Maroubra Archives - Maroubra News

Indoor Cricket Facility Plan Sparks Community Backlash in Maroubra

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

Maroubra Man Charged Over Breach Of Sensitive NSW Court Records

Photo Credit: NSW Police Force/X

A Maroubra man has been charged after cybercrime detectives stormed a home in Sydney’s east, uncovering thousands of sensitive court documents that had been accessed without permission in what authorities are calling a serious breach of state security.

Raid Follows Months Of Investigation

The arrest followed a two-month investigation into unauthorised access to the NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) Online Registry, known as JusticeLink. Between late January and 20 March, nearly 9,000 restricted files were illegally downloaded.

Police allege the suspect used an account to automate document retrieval before the breach was discovered during routine maintenance, leading to a wider investigation with state and federal agencies.

Community Concerns Over Data Access

The accessed files included sensitive documents such as domestic violence orders and affidavits from civil and criminal cases across New South Wales. Legal experts warned of potential risks to vulnerable individuals if the data were leaked.

However, authorities said there is no evidence of information appearing online or on the dark web. Acting Attorney-General Ron Hoenig confirmed the breach was contained, the system stable, and no individuals under apprehended violence orders were at increased risk.

Police Operation In Maroubra

Strike Force Amherst, formed by the NSW Police Cybercrime Squad, led the early morning raid on 23 April. Footage showed heavily armed officers entering the Maroubra home, handcuffing a man who tried to hide his face, and seizing two laptops.

Officers also scanned hard drives for evidence. The man, identified as 38-year-old Christopher John Duff, was taken to Maroubra Police Station and charged with accessing restricted data and using a carriage service to cause harm.

Court Proceedings And Official Statements

Initially refused bail, Duff was later granted conditional release during his appearance at Waverley Local Court. He must pay a $1,000 bond, surrender his passport, and use only a basic mobile phone for calls and texts.

He is due back in court on 7 May. NSW Police and the Department of Communities and Justice said the breach was serious but assured the public it had been contained. Affected individuals are being contacted as the DCJ continues assessing the documents.

Published 29-April-2025

Google to Land International Subsea Cables at Maroubra

Did you know that Google has chosen Maroubra as the landing point for two major international subsea internet cables, Tabua and Honomoana, which will connect Australia with the United States, Fiji, French Polynesia and New Zealand? The infrastructure will provide critical backup and expanding connectivity options outside of Sydney’s already crowded cable protection zones.

Demand Drives Change

The proposal, submitted by Google through its licensed carrier Perch Infrastructure, was sparked by mounting congestion in Sydney’s northern and southern cable landing zones. According to the company’s submission to New South Wales planning authorities, twelve subsea cables already land in these areas, six in the southern zone alone, pushing the infrastructure close to capacity. Google is seeking permission not only to land the cables at Maroubra but also to extend the official southern cable protection zone boundary to include this new site. See the EIS Scoping Report here.

Maroubra subsea cable — *Photo Credit: Google*

Photo Credit: EIS Scoping Report

The planned landing point will be about one kilometre offshore, where the cables will either be buried beneath the seabed or laid on it, depending on environmental and technical considerations. From there, the cables will stretch out to the edge of New South Wales’ coastal waters, which extend 5.56 kilometres from the shoreline.

Community, Capacity and Connectivity

While the initiative is backed by one of the world’s largest tech companies, the impact is being felt on a local level.

A recent community event at Maroubra Beach marked the beginning of the Sydney section of the cable build, attended by stakeholders including Randwick City Council, UGL, UEA, and members of the La Perouse Aboriginal community. Local contractors such as UEA Group have been tapped to handle the initial construction, supporting regional employment and economic activity.

This isn’t the first time Maroubra has been part of a significant digital infrastructure project. The area previously saw activity during the PPC-1 cable landing over a decade ago. In comparison, the new cables are expected to carry a far greater data capacity, up to 400 terabits per second, highlighting how much internet technology has advanced in just 15 years.

Preparing for the Future

Google’s broader project, known as the Pacific Connect Initiative, reflects rising internet demand across the Indo-Pacific region and the growing need for system redundancy. By using Maroubra as a landing point, the company aims to relieve pressure on existing zones while ensuring that Australia’s international internet links remain resilient and future-ready.

The final decision on the proposal rests with NSW planning authorities and the Australian Communications and Media Authority. If approved, Maroubra could soon become a key node in Australia’s digital network, linking the community directly to global communication routes.

Based on the EIS Scoping Report, construction of the project would take approximately 20 days (10 days per segment) within NSW coastal waters and is estimated to commence in December 2025.

Published 24-April-2025

Sydney Swans Star Isaac Heeney Plans New Maroubra Home

Photo Credit: AFL

Sydney Swans midfielder Isaac Heeney has submitted plans to transform his recently acquired Maroubra property into a modern three-level home.

The 28-year-old footballer purchased the original-condition semi in February 2024 for $3 million, located just 200 meters from Maroubra Beach. This acquisition places Heeney close to his first Sydney home, a two-bedroom garden apartment he bought in 2018 for $1.56 million, approximately 400 meters away.

Randwick City Council is now reviewing Heeney’s ambitious renovation plans, which would completely reimagine the three-bedroom property. The proposed redesign by ARCM Design, initially sketched last June, comes with a construction cost of $478,500.

The plans reveal a sophisticated three-story home featuring Lohas Roman handmade external brickwork. The redesigned property will include four bedrooms—three on the upper level and one on the entry level—along with an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area that extends to an alfresco deck with access to the rear lawn.

In a significant layout change, the plans call for demolishing the existing four-car garage at the rear of the narrow 340 square meter block. New double garaging will instead be positioned at the front of the house, which will occupy 162 square meters of the site.

Timeline indicators suggest Heeney had been planning this redevelopment for some time, having placed the double-brick property on a six-month rental lease shortly after purchase.

The 206-game veteran, who performed strongly despite the Swans’ recent loss to Collingwood, has been with the team since 2015 after playing junior football with the Cardiff Hawks in his native Maitland.

Heeney appears to be following the property development path of former Swans captain Luke Parker, who recently joined Melbourne. Parker and his interior designer wife Kate are currently undertaking a major reconstruction of their nearby Malabar home.

Published 14-April-2025

Maroubra Entrepreneur Honoured for Transforming Local Education

Photo Credit: Australian Small Business Champion Awards/Facebook

An educational business founded in Maroubra has been recognised nationally after winning ‘Business of the Decade’ at the 2025 Australian Small Business Awards.

Background: A Local Start in Maroubra

Fifteen years ago, Harry Mavrolefteros and his brother launched First Education in a small storeroom above their parents’ optometry practice in Maroubra. The business began with a vision to change how students experienced learning—prioritising enjoyment, confidence, and empowerment. The optometry practice still operates in the community today, reflecting the family’s long-standing local ties.

Expansion and Educational Impact

From its Maroubra roots, First Education has grown into a leading tutoring provider with over 200 tutors and more than 1,000 students. Centres now operate across Sydney, including Bondi, Earlwood, Mascot, and Randwick, with daily availability. The organisation offers one-on-one tutoring for students from Kindergarten through to Year 12, supporting all subjects with a focus on individual needs.

First Education’s method prioritises in-centre, personalised tutoring over group or home-based sessions. According to the business, this structure provides focused attention while avoiding distractions that often hinder learning at home. Sessions are designed to build student confidence and foster a lasting interest in learning.

Maroubra education business — *Photo Credit: Harry Mavrolefteros/Facebook*

Educational Philosophy and Student Outcomes

The founder’s early passion for mathematics shaped the organisation’s philosophy: education should uplift and empower. Tutors at First Education work to instil lifelong learning skills, aiming to build students’ self-esteem alongside academic performance. This approach has supported improved results, particularly in the senior years.

Community Engagement in Maroubra and Beyond

First Education’s original Maroubra centre remains active, contributing to local educational outcomes and community development. The business’s expansion into neighbouring suburbs has strengthened its presence across the Randwick area, helping students gain skills and confidence in a structured learning environment.

Maroubra education — *Photo Credit: First Education/Facebook*

While the recent national recognition highlights First Education’s business success, its founder described the achievement as a shared victory involving students, families, tutors, and local support. The acknowledgement also reflects the lasting educational impact the organisation continues to deliver across the region.

Conclusion: Ongoing Commitment to Learning

With its foundation in Maroubra, First Education remains focused on its mission to support students through personalised education. The award marks a significant milestone in the business’s development and its ongoing contribution to learning in local communities.

Published 10-Apr-2025

Maroubra Woman’s $100,000 Windfall Brings Mortgage Relief

Photo Credit: Pexels

A Maroubra woman received an unexpected financial boost on 10 February 2025. She secured a $100,000 prize. The fortunate win will allow her to make significant mortgage payments and set aside funds for a well-deserved holiday.

While getting ready for work, the Maroubra local received multiple missed calls. She later learned that the calls were about the life-changing prize. Overjoyed by the news, she shared her excitement and relief, knowing the funds would provide a substantial financial cushion. With her daily routine interrupted by such an unexpected event, she acknowledged that the day ahead would feel very different.

Maroubra woman win — Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pexels

Making the Most of the Win

With a clear plan in mind, the Maroubra woman intends to prioritise paying off her mortgage. The unexpected financial boost will help ease long-term financial commitments, providing greater security for her and her family. In addition, she is considering a small holiday at the end of the year, allowing time to celebrate and unwind after such a significant event.

A Growing List of Winners

Across Australia, similar fortunate outcomes have been recorded, with hundreds of individuals receiving major cash prizes in the past year. Collectively, over $53.4 million has been awarded to winners, providing life-changing opportunities to many.

How the Process Works

The system that determines these wins operates on a structured draw, ensuring every entry has a unique number. The draw consists of two stages—one to select the winning numbers and another to determine the jackpot recipient. If the jackpot number matches an active ticket, the total prize is awarded. Otherwise, the prize fund continues to grow, adding to the anticipation of future draws.

Maroubra windfall — Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pexels

Supporting the Community

Beyond individual winners, these funds contribute significantly to public initiatives. In the last financial year, more than $1.8 billion was generated for community projects, supporting hospitals, medical research, disaster relief, and education programs.

Anticipation Builds for the Next Big Win

With the latest prize claimed in Maroubra, attention now turns to future draws, where the jackpot continues to rise. As more people take part, excitement builds over who might be next to experience a life-changing moment.

Published 14-Feb-2025

Maroubra Childcare Centre Damaged by Fire and Antisemitic Vandalism

Photo Credit: Pexels

A childcare centre in Maroubra has been damaged following an apparent arson attack, with antisemitic graffiti found on the premises. Authorities are investigating the incident, which has raised concerns about the safety of Jewish institutions in the area.

Emergency services responded to reports of a fire at the Only About Children childcare centre on Storey Street in the early hours of 21 January 2025.

Firefighters extinguished the blaze, which caused significant damage to the ground floor of the unoccupied building. Offensive graffiti, including antisemitic slurs, was spray-painted on the exterior wall.

The incident follows an increase in reported antisemitic attacks across Sydney and Melbourne. The childcare centre is located just metres from the Maroubra Synagogue, further heightening concerns within the local Jewish community.

Investigation and Authorities’ Response

The NSW Police Force has launched an investigation, with officers from Eastern Beaches Police Area Command establishing a crime scene. Authorities are encouraging anyone with information, CCTV, or dashcam footage to come forward.

NSW Premier Chris Minns described the act as a “vicious hate crime” and assured the public that police are prioritising the case. City authority Anthony Albanese also condemned the incident, labelling it an “evil hate crime.”

Maroubra childcare centre fire — *Photo Credit: Alex Ryvchin/X*

Community Reaction

Maroubra Synagogue and Randwick city officials have expressed their strong support for the childcare centre and the affected community.

In a public statement, the synagogue denounced the attack and called for unity, while Randwick city authority Dylan Parker reaffirmed the council’s commitment to ensuring safety and inclusivity.

The childcare provider, Only About Children, expressed shock and sadness over the attack, stating that their focus remains on supporting families and staff during this difficult time.

Fire at Maroubra childcare centre — *Photo Credit: Alex Ryvchin/X*

Next Steps and Security Measures

Authorities are still conducting investigations, and increased security measures are being proposed for local Jewish institutions. The neighbourhood has been advised to remain cautious and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement. Additional prayers have been organised at Maroubra Synagogue in response to the incident.

Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or emergency services at Triple Zero (000).

Published 22-Jan-2025

Maroubra Gears Up for a Festive French-Inspired Christmas Market

Photo Credit: Unsplash

The annual Christmas Market at Lycée Condorcet de Sydney in Maroubra is set to transform the International French School’s grounds into a vibrant hub of French culture, cuisine, and holiday cheer.

A Community Tradition with French Flair

The Lycée Condorcet Christmas Market, also known as the Marché de Noël, has become a cherished event in the local French and broader Maroubra community. On 14 Dec 2024, Over 60 artisans and stallholders will offer a diverse range of handmade crafts, gourmet treats, and festive goods, attracting thousands of visitors from across Sydney.

Highlights include freshly baked chocolate croissants, French cheeses, and authentic saucisson, alongside stalls featuring artisanal jewellery, vintage French art, and homewares.

For many locals, the market is more than just a shopping destination. It serves as a cultural celebration and a space to connect with neighbours. Live music, including performances by Lycée students and the Jason Isaac Quartet, will provide entertainment, while children can enjoy creative activities tailored for all ages.

*Photo Credit: Lycee Condorcet/Facebook*

Stallholder

Description

Four Frogs Crêperie

Sydney’s go-to for an authentic French experience, offering freshly made sweet crêpes and savory galettes using traditional recipes and techniques.Condorcet

PAYOT

A renowned French skincare brand committed to responsible beauty, offering products that combine scientific innovation with the art of skincare.

Tefal

Provides innovative kitchen appliances, linen care, and cookware products designed to make everyday life easier and tastier.

France at Home

Australia’s largest online French supermarket, offering a wide range of groceries and gourmet items direct from France.

French Books on Wheels

Offers subscriptions to French magazines and a selection of books and educational materials.

Bonne Maman

Known for exceptional “savoir-faire,” offering products like their Hazelnut Chocolate Spread made with 20% hazelnuts and no palm oil.

Supporting Students and the Community

This year, the event’s proceeds will support the school’s Year 12 students, who are raising funds for their graduation gala. Alyssa Azriel, a member of the organising committee, shared her enthusiasm for the market, noting how it has been a part of her life since childhood and how meaningful it is to now play a role in its organisation.

The event also fosters connections within the wider Maroubra area, with local residents joining the French community to share in the festivities. Many artisans, such as jewellery designer Anne-Sophie Le Bourdonnec from Petit Mousse, see the market as an opportunity to showcase their work to a diverse audience.

LIST OF STALLHOLDERS

When and Where

The Lycée Condorcet Christmas Market will take place on Saturday, 14 December 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Lycée Condorcet on Moverly Road, Maroubra. Entry is free, making it an accessible event for families and visitors of all backgrounds.

The market’s success each year highlights the strong ties between the French and Australian communities in the area. From food trucks offering traditional Breton crêpes to stalls selling exclusive French skincare and kitchenware, the market offers something for everyone while reinforcing Maroubra’s reputation as a vibrant and welcoming suburb.

Published 13-Dec-2024

Man Charged for Assaulting A Paramedic in Maroubra

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A man has been charged after allegedly assaulting a NSW Ambulance paramedic in Maroubra on Monday night, 2 December 2024.

Emergency services were called to Anzac Parade around 9pm after reports of an unconscious 40-year-old man in the street. NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the man at the scene and transported him to Prince of Wales Hospital.

During transit, the man is alleged to have assaulted a female paramedic. Eastern Beaches Police Area Command officers arrested the suspect and took him to Maroubra police station.

The man was charged with assault of a frontline health worker resulting in actual bodily harm. He was refused bail and appeared at Waverley Local Court on Tuesday, 3 December 2024, where bail was again denied.

The suspect is scheduled to appear in court again on Tuesday, 10 December 2024.

Published 3-December-2024

Death of Grandmother Sparks Police Investigation in Maroubra

Photo Credit: Facebook / Sherele Moody

The Maroubra community is mourning the loss of Christine Dawson, a 66-year-old grandmother whose death has prompted a comprehensive police investigation.

Detectives from the Eastern Beaches Police Area Command and the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad have launched Strike Force Nain to investigate the suspicious circumstances surrounding her death.

Circumstances of the Incident

Ms. Dawson was found deceased on Monday morning in her Astoria Circuit apartment, a public housing complex where she had been a long-time resident. Shortly after the discovery, a 55-year-old man named Shane Tucker was arrested and taken to Maroubra Police Station.

While Tucker was charged with breaching an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) against Ms. Dawson, police have not directly linked him to her death at this stage. He was refused bail and appeared briefly at Waverley Local Court on Tuesday, choosing not to apply for release.

Background of the AVO

Court documents reveal that an AVO was finalized in June, designed to protect Ms. Dawson. The order prohibited Tucker from:

Approaching or being in Ms. Dawson’s company within 12 hours of consuming alcohol or illicit drugs
Coming within 200 metres of her home or workplace

Family’s Statement

Ms. Dawson’s daughter, Tamara Dawson, shared that her mother was a loving grandmother who adored her five grandchildren. She described her mother as having “a beautiful soul and spirit.”

Ongoing Investigation

Detectives are conducting a thorough investigation, which includes:

Examining the crime scene
Interviewing residents of the nearby units
Searching through rubbish bins for potential evidence
Awaiting results of a post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death

Tucker is scheduled to return to court next week as the investigation continues.

The Eastern Beaches community remains on edge as authorities work to uncover the circumstances surrounding Ms. Dawson’s tragic death.

Published 19-November-2024