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Cheer On the Matildas: Heffron Park to Livestream FIFA Women’s World Cup Matches

Photo Credit: Randwick City Council / randwick.nsw.gov.au

The excitement is building as the Matildas gear up for the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023. Catch the livestream of all the matches, including the grand final, at Maroubra’s Heffron Park!

This initiative follows last year’s successful screening of the Socceroos Vs Argentina match at Maroubra Beach, an event that was enthusiastically received by the local community.

Building on that momentum, BCC has decided to offer free screenings for all of Matildas’ games, as well as the grand final, at Heffron Park. Additionally, there will be food trucks, other entertainment, and a delightful sausage sizzle courtesy of local clubs at the venue.

The scheduled matches to be screened at the live site include:

Australia vs Ireland: Thursday, 20 July, at 8 pm.
Australia vs Nigeria: Thursday, 27 July, at 8 pm.
Australia vs Canada: Monday, 31 July, at 8 pm.

Subsequent screenings will depend on the Matildas’ performance but the grand final match, scheduled for Sunday, 20 August, at 8 pm, will be streamed regardless of the participating teams.

“Sport is a fundamental part of our City’s identity, and what better way to unite our community than to come together and support our talented Matildas as they take on the world stage at the FIFA Women’s World Cup,” Randwick Mayor Dylan Parker said.

The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 is being jointly hosted by Australia and New Zealand, with matches set to be played in six major cities – Auckland, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth. This prestigious tournament occurs every four years, with the United States currently holding the title as the two-time defending champions.

While the live site’s entry is free, tickets will be required to manage attendance. The council will release information on how to secure tickets through their social channels in the coming weeks. As the tournament approaches, enthusiasts are encouraged to keep a close eye on Randwick Council’s social media, website, and enews for ticketing updates and further details.

As the countdown begins, the Matildas and their fans can look forward to an electric atmosphere at Heffron Park, where the community will unite to show unwavering support for their national heroes on the global stage. Let the games begin!

Published 1-July-2023

Controversy Brews as Developer Pushes for Rezoning to Accommodate New Homes in Little Bay Cove

A private developer is making another attempt to push a plan to build 1,600 homes in Little Bay Cove, amidst strong opposition from the locals.

Read: Jennifer St High-Rise Development in Little Bay to Proceed Following Appeal Approval

Meriton, led by Harry Triguboff, one of Australia’s wealthiest individuals, is hoping to push the development forward under an NSW state government program called the Rezoning Pathways Program.

The program aims to address the housing market’s high demand by expediting the rezoning process, allowing for the construction of 70,000 homes, primarily in Western Sydney. In order to be eligible for the program, developments need to create more than 1,000 new homes.

Meriton has approached the state government, requesting fast-track rezoning for land in Sydney’s eastern region. They argue that this move would generate significant revenue, which could be used to assist the flood victims in Lismore. However, their proposal exceeds the area’s current zoning restrictions by six times, requiring special approval.

In 2017, Meriton acquired the 12.3-hectare land at 1408 Anzac Parade, Little Bay for approximately $250 million, with the intention of redeveloping it into 1,909 homes. However, their proposals were rejected by both Randwick Council in 2020 and the Sydney City East Planning Panel the following year.

A Meriton spokesperson claims that the company has made adjustments to their proposal, including reducing density, decreasing the number of dwellings by over 300, increasing housing diversity, and incorporating a higher proportion of affordable housing.

Meriton said that when the company purchased the site, it came with completed public infrastructure including roads, footpaths, a playground and an approved shovel-ready masterplan for around 450 dwellings in buildings 2-5 storeys high.

By expediting the rezoning process, Meriton hopes to strengthen its plans to construct high-rise apartments on its beachside property.

However, Meriton’s proposals have faced strong public opposition. Save Little Bay, a community group with around 2,600 Facebook members, has launched a petition that has garnered thousands of signatures in opposition to the redevelopment of Little Bay Cove.

Read: Home Ownership To Be Easier With The Expansion Of First Home Buyer Choice Program

“If we are serious about supplying quickly the housing Sydney needs, the NSW Government should stop-indulging mega-developers like Meriton and their high-rise fantasies and instead tell them to get on with the job of building to the existing approval. The site is shovel ready.” Randwick Mayor, Dylan Parker said.

Published 30-June-2023

New Splash Park Coming to Des Renford Leisure Centre

Excitement is building as construction progresses on the new splash park at the Des Renford Leisure Centre (DRLC) in Maroubra.

Read: Maroubra’s Newly-Opened Heffron Centre Now Offering Various All-Abilities Programs

Slated for completion in late September 2023, the new splash park will feature an impressive selection of in-ground and above-ground structures. Among the highlights are exhilarating slides, refreshing water sprays, a captivating spiral tunnel, and the delightful Fun-brella.

Additionally, children will have a blast with the Sneaky Soaker, whilst thrill-seekers can enjoy the Surf Cannon and Surfboard attractions. For an ultimate drenching experience, a towering Dump Bucket will provide endless laughter and excitement.

Photo credit: Des Renford Leisure Centre/Facebook

One key aspect of the splash park’s design is its focus on sustainability. In line with the growing need for responsible water usage, the park incorporates a water circulation system that emphasises conservation.

This innovative system will recycle and reuse water, allowing up to an impressive 95 percent of used water to be recovered.

In addition to its water features, the design of the splash park also takes into account the comfort and convenience of parents and caretakers. New landscaping and seating areas will provide ample space for families to relax and supervise their children whilst enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

About the Des Renford Leisure Centre

The Des Renford Leisure Centre, owned and operated by the Randwick City Council, is renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities and attracts over 500,000 visitors each year.

The centre features a range of aquatic and fitness amenities, including a 50-metre outdoor Olympic pool, a 25-metre indoor competition pool, a 25-metre indoor training pool, an enclosed outdoor dome pool, and a dedicated toddler’s outdoor pool.

Photo credit: Garry Robinson/Google Maps

The centre also has its own spacious gym equipped with the latest cardio equipment, catering to the diverse wellness needs of the community.

The centre is named in honour of the late Des Renford MBE, a renowned Australian marathon swimmer.

Read: Little Bay Beach Could Soon Have Lifeguards

Renford devoted many hours to the centre and generously shared his time with the Special Olympics group and his beloved Coffee Club. Through the Coffee Club, he created a welcoming environment where individuals of all swimming abilities could swim together and enjoy a cup of coffee, fostering a sense of camaraderie and inclusivity.

Published 16-June-2023

Transformative Revamp of Westfield Eastgardens Planned

Photo Credit: CC BY 2.0 / Miguel Gil / Flickr

Plans for a grand makeover of Westfield Eastgardens on Bunnerong Road which will feature vibrant entertainment options, commercial towers, and improved amenities have been revealed.

Westfield Eastgardens, one of the largest shopping complexes in the eastern suburbs, is on the verge of a remarkable transformation.

This proposed project seeks to revitalise the shopping complex by incorporating rooftop dining, a refreshed food court, and a state-of-the-art cinema, offering visitors an array of entertainment options.

The development plans, submitted by the Scentre Group and Terrace Tower Group, highlight the urgent need for an upgrade as the mall has not undergone any significant renovations since 2002. Recognising the importance of enhancing the customer experience, the project aims to reconfigure the existing food court and create new rooftop dining spaces, among other improvements.

The proposal also includes accessibility enhancement with the introduction of 12 bus routes, convenient ride-share services, and end-of-trip facilities.

Other updates planned for the site include the addition of a commercial building that will offer office spaces that will cater to various business needs and contribute to the creation of new job opportunities.

Additionally, the developer envisions the construction of two future buildings. These towers could potentially feature affordable student accommodation or a hotel to support the growing Randwick Health and Education precinct.

Meanwhile, renowned billionaire developer Harry Triguboff, who is spearheading the neighbouring Pagewood Green project, has expressed his support for Westfield Eastgardens’ grand plans.

Triguboff believes that both shopping centres will thrive considering the substantial population growth in the area. He also commends the addition of offices, as they will provide employment opportunities and enhance the overall amenity for residents.

Westfield Eastgarden occupies the former site of the Urban Transit Authority Pagewood bus depot, and underwent a transformation after the depot’s closure in 1982. Over the years, the centre expanded, including a third level in 2002. It faced challenges like a car park collapse in 2012 but remained a prominent shopping destination, continuously evolving to meet customer needs.

If approved, the planned redevelopment will breathe new life into the shopping complex, offering a vibrant and versatile town centre that caters to the diverse needs and desires of its visitors.

Published 12-June-2023

Resurfacing History: Lapérouse’s Anchor Takes Center Stage at the La Perouse Museum

Photo Credit: Randwick City Council / randwick.nsw.gov.au

Did you know that after more than 50 years, the original anchor from the 1788 French expedition is finally on display at the La Perouse Museum?

In a momentous ceremony held at the La Perouse Museum, the original ship anchor from Admiral Lapérouse’s legendary voyage to Australia in 1788 was finally revealed to the world on 5 May 2023. After languishing in storage for over half a century and lying dormant on the ocean floor for nearly two centuries, this remarkable artefact resurfaced, breathing life into a bygone era.

The anchor was unveiled in a joint effort by Dylan Parker, Mayor of Randwick and Martin Juillard, the Consul-General of France, symbolising the enduring friendship between the two nations.

“This anchor is an incredible piece of history. It is tangible evidence of Lapérouse and his stay here for six weeks in 1788, before he sailed off into mystery and then into history,” said Mayor Dylan Parker.

This anchor once belonged to Jean François de Galaup, comte de Lapérouse, a French naval officer and explorer. Docking his majestic vessel, the Astrolabe, at Botany Bay on that fateful day of 24 January 1788, Lapérouse crossed paths with Captain Arthur Philip and his crew, who were dispatched to establish the penal colony of New South Wales.

After resupplying and rejuvenating during their six-week stay, Admiral Lapérouse and his crew set sail, vanishing into the vastness of the ocean, never to be seen again. Decades passed before the wreckage of their vessel was discovered in 1826, lying amidst a reef in the Solomon Islands.

The anchor, once an integral part of Lapérouse’s expedition, lay undisturbed on the ocean floor until 1959 when it was finally salvaged. In a gesture of camaraderie, the French Navy bestowed this priceless artefact upon the French community of Sydney in 1964.

After a period of public display on the headland at La Perouse, it suffered from an act of vandalism, prompting its relocation to storage in the 1970s. However, recent efforts by the Randwick City Council, in collaboration with International Conservation Services, have successfully restored and preserved this historical gem. Through their meticulous work, the anchor’s deterioration has been arrested, ensuring its perpetual exhibition in the serene courtyard of the La Perouse Museum.

Published 8-June-2023

Little Bay Beach Could Soon Have Lifeguards

In the aftermath of a tragic drowning incident at popular yet treacherous Little Bay Beach, lifeguards are being considered, as part of efforts to address the concerns about water safety in the area.

The proposal comes after a recent internal review conducted by the council, which revealed that the Randwick LGA, home to Little Bay, has the highest coastal drowning rate in NSW. In the last ten years alone, the Randwick LGA has witnessed numerous fatalities due to drowning, and this distressing trend shows no signs of abating.

A recent heart-wrenching incident took place on the 23rd of April, involving a man who tragically got swept into the vast ocean by a forceful wave whilst strolling along the rocky terrain with his wife.

Prompted by this devastating incident, the Coast Golf Club golfers bravely ventured down the cliffs and initiated a rescue operation. Despite their heroic efforts, the man could not be saved, highlighting the urgency for improved safety measures at Little Bay.

Amidst the alarming increase in the number of deaths, both community members and council officials are urgently demanding swift measures to guarantee the well-being of individuals visiting the beach.

At a recent council meeting, Mayor Dylan Parker acknowledged the courage of the rescuers and emphasised the need to prioritise public safety at Little Bay Beach. As part of the council’s 2022/23 Operational Plan, council officers are conducting a comprehensive review of service levels and coastal public safety, with a particular focus on Little Bay.

Lifeguards are being seriously considered as a viable solution to address the high number of drowning incidents and ensure the well-being of beach visitors.

Councillor Noel D’Souza echoed the sentiments of the community, emphasising the importance of regulating the beaches in the eastern suburbs. With the influx of visitors to these picturesque coastal areas, he said that implementing effective safety measures is paramount.

Lifeguards not only act as a visible deterrent to potential dangers but also possess the skills and training necessary to respond swiftly to emergencies. Their presence would provide peace of mind to beachgoers and significantly reduce the risk of further tragedies.

Published 5-June-2023

Another Round of Community Consultations on Proposed Malabar Ocean Pool Amenities Block

Following a period of community consultation in 2020, where support for an amenities building was established, a new round of consultations on the proposed Malabar Ocean Pool amenities block has just been held on 29 May 2023.

The Malabar Ocean Pool lacks nearby toilet facilities, leaving visitors inconvenienced as they have to travel a considerable distance to access the nearest public amenities at Randwick Golf Club or nearby Cromwell Park

Responding to the concerns raised by pool users, the council has been approached to construct an amenities building in closer proximity to the pool. To gauge the wider community’s perspectives and determine the feasibility of the proposal, the council is actively seeking community feedback.

The chosen site for the building is at the southern portion of the existing lower car park, adjacent to the golf club.

The proposed concept design features a thoughtfully planned amenities building which includes two unisex toilets, two unisex change cubicles, and one unisex-accessible toilet and change area. The building will also provide accessible parking, bike racks, and service areas.

Council said that the design of the amenities building strikes a careful balance between providing modern amenities and preserving the area’s natural beauty. It prioritises compactness, minimising view impacts, and demonstrating environmental sensitivity.

Also, the proposed amenities building takes into account the needs of various pool users, including parents with young children and individuals with mobility challenges. Constructing the building, however, will lead to the loss of eight parking spaces.

The proposal has sparked both excitement and concern among the local community. Some locals worry that the $2.15 million amenities facility will draw backpackers and potentially lead to public annoyance.

Councillor Noel D’Souza, a vocal opponent of the project, highlights the petition he received with nearly 500 signatures, claiming it as an unnecessary waste of council funds.

Petition organiser Elizabeth Lloyd explained that people typically spend only a short time at the pool due to limited space. However, an amenities block could potentially encourage individuals to stay longer, further restricting access for other community members.

She furthered that an existing issue with visitors setting up makeshift camps near the pool and staying for extended periods, results in pollution and garbage left behind by picnickers.

These concerns raised shed light on the potential challenges and conflicts that may arise if the proposed amenities building is constructed near the rock pool. However, a survey conducted between July and August 2020 revealed that 70% of respondents were in favour of the project, acknowledging the convenience it would offer to pool-goers.

Published 26-May-2023

Maroubra’s Newly-Opened Heffron Centre Now Offering Various All-Abilities Programs

Heffron Centre, the eagerly anticipated world-class facility in Maroubra, is now officially open to the public, offering an array of sports, dance, and gymnastic programs for people of all ages and abilities.

The indoor multipurpose facility boasts a two-court sports hall capable of accommodating various sports such as netball, basketball, badminton, volleyball, and indoor futsal. The site includes a dedicated gymnastics area featuring high-quality equipment, ensuring a safe and progressive environment for gymnasts to develop their skills.

BK’s Gymnastics Heffron Centre, a prominent program offered at the facility, has carefully curated classes to cater to various age groups and skill levels. The programs follow a two-week plan focused on skill competencies relevant to each developmental milestone, ensuring a safe and progressive approach for gymnasts.

From the Stepping Stars program for children as young as walking age up to 2 years, to the Gym Fundamentals, Club Gym, Ninja Stars, and All Stars Academy programs for older children and competitive gymnasts, there is something for everyone.

BK’s Gymnastics coaches incorporate elements such as strength, coordination, flexibility, mobility, support, and balance to help gymnasts progress to more advanced levels. Special events like Check-In Week and BK Carnival provide opportunities for participants to showcase their progress and celebrate their achievements.

Heffron Centre also introduces the Dance Society, a program aiming to bring dance to life within the Maroubra, Hillsdale, and surrounding communities. The Dance Society offers classes for preschoolers (3-5 years), Junior Hip Hop (6-14 years), and Open Dance classes.

The Open Dance class offers adults an opportunity to explore dance for the first time or relive their former dance glory days. These classes combine Jazz, Classical Ballet, and musical theatre, delivering a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for beginners and dance enthusiasts alike.

Not only does the Heffron Centre offer sports and gymnastics programs, but it’s now the new home and the high-performance centre of the South Sydney Rabbitohs. This facility also supports Souths Cares’ educational and community initiatives.

Moreover, visitors can enjoy various publicly accessible areas, including a café, a hall of fame, a merchandise shop, and a fan area with a view of the NRL standard showcase field, where training sessions can be observed.

Published 19-May-2023

Heart-Stopping Moment: Elderly Man Survives Near-Drowning At Maroubra Beach Rock Pool

A harrowing incident unfolded at Maroubra Beach rock pool in April 2023 after an elderly man narrowly escaped drowning whilst swimming at the pool.

Read: Mahon Pool at Maroubra Beach May Soon Have Its Own Emergency Response Beacon

Swift action by the authorities was crucial in saving his life, as police rescue vehicles and the NSW ambulance rushed to the scene.

Fortunately, the man regained consciousness and was able to communicate with medical professionals whilst being transported to the Prince of Wales Hospital.

NSW Drowning Report

This incident at Maroubra Beach rock pool occurs amidst a troubling surge of drowning incidents in New South Wales.

According to the recently released Royal Life Saving National Drowning Report for 2022, the state witnessed a significant increase in drowning cases during the 2021/22 period compared to the previous year and the ten-year average.

This marks the first time since 2011 that NSW has reported over 100 drowning deaths in a single year. The reported number of drownings in NSW during the latest period also stands as the highest on record since 2002.

Out of the 339 individuals who tragically lost their lives in Australian waterways between 1 July 2021 and 30 June 2022, a staggering 125 fatalities occurred in NSW. Following closely behind was Queensland, with 84 reported drowning deaths, and Victoria, with 53 lives lost in water-related incidents.

Disturbingly, statistics reveal that one in every four drowning deaths in NSW involves a person aged 65 years or older.

Learn to Swim Campaign

Photo credit: Tima Miroshnichenko/Pexels

Recognising the urgency of addressing this issue, Royal Life Saving NSW, in collaboration with the NSW Government’s Office of Sport, has launched a campaign called “Learn to Swim” specifically targeted at multicultural communities.

Read: Little Bay Beach Tragedy: Survivor Remembers The Day She Lost Her Husband And Son

The campaign aims to encourage greater participation in swimming lessons across NSW, particularly among individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. By providing culturally sensitive and inclusive swimming programs, the initiative hopes to equip people with essential water safety skills and reduce the risk of drowning incidents.

Published 4-May-2023

South Sydney Rabbitohs’ Player Jai Arrow Purchases New Maroubra Dream Home

South Sydney Rabbitohs player Jai Arrow has purchased his first home in Maroubra, just a few streets away from the team’s new, $58-million training complex.

Jai Arrow, who relocated from Queensland three years ago, purchased a fully renovated three-bedroom home for $2.24 million in the second week of the auction.

The 235 sqm property boasts a black kitchen, a Herringbone floored living and dining area, a covered deck, and a west-facing garden. The master retreat features a walk-in wardrobe and an ensuite. Despite its impressive features, the property was sold below the average price of $2.47 million for a three-bedroom house in the suburb.

Jai Arrow may have just purchased his first home in Sydney, but he continues to hold properties in Queensland, where he previously played for the Gold Coast Titans. He has a three-bedroom home in Burleigh Heads that he purchased for $635,000 in 2019. Then there is his 1970s Palm Beach property which he acquired for $750,000 the following year.

The median house price in Maroubra is currently hovering around $2.50 million. Recently, a house was sold for a staggering $18.45 million; that is 30 per cent more than the previous local record and even outshines the house price records of Coogee, Clovelly, and South Coogee.

Conveniently located just 10km from the CBD, Maroubra is connected to its urban neighbours, Kingsford and Randwick, and the residential Matraville, with Martin Place only a 35-minute bus ride away.

Published 30-April-2023