albanian heritage, the swim held special meaning beyond the physical achievement.

Her grandfather, Zihni Buzo, came to Australia as a refugee in 1946 after fleeing Albania during World War II. This family history added an emotional dimension to her journey, connecting her to her ancestral roots uniquely and powerfully.

Zihni’s story is remarkable in its own right. He studied engineering at Harvard on a scholarship and spent several years building water projects in Albania before the circumstances of war forced him to seek refuge in Australia.

Fundraising Efforts

Eva used the swim to raise awareness for Victim Advocates International, a charity she founded in 2020. The organisation supports victims of serious international crimes, including war crimes and genocide.

Prior to the swim, Eva had set a goal of raising $20,000 for the charity. She believed that her athletic endeavour would help bring wider public attention to her work in human rights, noting that while her professional achievements are well-known within the human rights community, swimming could reach a broader audience.

Future Aspirations

She is believed to be the first officially to swim between these two countries – Italy and Albania.

Earlier this year, she completed the earliest crossing of the English Channel by a female swimmer in the season, further cementing her status as a formidable athlete.

Having conquered this challenging swim and previously crossed the English Channel, Ea continues to push the boundaries of long-distance swimming. Her latest achievement adds to her growing list of accomplishments both in and out of the water.

Published 26-Aug-2024

Coogee Celebrates as Council Finally Removes Controversial Planter Box

After years of persistent complaints from frustrated residents, a controversial beachfront planter box in Coogee was finally removed. The concrete structure at the Arden Street and Coogee Bay Road intersection has caused numerous accidents and has been the subject of countless community grievances.

For at least two years, locals have criticised the planter box, which sometimes housed a tree and others did not—a situation the council attributed to “vandalism.” Drivers frequently reported mounting the blocks surrounding the tree space, leading to multiple instances of vehicle damage.

Many residents questioned the box’s positioning, deeming it “useless” and asking why the council thought the left-hand lane on a busy beachfront road was a suitable location for a tree.

Previously, a Randwick City spokesperson stated that removing the blocks was not an option because trees add much value to an urban environment. However, as time passed, the box became the site of many accidents, with one occurring as recently as last week. The council maintained that the blocks served as a wheel stop for the parking spots in front of them.

Locals, however, argued that it was unsafe. In July, one Coogee resident claimed to have personally heard of three cars that had smashed into it in a single week.

Photos emerged showing contractors paving over the area, giving many locals hope. A council spokesperson said that the box was no longer there. He explained that the tree on Coogee Bay Road had been subject to continual vandalism for several years, forcing the council to replace the tree on six occasions.

The coastal location and condition of the pit also made establishing the tree challenging. Given these ongoing issues, the council removed the tree and the surrounding area.

The news was met with jubilation from eastern suburb residents online. One man commented that putting it there first was a stupid idea and praised the efforts to drive some sense into the council. Another resident expressed relief that the “weird” placement was being rectified.

Others were more cautious, with one local joking that they should be more relaxed as the council might be replacing it with something bigger.

Published Date 26-August-2024

Man Charged For Suspected Arson On A Coogee Unit

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.

Published 15-August-2024

Tributes Flow as Coogee Farewells Beloved Sports Broadcaster David Morrow

Photo Credit: 2GB Sydney

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.

Career Highlights

Morrow’s illustrious 52-year broadcasting career included:

– 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.

Published 29-July-2024

Coogee Residents to Shape Future of Arden Street Amenities

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

Arden Street Amenities options — *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.

Arden Street Amenities — *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.

Share Your Thoughts

Dangerous Concrete Planter Blocks Continue to Frustrate Coogee Residents

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.

Coogee Bay Road Planter Box — *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.

Published 9-July-2024

Third Tragedy in Three Years: Investigations Intensify After Fatal Fall at Dunningham Reserve

Authorities have launched a critical incident investigation after a woman died following a fall from Dunningham Reserve in Coogee.

Read: Amenities Upgrades Planned at Dunningham Reserve in Coogee

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.

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.

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.

Read: Coogee Surf Life Saving Club Launches Comprehensive Beach Safety Program

As the investigation progresses, local residents and visitors are advised to adhere to any safety guidelines or restrictions put in place by local authorities.

Published 29-June-2024

Rove McManus Cashes In on Coogee Property Boom

Photo Credit: theagency.com.au

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.

Published 13-May-2024

Coogee Couple’s Dream Home in Ruins Amid Heritage Stoush

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.

Published 6-May-2024

$20 Million Coogee Penthouse Sale in Ballamac Development Shatters Suburb Records

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.

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.

With the penthouse sale setting a new benchmark, anticipation is mounting for the official launch of Ballamac House later this year.

Published 2-May-2024