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Google to Land International Subsea Cables at Maroubra

Did you know that Google has chosen Maroubra as the landing point for two major international subsea internet cables, Tabua and Honomoana, which will connect Australia with the United States, Fiji, French Polynesia and New Zealand? The infrastructure will provide critical backup and expanding connectivity options outside of Sydney’s already crowded cable protection zones.

Demand Drives Change

The proposal, submitted by Google through its licensed carrier Perch Infrastructure, was sparked by mounting congestion in Sydney’s northern and southern cable landing zones. According to the company’s submission to New South Wales planning authorities, twelve subsea cables already land in these areas, six in the southern zone alone, pushing the infrastructure close to capacity. Google is seeking permission not only to land the cables at Maroubra but also to extend the official southern cable protection zone boundary to include this new site. See the EIS Scoping Report here.

Maroubra subsea cable — *Photo Credit: Google*

Photo Credit: EIS Scoping Report

The planned landing point will be about one kilometre offshore, where the cables will either be buried beneath the seabed or laid on it, depending on environmental and technical considerations. From there, the cables will stretch out to the edge of New South Wales’ coastal waters, which extend 5.56 kilometres from the shoreline.

Community, Capacity and Connectivity

While the initiative is backed by one of the world’s largest tech companies, the impact is being felt on a local level.

A recent community event at Maroubra Beach marked the beginning of the Sydney section of the cable build, attended by stakeholders including Randwick City Council, UGL, UEA, and members of the La Perouse Aboriginal community. Local contractors such as UEA Group have been tapped to handle the initial construction, supporting regional employment and economic activity.

This isn’t the first time Maroubra has been part of a significant digital infrastructure project. The area previously saw activity during the PPC-1 cable landing over a decade ago. In comparison, the new cables are expected to carry a far greater data capacity, up to 400 terabits per second, highlighting how much internet technology has advanced in just 15 years.

Preparing for the Future

Google’s broader project, known as the Pacific Connect Initiative, reflects rising internet demand across the Indo-Pacific region and the growing need for system redundancy. By using Maroubra as a landing point, the company aims to relieve pressure on existing zones while ensuring that Australia’s international internet links remain resilient and future-ready.

The final decision on the proposal rests with NSW planning authorities and the Australian Communications and Media Authority. If approved, Maroubra could soon become a key node in Australia’s digital network, linking the community directly to global communication routes.

Based on the EIS Scoping Report, construction of the project would take approximately 20 days (10 days per segment) within NSW coastal waters and is estimated to commence in December 2025.

Published 24-April-2025

Randwick ANZAC Banners Honour Maroubra and Surrounding Suburb Heroes

Photo Credit: Randwick City Council

Two veterans from Maroubra are among six local service members recognised in Randwick’s 2025 ANZAC Day banner campaign, which also honours individuals from Malabar, Matraville and Little Bay.

Honouring Local Lives of Service and Sacrifice

The campaign, endorsed by Randwick’s ANZAC Trust, aims to connect residents with local stories of military service—highlighting individuals who lived, worked, and served within the community.

Bert Tuck: Maroubra Surf Lifesaver and Gallipoli Soldier

Sergeant Albert Victor “Bert” Tuck for ANZAC day — *Photo Credit: Randwick City Council*

Sergeant Albert Victor “Bert” Tuck, born in 1881 and raised in Darlinghurst, was a founding member of the South Maroubra Surf Life Saving Club. A surf competitor and early coastal guard, he had served with the Sydney Scottish Rifles from 1899.

Mr Tuck enlisted in the AIF in August 1914, carrying over his rank of sergeant from the Sydney Scottish Rifles, where he had served since 1899. He trained at Randwick Camp and sailed on the Euripides with the 4th Infantry Battalion. During the ANZAC landings at Gallipoli on 25 April 1915, he led and instructed his men under fire and was mentioned in dispatches for gallantry. He was killed the following day in a bayonet charge and is buried at Shell Green Cemetery.

His legacy is remembered not only in military records but also by surf club members who continue to honour him as a community hero.

Danny Jeffery: Maroubra RAAF Veteran and Mental Health Advocate

Squadron Leader Danny Jeffery for ANZAC day — *Photo Credit: Randwick City Council*

Squadron Leader Danny Jeffery served 35 years in the Royal Australian Air Force, including deployments in Malaysia, East Timor, the Middle East and Afghanistan. In Afghanistan alone, he flew and coordinated 85 combat missions.

After being medically discharged in 2018 due to PTSD, Mr Jeffery became a leading figure in veterans’ mental health recovery. He competed in multiple Invictus Games and now mentors other veterans while remaining active with the Maroubra RSL Sub-Branch.

Mr Jeffery’s banner highlights both operational excellence and his continued contribution to veteran welfare in Maroubra.

Terry Farley: Malabar Army Officer and Fire Service Leader

Warrant Officer Class 2 Terry Farley for ANZAC day — *Photo Credit: Randwick City Council*

Warrant Officer Class 2 Terry Farley has lived in Malabar since 1979. A career soldier, he served with Sydney-based Army units including Randwick Barracks and was deployed in Operation Resolute, Australia’s maritime border security mission.

In civilian life, Mr Farley became a senior officer in Fire and Rescue NSW, rising to Chief Superintendent. He also volunteers as a surf lifesaver and rugby league coach. His banner honours his parallel careers in military service, emergency response and community leadership.

Vic Simon: Matraville Vietnam Veteran and Indigenous Leader

Victor “Vic” Simon for ANZAC day — *Photo Credit: Randwick City Council*

Private Victor “Vic” Simon was a proud Worimi man. Mr Simon was one of only five Indigenous soldiers to fight at the Battle of Long Tan in 1966. Aged just 20, Mr Simon held off enemy forces during the four-hour battle, despite suffering blast injuries.

After returning home and settling in Matraville, Mr Simon worked for Sydney County Council and served on the board of the Matraville RSL. He was an active voice in Indigenous veteran history, placing a poppy each year for his mate Paul Large, who died at Long Tan.

Mr Simon passed away in 2020 after a battle with cancer. His story is now part of local history and national remembrance.

Edith Blake: Little Bay Nurse Lost at Sea

Sister Edith Blake for ANZAC day — *Photo Credit: Randwick City Council*

Sister Edith Blake trained at the Coast Hospital in Little Bay from 1908. In 1912, she registered with the Australasian Trained Nurses’ Association. Ms Blake’s application to join the AANS was rejected. She enlisted in 1915 with the British Queen Alexandra’s Imperial Military Nursing Service Reserve.

Ms Blake served in Egypt and on hospital ships, and later cared for German POWs in England. In 1918, while serving aboard HMHS Glenart Castle, she was killed when the ship was torpedoed by a German U-boat in the Bristol Channel.

She is believed to be the only Australian nurse killed as a direct result of enemy action in World War I and is commemorated on the Hollybrook Memorial and Australian War Memorial’s Commemorative Roll.

Ted Sullivan: Randwick Anti-Aircraft Gunner of WWII

Craftsman Ted Sullivan served with anti-aircraft artillery units in the Pacific during World War II, helping defend Allied positions under frequent Japanese air attacks. He lived in Randwick after the war and was active in the Coogee Randwick Clovelly RSL Sub-Branch.

Mr Sullivan passed away in 2024. His banner honours steady wartime duty and his quiet role in preserving community memory across generations.

Looking Ahead to ANZAC Day

The “Honouring Service” campaign was developed in 2024 through community nominations and is partly funded by an ANZAC Community Grant. Each veteran or their surviving family members will receive a replica of their banner at the 2025 ANZAC Civic Reception.

As banners fly across suburbs including Maroubra, Malabar, Matraville and Little Bay, the campaign brings the stories of local veterans into the public eye. It is part of Randwick Council’s broader effort to ensure their legacies remain visible beyond 25 April — the date Australians stop to remember their sacrifices.

Published 14-Apr-2025

Maroubra Entrepreneur Honoured for Transforming Local Education

Photo Credit: Australian Small Business Champion Awards/Facebook

An educational business founded in Maroubra has been recognised nationally after winning ‘Business of the Decade’ at the 2025 Australian Small Business Awards.

Background: A Local Start in Maroubra

Fifteen years ago, Harry Mavrolefteros and his brother launched First Education in a small storeroom above their parents’ optometry practice in Maroubra. The business began with a vision to change how students experienced learning—prioritising enjoyment, confidence, and empowerment. The optometry practice still operates in the community today, reflecting the family’s long-standing local ties.

Expansion and Educational Impact

From its Maroubra roots, First Education has grown into a leading tutoring provider with over 200 tutors and more than 1,000 students. Centres now operate across Sydney, including Bondi, Earlwood, Mascot, and Randwick, with daily availability. The organisation offers one-on-one tutoring for students from Kindergarten through to Year 12, supporting all subjects with a focus on individual needs.

First Education’s method prioritises in-centre, personalised tutoring over group or home-based sessions. According to the business, this structure provides focused attention while avoiding distractions that often hinder learning at home. Sessions are designed to build student confidence and foster a lasting interest in learning.

Maroubra education business — *Photo Credit: Harry Mavrolefteros/Facebook*

Educational Philosophy and Student Outcomes

The founder’s early passion for mathematics shaped the organisation’s philosophy: education should uplift and empower. Tutors at First Education work to instil lifelong learning skills, aiming to build students’ self-esteem alongside academic performance. This approach has supported improved results, particularly in the senior years.

Community Engagement in Maroubra and Beyond

First Education’s original Maroubra centre remains active, contributing to local educational outcomes and community development. The business’s expansion into neighbouring suburbs has strengthened its presence across the Randwick area, helping students gain skills and confidence in a structured learning environment.

Maroubra education — *Photo Credit: First Education/Facebook*

While the recent national recognition highlights First Education’s business success, its founder described the achievement as a shared victory involving students, families, tutors, and local support. The acknowledgement also reflects the lasting educational impact the organisation continues to deliver across the region.

Conclusion: Ongoing Commitment to Learning

With its foundation in Maroubra, First Education remains focused on its mission to support students through personalised education. The award marks a significant milestone in the business’s development and its ongoing contribution to learning in local communities.

Published 10-Apr-2025

Malabar Residents Warned: Tree Vandalism Could Cost You $3,000

Photo Credit: Pexels

A warning has been issued to Malabar residents, stating that individuals caught poisoning public trees could face fines of up to $3,000. This comes after multiple incidents of tree vandalism in the area, with several trees deliberately damaged using drill holes.

Trees Under Threat

Tree vandalism has become a growing problem in Sydney, with four separate incidents reported in the past two years. The latest case involved a young tree on Cromwell Place, Malabar, being damaged with drill holes at its base. Local officials responsible for managing public greenery in the eastern suburbs have labelled tree poisoning a serious offence.

The first incident occurred in November 2023, when council staff discovered drill holes in a tree. A month later, two more Queensland Brushbox trees were vandalised. To address the issue, council workers performed ‘habitat pruning’ on the damaged trees in April 2024, ensuring the safety of the area while leaving trunks and main branches to provide a habitat for wildlife.

Why Are Trees Being Targeted?

Margaret Hogg from Saving Sydney’s Trees has called for stronger action, highlighting that tree poisoning is becoming increasingly common in waterfront suburbs. She condemned the acts as selfish and ignorant, expressing support for the city authorities’ proactive stance on the matter.

Local officials have continued their efforts to restore the area by planting new scribbly gum trees in June 2024. However, suspected vandalism of these new trees was reported just five months later. In response, additional signage was installed to warn residents and potential vandals.

Voices of Concern

Residents and campaigners alike have expressed frustration at the repeated damage. Ms Hogg praised the authorities’ commitment to protecting the urban forest, emphasising the need for continued vigilance and community involvement to prevent further vandalism.

Legal Actions and Penalties

Under New South Wales law, the maximum fine for illegal tree removal can reach $1 million if the Land and Environment Court deems it severe. However, in Sydney, it is limited to issuing fines up to $3,000. In comparison, Melbourne councils can issue fines of up to $3,800, while other states, such as Western Australia, have significantly lower penalties.

Malabar tree poisoning — *Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only*
*Photo Credit: Pexels*

Protecting Malabar’s Green Spaces

The council’s commitment to tackling tree vandalism in Malabar remains strong, with continued efforts to replant and protect public greenery. As authorities call on the community to help safeguard urban trees, the message is clear: acts of tree vandalism will not be tolerated.

Published 29-Mar-2025

At Maroubra Beach, the Shark Nets Come Down and Questions Rise

Photo Credit: South Maroubra Surf Life Saving Club

On a breezy Sunday morning, the shoreline at Maroubra is alive with colour. Dozens of red and yellow caps bob between the waves, as Nippers paddle out under the watchful eyes of surf lifesavers. But beneath the excitement, there’s a growing unease. Soon, the shark nets that have lined Maroubra’s waters for decades will be gone. Not just here, but across 51 beaches in New South Wales, the state is pulling them out early—by a full month.

The nets usually stay in place until the end of April, but this year, they will be removed on 31 March, a move aimed at protecting sea turtles migrating along the coast. For some, it’s a necessary shift toward more environmentally responsible management. For others, like Paul Fownes, it’s a risk they’re not ready to take.

Mr Fownes is the president of the South Maroubra Surf Life Saving Club, and on any given Sunday, he’s responsible for more than 1,000 children in the surf. For him, the nets have always been one part of the safety net—literal or not—that helps keep those kids safe.

“I remember a day when a four-and-a-half metre white shark got caught in the net,” he said. “That same morning, we had our Nippers in the water.”

To him, removing the nets without solid, consistent alternatives—like drone patrols or drumlines—feels like trading a proven system for an uncertain one. “There are days when we have no drones. Sometimes it’s cloudy, sometimes there’s no one available to fly them,” he explained.

Maroubra Nippers — *Photo Credit: South Maroubra Surf Life Saving Club/Facebook*

A Different Perspective

But conservation groups see it differently.

Lawrence Chlebeck, a marine biologist with Humane World for Animals, believes the real danger isn’t removing the nets—it’s thinking they ever provided solid protection in the first place.

“Shark nets don’t form a wall,” he said. “They’re only 150 metres long and six metres high. Sharks can, and often do, swim over, under or around them.”

The data backs him up. In the 2022–23 season, not a single target shark—meaning great whites, tiger sharks or bull sharks—was caught in the nets off Sydney beaches. The following season, only three were. Instead, nets caught 124 other marine animals, including dolphins, rays, turtles and smaller sharks that pose little threat to humans.

Chlebeck says that almost half of the sharks caught in nets are found on the beach side—meaning they’ve already gotten past the barrier. To him, this proves that the nets don’t work the way many believe they do.

“People think nets make the water safe,” he said. “But the safety is more psychological than real.”

He argues that newer technologies—like shark listening stations, drones and SMART drumlines—are far more effective at detecting sharks before they become a threat. “It’s time we let go of 100-year-old tech and put our trust in tools that actually work.”

A Decision That Ripples

Back in Maroubra, the debate is about more than just sharks. It’s about how a community balances safety, tradition, and science.

Shark Nets in Maroubra — *Photo Credit: South Maroubra Surf Life Saving Club*

Six of the eight NSW councils that use shark nets have now voted in favour of permanently removing them, citing damage to marine life and limited effectiveness. In Randwick, where Maroubra is located, the decision was a close call, a split 8–7.

Even so, the final decision rests with the state. The Department of Primary Industries has been gathering feedback from 25 coastal councils, with a full review due to go before Cabinet later this year. Any long-term changes to the Shark Management Program could come into effect in the 2025–26 season.

Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty said the government is relying on tracking data from more than 2,200 tagged sharks to shape its future approach. “We’re continuing to consult with local councils and communities,” she said.

For now, though, Maroubra’s nets will be gone by the end of the month. The beach will look the same. The Nippers will still run into the surf. But for many in the community, it will feel just a little different.

Published 24-March-2025

Maroubra Bus Rider Faces Court Over Double Stabbing

Photo Credit: Matt Taylor/Flickr

Maroubra locals were left stunned after a woman allegedly stabbed two passengers with a pen during a daytime bus ride to Eastgardens.

Maroubra Bus Riders Shocked After Woman Allegedly Stabs Two People with a Pen

A quiet bus trip on Maroubra was left agog when a 41-year-old woman was charged with stabbing a 21-year-old tourist in the face with a pen over a fight.

The assault occurred at around 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 22, as the bus was driving along Anzac Parade to Westfield Eastgardens. A 34-year-old man who attempted to prevent him was stabbed but slightly injured.

Bus Commotion Near Local Shopping Centre

The bus, which was travelling to one of Sydney’s busiest shopping districts, was at the centre of a police operation after emergency services were called. The 41-year-old female was arrested on the spot and later charged with two offences of wounding with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm.

Police stated that the witnesses did not know each other and the motive remains unknown. There is no current threat to the public, and the swift response of emergency services helped keep the situation under control.

The 21-year-old female victim was rushed to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, and the male victim who saved her received immediate treatment.

Charges and Court Appearance

The defendant was refused bail and appeared before Parramatta Local Court on Sunday. Authorities are continuing their investigation, studying CCTV footage from the buses and hearing witnesses.

The incident, which happened during the day, has upset citizens. The police assured the citizens that the incident was isolated and public transportation is still safe.

Published 24-March-2025

Measles Alert Issued for Sydney as Infectious Case Reported in Maroubra

A measles alert has been issued for Sydney after an infectious person visited multiple locations, including Maroubra, while carrying the highly contagious disease. Health authorities warn that individuals who were at specific sites may have been exposed and should monitor for symptoms.

The case involves a traveller who arrived from Vietnam, where a large measles outbreak is ongoing, and later visited several public places in Sydney.

Confirmed Case and Exposure Sites

NSW Health confirmed that the infected person arrived in Sydney on Monday, 10 March, landing at 11 a.m. on Jetstar flight JQ62 from Ho Chi Minh City.

The individual was present at Sydney International Airport’s arrivals terminal and baggage claim until 1 p.m. before proceeding to 169 Cafe in Randwick from 1:30 p.m. to 2:05 p.m. Later that evening, they visited OOSHMAN MAROUBRA at Pacific Square, Maroubra, between 8:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

The person sought medical attention multiple times in the following days. On Thursday, 13 March, they attended the Matraville Medical Complex on Bunnerong Road from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., followed by a stop at HealthSave Pharmacy nearby from 1 p.m. to 1:35 p.m.

They returned to Matraville Medical Complex on Friday, 14 March, between 1:55 p.m. and 2:35 p.m. and again on Saturday, 15 March, from 9:50 a.m. to 10:50 a.m. On that same day, they were in the Prince of Wales Hospital emergency department waiting room from 10:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Health Advisory and Symptoms to Watch For

Health officials are urging anyone who visited these locations at the specified times to watch for symptoms until 2 April 2025, as measles can take up to 18 days to appear after exposure. Symptoms include fever, runny nose, sore eyes, and cough, typically followed by a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the head down after a few days.

Dr Vicky Sheppeard, Director of Public Health for South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, emphasised the importance of calling ahead before visiting a doctor or hospital if symptoms develop. This measure prevents further transmission in medical facilities.

Vaccination and Prevention

Measles is preventable with vaccination, and NSW Health is encouraging people to check their immunisation status. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is free for children at 12 and 18 months of age, as well as for anyone born after 1965 who has not received two doses.

Travellers, particularly those heading to regions experiencing outbreaks, are advised to get vaccinated before departure. Parents of children under 12 months planning to travel internationally should consult a GP about receiving the first dose of MMR early.

People who are unsure if they have had both doses of the vaccine should receive an additional dose, as extra vaccinations are safe, according to NSW Health. The MMR vaccine is available through GPs for all ages and at pharmacies for individuals over five years old.

Community Response and Next Steps

NSW Health is working to identify close contacts of the case and has reminded the public that measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The department urges community members in Maroubra, Randwick, and Matraville to remain vigilant and seek medical advice if they develop symptoms.

For further information, residents can contact Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 or speak with their GP.

Published 20-March-2025

Bluebottle Infestation at Maroubra Beach: Swimmers Urged to Stay Cautious

Photo Credit: Maroubra SLSC

Thousands of bluebottles have washed up on Maroubra Beach, forcing many swimmers to relocate while others braved the waters despite the risk of painful stings. Strong onshore winds over the weekend carried masses of the stinging jellyfish onto the shoreline, covering the sand in clusters of blue.

Maroubra Beach bluebottles — *Photo Credit: Lynne Oldfield/Facebook*

Bluebottle Invasion Hits Maroubra Beach

Beachgoers at Maroubra were met with an unexpected challenge as thousands of bluebottles washed ashore over the weekend. The sudden influx was attributed to onshore winds pushing colonies of the stinging jellyfish onto the sand.

Sydney man Greg Tannos, who was among those stung, described the sensation as “going into an electric shock in the water and then it keeps getting worse.” Despite the risk, some swimmers still chose to enter the ocean, while others moved to alternative locations.

Randwick Lifeguards confirmed that while they do not close beaches due to bluebottles, warning signs were placed around flagged areas to alert beachgoers.

Understanding the Bluebottle Problem

Bluebottles, easily recognised by their blue gas-filled sac, are a common nuisance along Australia’s east coast. They are not capable of independent movement and rely on ocean currents and winds to drift. When winds exceed 30 km/h, entire colonies can be pushed towards specific beaches, as seen at Maroubra.

Experts estimate that up to 30,000 bluebottle stings occur annually across Australia, though none have been fatal. The stings cause intense pain and irritation, often leaving red welts on the skin.

Dr Lisa-ann Gershwin of the Australian Marine Stinger Advisory recommends rinsing the affected area with seawater first before applying ice or hot water to reduce pain. Freshwater should be avoided initially as it can worsen the sting by triggering the release of more venom.

Maroubra Beach — *Photo Credit: Lynne Oldfield/Facebook*

Treatment and Prevention of Bluebottle Stings

In the event of a bluebottle sting, the following steps are recommended:

Monitor the casualty while offering comfort and reassurance.
Pick off any remaining tentacles.
Remove any ‘invisible tentacles’ with a copious amount of seawater.
Immerse the affected area in hot water or cover it with hot running water (as in a hot shower) for at least 20 minutes to neutralise the venom proteins.
Alternatively, apply a dry cold pack for pain relief.
Call Triple Zero (000) if an allergic reaction occurs, pain is persistent, or the sting site covers a large area or a sensitive region (e.g., the eyes).
Seek assistance from a lifeguard if available.

Note: Ensure the water temperature is safe to avoid scalding.

To prevent bluebottle stings:

Avoid swimming when warning signs are displayed.
Do not touch jellyfish in the water or on the shore.
Wear a Lycra wetsuit or protective clothing when swimming.
Use waterproof footwear when wading through shallow water.

Community Concerns and Safety Measures

The presence of bluebottles at Maroubra has raised concerns among locals and lifeguards. Maroubra’s Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) has advised swimmers to remain cautious and check local warnings. The Jellyfish App and Beachsafe app are recommended for real-time updates on bluebottle activity.

While lifeguards provide first aid for stings, experts stress the importance of prevention. Beachgoers are encouraged to watch for warning signs and avoid swimming in areas where bluebottles are present.

Published 8-Mar-2025

Malabar Wastewater Microplastic Pollution Exposed: Billions of Particles Released Daily

Photo Credit: iStock

Every day, billions of microplastic particles flow into Sydney’s ocean from the Malabar wastewater treatment plant. A CSIRO report has revealed that between 5.4 billion and 120 billion microplastics escape through the system daily, raising serious concerns about pollution and marine life.

Locals have long noticed unusual debris washing ashore, but few realised the scale of plastic contamination. Now, scientists have confirmed that Sydney’s outdated treatment plants are a major source of microplastics in the ocean.

Why Malabar Releases So Many Microplastics

Sydney’s coastal wastewater plants—Malabar, Bondi, and North Head—only provide primary treatment. This process removes large solids but allows tiny plastic particles to slip through. In contrast, the Cronulla plant uses tertiary treatment, which captures over 98% of microplastics before discharging water into the ocean.

The difference is striking:

-Malabar releases billions of microplastic particles daily.

-Cronulla, with its advanced treatment, discharges only 86 million to 350 million—a fraction of Malabar’s output.

Experts argue that upgrading treatment processes across all plants would significantly reduce pollution levels.

Microplastics Slip Through

Australian Microplastic Assessment Project research director Dr. Scott Wilson, warns that wastewater treatment plants are the main contributors to this pollution.

He emphasised that the level of filtration determines how much gets through. The more advanced the treatment, the fewer particles escape.

What alarms him most is that even Cronulla, which has the best filtration system, still allows microplastics to pass through. If the most effective plant can’t catch everything, the pollution from older, less advanced facilities must be far worse.

Wilson stresses the need for immediate action. He urges Sydney Water to upgrade filtration systems.

A Missed Opportunity to Fix the Problem

Sydney’s wastewater system is undergoing a $32 billion upgrade, but Malabar, Bondi, and North Head won’t receive major treatment upgrades. Instead, planners aim to reduce the amount of wastewater processed at these plants over the next 15 years.

Experts say this approach fails to address the root problem. Professor Stuart Khan, an environmental engineer, points out that 80% of Sydney’s sewage still gets dumped into the ocean after only basic treatment. He believes modern filtration systems should be installed at all major plants, not just a select few.

How Widespread Is the Issue?

Microplastic pollution isn’t just a problem for Sydney’s beaches. The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is investigating 120 waterways, including Sydney Harbour and the Parramatta River, to measure contamination levels.

Banning single-use plastics has helped reduce visible litter, but billions of microplastic particles continue to flow into the ocean daily through wastewater. The issue remains largely unseen, but its impact grows with each passing day.

What Needs to Happen Now?

The technology to filter out microplastics already exists. Tertiary treatment systems, like those used at Cronulla, could drastically cut pollution levels if applied to more plants.

Without urgent action, Sydney’s beaches and marine life will face increasing harm. Every day that passes without upgrades adds billions more plastic particles to our ocean—a problem too big to ignore.

Published 17-Feb-2025

Maroubra Woman’s $100,000 Windfall Brings Mortgage Relief

Photo Credit: Pexels

A Maroubra woman received an unexpected financial boost on 10 February 2025. She secured a $100,000 prize. The fortunate win will allow her to make significant mortgage payments and set aside funds for a well-deserved holiday.

While getting ready for work, the Maroubra local received multiple missed calls. She later learned that the calls were about the life-changing prize. Overjoyed by the news, she shared her excitement and relief, knowing the funds would provide a substantial financial cushion. With her daily routine interrupted by such an unexpected event, she acknowledged that the day ahead would feel very different.

Maroubra woman win — Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pexels

Making the Most of the Win

With a clear plan in mind, the Maroubra woman intends to prioritise paying off her mortgage. The unexpected financial boost will help ease long-term financial commitments, providing greater security for her and her family. In addition, she is considering a small holiday at the end of the year, allowing time to celebrate and unwind after such a significant event.

A Growing List of Winners

Across Australia, similar fortunate outcomes have been recorded, with hundreds of individuals receiving major cash prizes in the past year. Collectively, over $53.4 million has been awarded to winners, providing life-changing opportunities to many.

How the Process Works

The system that determines these wins operates on a structured draw, ensuring every entry has a unique number. The draw consists of two stages—one to select the winning numbers and another to determine the jackpot recipient. If the jackpot number matches an active ticket, the total prize is awarded. Otherwise, the prize fund continues to grow, adding to the anticipation of future draws.

Maroubra windfall — Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pexels

Supporting the Community

Beyond individual winners, these funds contribute significantly to public initiatives. In the last financial year, more than $1.8 billion was generated for community projects, supporting hospitals, medical research, disaster relief, and education programs.

Anticipation Builds for the Next Big Win

With the latest prize claimed in Maroubra, attention now turns to future draws, where the jackpot continues to rise. As more people take part, excitement builds over who might be next to experience a life-changing moment.

Published 14-Feb-2025