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New Boardwalk Enhances Beach Access in South Maroubra

A newly completed 55-metre boardwalk now connects Maroubra and South Maroubra Beach, offering easier access to the South Maroubra Surf Life Saving Club for wheelchair users and those with prams.

The boardwalk, replacing the previous sandy track, is constructed from recycled plastic — a durable, low-maintenance material that provides an eco-friendly alternative to traditional timber. This sustainable choice aligns with growing environmental concerns while ensuring longevity in the harsh coastal environment.

This development follows the October 2023 completion of a new amenities building at South Maroubra Beach, which included upgrades to paths, landscaping, and parking spaces, all aimed at enhancing accessibility.

Randwick City Council has further expanded its commitment to inclusive beach experiences by introducing beach wheelchairs at several local beaches. These specially designed chairs, available at Clovelly, Coogee, Malabar, and Maroubra beaches, allow individuals with mobility challenges to navigate sandy terrain and enjoy the water’s edge.

**The Sandcruiser All Terrain Chair**
Photo Credit: Randwick City Council

The beach wheelchairs, known as Sandcruiser All Terrain Chairs, meet Australian standards and include safety features such as an anti-tip brake bar, adjustable leg rests, and quick-release buckles. They can accommodate users weighing up to 120 kg.

Randwick City Council’s initiative is part of its broader Disability Inclusion Action Plan and Inclusive Randwick Strategy. The council states that these improvements demonstrate their commitment to making public spaces accessible to all community members.

The beach wheelchairs are available for free four-hour hire periods, with booking required. Users must be accompanied by a carer or support person, as the chairs are not self-propelled. The council emphasises that while they provide this service, use of the beach wheelchairs is at the user’s own risk.

Published 18-September-2024

Maroubra Fisherman’s Cruel Treatment of Shark Sparks Outrage

Photo Credit: Carvedbanks/ Instagram

A shocking video of a fisherman seemingly mishandling a shark at Maroubra Beach has ignited strong reactions among locals and online viewers. The footage shows the fisherman reeling in a Port Jackson shark and then pulling it across the rocks before finally returning it to the ocean.

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation, particularly for the fisherman’s apparent disregard for the shark’s well-being. A bystander who filmed the event expressed his disgust, stating that the fisherman’s desire for a photo did not justify inflicting such suffering on the animal.

The video shows the shark struggling on the rock platform for an extended period, estimated to be between four and five minutes. The concerned bystander intervened, urging the fisherman to release the shark back into the water. However, the fisherman’s method was equally distressing – dragging the shark by its tail, further injuring it.

The bystander, who wishes to remain anonymous, stressed respecting all living creatures and their right to life. He expressed anger at witnessing such cruelty and highlighted sharks’ critical role in maintaining a balanced marine ecosystem.

The resident claims that this is not an isolated incident. The resident revealed that he had previously encountered a decapitated Port Jackson shark in the same area, raising concerns about the ongoing mistreatment of marine life at Maroubra Beach.

The video has sparked an outpouring of criticism online, with viewers condemning the fisherman’s actions. Many have called for stricter regulations and the establishment of marine reserves to protect marine life.

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A post shared by Lew Loughlin (@carvedbanks)

While Port Jackson sharks are known for their resilience and ability to survive briefly out of water, experts warn that such experiences can be highly stressful for the animals. The shark’s fate remains uncertain, adding to the public’s outrage.

Leonardo Guida, a shark scientist with the Australian Marine Conservation Society, emphasised the importance of releasing unwanted catches as quickly and safely as possible. The incident is a stark reminder of the need for responsible fishing practices and respect for all marine creatures.

Published Date 04-September-2024

Maroubra Goes Green: Eco Living Festival Merges with Beach Markets

Photo Credit: Randwick City Council/ Facebook

A wave of eco-consciousness swept over Maroubra as the Eco Living Festival 2024 merged with the renowned Maroubra Beach Markets. The combined event at the new Broadarrow Reserve location offered a full day of sustainable living demonstrations, informative talks, and a vibrant marketplace experience.

A Showcase of Sustainability

With over 130 stalls featuring eco-friendly innovations and green products, the festival, which took place on Sunday, 1 September, has provided a platform for local businesses and artisans championing sustainability. Visitors explored diverse offerings, from unique handmade crafts to vintage fashion and gourmet food stalls.

Expert Insights and Hands-on Learning

A series of talks by environmental experts delved into topics like planning plastic-free parties, energy-saving tips with ‘FixItChicks’, and the significance of individual actions in protecting the environment. Interactive workshops guided attendees on sustainable practices, such as pickling, fermenting vegetables, and meal planning.

Family Fun and Eco-Friendly Activities

The Eco Living Festival catered to all ages, with nature play areas for kids, bike-powered smoothie making, and eco prizes. Coastal walk tours highlighted local ecology and conservation efforts while lifeguards demonstrated CPR. Live music and family-friendly entertainment added to the festive atmosphere.

A Sustainable Celebration

Attendees embraced the eco-spirit by bringing reusable cups, shopping bags, and water bottles. This free event presented a unique opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Maroubra Beach while gaining valuable insights into sustainable living.

Published Date 04-September-2024

Maroubra Motorists Among Sydney’s Top Beneficiaries of New Toll Relief Measures

Did you know that Maroubra ranks among the top 20 suburbs of Sydney that has led in toll rebate claims? This translates to significant financial relief for motorists in the suburb through the recently implemented $60 weekly toll cap initiative.

This relief program, initiated in response to the complex pricing structures left by previous toll road privatisations, has already allocated $79 million for claims from January onward. Currently, over 350,000 motorists are eligible to receive their share of a $53 million fund designated for the April to June 2024 quarter.

Detailed Impact Across Suburbs

Suburbs with the highest toll road usage, predominantly in Western Sydney, have led in claiming rebates. Blacktown, Baulkham Hills, and Marsden Park are notable examples, with Maroubra also significant in this list, having amassed a total of $261,742 in claims from 1,119 motorists.

In contrast, Auburn, Lakemba, and Wiley Park residents have received the highest average relief amounts. The average rebate for NSW drivers is $254, with over 6,000 motorists securing over $1,000 each in the initial quarter of claims.

Maroubra, Toll relief — *Photo Credit: NSWGovt*

Toll System Challenges and Remediation Efforts

Sydney’s toll system’s complexity and inefficiency have been widely acknowledged. Different price structures make it challenging for everyday motorists. These issues disproportionately affect residents, who are more dependent on these toll roads. With ongoing reforms, the system seeks to become more equitable and efficient. Motorists exceeding $60 in weekly tolls are encouraged to claim rebates, helping mitigate their expenses.

The relief efforts are designed to support those heavily reliant on tolled routes. Motorists are advised to visit the Service NSW website to link their toll accounts and lodge their rebate claims efficiently. This process has been simplified to ensure everyone eligible can access their rebates without hassle.

With a “fair use” provision, motorists can claim up to a maximum of $340 per week for each tag or licence plate, ensuring the integrity of the program and preventing misuse. Claims for toll expenses in 2024 are open until 30 June 2025, providing a prolonged period for motorists to access the funds they need to cover their toll expenses.

Published 3-Sept-2024

Maroubra Residents Furious Over Seal Selfie-Seekers

Photo Credit: NSW Government

A tense standoff between nature enthusiasts and a sunbathing seal has sparked outrage among Maroubra locals. A photo shared on social media captured a group of roughly a dozen people crowding around a fur seal resting on the rocks at North End in Maroubra, some venturing within mere metres of the wild animal.

*Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map*

The image, taken with a zoom lens from a distance, ignited a wave of condemnation from residents concerned for both the seal’s wellbeing and the safety of the onlookers. Many expressed their frustration online, criticising the group’s blatant disregard for the animal’s space and the potential danger they were putting themselves in.

The NSW Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has clear guidelines to protect seals that come ashore in the state. Under the Biodiversity Conservation Regulation 2017, legal distances must be maintained, varying depending on the seal’s location and whether a pup is present.

*Shot with a 300mm photo lens.*
*Photo Credit: Barry Ion/ Facebook*

Seals often haul out on land to rest after foraging at sea. However, they may exhibit aggressive behaviour like yawning, waving their flippers, or vocalising if they feel threatened. Despite their seemingly docile nature, seals are remarkably agile and can move swiftly on land.

The NPWS emphasises that people must keep a minimum distance of 40 metres from an adult seal, 80 metres from a pup, and 100 metres from drones. While seals may sometimes appear injured, these wounds often heal naturally without veterinary intervention. However, if concerned, the public is urged to contact NPWS or ORRCA for assessment and monitoring.

Individuals who breach these regulations can face fines of up to $1,320, and commercial operations could incur penalties of up to $3,300.

Seals, while more commonly found further south, occasionally vent as far north as Sydney and Port Stephens, particularly during the winter. Recently, a playful seal was even spotted frolicking in the waters of Mosman Bay, highlighting the importance of respecting these wild animals and maintaining a safe distance to ensure their and our safety.

Published Date 19-August-2024

Rocky Cove Emerges at Maroubra Beach After Heavy Swells

A temporary rocky cove has appeared at the northern end of Maroubra Beach after powerful south swells shifted sands and uncovered a hidden rock shelf, transforming the popular eastern suburbs shoreline.

The dramatic change occurred after the beach experienced the largest south swells of the season.

Lifeguard supervisor Paul Moffatt explained that the direction and size of the swells significantly impacted this part of the beach. He stated that the waves hit North Maroubra with considerable force, causing the sand to be pulled out and creating a strong rip current in the cove area.

Moffatt noted that this sand movement is a regular occurrence, and the beach typically returns to its normal state over time. He indicated that the duration of the rocky cove’s presence depends on surf conditions, with consistent south swells prolonging its existence and calm seas allowing sand to be pushed back onto the beach more quickly.

The altered landscape has created new challenges for beachgoers, particularly surfers. Local photographer Glenn Duffus, who captured images of the transformed shoreline, pointed out that accessing the water from the north end has become more difficult. He warned that the exposed rocks, now covered in slippery green weed, pose additional hazards for those entering the surf.

Duffus also mentioned that the sand movement has affected wave conditions at the northern end of the beach, an area known as The Dunny Bowl due to its swirling rip current.

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A post shared by Glenn Duffus Photography (@gd_photo)

Despite the beach’s landscape changes, Moffatt assured that lifesaving operations would not be impacted. He explained that lifeguards can still monitor the area effectively from their office and through CCTV cameras overlooking the north side of the beach.

The newly exposed rock shelf has attracted some unexpected visitors. Last week, a seal was spotted sunbaking on the rocks, prompting Randwick Council to remind locals of wildlife protection laws. The council advised people to maintain a distance of 40 metres from seals, increasing to 80 metres if a pup is present.

Published 13-Aug-2024

Maroubra Key Stop in Royce’s Big Walk 2024

The Royce Simmons Foundation is gearing up for its third annual Royce’s Big Walk, a pivotal fundraising event supporting dementia research, with Maroubra set to play a key role on Sunday, August 11.

Read: Beyond Profit: The Philanthropic Mission of Site Pizza Bar’s Owner

This year’s walk, spanning from 6-14 August 2024, will navigate across the Sydney metropolitan area, uniting communities in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

Founded by rugby league legend Royce Simmons, the event holds a deeply personal significance. Simmons, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2021, initiated the walk in early 2022, raising an impressive $1 million for dementia research. Now in its third year, Royce’s Big Walk continues to gather momentum, inspiring hope and action across Greater Sydney.

This Sunday’s itinerary showcases the event’s ambitious scope. Starting from the iconic Bondi Beach, participants will make their way to the National Rugby League Headquarters, then to the Roosters Centre of Excellence. The journey continues to the Rabbitohs Centre in Maroubra, before concluding at the Dragons’ Netstrata Jubilee Stadium.

Royce Simmons emphasised the event’s dual purpose: “We are excited to embark on the third year. Through this event, we aim to not only raise funds for critical research but also to foster a sense of unity and purpose. Together, we can drive meaningful change and bring us closer to finding a cure.”

The foundation is actively seeking sponsorships and donations to support the walk and its broader mission. In an exciting addition to this year’s event, participants can enter a raffle for a chance to win ‘beer for a year’, courtesy of Tooheys. All proceeds from the raffle will directly support the Big Walk.

Read: Maroubra Surfing Legends Inducted into Australian Surfing Walk of Fame

As the event approaches, anticipation builds. This year’s Big Walk is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a testament to the power of community, the strength of the human spirit, and the hope for a future free from the shadows of dementia.

With each step taken, participants are not just covering distance – they’re striding towards a cure, proving that together, we can make a difference in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Published 9-August-2024

Maroubra Shark Nets: A Tug-of-War Between Safety and Conservation Amidst Alarming Bycatch Data

Photo Credit: Animal Justice Party Northern Beaches Regional Group

The idyllic beaches of Maroubra, along with other Sydney shorelines, are at the centre of a heated debate over the use of shark nets. The recent release of alarming data has intensified calls for removing these nets, revealing that over 90% of marine animals caught in them over the summer were non-target species.

According to the Humane Society International (HSI) Australia, 208 non-target wildlife were trapped, and 134 were found dead in shark nets in NSW waters over the summer, including critically endangered grey nurse sharks, endangered leatherback turtles, and an endangered loggerhead turtle. This has sparked outrage among environmentalists and coastal communities, who argue that these nets are indiscriminate killers, causing more harm than good.

*Photo Credit:* *MPCateFaehrmann / Facebook*

Premier Chris Minns faces mounting pressure to address the issue. He finds himself in a dilemma, caught between protecting marine life and ensuring the safety of beachgoers. While he has expressed his desire to eliminate shark nets eventually, he maintains that they will remain in place until a viable alternative is found.

The government is investing in SMART drum lines, listening stations, and drones as potential replacements.

While Minns has expressed his desire to eliminate shark nets eventually, he maintains that they will remain in place until a viable alternative is found. The government is investing in SMART drum lines, listening stations, and drones as potential replacements. Marine biologists and environmentalists have pushed for these alternatives, claiming they are significantly more effective at lowering the risk of shark bites while minimising harm to aquatic life.

As a compromise, the government has announced that shark nets will be removed a month earlier than usual this year. Additionally, local councils will have a more significant say in the future use of shark nets. Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty suggests that councils could bypass nets altogether if they develop their own “local safety arrangements.”

The specifics of these arrangements remain unclear, but Moriarty emphasised that councils would need to share responsibility for ensuring public safety. Sydney’s beaches are a significant tourist attraction, and government data indicates that increased shark attacks could significantly impact tourism. However, the recent data on non-target species caught in shark nets has raised questions about this method’s effectiveness and ethical implications.

Minns faces the challenge of balancing turtle conservation with swimmer safety. In his efforts to protect one, he cannot afford to jeopardise the other. The debate over shark netting continues, with both sides advocating for their priorities. The release of the bycatch data has added a new dimension to this debate, highlighting the need for a comprehensive and sustainable solution that protects human life and marine biodiversity.

Published Date 02-August-2024

Matraville Truck Depot Plan Modified After Community Concerns

Residents and a local business in Matraville have reached a compromise over a proposed truck depot, with a planning panel amending the original application to address noise pollution worries.

The Local Planning Panel made its decision on 11 July 2024, following community feedback on the development application (DA/250/2024) submitted by Price and Speed Containers (PAS) Pty Ltd.

Background of the Proposal

In April, PAS, an Australian family-owned business, applied to Randwick City Council to establish a truck depot at 8-14 McCauley St in Matraville. The site, previously used for vehicle storage without council consent, would serve as a storage area for trucks and empty trailers when not in use at nearby Port Botany.

Key Features of the Original Plan

The initial proposal included:

– 24/7 operational hours
– Parking for 17 trucks and 10 personal vehicles
– An igloo dome for on-site repairs
– Trailer servicing between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily

8-14 McCauley St in Matraville — *Photo Credit: DA/250/2024*

Community Concerns

Residents living opposite the proposed truck depot site expressed significant worries about the potential impact on their daily lives. Their main concerns centred around the issue of noise pollution, particularly given the planned 24/7 operational hours. Many feared that the constant movement of trucks and trailers would disrupt their peace and quiet, especially during night-time hours.

Additionally, locals raised concerns about air quality, worried that increased truck traffic and on-site repairs might lead to higher levels of pollution in the neighbourhood. These apprehensions reflected a broader unease about how the new development might alter the character and liveability of their Matraville community.

Independent councillor Noel D’Souza stressed the need for strict conditions to protect residents’ quality of life. He noted that residents were in the area before zoning changes allowed for such developments.

Amended Conditions

The planning panel made several changes to address community concerns:

– No on-street queuing or parking outside the site
– Limit of eight trucks and 10 vehicles on-site at once
– Trucks must be turned off when stationary
– Approved traffic routes must be followed

The panel stated that the truck parking facility could operate satisfactorily with proper acoustic wall construction and operational guidelines while considering community concerns.

Published 23-July-2024

Maroubra Surfing Legends Inducted into Australian Surfing Walk of Fame

Three local surfing legends in Maroubra are being honoured as the latest inductees into the Australian Surfing Walk of Fame.

Honouring Decades of Dedication

Lifelong surf lifesaving member Peter (Cuz) Kirkwood AM, one of Australia’s first certified female surf coaches Susan Wood-Moore, and professional kneeboard champion David Parkes will be officially recognised for their significant contributions to Australia’s surfing community.

The ceremony will take place on Sunday, July 21, as part of the Randwick City Council’s Beach Breaks community event in Maroubra.

Peter Kirkwood AM: A Lifelong Mentor

Peter Kirkwood has spent over 60 years coaching and mentoring younger surf lifesavers, a role he took on unexpectedly. He reflected on his journey, explaining that he began board paddling and unexpectedly found himself coaching young surfers due to the lack of available coaches. He didn’t initially plan to become a coach but discovered a passion for it as he enjoyed working with people and seeing their progress. For him, surfing became an addictive and beloved sport.

Despite earning over 100 medals at world, state, and Australian titles between 1972 and 2024, Kirkwood values the friendships forged through surfing the most. He said that the most valuable outcome of his surfing journey has been the numerous friendships he has formed. While medals can be set aside, the friendships he made at Maroubra and worldwide are truly priceless to him.

Susan Wood-Moore: Pioneering Female Surf Coach

Susan Wood-Moore, who established Australia’s first surfing school, Safe Surf Schools, in 1987, also played a crucial role in changing the male-dominated surfing culture at Maroubra. She recalled the challenges and noticed while that the boys were enjoying surfing, she couldn’t understand why girls couldn’t do the same. However, back then, girls were not accepted in the surfing community and were often discouraged from participating. It was a challenging and complex environment for her to navigate.

Years of persistence led to a cultural shift at Maroubra, where women and girls were eventually welcomed in the surfing community. Over time, the culture at Maroubra shifted from hostility towards girls surfing to a more accepting attitude. Initially, there was a lot of bullying and territorial behaviour, but eventually, it evolved into a community that simply encouraged everyone to follow the surfing rules.

David Parkes: Kneeboard Champion and Surfboard Shaper

David Parkes, an internationally renowned kneeboard rider and surfboard manufacturer, began his surfing journey at Maroubra Beach. He plans to continue surfing and shaping boards while travelling throughout Australia with his family and friends.

David has lifelong friends he surfed with as a child in the 70s and still surfs with today. He regards Maroubra as a fantastic place to be a part of, and the camaraderie continues even though he no longer lives locally. He believes that surfing at Maroubra has greatly contributed to his surfing career.

Community Celebration

These three surfing legends’ achievements will now be immortalised along the shoreline at Maroubra Beach. Their induction into the Australian Surfing Walk of Fame celebrates not only their personal accomplishments but also their lasting impact on the local and national surfing communities.

Published 19-July-2024