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Big Changes, Small Queues: Maroubra’s Upgraded Post Office Opens

Maroubra residents now have around-the-clock access to postal services thanks to a major upgrade of their local post office, which includes a secure 24/7 lobby and modernised facilities designed to meet the growing demand for parcel convenience.

Located at 936 Anzac Parade, the newly renovated Maroubra Post Office offers a streamlined and centralised experience, combining postal services, parcel collection, PO Boxes, and retail items all in one spot.

“The relocation to the new premise ensures that our Post Office, parcel collection, and PO boxes are conveniently available to customers in one central location,” said Sarah Coe, General Manager of Retail Operations North at Australia Post.

Among the key new features is a 24/7 lobby equipped with free Parcel Lockers, offering locals secure access to their online orders and deliveries at any time. The lockers also support return parcels, giving customers added flexibility for their eCommerce needs.

“We recognise that many customers work from 9 to 5 and may not be able to access our services during regular business hours. Our secure 24/7 lobby at the new Maroubra Post Office will allow customers to access postal products through a vending machine and collect and send parcels at a time that suits their busy schedule,” she added.

lockers in Maroubra post office — Photo Credit: Supplied

This upgrade comes in response to a sharp rise in online shopping across the country. According to Australia Post’s 2024 eCommerce Industry Report, over 9.5 million Australian households shopped online last year, with 82% of homes making at least one purchase.

To manage this growth, the Maroubra branch includes an upgraded back-of-house area designed to handle larger volumes of parcels more efficiently, particularly during busy seasons such as Christmas and Black Friday.

The redesign also accommodates customers seeking traditional services. Locals can still access in-person financial services through Bank\@Post, identity verification, and purchase business supplies and stationery — all supported by a team of staff members available during regular trading hours.

“We are continuing to invest in our network to deliver the services customers want and need, this includes having our team available in the Post Office to support our customers,” Ms. Coe said.

“We know our customers want choice, flexibility and simplicity in how they receive their deliveries – this includes both when and where,” she added.

Australia Post also considered community needs and feedback in the planning process, with a focus on providing flexibility and accessibility for residents juggling busy schedules.

Maroubra post office opening — Photo Credit: Supplied

The Maroubra renovation was officially launched on Thursday, 26 June, with The Hon. Matt Thistlethwaite, Member for Kingsford Smith, in attendance to help mark the occasion.

The Maroubra Post Office is open during regular business hours for staffed services, while the 24/7 lobby allows customers to use Parcel Lockers and a vending machine at any time.

While there are no formal announcements yet, Australia Post confirmed that similar upgrades may be considered across other Sydney suburbs, depending on demand and customer needs.

“Australia Post continues to review its network of Post Offices to align with customer demand. Where we find an opportunity to improve the service for our customers and communities, we will do so,” Ms. Coe explained.

Published 2-July-2025

Matraville Streets to Get Major Makeover Starting July

Photo Credit: Randwick City Council

Did you know that Matraville and Maroubra town centres are set for major facelifts this year, as part of a roll out of streetscape upgrades aimed at improving walkability, shade and comfort across both suburbs?

Construction to Begin in Late July

Works along the western side of Bunnerong Road, from Perry Street to Daunt Avenue, will begin in late July 2025 and finish by December, weather permitting. old concrete footpaths will be replaced with new asphalt and paver edging. New seating, bins, trees and native plants will be added to improve comfort and shade.

Minor repairs to public infrastructure are also planned. These upgrades follow earlier improvements and form part of the Matraville Public Domain Masterplan to make the area safer and more accessible. Some parking and bus stops will be temporarily relocated, with traffic management in place during construction.

What It Means for the Community

The upgrades aim to make Matraville more walkable, family-friendly and comfortable for everyday visits. Improved footpaths, more seating and extra shade will support activities like shopping and school runs. Community feedback from earlier consultations called for better lighting, wider paths and greener spaces.

This second stage builds on upgrades completed in 2024 to meet those requests. Local businesses will stay open during construction, with staff on-site to assist with pedestrian access. Residents were informed earlier this year through letterbox drops and public notices.

A Broader Push Across the Area

Matraville’s streetscape upgrade is part of a broader set of projects across Randwick. Similar works will begin in Maroubra Junction around the same time, focusing on paving, landscaping, lighting and street furniture along Anzac Parade.

At its June meeting, Council also advanced plans for a new BMX pump park in Malabar and early design work for Maroubra Surf Life Saving Club. These projects reflect a wider effort to improve public spaces across the area. The focus remains on boosting access, safety and comfort for residents of all ages.

What’s Next for Residents

Construction will run during the day and at night, with louder works limited after hours to reduce disruption. Most activity will happen during standard hours, though some low-impact tasks may occur overnight.

Residents are encouraged to stay updated through Randwick Council’s website and social media. Major traffic or access changes will be announced in advance. While there may be short-term inconvenience, the goal is a safer and more connected Matraville town centre.

Published 20-June-2025

Plaque Error Discovered in Memorial Bench at Maroubra

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A memorial bench in Maroubra has drawn public attention after a typographical error was discovered on a tribute plaque dedicated to a local swimmer.

Plaque in Maroubra Contains Date Error

A commemorative bench overlooking the bay in Maroubra has unintentionally confused residents due to a significant error in the engraved birth year of Julie Savage, a long-time local who passed away in 2024.

The plaque, placed by a friend, includes a message celebrating Ms Savage’s connection to the Maroubra coastline, her love of swimming, and her respect for the land. However, instead of listing her birth year as 1947, the plaque states it as 2047—creating a timeline inconsistency that has puzzled the community.

Maroubra tribute plaque — *Caption: The plaque in honour of Ms Savage sits on a bench overlooking Maroubra Bay.*
*Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Background on the Tribute

Julie Savage died on 29 April 2024. The bench and plaque were installed as a tribute from a close friend named Cat, who praised Ms Savage’s regular walks, ocean swims, and appreciation for the natural and cultural significance of Maroubra’s headland.

The plaque, placed in a prominent public location with Randwick City Council’s logo, reflects sentiments of remembrance and local heritage. The inclusion of a mistaken birth year has, however, shifted attention away from the intended message.

Community Reactions and Council Response

Residents expressed confusion after an image of the plaque was posted to a local Maroubra Facebook page. The post noted the inconsistency between Ms Savage’s birth and death years, prompting widespread engagement.

One resident questioned how such an oversight was not caught earlier in the process, citing the number of people typically involved in preparing and installing public plaques. Comments ranged from humorous to sympathetic, with multiple locals noting the tribute’s intention despite the error.

A friend of the late Ms Savage confirmed that the plaque’s author had been informed of the error and praised the tribute’s message. Randwick City official Dylan Parker later confirmed that the mistake was acknowledged and would be corrected promptly.

Next Steps

Randwick City Council has committed to addressing the error on the plaque at Maroubra. The tribute remains in place while the correction is arranged, with no timeline yet announced for its replacement. The situation has prompted renewed attention to quality control in public memorials.

Published 19-June-2025

Sydney Airport Auction Funds Free Swim Lessons for Local Kids

Photo Credit: Sydney Airport/Facebook

Sydney Airport has launched its 2025 lost property auction, offering over 2,000 unclaimed items for bidding, with all proceeds supporting free swimming lessons for children from families under financial strain.

Community Auction Returns

Sydney Airport’s annual lost property auction has returned for 2025, with more than 2,000 unclaimed items now up for sale. Run by Theodore Bruce Auctioneers & Valuers, the auction has raised over $1.9 million since 2013, supporting various community and charity initiatives.

Sydney Airport charity auction items — *Photo Credit: Sydney Airport/Facebook*

Items and Auction Schedule

The 2025 auction is divided into five themed online sales, covering categories such as technology, jewellery, fashion, accessories, and household goods. Bidding for each item starts at $10. Closing times for the auctions are as follows:

Tech & Gaming: 10 June, 11 a.m.
Jewellery & Watches: 11 June, 11 a.m.
Clothing & Shoes: 12 June, 11 a.m.
Sunglasses, Scarves & Accessories: 12 June, 2 p.m.
Beauty, Alcohol, Homewares: 13 June, 11 a.m.

Participants must register online to bid and can view item catalogues via the Theodore Bruce website. All items are sold as-is, without guarantees on condition or authenticity. Items may display signs of prior use or transit damage.

Sydney Airport lost property sale — *Photo Credit: Sydney Airport/Facebook*

Swim Program for Local Families

Funds raised will be directed to swimming and water safety programs delivered by the Inner West Council Aquatics team. Sydney Airport has committed $100,000 upfront and aims to raise an additional $200,000 through auction proceeds. In total, the initiative seeks to provide 12,000 free swimming lessons to children from families experiencing financial pressure.

The Royal Life Saving Society, a program partner, has reported that nearly half of Year 6 students in Australia are unable to swim 50 metres. This initiative aims to expand access to swim education for children in areas surrounding Sydney Airport.

Auction supports swim safety program — *Photo Credit: Sydney Airport/Facebook*

Participation and Collection

Bidders are encouraged to read item descriptions thoroughly and consider collection or delivery options. Items can be picked up from Theodore Bruce’s Stanmore rooms, with limited weekday parking available. Delivery within metropolitan areas starts at $25.

Successful bidders will be invoiced after the auction and must finalise payment within two business days. Bids can be adjusted or cancelled through user accounts up to two hours before closing. Lots close sequentially in 30-second intervals, with a 5-minute extension if a bid is placed during the final 30 seconds.

What’s Ahead

The 2025 Sydney Airport auction combines public access to unclaimed items with support for swimming education near the airport.

Published 5-June-2025

First Nations Cultural Precinct Planned for La Perouse

Photo Credit: RandwickCityCouncil

A proposal has been unveiled to transform the La Perouse Museum and its surrounding headland into a First Nations Cultural Precinct, developed with leadership from the local Aboriginal community.

Historic Grounds Reimagined

The proposed La Perouse First Nations Cultural Precinct aims to restore the 130-year-old museum and repurpose the surrounding headland as a site dedicated to Aboriginal culture. The redevelopment is a joint initiative between Randwick City officials and the La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council.

The project incorporates guidance from the NSW Heritage Council and follows “Designing with Country” design principles, aiming to highlight the cultural and historical importance of the La Perouse Aboriginal community at a national level.

Longstanding Aboriginal Community Presence

The La Perouse Aboriginal community is recognised as Sydney’s oldest continuously operating and only formally established Aboriginal settlement. Many families who have lived in the region for generations continue to maintain cultural ties to the coastal area around Botany Bay. Historical estimates suggest around 1500 Aboriginal people lived between Broken Bay and Botany Bay at the time of British arrival in 1788.

Scope, Investment and Economic Impact

An initial feasibility assessment indicates that approximately $99 million will be needed for the redevelopment. This will cover restoration of the heritage-listed museum, creation of 900m² of climate-controlled exhibition space, and development of a broader 2,340m² new building footprint. The site-wide masterplan recognises the cultural, environmental, and social value of the location.

Aboriginal heritage — *Photo Credit: RandwickCityCouncil*

The existing museum facilities fall short of modern accessibility and exhibition standards. The updated precinct will support the return of cultural objects from both national and international collections and is expected to create 230 direct construction jobs and 150 supply chain roles, contributing to the local economy.

The project also includes a Bushtucker restaurant, dedicated spaces for 20 market stalls, and infrastructure to support large outdoor festivals and cultural events, reinforcing its role as a destination for cultural tourism and public engagement.

Public Reception and Infrastructure Concerns

Public comments on online forums reflect broad support for the precinct and its cultural significance. Some residents raised concerns about existing transport limitations, particularly the lack of direct city links and reduced bus services outside peak periods. Suggestions included light rail extensions, a B-line service, and better connectivity to Eastgardens and Bondi Junction.

Discussions also touched on the need for improved maintenance of public spaces, especially around fishing areas, with calls for stronger community cooperation in managing litter and vandalism near the coast.

First Nations Cultural Precinct — *Photo Credit: RandwickCityCouncil*

Next Steps and Planning

The upcoming phase will involve formalising governance structures and pursuing funding commitments from both the State and Federal governments. Public engagement and consultation will continue as part of the planning and delivery process.

Published 30-May-2025

Youth Assault Investigation Progresses in Eastgardens

Photo Credit: NSW Police Force/Facebook

Several children, including two aged 12, have been charged following an assault on a couple at a unit complex courtyard in Eastgardens.

Incident Timeline

On Wednesday, 21 May 2025, at around 5:15 p.m., a 42-year-old woman and a 40-year-old man were attacked by a group of children inside the courtyard of a residential complex on Oscar Place, Eastgardens.

Both victims sustained facial injuries and were initially treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics at Maroubra Police Station. They were then transported to Prince of Wales Hospital in Randwick and later discharged.

*Photo Credit: NSW Police Force/Facebook*

Arrests and Legal Proceedings

First arrests – 22 May:

Two 12-year-old girls were taken into custody and charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm in company and affray. They were granted conditional bail and are scheduled to appear at a children’s court on 19 June 2025.

Second wave – Evening of 22 May:

A 14-year-old boy was arrested and charged with the same offences. He was granted conditional bail and is due to appear in court on 16 June 2025. A 16-year-old girl also came forward and, while not formally charged, is expected to be dealt with under the Young Offenders Act, which may involve a caution or youth justice conference.

Third wave – 23 May:

More children attended Maroubra Police Station at different times during the day and were placed under arrest. This group included two 14-year-old girls, a 13-year-old boy, and an 11-year-old. All were charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm in company of others and affray.

Each was granted conditional bail to appear at a children’s court. The 14-year-olds are scheduled to appear on 16 June 2025, while the 11-year-old and 13-year-olds are due to appear on 23 June 2025.

Eastgardens assault investigation — *Photo Credit: NSW Police Force/Facebook*

Case Status

Police have confirmed that all individuals involved in the incident have now been identified and charged. No further arrests are expected in relation to the assault.

Public Reaction

CCTV footage showing the assault was circulated widely on TikTok, prompting strong public concern. Social media responses called for accountability and legal consequences, particularly given the ages of those involved. The video drew attention both locally and within multicultural communities.

Court Proceedings Pending

All identified individuals have now been charged, and proceedings will continue through the children’s court during June 2025.

Published 27-May-2025

Heffron Park Netball Court Gets Major Upgrade as Local Sport Grows

Photo Credit: Randwick City Council/Facebook

Netball players in Maroubra now have better protection from sun and rain thanks to a new shade structure built over three courts at Heffron Park, one of Sydney’s busiest community sports hubs.

Upgrades Make Courts Safer and More Accessible

In May 2025, Randwick City Council finished building a roof over three of Heffron Park’s 28 netball courts to improve comfort during the busy April–September season. The upgrade includes lighting, better footpaths, and drainage near courts 1 to 6.

*Photo Credit: Randwick City Council/Facebook*

Council stated the improvements were made in response to community feedback and to support the growing demand for netball facilities in the area. The sport is currently the most popular among Randwick residents, drawing in large crowds throughout the local winter competition season.

Plans for More Enhancements Await Funding

Randwick Council is considering more upgrades, including extending the shade to six courts and adding tiered seating. These plans depend on future funding, with no set timeline yet.

These future developments aim to give the growing netball community more protection from the elements, while also enhancing the functionality and appearance of the court area.

Pride, Persistence and Local Legends

Marcia Ella-Duncan OAM, a La Perouse local and Bidjigal-Yuin woman, started netball with Randwick at age 10 and went on to break ground as the first Aboriginal athlete at the AIS and later as an Australian Diamond. She says the recognition is important, not for her, but to show young girls what’s possible.

At Heffron Park, that legacy lives on. A wall of plaques honours volunteers, and president Jenny Morrissey says it’s the local women who keep the game going, turning up each week to support the next generation.

Community Facilities at the Heart of Local Sport

Heffron Park is a key site for local sport, especially netball, and the upgrades support Randwick Council’s wider push to improve outdoor community spaces. Officials say making safe, accessible places for recreation remains a long-term priority.

By making sure that community courts like those at Heffron Park stay updated, Randwick is helping its residents stay active, connected and engaged in local sport.

Published 15-May-2025

Indoor Cricket Facility Plan Sparks Community Backlash in Maroubra

Photo Credit: Randwick City Council

A formal complaint has been lodged against updated redevelopment plans that now include a new, indoor sports facility at Snape Park in Maroubra.

Background to the Development

Initially, the redevelopment of Snape Park was aimed at updating the existing amenities only. Over time, the $6.3-million, two-stage plan expanded to include a purpose-built indoor training facility for cricket and rugby league.

Stage 1 involves the construction of the indoor centre, while Stage 2 proposes a replacement of the kiosk, public toilets, and changerooms, along with landscape upgrades and improved pathways and parking. The indoor centre is planned for an under-used part of the park near existing outdoor cricket nets.

Authorities have confirmed that Stage 2 will proceed following further community consultation in future years.

Snape Park Upgrades — *Photo Credit: Randwick City Council*

The project is valued at $6.3 million, jointly funded by Randwick City Council and the Federal Government, who gave a $1-million contribution to the project.

Community Engagement and Council Process

Council documentation shows that internal stakeholder engagement began as early as July 2022. Communications obtained through freedom of information requests show Randwick Petersham Cricket Club was involved in consultations before any broader community feedback process began. In contrast, the public consultation period was limited to a one-month window from 3 February to 3 March 2025.

A complaint submitted by residents spans 50 pages and alleges that the planning process lacked transparency and excluded local input. Specific concerns were raised about the project’s origins, with claims the indoor centre component was introduced through a council motion in August 2020 without substantial background or justification.

Snape Park — *Photo Credit: Randwick City Council*

Design and Implementation Details

The facility will include synthetic flooring, filtered lighting, and energy-efficient features, with potential for solar panels and Indigenous artwork. Consultants have been engaged to advise on accessibility, acoustics, arboriculture, traffic, heritage, and other factors.

The structure will be positioned among trees in a low-lying area to reduce visual and noise impact. According to council, the design aims to use robust materials and visual elements that blend with the natural environment.

Maroubra cricket facility — *Photo Credit: Randwick City Council*

Public Objection and Community Response

Residents opposing the plan have raised several objections, including the building’s size, potential traffic issues, and loss of green space. Critics describe the proposal as outsized and believe the process prioritised sporting clubs over broader community interests. A petition opposing the project has collected more than 1,200 signatures.

Council maintains that consultation followed the adopted Community Engagement Strategy. However, several residents argue the process was rushed and lacked genuine opportunity for public input. Concerns have also been raised about whether the indoor centre serves public needs or benefits specific user groups.

Next Steps and Ongoing Review

Council has stated that all feedback is under review and a report will be submitted for further consideration.

Published 13-May-2025

Animal Neglect Case in Malabar Leads to Euthanasia of Dog

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

A Marrickville woman has been sentenced over the abandonment of two dogs in a Malabar unit, one of which was later euthanised due to paralysis and severe neglect.

Dogs Discovered in Distress During Police Search

Police attending a former social housing unit in Malabar on 21 December 2023 discovered two abandoned American Staffordshire terriers. The officers were conducting a search unrelated to animal welfare when they found the dogs, who were living in squalid conditions.

Police records indicated the tenant was no longer living at the unit, and most personal belongings had already been taken. The unit, previously leased to a Marrickville resident through the NSW Housing Department, had faeces across the floor and no food was present for the dogs. Both animals were found flea-ridden, with urine-soaked fur and inflamed skin around their bellies.

RSPCA Called In; One Dog Could Not Be Saved

Following the discovery, police contacted the RSPCA, which arranged immediate veterinary care for both dogs. One of the terriers, named Blade, was found to be paralysed from the waist down and was euthanised the next day due to the extent of his suffering. Veterinary assessment suggested the condition had persisted for more than a month, though it remained unclear whether the paralysis occurred before or after the dogs were left alone.

The second dog, named Desire, was taken into care at the RSPCA facility in the Hunter Valley.

Court Outcome in Waverley

Malabar dog neglect case — *Photo Credit: Aussies Against Animal Abuse/Facebook*

On 6 May 2025, Krystal Hartley, a 31-year-old woman from Marrickville, appeared at Waverley Local Court. She pleaded guilty to two charges of failing to provide veterinary treatment to her animals. The court imposed a two-year community correction order with a recorded conviction, fined her $2000, and ordered her to pay $6333 in compensation to the RSPCA.

Her legal representative cited a relationship breakdown and drug dependency as contributing factors. The magistrate acknowledged her recent steps toward rehabilitation, including enrolling in TAFE and ceasing drug use, but described the offence as a clear failure to uphold basic responsibilities of animal care.

Public Reaction Calls for Stricter Penalties

The case has drawn widespread criticism online. Many respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the sentence, arguing that personal hardship should not excuse what they described as avoidable suffering. Some questioned why stronger penalties were not applied. Others called for tougher penalties or changes to cruelty laws.

While public opinion varied in tone, a consistent theme was concern that the sentence did not reflect the severity of the dogs’ suffering, with many calling for stronger penalties for animal cruelty.

Broader Context and Future Implications

The incident has added to ongoing discussions around animal welfare enforcement in New South Wales. Many advocates are now calling for mandatory bans on future pet ownership in similar cases. It is not yet confirmed whether any such restriction has been placed on the defendant in this instance.

Published 11-May-2025

Freshwater Mental Health Unit Now Treating High-Risk Patients in Malabar

Photo Credit: Justice Health NSW/Facebook

A new mental health facility in Malabar is now treating some of the state’s most complex and high-risk patients, offering intensive support within the secure grounds of Sydney’s Forensic Hospital.

Purpose-Built for High-Risk Mental Health Needs

Opened in May 2025, the Freshwater Unit in Malabar is part of the NSW Government’s $700 million Mental Health Infrastructure Program. It supports people with severe mental illness who are involved with, or at risk of entering, the criminal justice system.

*Photo Credit: Justice Health NSW/Facebook*

Run by Justice Health and Forensic Mental Health Network, the unit offers secure, specialised care for patients too complex for standard mental health settings. It provides 24-hour supervision to reduce harm and support long-term recovery.

Justice Health NSW says the unit supports their goal of delivering effective, safe, and recovery-focused care for people in forensic settings. While the facility is high-security, it also takes a clinical approach aimed at stability and rehabilitation rather than punishment.

Design That Supports Healing and Safety

The Freshwater Unit was designed by architecture firm NBRS to create a calm, private setting that reduces stress and agitation. It includes natural light, secure green courtyards and quiet rooms with soft colours, features that support recovery in high-risk mental health settings.

Using trauma-informed design, the space feels therapeutic rather than institutional, with layouts that allow discreet patient observation for safety.

Delivered with a Focus on Infrastructure and Function

Project management firm DCWC, working with Health Infrastructure NSW, delivered the Freshwater Unit as part of a 140-bed hospital made up of seven specialised units.

Built for intensive mental health care in a secure setting, the unit meets strict clinical standards and includes spaces for therapy, crisis support and individual treatment, while supporting staff to work safely and efficiently.

Supporting the Community Through Mental Health Care

Placing the Freshwater Unit in Malabar supports a broader plan to deliver specialist mental health care where it’s most needed, keeping people in treatment rather than custody.

The Malabar-based Freshwater Unit improves how the state handles forensic mental health, helping people stabilise with dignity while easing pressure on prisons and hospitals.

Published 7-May-2025