Maroubra Bay High School Archives

Maroubra Veteran Energises Life Through City2Surf Participation

Noel Bottrell, a Maroubra veteran, is revitalising his community spirit and personal health by participating in Sydney’s annual City2Surf event as an active member of the Maroubra RSL sub-Branch.

Each year, City2Surf attracts a diverse crowd, including members of the Returned and Services League of New South Wales (RSL NSW), who use the event to enhance their physical and mental well-being. For Mr Bottrell, an 80-year-old veteran, this event is a significant opportunity to reconnect with the community and maintain his health.

Mr Bottrell initially served in the National Service and later joined the Citizen Military Forces. Participating in this activity has become a crucial aspect of his lifestyle, enabling him to stay active and establish new social ties.

“The City2Surf is not just about running; it’s about bringing people together,” Mr Bottrell explained. “It has been a fantastic way for me to become more involved in the sub-Branch and meet other veterans and their families.”

Last year, the Maroubra veteran walked the event, but for 2024, he aims to include more jogging in his routine. His commitment demonstrates the benefits of staying active, regardless of age.

The Maroubra RSL sub-Branch actively promotes participation in City2Surf, encouraging members to wear the team shirt, meet before the race, and choose their running or walking group based on their fitness level. After the event, members gather for a communal meal, reinforcing the bonds formed during the race.

“Events like City2Surf are vital for our veterans,” an RSL NSW spokesperson explained. “They provide a sense of purpose and community that is crucial for those transitioning from military to civilian life.”

Mr Bottrell’s experience is one of many that highlight the positive impacts of community involvement and physical activity for veterans.

The City2Surf event in 2024 will be held on Sunday, 11 August. This annual fun run stretches from Sydney’s CBD to Bondi Beach, bringing together participants of all ages and backgrounds.

Published 5-July-2024

Maroubra Buzzes as Backdrop for ‘Heartbreak High’ Reboot on Netflix

Did you know that Maroubra serves as the dynamic backdrop for the revamped “Heartbreak High” on Netflix?

This iconic ’90s series has returned with a fresh perspective on teenage life, capturing the essence of Maroubra’s vibrant energy and unique culture. From its stunning beaches to its lively community, Maroubra provides the perfect setting for the drama and excitement that unfold in this beloved show.

Whilst the fictional “Hartley High” serves as the show’s central location, viewers familiar with the area may have recognised some familiar scenes playing out in Maroubra and Matraville. These beachside communities, known for their relaxed atmosphere and diverse demographics, provide a natural canvas for the messy and complex world that unfolds for characters like Amerie, Harper, and their classmates.

“Heartbreak High” doesn’t shy away from portraying the realities of teenage life beyond the classroom walls. From house parties to stolen moments on the coast, the series captures the essence of growing up in Sydney.

*Photo Credit: Facebook/ MaroubraBayHighSchool, Ex-students: 1959-1965*

Maroubra, with its iconic beach and surrounding streets, adds a layer of authenticity that resonates with viewers seeking a genuine portrayal of Australian adolescence.

Adding another layer of intrigue, the show’s producers revealed that the scenes filmed within the fictional Hartley High were shot on location at Maroubra Bay High School. Interestingly, this isn’t a first for the franchise. The original “Heartbreak High” also utilised the same school for its educational setting, creating a unique continuity between the two shows.

The success of “Heartbreak High” has not only captivated audiences worldwide but has also shone a spotlight on the dynamic beachside suburb of Maroubra. The series offers a glimpse into the heart of this community, showcasing its youthful energy and coastal charm.

With its relatable characters and authentic setting, “Heartbreak High” is sure to continue captivating viewers and may even inspire some to add Maroubra to their travel bucket list.

Published Date 27-April-2024

Did You Know That Netflix’s Heartbreak High Was Filmed In Maroubra Bay High School?

Did you know that many of the key scenes in Netflix’s Heartbreak High were filmed in Maroubra Bay High School? Get to know some interesting details about the former school, which has been chosen as the location of the hit reboot of the famous ‘90s show.

Read: Opening of Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School Matraville Fast-Tracked for January 2023

Some viewers are wondering if the school in the series, Hartley High, is a real school. Although it does not exist in real life, the grounds of Maroubra Bay High School where it was filmed, was once a real school.

Photo credit: Maroubra Bay High School, Ex-students: 1959-1965/Facebook

The school operated from 1955 to 1990, initially as a junior boys school and later as a boys’ high school. It was formerly called South Sydney Boys High and Junior Technical High School.

The former school was used to film the first five episodes whilst the next two were filmed in Warriewood, which was the fictional Hartley Heights.

The now-closed school was used for a short period only for the Netflix series. Reports indicate that filming for the series started in late 2021 and was completed in February 2022.

Sadly, the former school site, adjacent to Maroubra Bay Public School along Duncan Street, has now been redeveloped into town houses.

Heartbreak High in Sydney

Besides the former school in Maroubra, the production team also assembled in Tempe, Sydney, at Harry’s Café de Wheels and Maroubra Beach.

Read: Distinguished Maroubra Policeman Retires

The eight-episode series was released in September 2022. After quicky becoming a global phenomenon, with over 42 million views within three weeks of its first season, Heartbreak High has been confirmed for a second season.

It’s not yet announced where Netflix will shoot Heartbreak High Season 2, given that the former school site was recently developed.