Coogee Archives - Page 7 of 16

Coogee Bay Hotel Redevelopment Deliberation Advances to Sydney Planning Panel

Photo Credit: Ryan James Elliot/Facebook

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.

The 100-years-old Washington Palms at Coogee Bay Hotel
Photo Credit: Mark Christopher England/Facebook

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.

Published 6-April-2024

Coogee Island Swim: A Spectacular Challenge Awaits at Coogee Beach

The Coogee Island Swim, also known as the Coogee Island Challenge, is again setting the stage for another exciting open-water event at Coogee Beach.

Swimmers from various age groups will have the opportunity to tackle the pristine waters around the iconic Wedding Cake Island on Sunday, 14 April 2024.

The Coogee Surf Life Saving Club meticulously organizes the event, which is not only a test of endurance and skill for the participants but also a key fundraiser for the club. Proceeds from the event are crucial for purchasing vital lifesaving equipment, ensuring the safety of beachgoers throughout the year.

Dive into the Challenge

Participants can choose from three exhilarating courses, each designed to cater to different skill levels and ages:

Junior Dash: An 800m circuit around a set of buoys within Coogee Bay, starting at 8:30 a.m. This event is tailored for swimmers aged 10-12, taking advantage of the calm conditions in the bay. Entry is set at $35.00.
Splash and Dash: A 1km swim starting at 9:15 a.m., aimed at beginners and experienced swimmers looking for a warm-up. The course extends slightly beyond the juniors’ route within the surf-free waters of Coogee Bay. Entry for this swim is $55.00.
Island Challenge: The main event starts at 10:15 a.m. and involves a 2.4km lap around Wedding Cake Island. This challenge is for swimmers aged 13 and over. They start from the north end of the beach and finish to the cheers of spectators along the beach and promenade. Entry is $65.00.

For those seeking the ultimate test, a combined entry for the 1km and 2.4km swims is available at a discounted rate of $85.00.

A Swimmer’s Sanctuary

The waters off Wedding Cake Island offer a unique experience for swimmers, with the potential for crystal-clear visibility that reveals an underwater world teeming with marine life and rock formations. The event promises a physical challenge and an unforgettable sensory journey around one of Sydney’s most remarkable natural landmarks.

The Coogee Island Swim has been a fixture on the ocean swimming calendar since at least 2000. It has grown in popularity and, in November 2011, attracted a record number of 1,800 competitors. Its spring and autumn editions provide year-round opportunities for swimmers to meaningfully engage with the community and the ocean.

Whether you’re an experienced ocean swimmer or looking to dip your toes into open water swimming, the Coogee Island Swim offers a distance and challenge level for everyone. Come down to Coogee Beach and be part of this extraordinary event.

Published 19-March-2024

Rabbitohs Legend Roy Asotasi Returns to Community Football, Joins Coogee Dolphins

The Souths Juniors competition welcomes a monumental move for the Coogee Dolphins as they appoint NRL legend Roy Asotasi as their captain-coach for 2024, a move that Coogee Dolphins Juniors President Wayne Hack hails as the “biggest, most positive thing” to happen to the Dolphins.

This role allows the legendary player to reignite his connection to the South Sydney area.

Read: Ross Jones Memorial Pool in Coogee Now Open After Fly Larvae Clean-Up

Roy Asotasi, Rabbitohs legend

Asotasi’s arrival at the Rabbitohs in 2007 marked a turning point, transforming them from cellar-dwellers to genuine contenders. The 2006 Prop of the Year, premiership winner, and Kiwi captain is viewed as one of South Sydney’s most important signings ever, guiding them to their first finals berth in 17 years.

Retired since 2015, Asotasi embarks on a fresh challenge at 42 years old. Rugby league might have taken a backseat after his playing days, but his sons’ involvement rekindled his interest.

Giving back to the community

Asotasi’s motivation stems from a desire to give back to the South Sydney community and nurture emerging talent. He aims to impart his wisdom to junior players and those in the Rabbitohs pathways, potentially helping them secure elite positions.

While not an every-week player, Asotasi is eager to take the field again in Souths territory, exciting younger teammates keen to play alongside their idol. He acknowledges this on-field role will hold him accountable to “practising what he’s preaching.”

Read: Coogee Beach Tree Removal Sparks Controversy

The signing provides a boost for the Souths Juniors competition, which had only six A-grade teams last year. With clubs like Alexandria and Marrickville returning in 2024, Hack believes Asotasi’s presence will be huge, generating excitement among players and fans alike.

Published 14-March-2024

Ross Jones Memorial Pool in Coogee Now Open After Fly Larvae Clean-Up

Did you know that the Ross Jones Memorial Pool at Coogee Beach closed briefly but has since reopened, following a swift clean-up operation to remove fly larvae found in the water?

The popular beach pool was temporarily closed over the weekend after reports of unwelcome visitors, prompting urgent maintenance measures by Council workers.

“Thanks to the hard work of our beach services team, a new southerly swell and a drop in humidity — we had Ross Jones Memorial Pool at Coogee Beach back in swimming shape on Saturday,” council officials announced.

The closure came after fly larvae were detected in the pool on Friday, 23 February 2024, leading to immediate action to clean and empty the pool to ensure the safety of swimmers.

“We’re on site this arvo to evict some sea maggots from the pool and get it back up and running again as soon as possible,” the Council announced.

“These smallish flies are pretty common in muggy weather. They lay their eggs in decaying seaweed—gross!”

Entomologist and University of Sydney lecturer Tom White explained that the larvae, likely kelp flies or seaweed flies, thrive in warm and humid conditions, often laying their eggs on seaweed.

Despite the unsettling discovery, Dr White reassured the public that the larvae posed no threat to swimmers and attributed their presence to environmental factors.

With the pool now reopened, locals and visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim at the Ross Jones Memorial Pool, with Council officials pledging continued monitoring to prevent future outbreaks.

Published 27-February-2024

Coogee Beach Tree Removal Sparks Controversy

Residents of Coogee are outraged by the recent removal of woolly bush trees near its iconic coastline, sparking controversy over the motives behind the action.

After a circulated photograph showed the cleared area, allegations surfaced suggesting that the removal was prompted by complaints from a local apartment owner whose view was obstructed by the verdant foliage. The photo was uploaded via the Coogee and Randwick Local Loop.

However, Randwick City Council moved swiftly to address the mounting discontent, clarifying that the tree removal was part of a strategic plan to replace taller vegetation with plants of a lower growth profile.

This initiative, the Council explained, was undertaken to preserve the scenic vistas from a notable piece of local art, the Impressionists’ Seat, which pays homage to renowned Australian impressionist artists Arthur Streeton, Charles Conder, and Tom Roberts. These artists, celebrated for their depictions of Coogee Beach in the late 1800s, are immortalised in the artwork that offers viewers a glimpse of the same landscapes.

Coogee Beach — Photo Credit: RandwickCityCouncil

Whilst some residents have expressed an understanding of the Council’s efforts to honour the area’s artistic heritage, others lament the loss of the woolly bush trees, considering them an integral part of Coogee’s contemporary natural landscape.

In response to these concerns, the Council reiterated its commitment to managing vegetation on public land with careful consideration for safety, visibility, and preserving historical and cultural significance.

Published 27-February-2024

Celebrating Rainbow Families: Sparkle in the Park at Coogee Beach

Mardi Gras 2024 brings forth a glittering celebration of diversity and love at Coogee Beach with “Sparkle in the Park,” an enchanting storytime event tailored for children aged 0 to 5 years.

Presented by the Randwick City Library, the event set for 6th March 2024, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am, will see an area in Arden St along Coogee Beach adorned with vibrant hues of the rainbow, fostering inclusivity and the sheer delight of reading together.

Online bookings are indispensable to ensure participation, subject to specified terms and conditions. Each child and accompanying parent/carer must secure a booking to join the festivities.

GET TICKETS

Whilst library membership is not a prerequisite for attendance, it’s worth noting that membership is complimentary and can be easily acquired online or at any branch.

Arrive punctually, at least 10 minutes before the scheduled commencement, to uphold the event’s timeline. Late arrivals may regrettably be turned away to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants. Don’t forget to bring along your picnic rug to relish the experience to the fullest.

For further enquiries, please contact 9093 6400. Let’s come together at Coogee Beach for a jubilant celebration of love, diversity, and the magic of storytelling!

Published 21-February-2024

Commonwealth Bank Announces Closure of Branches in Coogee, 2 Other Sites

Commonwealth Bank has recently announced the permanent closure of three of its branches across Australia, in the highly populated areas of Coogee in New South Wales, Coolangatta in Queensland, and Adelaide’s iconic Rundle Mall in South Australia.

These branches are scheduled to be shuttered by 1 March 2024. This decision comes as the bank cites a continuous decline in customer demand as the primary reason for these closures.

Declining Transactions: A Compelling Factor

The decision to close these branches is not taken lightly by Commonwealth Bank.

In Coogee, transactions at the branch along Coogee Rd have plummeted by 52 per cent over five years, highlighting a significant shift in customer preferences towards digital banking services.

In Adelaide’s Rundle Mall, transactions have also dwindled by a substantial 47 per cent over the past five years, whilst Coolangatta witnessed a 29 per cent decrease in transactions.

Commonwealth Bank acknowledges the impact of these closures on both customers and employees. The bank has assured that its staff members will provide one-on-one assistance to customers until their last opening day to help them explore alternative banking options.

The bank offers a range of channels for customers to access banking services, including branches, ATMs, mobile and premier bankers, phone banking, messaging, online banking, and the CommBank app, as well as Bank@Post services.

Employee Relocation and Support

Out of the 22 employees currently working across the three branches slated for closure, all but one will be relocated to roles that align with their needs. Commonwealth Bank is committed to supporting the remaining staff members in finding potential opportunities, ensuring a smooth transition during this period of change.

Despite these closures, Commonwealth Bank has affirmed that it has no plans to close any more regional branches until at least the end of 2026. This commitment reflects the bank’s aim to maintain a presence in regional areas, even as it adapts to changing customer preferences.

Published 7-Feb-2024

Mystery Surrounds Window Shattering at Popular Coogee Cafe

The bustling atmosphere at popular beachside cafe Bathers Coogee was abruptly disturbed by the unexpected shattering of a large window, causing concern and confusion among guests. Was it the heat? Vandalism?

The incident, which occurred on a scorching day with temperatures soaring to 30°C, left the pavement outside the cafe covered in glass and raised immediate concerns about public safety.

Early reports from the scene suggested a chaotic scenario, as patrons and passersby were greeted by the sight of shattered glass. Initial speculation pointed towards potential vandalism, but further investigations by the local police have since provided a different perspective.

Bathers Coogee glass shattered — Photo Credit: @Seansperception/Instagram via Maroubra Community/Facebook

Authorities are now exploring the possibility that the glass explosion was due to natural causes, such as the intense heat experienced in Sydney on the day of the incident. The police have ruled out the involvement of any projectiles or malicious activities, focusing instead on the theory that the extreme temperatures may have caused the glass to expand and ultimately shatter. This explanation, however, has not been confirmed, and investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the window’s destruction.

Bathers Coogee, a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking to enjoy the picturesque views of Coogee Beach, was forced to close temporarily following the incident. A statement released by the establishment assured the public that no injuries were reported and that steps were being taken to address the damage and ensure the safety of its patrons. The cafe also announced plans to reopen promptly, signalling a swift return to normalcy.

This incident has sparked a broader discussion about the impact of extreme weather conditions on infrastructure and the need for businesses to evaluate the resilience of their facilities against such events. As climate patterns continue to evolve, incidents like the one at Bathers Coogee highlight the unexpected challenges that can arise, prompting a reevaluation of safety standards and preventive measures in public spaces.

Meanwhile, the quick response by local authorities and the cafe’s management has been commended, with many emphasising the importance of safety and preparedness in the face of unforeseen events.

Published 1-Feb-2024

Coogee Locals Voice Concerns Over Road Obstacle

Photo Credit: Courtyard/Facebook

Residents in Coogee have voiced their grievances regarding an unusual road feature that has been causing damage to vehicles and exacerbating traffic congestion in the area.

The concrete blocks strategically placed on the corner of Arden St and Coogee Bay Rd have elicited frustration from residents who believe they are detrimental to both vehicles and traffic flow in the bustling beachside community.

The discontent among Coogee residents has found an outlet on social media platforms, where the locals have fervently expressed their concerns.

Images shared online depict two concrete blocks protruding from the roadside gutter, flanking a metal grate that covers a void where a tree once stood, fuelling a passionate response from the community.

One local took aim at Randwick Council, imploring the authorities to address the issue promptly. In a Facebook post, he questioned the council’s inaction, asserting that the situation had led to vehicular damage and third-world traffic congestion.

“This is some of Coogee’s finest architecture,” he lamented. “When is Randwick Council going to pull their finger out of their bum and do something about this? Daily we watch cars destroy themselves on this, and the traffic congestion from not having a left-turning lane is third world! Wake up Randwick Council!”

Coogee Bay Rd roadblock — Photo Credit: Courtyard/Facebook

The resident’s impassioned plea resonated with many Coogee residents, who called for the complete removal of the tree surrounds and concrete blocks.

Randwick Council, however, has maintained its stance on the matter. A council spokesperson stated that the concrete blocks and tree surrounds serve a specific purpose and would not be removed.

They emphasised that these tree surrounds are designed to protect street trees from potential harm caused by parked vehicles, such was the case of recent damage to a tree near the Arden St intersection. The council promptly replaced the tree on 24 Jan 2024.

The council further clarified that there are no plans to eliminate the tree surrounds or trees from Coogee Bay Road, thereby leaving residents with mixed feelings on this issue.

Published 26-Jan-2024

Coogee Resident’s Startling Encounter with Python on Apartment Balcony

Photo Credit: Unsplash

A resident in Coogee returned home to an unexpected and hair-raising sight on the balcony of their third-story apartment — a massive python in the midst of devouring a ringtail possum.

This astonishing incident, revealing a diamond carpet python in the act, unfolded on Tuesday, 19 Dec 2023.

The visuals captured that day depict the diamond carpet python coiled around its prey, the ringtail possum. Slowly and deliberately, the snake began the intricate process of swallowing the possum, a creature roughly one-third of its size.

As the meal came to an end, the snake, now noticeably larger, opted for a leisurely respite on the apartment balcony, prompting the resident to summon a professional snake catcher.

Coogee Python — Photo Credit: Peter Khoury/X

Peter Khoury, a neighbour and the head of media at NRMA, shared his astonishment on social media. He expressed his shock at encountering such a sizable snake on a balcony situated several stories above the ground, particularly in Coogee’s densely populated eastern suburbs, where natural bushland is scant.

According to Mr Khoury, the possum had likely sought refuge by climbing a large tree in front of the apartment complex, with the python in relentless pursuit, leading to the eventual confrontation on the balcony.

The snake, having feasted so voraciously, found itself temporarily immobilised, prompting it to linger at the scene as it began the digestion process. Its reprieve was, however, interrupted by the arrival of snake catchers.

My neighbour came home today and found this on their balcony. Three floors up in Coogee! pic.twitter.com/ihjih1PRsa
— Peter Khoury (@KhouryPete) December 19, 2023

Mr Khoury expressed his initial disbelief at the snake’s size.

“You’d think a snake that big would need a lot of shrub to grow, there’s a little bit of bush (in the area) but not that much,” he remarked.

The resident had just returned from a two-week country holiday.

Upon posting a video of the snake, Mr Khoury received a flood of reactions from shocked Australians, with some suggesting drastic measures such as relocating or even vacating the premises. One astute observer speculated that the snake must have been in a “desperate” situation to resort to such open hunting, likely driven by hunger.

Diamond carpet pythons, native to Australia’s southeastern regions, from the coast to the Blue Mountains, are generally non-venomous and seldom pose a threat to humans unless provoked. Their diet primarily consists of lizards, small mammals, and birds, but their bite, when provoked, can be formidable.

Published 21-Dec-2023