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Police Appeal to Identify Man Rescued from Maroubra Beach

The emergency services came to the aid of an unconscious man who was pulled from the water at Maroubra Beach. The man, whose identity remains a mystery, was reportedly in critical condition and is currently being treated at St George Hospital.

The incident unfolded around 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, 27 Aug 2023, when calls alerted authorities to a man in distress off the north rocks at Maroubra Beach. The individual, who is believed to have been rock fishing, was swept into the water by the powerful currents, according to witnesses.

Responding swiftly to the emergency, officers from the Eastern Beaches Police Area Command, surf lifesavers, and a rescue helicopter rushed to the scene along Marine Parade. The man, described as being of Asian appearance and aged in his 50s or 60s, was located unconscious in the water.

Maroubra Beach rescue. Photo Credit: Ben Klein/Google Photos

Lifeguards from Maroubra Beach played a pivotal role in the rescue, skillfully navigating Jetskis to retrieve the unconscious man from the water. They initiated CPR whilst awaiting the arrival of paramedics. The man was then transported to St George Hospital, where he remains in critical condition.

Despite extensive efforts by law enforcement, the man’s identity remains a puzzle, leaving authorities with no means of contacting his next of kin. To aid in the investigation and identification process, the New South Wales Police have issued a public appeal for assistance.

Authorities have described the man as approximately 160cm to 170cm tall, with a slim build and an olive complexion. He was found wearing long black pants, a white long-sleeved button shirt with a grey cardigan, a black vest, and white speckled boots. The man was also carrying a blue Nike backpack and had fishing gear in his possession.

Anyone with information about the incident or the unidentified man to come forward. Maroubra Police Station can be contacted at (02) 9349 9299, and information can also be provided to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.

Published 29-Aug-2023

Locals Love It: McKeon Street Plaza in Maroubra Beach to Go Permanent

Construction is now underway to convert the temporary McKeon Street Plaza in Maroubra Beach into a permanent public space, after an overwhelmingly positive community response to the initial trial last year.

Read: Shared Space Trial At McKeon Street In Maroubra Encourages People To Use Public Spaces More

The section of McKeon Street was first closed to vehicles in October 2022 on a trial basis, creating a vibrant community hub supporting local businesses with programmed events like farmers markets, live music, and movie screenings.

Randwick Mayor Dylan Parker said the trial received highly enthusiastic feedback from locals. “A permanent plaza in the heart of Maroubra Beach will be a welcoming space for the community to spend more time socialising and supporting local businesses,” he stated.

Aerial view (Photo credit: Randwick City Council)

The new permanent design incorporates suggestions from community consultations, with 85 percent of respondents supporting making the plaza permanent. Locals expressed a desire for a revitalised public area fostering community spirit, active lifestyles, and celebrating the coastal character of Maroubra.

New seating (Photo credit: Randwick City Council)

Features of the upgraded permanent plaza will include a performance stage, increased shade and seating, community garden beds, indigenous coastal plantings, and public art installations. Access will be maintained for local businesses throughout construction.

The 6-month trial of the McKeon Street Plaza was funded through a grant from the NSW Government’s Streets as Shared Spaces program.

The initial trial period concluded on March 31, but Randwick City Council voted on March 28 to extend the trial to allow time for additional community consultation and evaluation of potential long-term plans for the space.

Read: New Pedestrian-Friendly Masterplan For Maroubra Unveiled

The Maroubra Beach community is eagerly anticipating the completion of the new McKeon Street Plaza, expected by late September 2023. Mayor Parker encouraged locals to continue visiting Maroubra’s cafes and shops during construction, saying their support of local businesses is greatly appreciated.

Published 25-August-2023

New Synthetic Sports Field at Coral Sea Park Delights Maroubra Community

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

Did you know that after a meticulous, 10-month-long enhancement initiative, Coral Sea Park in Maroubra now has a new, synthetic sports field?

The Randwick City Council project includes both the delivery of the all-weather field and a modification of the park field layout to improve the size of the turf fields.

The existing basketball courts were kept, the cricket practice nets were improved with the addition of a third practice pitch, and sports field lighting was renovated to allow for safer and more training throughout the winter.

In order to repair a leaking stormwater pipe that was causing erosion and ponding difficulties in the park, extensive drainage improvement work was carried out in 2022.

Before the start of the new field’s construction in 2022, a comprehensive restoration of the park’s main stormwater lines was carried out.

The Coral Sea Park, just minutes away from Maroubra’s beach and cafes, serves as a significant sports hub with rugby, soccer, and cricket facilities equipped with floodlights. Spacious playground and tree-lined surroundings enhance its appeal for passive users.

It also has been Maroubra United Football Club’s home since they first began playing there in 1962. The club is the largest football club in Randwick City with 1,300 members, 958 of them are under the age of 18.

Ian Robinson, Maroubra United Football Club president, praised the launch of the new synthetic sports field, saying it gave both junior and senior teams additional playing time and possibilities.

“Maroubra United would like to thank Randwick Council for their investment in the local community,” Mr Robinson said.

New Synthetic Sports Field at Coral Sea Park Delights Maroubra Community — Photo Credit: Randwick City Council / *randwick.nsw.gov.au*

“This fantastic facility will allow us to provide year-round football to all our players, who range from 5 to 75 years old.

“Grassroots clubs are the nursery for our elite players and discovering the joys of football on quality surfaces like this will hopefully lead to more Maroubra players representing Australia,” he said.

“This new facility provides an all-weather playing field for our local teams,” says Mayor Dylan Parker.

“The increased availability and reduced maintenance compared with a turf field will provide an estimated additional 2,000 hours of extra play time each year.

“I’m very pleased that Council has delivered this important improvement for our local community – particularly given the growing interest in football and demand for field space inspired by our incredible Matildas national team.”

Published 17-August-2023

Pet Owners Are on High Alert After ‘Dog Baiting’ Incident at Latham Park

Photo Credit: Mithul Varshan / Pexels

Residents of Coogee, Randwick, Maroubra, and other eastern suburbs of Sydney have been told to be wary of dog baiting incidents, after a pet owner found suspicious-looking dog bait at Latham Park in South Coogee.

The NSW Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1979 forbids the illegal and cruel practice of “dog baiting,” which is luring dogs with poisonous treats that can result in serious health problems or even death.

Harmful dog baiting may also involve razor blades, nails, and pins, rat poison, and warfarin tablets.

Kieran Watson, the spokesperson for RSPCA NSW, pointed out that even though it’s not something that happens a lot when it does, it causes a lot of harm. Offenders could face fines of up to $22,000 and jail terms of up to two years.

Cr D’Souza noted that noisy dogs and those off-leash were frequently the targets of toxic baits. He also stressed the value of responsible pet ownership and urged dog owners to keep their animals on leashes, particularly in public areas like Latham Park.

If you suspect that your pet has eaten poisoned bait, you need to contact the nearest vet ASAP.

FOUR PAWS Australia advise dog owners to observe the following to protect their pet from poisoned bait:

Pay attention to warnings about poisoned bait (e.g. information on notice boards, distributed via social media groups or warning apps) and avoid these areas
Distract your dog if he or she sniffs an ‘interesting’ scent
Be proactive and keep your dog well occupied
Have food with you so that your dog does not start foraging
Train your dog not to eat any available food
Where necessary, use a muzzle

Learn more about poisoned baits and dog poisoning here.

Published 9-August-2023

$2.15-M Amenities Block Approved for Malabar Ocean Pool

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

The proposed, new $2.15-million amenities block at the Malabar Ocean Pool is now a step closer to reality, after receiving Council approval for its construction.

Read: Reactions Vary as Sandon Point Beach Locals Decry Disrespectful Behaviour by Surfers from Eastern Beaches

For years, the Malabar Ocean Pool has drawn crowds seeking a refreshing aquatic escape. However, the pool lacks essential amenities, such as changing rooms and toilets which restricts access to the pool and dampens the enjoyment of families with young children, elderly individuals, and those with disabilities.

Recognizing this pressing need for improvement, the Randwick Council has proposed an amenities block that boasts two unisex toilets, two unisex change cubicles, and a unisex-accessible toilet and change area.

The facility will be positioned at the southern portion of the existing lower car park, these amenities will ensure effortless access for pool-goers. As part of the plans, there will also be provisions for accessible parking, bike racks, and service areas.

Malabar Ocean Pool Amenities block key features:
-Two unisex toilets
-Two unisex change cubicles
-One fully accessible toilet/change area
-Regraded car park section and shared car/people zone
-New landscaping, seating and bike racks

The conclusion of the community consultation period on June 26 saw 77 submissions received, with the majority expressing support for the project. However, some concerns were voiced, particularly concerning the cost of the amenities block as well as the unisex nature of the facilities which has sparked debates over safety and hygiene.

“The building design and location has been carefully planned to be as compact as possible, preserve the nearby sensitive bushland, retain views from nearby properties and respond to community feedback,” Randwick City Council website states.

Although independent councillor Noel D’Souza voted against the approved motion at a council meeting in May, he commended the council staff for recognizing the significance of pools, beaches, and other outdoor facilities in the local government area.

Looking ahead, D’Souza expressed his views on the new amenities planned for Malabar Pool, stating that they will complement and support community use.

Despite previously submitting a petition opposing the amenities, D’Souza shared his willingness to withhold opposition if the council’s reports and investigations favour the construction of amenities at Malabar Pool.

Read: Turning Waste into Energy: Malabar Biomethane Project Injects Sewage Gas into NSW Network

Construction for this much-needed facility has been slated to commence in the 2024/25 financial year.

Published 7-August-2023

Reactions Vary as Sandon Point Beach Locals Decry Disrespectful Behaviour by Surfers from Eastern Beaches

Local surfers at Sandon Point Beach in Bulli are angry at surfers from Maroubra and the rest of Sydney’s eastern beaches for ‘ruining’ their popular break point. Signs saying “You are not welcome here” have been erected on Sandon Point.

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

A local surfer said the spot has been drawing surfers from Maroubra and the eastern beaches. However, the visiting surfers have allegedly not shown proper etiquette on the waves. The local said visiting surfers have been very pushy out there and were showing no respect for the locals.

On the contrary, a resident of Bulli stated that he saw a group of six young men posting a sign with profane language directing non-local surfers to leave the area. The resident took down the offensive sign and contacted the police about the group’s actions.

Responding to allegations of hostility against visiting surfers, Member for Keira Ryan Park rejected the notion that outsiders are not welcome at Sandon Point beach.

“This needs to be called out. It’s wrong and it doesn’t at all reflect our community,” he said, adding that the only thing not welcome at the beach is this sort of behaviour.

Residents remain split over allegations of hostility toward visiting surfers at the beloved local break. Whilst some defend the territorial attitude as a matter of “respect,” others argue the beach should be open to all.

sandon point — Photo credit: Richard Healey/Google Maps

“It’s about respect, when you get carloads of surfers invading a spot and disrespecting the locals that surf everyday you’re going to get conflict,” one resident commented on Mr Park’s post.

However, other residents reject the idea that any surfer should be excluded from a public space.

“The surfers there need to get over themselves. They don’t own the beach. It’s an open public place for anyone to use,” another one said.

Read: Little Bay Beach Could Soon Have Lifeguards

The ‘locals only’ signs posted at the popular surf spot have ignited debate on social media about surfing etiquette, highlighting the increasing friction between residents who consider this place their home break and visitors eager to ride its famous waves.

Published 25-July-2023

Turning Waste into Energy: Malabar Biomethane Project Injects Sewage Gas into NSW Network

Gas produced from sewage is now being injected into the New South Wales gas network for the first time in Australia, thanks to the Malabar Biomethane Demonstration Project.

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

Located at the Malabar Wastewater Resource Recovery Plant in Sydney, this project is upgrading biogas from organic waste into renewable biomethane gas.

The project is a partnership between major energy company Jemena, the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), and Sydney Water. By late June 2023, the facility is expected to ramp up production of biomethane to an initial capacity of 95 terajoules per year.

“We know when you use biomethane for cooking and heating it is helping to lower Australia’s overall carbon emissions,” said Jemena’s Managing Director Frank Tudor. He added that biomethane is compatible with existing gas appliances and can be used by manufacturers who rely on gas for heat.

Malabar Biomethane — Photo credit: jemena.com.au

The biomethane is produced in two stages, according to Mr Tudor. First, biogas is generated through anaerobic digestion, where bacteria breaks down organic waste in wastewater. Then contaminants are removed to produce pure biomethane.

Sydney Water’s Managing Director Roch Cheroux said the pilot shows how Sydney Water is adapting to meet changing community needs now and in the future.

“Sydney Water identified an opportunity to maximise the value of waste we produce, and by partnering with Jemena, we are now able to play a significant role in helping thousands of Sydney homes and businesses increase their efficiency and sustainability. For the first time, it will be possible to use a mix of biomethane and natural gas for cooking, heating, and hot water,” Mr Cheroux said.

“This Australian first trial is expected to produce the same amount of gas used by approximately 6,300 homes each year, and this is just the start. If we work together across industries, we can ultimately create a better life for all our customers by delivering reliable and renewable gas and helping reduce households’ carbon footprint,” he added.

Read: New Splash Park Coming to Des Renford Leisure Centre

Origin Energy and Jemena have signed an agreement for the biomethane produced at Malabar. Origin will offer business customers the chance to use the renewable gas, making it the first biomethane assessed through Greenpower’s renewable gas pilot accreditation program.

Published 13-July-2023

Cabot Properties Acquires Cutting-Edge Multi-Level Warehouse in Matraville

Boston-based investment manager and developer Cabot Properties has made a significant move into the Australian real estate market with the acquisition of one of the country’s first multi-level warehouses. The property, currently under construction in Sydney’s Matraville, is set to become a notable addition to Cabot’s expanding portfolio.

Spanning an impressive 19,757 square meters and situated on a generous 1.94-hectare site at 42-52 Raymond Avenue, the state-of-the-art warehouse commanded a considerable price tag of approximately $150 million.

Matraville Cabot Properties — Photo Credit: Cabot Properties/Real Estate Source

Development on the Raymond Avenue building commenced in March 2023 and is projected to reach completion by the third quarter of 2023. The warehouse is being brought to life by Mulpha, a reputable Sydney-based property company known for its expertise in the industry.

Cabot Properties‘ acquisition of the multi-level warehouse in Matraville marks its second major investment in Australia within the past year. In a strategic move in July 2022, the Boston-based firm acquired a sprawling 9.3-hectare industrial development site in Melbourne’s Campbellfield from renowned petrol industry figure Nick Andrianakos for $41 million.

The decision to invest in the Matraville warehouse aligns with the growing interest in multi-level warehouses across Australia. Several prominent companies, including LOGOS and the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, have expressed intentions to venture into the multi-level warehouse sector, underscoring its promising future potential.

Once completed, the Matraville warehouse is expected to be leased to a single tenant, with logistics companies being the most likely candidates. Its strategic location positions the warehouse ideally to cater to the burgeoning e-commerce market in Sydney, meeting the increasing demand for efficient and streamlined logistics operations.

Published 5-July-2023

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