Maroubra Archives - Page 4 of 14

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

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

Maroubra-Founded First Education Celebrates Mascot’s Award Win

The Mascot branch of First Education, a tutoring network originally founded in Maroubra, has been awarded the 2025 Bayside Local Business Award for Outstanding Educational Services, celebrating its commitment to student success and community support across Sydney’s inner south.

From Maroubra Roots to a Network of Learning Centres

First Education was established in 2010 by Maroubra local Harry Mavrolefteros, who started the business in a small space above his family’s optometry practice on Anzac Parade.

The Maroubra centre initially catered to just 10 students, with Mr Mavrolefteros and his brother providing one-on-one tutoring in maths and English. Over the years, the centre gained popularity within the community, prompting expansion into new subjects and attracting more students. The success of the original Maroubra location led to the creation of a tutoring network, now including centres in Earlwood, Bondi, Randwick, and Mascot.

Mascot Centre Wins Bayside Award

The Mascot centre, which opened in July 2021 during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, was awarded the Outstanding Educational Services Award in 2025, marking a first-time recognition for this location.

This honour acknowledges the hard work of the Mascot team, led by Centre Manager Roza Papas, and follows in the footsteps of Maroubra’s foundation of excellence in tutoring. Harry Mavrolefteros attributed the award to his dedicated staff and the families who have trusted *First Education* with their children’s education.

Expanding Services to Meet Community Needs

First Education now serves over 1,000 students across its five centres, offering personalised one-on-one and group tutoring for students from Kindergarten through Year 12. The centres focus on various subjects, with dedicated sessions for Year 12 Higher School Certificate (HSC) preparation. Mavrolefteros, who left a career in financial planning to pursue his passion for education, aims to foster confidence and a love of learning in students, values that he initially instilled at the Maroubra centre and continues to uphold at each location.

As First Education expanded, so did its impact on the local communities it serves. The Maroubra centre’s early reputation led to partnerships with schools such as All Saints Grammar, where after-school tutoring sessions were provided to students. This commitment to educational support and community connection has become the hallmark of First Education, which remains committed to fostering academic growth and personal development in students.

Published 15-Nov-2024

Salvation Army Officer in Maroubra Changes Lives with BBQ Trailer

A Salvation Army officer in Maroubra uses a BBQ and coffee trailer to support residents in one of the city’s disadvantaged neighbourhoods by offering free sausage sizzles and services that are helping people get back on their feet.

Community Outreach with a Purpose

Lieutenant Keven Williams, who serves with the Salvation Army Eastern Beaches Corps, brings his BBQ and coffee trailer every second Tuesday to Lexington Place, a public housing estate in South Maroubra.

The trailer, which features a BBQ, coffee and slushie machines, and other amenities, allows him and a team of volunteers to connect with residents in a community setting. Mr Williams describes this mission as a response to his faith, seeing it as a way to provide comfort and practical help to those struggling with issues like financial hardship and addiction.

The trailer and free food events are part of a broader community support network established by Randwick City Council. The council reached out in 2021, offering to collaborate with the Salvation Army on services for local residents, which Mr Williams says felt like an answer to prayers he had been making since 2020.

At first, the team focused on building trust with locals, who Mr Williams notes were often hesitant to accept help due to past experiences. Over time, however, many have started attending chapel services and using additional support services provided by the Eastern Beaches Corps.

Lives Changed by Service

Volunteer Kelly-Ann is one of the locals whose life was changed by the Salvation Army’s support. Once homeless and battling with addiction, Kelly-Ann turned her life around after a health scare, deciding to quit alcohol and pursue a more stable life.

Now, six months sober, she helps run the coffee machine at the fortnightly events, where she often makes hot drinks for children and chats with residents. Kelly-Ann credits the Salvation Army for giving her a purpose and helping her find faith, and she says she now looks forward to helping others in situations like the one she faced.

Rod, another volunteer, had a similar transformation. He initially came to the Eastern Beaches Corps for a free meal, but the warmth and support he found encouraged him to return and connect with others in the community. His involvement with the group ultimately lifted him out of a period of depression and has led him to become a Senior Soldier in the Salvation Army.

Today, Rod assists Mr Williams with cooking at the BBQ events, enjoying the chance to give back to a community that helped him during a tough time.

Salvation Army Keven Williams — *Photo Credit: Salvation Army*

Training for the Future

Mr Williams, who became a Salvation Army officer after a low point in his own life, says his training for this role has been challenging but rewarding. He says he has seen not only personal growth but also positive changes in those he serves.

Mr Williams hopes that the BBQ trailer will continue to be a valuable resource for community building and support in Maroubra.

Published 8-Nov-2024

Maroubra New Year’s Fireworks Plans Halted Over Wildlife and Pet Concerns

Plans for a New Year’s Eve fireworks display in Maroubra are on hold because of potential negative impacts on pets, local wildlife, and nearby residents.

The planned “Maroubra Sparkles” event, intended to reduce overcrowding at Coogee Beach’s main fireworks display, was set to take place at Heffron Park with a 15-minute show at 9 p.m. The goal was to create a family-friendly celebration, offering an accessible option for southern residents who might find the crowded Coogee event challenging to attend.

Randwick’s existing New Year’s Eve budget, currently $230,000, would have covered the $50,000 cost for the additional event.

While some officials supported the new event, others feared its impact.

Cr Danny Said voiced concerns over potential disruptions to Maroubra residents and the effect on pets and wildlife, particularly bats and vegetation around Heffron Park. Mr Said argued that bringing large crowds to the area could upset the local environment. He questioned whether holding a large-scale event in a residential setting was appropriate.

Cr Christie Hamilton echoed these views, expressing concern about the distress fireworks can cause animals.

Not all council members were against the Maroubra display. Cr Noel D’Souza argued that a local fireworks show would foster community spirit and inclusivity, especially for those struggling to attend the Coogee event. He suggested that pet owners could prepare in advance, considering the short duration of the fireworks display.

New Year’s Fireworks, Wildlife and pet — Coogee Fireworks Display
Photo Credit: RCC

Mr D’Souza also highlighted the potential for Maroubra Sparkles to serve as an affordable, family-friendly event that could bring residents together for the New Year’s celebration.

Ultimately, it was decided to defer plans for Maroubra Sparkles until next year and explore other possible locations. Police had already advised against Maroubra Beach as a venue, and there are discussions about other local sites for a future event. For now, Maroubra’s proposed New Year’s celebration remains on hold, with discussions set to continue as the council considers community input, environmental impacts, and potential alternative venues for the future.

Published 4-Nov-2024

Shop, Eat, Connect: Maroubra Beach Markets Extended Through 2025

From fresh local produce to artisanal crafts, Maroubra Beach Markets has attracted over 63,000 visitors to Broadarrow Reserve since its launch earlier this year. The popular monthly event will continue operating at its current location until August 2025, offering residents a diverse shopping experience just steps away from Maroubra Beach.

Read: Food, Culture, and Arts in the Inaugural Maroubra Beach Markets

New schedule and location plans

To avoid conflicts with surf life saving nipper events, the markets will switch from Sunday to Saturday operations. Following the extension period, Randwick City Council plans to trial an alternative location at Heffron Park, Maroubra.

The monthly event, featuring more than 120 stalls at Broadarrow Reserve, brings together local vendors and artisans. Located at 292–310 Fitzgerald Avenue, the markets offer residents a diverse shopping experience just steps away from Maroubra Beach.

Maroubra Beach Markets highlights

Maroubra Beach Markets fresh goods — Photo Credit: Facebook/Cambridge Markets

Every month, Broadarrow Reserve transforms into a vibrant marketplace where over 120 local vendors and artisans create an unforgettable shopping experience. Fresh seasonal produce and gourmet delicacies from local farmers and food artisans tempt visitors at every turn.

Maroubra Beach Markets artisanal products — Photo Credit: Facebook/Cambridge Markets

The market’s artistic heart beats through stunning displays of handcrafted homewares, bespoke ceramics, and unique jewellery pieces, all created by talented local designers.

Maroubra Beach Markets outdoor eats — Photo Credit: Facebook/Cambridge Markets

Food enthusiasts can explore a diverse dining precinct offering everything from authentic Middle Eastern flavours to gourmet organic dishes. Comfortable dining areas invite visitors to relax and soak in the bustling community atmosphere, making it more than just a market—it’s a monthly celebration of local creativity and cuisine.

Read: Mysterious Black Balls Plague Maroubra and Sydney’s Iconic Beaches

Cambridge Markets, in partnership with Randwick City Council, currently accepts applications from potential stallholders interested in joining the thriving market community.

Published 31-October-2024

Maroubra Residents Brace for Swooping Season as Magpie Attacks Soar Across NSW

Photo Credit: Magpie Alert!

As temperatures rise across New South Wales, residents of Maroubra and other suburbs are urged to remain vigilant as magpies enter their annual swooping season.

With over 1900 magpie swoops and 242 injuries reported statewide this year, experts remind the public that these protective parents are simply defending their nests.

According to data from Magpie Alert!, a website that tracks magpie attacks, The Ponds in western Sydney currently holds the dubious honour of “most swooped suburb”, with attacks occurring across 13 streets.

Baulkham Hills and Dubbo follow closely behind, with 11 streets known for aggressive magpies. While Maroubra may not top the list this year, residents are still advised to exercise caution, especially when walking alone.

WIRES, an Australian wildlife rescue organisation, emphasises that magpies swoop out of a sense of parental duty, not aggression. They see passersby as potential threats to their chicks and act instinctually to protect their young.

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Tips To Stay Safe During Magpie Season

Be aware of your surroundings: Listen for the distinctive calls of nesting magpies.

Travel in groups: Magpies are more likely to target individuals.

Protect your head: Wear a hat, sunglasses, and consider using an umbrella. Cyclists should wear helmets and sunglasses.

Stay calm: Avoid running or sudden movements, which may be perceived as a threat.

Know your enemy: Familiarise yourself with known magpie nesting areas in your suburb.

Remember, harming or killing magpies is illegal in NSW. By understanding their behaviour and taking simple precautions, we can all coexist peacefully with these native birds.

Published Date 27-September-2024