Maroubra Archives - Page 7 of 14

‘Solved’ Big Rubik’s Cube in Maroubra Sparks Community Debate

An unsolved Rubik’s cube, a 15-year-old guerilla art installation painted on a concrete stormwater drain in Maroubra Beach, was recently “solved” by the original artists, sparking a wave of nostalgia and debate among locals.

The unexpected alteration of the cube’s appearance from a jumbled puzzle to a neatly solved state has led Randwick Council to contemplate a unique approach: asking Maroubra residents to vote on the artwork’s future.

The council is poised to decide whether to restore the cube to its original, unsolved design or maintain the current solved configuration, with a motion proposed by Labor councillor Dylan Parker to kickstart this community consultation process.

The artwork, affectionately dubbed the “Maroubrik’s Cube,” has become a staple of local culture since its inception in 2008, symbolising the creative and spontaneous spirit of the community.

The original artists, who initially painted the cube under the cloak of darkness, have confirmed their involvement in the recent transformation, stirring mixed feelings among residents and council members alike.

Randwick Mayor Philipa Veitch and councillor Dylan Parker have emphasised respecting the community’s connection to the cube. Mr Parker also noted the significant feedback received on the new design.

Ms Veitch has expressed a willingness to support the community’s decision, underscoring the cube’s role in adding whimsy and interest to the local landscape.

*Photo Credit: Facebook / Randwick City Council*

The debate over the cube’s fate highlights the broader conversation about public art and community identity.

Marissa Ely, a lifelong Maroubra local and community social media manager, shared that most of her followers prefer the cube’s original, unsolved state, suggesting it reflects the community’s diverse and imperfect nature more accurately.

As the council prepares to engage with the community on this matter, the story of Maroubra’s Big Rubik’s Cube continues to unfold, embodying the dynamic relationship between art, public spaces, and the people interacting with them daily.

Published 26-February-2024

Maroubra United BRC Prepares for National Boardriders Battle

Maroubra United BRC is gearing up to compete in the upcoming Hyundai Australian Boardriders Battle (ABB) Grand Final taking place at Burleigh Heads in Queensland.

Read: Maroubra Saints JFC Announces Exciting 2024 Season and Celebrates Prestigious Awards

Maroubra United BRC seeks championship

Maroubra United earned their spot in the national final after succeeding in the qualifying rounds held across Australia over the past few months. More than 80 clubs competed in these events, with only 42 clubs advancing to the Grand Final.

At the ABB Grand Final on March 9 and 10, Maroubra United will be represented by a team of five surfers across different divisions. Each club squad consists of two Open males, one Open female, one Junior (male or female) and one over-35 Master (male or female), in addition to their reserves.

The club will compete against squads boasting renowned surfers like 7-time World Champion Layne Beachley and other ex-pros including Danny Wills, Kieran Perrow, Josh and Sierra Kerr, and Bede Durbidge. The depth of talent at the event poses a formidable challenge for Maroubra United.

Challenging new format and location

This year the ABB Grand Final moves from Newcastle to Burleigh Heads, which will provide a much more difficult test for competitors. The event will run on a point break, requiring surfers to endure long paddling distances and running up the beach between waves.

Heats have also increased to 70 minutes from 60 minutes in previous years.

“There are a lot of exciting changes to the event this year that will create buzz for fans and some epic surfing,” said Surfing Australia Events Specialist Rohan Fell. “Teams will want to make sure they have selected their best athletes, so they don’t get knocked out in an early heat.”

World surfing champion Joel Parkinson from Snapper Rocks Surfriders expressed his thoughts:

“I know between the Burleigh boys they’re going to have a huge advantage, and some of the Gold Coast teams will have a good advantage. They’ve probably jumped quite a bit but some of the other teams that don’t spend their life jumping off these rocks are going to really have some drama.”

United for Maroubra

Maroubra United BRC — Photo Credit: Instagram/Maroubra United Boardriders

Maroubra United was established in 2015 with the goal of uniting the local surf community. The club was founded by presidents of three rival Maroubra clubs who sought to move past factions and agendas that had long divided local surfers.

They represent the entire Maroubra region and compete in events like the ABB as a cohesive team.

Read: Celebrating a Lifesaver: Peter Kirkwood of Maroubra SLSC Awarded an AM

The contest kicks off the new season for boardrider clubs around the country. After months of training, clubs are eager to showcase their talent in the nation’s premier team surfing event.

Published 23-February-2024

Maroubra Saints JFC Announces Exciting 2024 Season and Celebrates Prestigious Awards

The Maroubra Saints Junior Football Club is thrilled to announce the opening of registrations for the eagerly anticipated 2024 season. With a strong commitment to fostering youth football, the club invites families to register early to facilitate smooth team planning and preparations for the first round of team nominations.

In recognition of the financial challenges facing many families, the Saints are maintaining their registration fees at last year’s rate of $270, whilst offering a compassionate discount of $50 to those in need, no questions asked.

This initiative underscores the club’s dedication to ensuring that all children have the opportunity to participate in football, promoting both physical activity and community spirit.

Revolutionising Girls’ Junior Competition

This year also marks a significant change for the girls’ junior competition, transitioning from “even” to “odd” age groups to align with the mixed/boys’ competitions. This adjustment includes the launch of an inaugural Under 9 girls competition, offering a broader range of opportunities for young female athletes to engage in football.

The club is excited to support girls aged 8 and 9 to explore their passion for football by participating in both mixed/Auskick and the girls-only Sunday Juniors competition under a single registration fee.

Call for Community Support

As the Maroubra Saints JFC continues to grow, the club is reaching out for volunteers to fill various roles, from canteen management to administrative tasks. This call to action is a testament to the club’s thriving community and its ongoing need for dedicated individuals to support its operations and events.

A Year of Triumphs

The Maroubra Saints JFC proudly celebrates its achievement as the Community Club of the Year 2023, a prestigious accolade that highlights the club’s exceptional commitment to community engagement and youth development across NSW and the ACT. This honor is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of the committee, coaches, managers, and volunteers who have contributed to the club’s success.

Special congratulations are extended to Coach Benji, who has been named Coach of the Year for the second consecutive year, and to the young athletes who have excelled in their respective competitions, embodying the spirit of excellence and sportsmanship that the Maroubra Saints JFC champions.

As the 2024 season approaches, the Maroubra Saints JFC looks forward to another year of growth, achievement, and community engagement, inviting all interested families to join in the excitement and contribute to the club’s ongoing success.

Published 16-Feb-2024

Celebrating a Lifesaver: Peter Kirkwood of Maroubra SLSC Awarded an AM

Peter ‘Cuz’ Kirkwood, a community figure in surf lifesaving in Maroubra, has been conferred Member of the Order of Australia status for the 2024 Australia Day Honours.

For over 50 years, Mr Kirkwood’s dedication to training and mentoring surf lifesavers has not only shaped the safety of Australian beaches but has also extended his influence globally.

Notably, his work spans various lifesaving aspects, from coaching beginners to training Olympians. His unique approach to giving equal attention to all levels of lifesavers has made him a well-respected figure in the community.

In 2019, Mr Kirkwood received his 50-year membership with the Maroubra Surf Life Saving Club, establishing his lifelong dedication. His role in the club and the broader Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) encompasses a range of responsibilities, from educating youth in water safety to participating in Masters’ competitions.

Peter Kirkwood — *Photo Credit: MattThistlethwaiteMP/Facebook*

Mr Kirkwood’s efforts have elevated the standards of lifesaving both locally and internationally.

Maroubra’s Pride: A Hub of Lifesaving Excellence

Mr Kirkwood’s AM award is not just a personal achievement but a celebration of the spirit of volunteerism in surf lifesaving. It highlights the critical role lifesavers play in ensuring the safety and enjoyment of Australia’s beaches. This honour serves as an inspiration for current and future generations of lifesavers, reinforcing the importance of commitment, skill, and community service.

Maroubra SLSC, a community cornerstone, continues to be a hub of lifesaving excellence, thanks in part to his contributions. The club’s comprehensive training and education programs, along with its commitment to safety and inclusion, reflect the values that Mr Kirkwood has championed throughout his service.

Member of the Order of Australia

An AM award, or Member of the Order of Australia, is a prestigious honor that has been part of the Australian Honours System since 1975.

The AM is specifically awarded to individuals who have demonstrated service worthy of particular recognition. This service can be in various fields, including but not limited to community service, public affairs, science, arts, sports, and the military.

The Member of the Order of Australia award is officially given by the Governor-General of Australia. This is done on behalf of the Crown and the Commonwealth of Australia.

The Governor-General acts upon the recommendations made by the Council of the Order of Australia, which assesses nominations from the public. This process ensures that the awards are given based on merit and service to the nation.

the 2024 Awardees

Published 26-Jan-2024

Comprehensive Intersection Upgrades Proposed for Maroubra Road

Following a meticulous comprehensive study of Maroubra Road, stretching from Bunnerong Road to Malabar Road, a series of intersection upgrades have been planned, in order to provide safer and more efficient routes for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists.

The proposals are a result of extensive community engagement, incorporating valuable feedback from residents. Data collected through traffic counts, intersection surveys, traffic modelling, crash data analysis, and safety reviews have also played a pivotal role in shaping these improvements.

This holistic approach ensures that the upgrades are both data-driven and community-focused.

It’s important to note that the implementation of these upgrades will occur in stages, with timing contingent on community feedback, funding availability, and approval from Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW). This phased approach aims to ensure that the upgrades align with the evolving needs of Maroubra’s residents and commuters.

Intersection Upgrades Overview

Here are the specifics of the proposed intersection upgrades, each designed with a distinct rationale:

1. Bunnerong Road / Heffron Road

Removal of slip lane
Extension of right turn lane onto Bunnerong Road

2. Royal Street / Hinkler Street

Introduction of new traffic lights with pedestrian crossings
Creation of new turning lanes at traffic lights

3. Hannan Street

Installation of new pedestrian crossings and refuges
Implementation of left turn only from side streets

4. Walsh Avenue / Bruce Bennetts Place

Removal of slip lane and addition of a new left turn lane
Creation of a new shared zone

5. Anzac Parade

Introduction of new left turn only lanes onto Anzac Parade
Investigation of a 40km/h High Pedestrian Activity Area between Hannan and Garden Streets

6. Garden Street

Upgrade of traffic lights for longer pedestrian crossing times and new turning arrows
Introduction of new right turn lanes onto Maroubra Road
Extension of the School Zone

7. Cooper Street / Mons Avenue (priority project)

Installation of new traffic lights at the intersection with pedestrian crossings
Creation of new turning lanes

8. Flower Street

Relocation and upgrade of the existing pedestrian crossing
Installation of a new roundabout
Introduction of a new raised pedestrian crossing on Flower Street
Installation of a wider median and realignment of parking and travel lanes between Mons Avenue and Flower Street

9. Malabar Road

Upgrade of traffic lights
Extension of merge lane and widening of the slip lane
Improvement of footpaths

GET MORE DETAILS

Community Feedback and Engagement

Randwick City Council values community input and invites residents and stakeholders to share their thoughts on the proposed upgrades. An opportunity to meet Council staff at a drop-in session on Tuesday, 6 Feb 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Lionel Bowen Library in Maroubra Junction is also available.

Comments and feedback can be sent via email to council@randwick.nsw.gov.au with the subject line “Maroubra Road Intersection Upgrades.”

Published 26-Dec-2023

Parking Woes: Driving a Fine Line in Maroubra

A recent parking incident has ignited a discussion among residents in Maroubra, after a motorist was fined $129 for parking in a circumscribed space within the South Maroubra beach car park.

This area, intended for vehicle reversing, lacked the usual white lines indicating a legal parking spot.

This enforcement by Randwick City Council has divided opinions, with some locals arguing for clearer parking guidelines and others saying the fine should be upheld.

Understanding Local Parking Regulations

Across Sydney, local Councils are understandably strict about parking regulations. Similarly, Moreton Bay Regional Counci in Queensland is prosecuting motorists for various parking infringements. These cases range from stopping in areas with a yellow edge line to parking in bus zones, highlighting the importance of adhering to local parking laws.

Motorists often turn to sites like Parkopedia, which provides a comprehensive list of parking options, including street parking spots, car parks, and their respective costs and time limits. This information is vital for residents and visitors to avoid unintended fines.

Sometimes though, unclear signages or improper communication of from local Councils to motorists lead to violations and fines.

For instance, Sydney residents recently noticed mysterious roadside devices. Initially causing concern among locals, Campbelltown Council clarified these were part of a traffic study.

Apparently, the devices are used to collect data for transport planning, including vehicle use, traffic flow, and travel times. This indicates a growing trend towards data-driven management of traffic and parking.

Community Response and Future Implications

In Maroubra, the parking fine incident has sparked a discussion on the need for clear parking regulations and adequate signages. It also reflects a broader trend in Australian cities where traffic and parking management are increasingly data-driven and strictly enforced, lessing confusion and ambiguity.

Published 10-Dec-2023

Maroubra: Sydney’s Rising Real Estate Star

In the ever-changing landscape of Sydney’s real estate market, Maroubra stands out as a suburb on the rise. This beachside hotspot, nestled in Sydney’s premium Eastern Suburbs, is increasingly attracting buyers with its comparative affordability and appealing location.

Whilst its more famous neighbors, Bondi Beach and Coogee, continue to command higher prices, Maroubra offers a more accessible entry point to this desirable area.

Surge in Property Prices

Over the past five years, Maroubra has witnessed a remarkable surge in property prices. According to PropTrack data, the median house price in the suburb soared by 40 per cent from $1.96 million in October 2018 to $2.75 million in October 2023.

Although these figures are below the May 2022 peak of $2.94 million, PropTrack economist Anne Flaherty observed that Maroubra’s numbers are “recovering.”

2023: A Year of High Expectations

The year 2023 is shaping up to be a defining period for Maroubra and other Sydney suburbs like Coogee and Balmain. Experts anticipate these areas to be among the top performers in the city’s property market. Driving factors behind this growth include infrastructure developments, population increases, and overall economic progress.

Sydney’s broader housing market, particularly in the Eastern Suburbs, are also showing signs of recovery. Auction clearance rates in these areas are on the rise, indicating a resurgence in buyer interest.

The city’s North Shore is also predicted to experience growth in property values, drawing attention from buyers with larger budgets.

Maroubra’s Market Dynamics

Despite the overall positive trends, Maroubra’s property market has its complexities. A record-breaking sale in March 2023 positioned Maroubra above its neighbors Coogee and Clovelly in terms of property value.

Photo Credit: Google Maps

However, the broader housing market in Maroubra saw an 8.1 per cent decrease, highlighting the suburb’s unique market dynamics.

As Sydney continues to evolve, Maroubra stands out as a suburb of interest for both buyers and investors. Its blend of affordability, location, and growing market appeal positions it as a key player in Sydney’s property market narrative for 2023 and beyond.

Published 27-Nov-2023

Maroubra Family Leads the Way in Sustainability with 1000th Rebate

A significant milestone has been achieved in environmental sustainability after a Maroubra family, the Lissendens, proudly became the 1000th recipients of a rebate program.

The Randwick City Council’s innovative Sustainability Rebates program not only highlights the individual efforts of Maroubra residents but also reflects a broader commitment to environmental stewardship across the region.

The Sustainability Rebates program, introduced by the Randwick City Council, has been a cornerstone in promoting eco-friendly practices among its residents. Over the past three years, the program has successfully incentivised the adoption of sustainable technologies and practices in homes and businesses.

From electric vehicle chargers to solar panels, the initiative covers a wide array of rebates, fostering significant community investment in renewable and sustainable improvements.

Impact and Outreach

The Lissenden household, like many others in Maroubra and beyond, has experienced firsthand the benefits of the program. With the council’s financial assistance, they installed a solar battery, a decision initially hindered by cost concerns.

This rebate not only reduced their upfront expense but also facilitated a deeper engagement with energy management. The program’s impact extends beyond individual households, as it has leveraged over $6 million in community investment and significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

A Wider Australian Movement

Maroubra’s story is part of a larger narrative unfolding across Australia, where local councils are leading the charge in sustainability. From Adelaide’s carbon neutrality goals to Melbourne’s Renewable Energy Project, councils across the nation are implementing innovative strategies to reduce carbon footprints and promote renewable energy.

The collective efforts of these councils, including Randwick’s initiative in Maroubra, symbolize a growing commitment to sustainability in Australia. These programs not only address immediate environmental concerns but also lay the groundwork for a more sustainable and resilient future.

As more communities join this movement, the prospect of a greener, more sustainable Australia becomes increasingly tangible.

Published 20-Nov-2023

New Amenities Enhance South Maroubra Beach Experience

South Maroubra Beach welcomes summer with a sunny splash of convenience, as RCC unveils a brand-new amenities building.

Read: $2.15-M Amenities Block Approved for Malabar Ocean Pool

On Sunday, 22 Oct 2023, the facility was opened just in time for the much-anticipated Maroubra Fun Run and Spring Festival, marking a significant improvement to this coastal hotspot.

The new amenities building aims to elevate the beachgoers’ experience by providing essential services in a picturesque setting. This addition comes as a response to the growing demand for facilities that cater to both residents and visitors.

The South Maroubra Beach amenities building features male, female, and unisex bathrooms, showers, baby change facilities, and a communal wash basin, providing accessible and much-needed conveniences for beachgoers. In addition to serving the general public, this project has also created additional storage rooms for the South Maroubra Surf Lifesaving Club and Surfing NSW, aiding the local community’s sporting and recreational activities.

To ensure ease of access for everyone, the project also included upgrades to paths, landscaped areas, and parking spaces. These enhancements make South Maroubra Beach more welcoming, promoting a safe and enjoyable environment for all visitors.

Positioned adjacent to the South Maroubra Surf Lifesaving Club, the amenities building is perfectly located for beach enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy a day of picnicking or follow the scenic coastal walk. The architects behind the project have prioritized sustainability and preserving the natural surroundings. The building has been designed to complement the natural sand dunes, maximising the use of natural light and ventilation.

Furthermore, the building was constructed on an empty green patch, ensuring that no trees, including the native Banksia, had to be removed during the construction process. This commitment to environmental preservation aligns with the broader goal of promoting sustainable development in the region.

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

“This area of the beach is incredibly popular as people pass through on a coastal walk or stop to have a BBQ behind the beach. The new building will ensure visiting South Maroubra is much more comfortable,” Randwick City Council Mayor Philipa Veitch, who inaugurated the building amidst a crowd of enthusiastic community members, said.

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A post shared by Randwick City Council (@randwickcouncil)

The South Maroubra Beach amenities building was a major investment, taking a year to complete from conception to its official opening.

Published 30-Oct-2023

Corpus Christi College in Maroubra Plans to Increase Students and Staff

Maroubra’s Corpus Christi College, formerly known as Champagnat Catholic College, plans to increase the student and staff population within five years, following the relocation of its primary school.

Our Lady of the Annunciation, the primary school, bid farewell to its old site and moved to a nearby Catholic campus, leaving behind a property with immense potential.

Corpus Christi College seized this opportunity by lodging a DA/689/2023 with Randwick Council, detailing a bold vision that aimed to reshape their destiny.

In partnership with Sydney Catholic Schools, the college wants to expand the secondary school into the vacated primary school campus, encompassing Blocks A, B, and C, which had lain dormant for some time.

The college has a previously approved application to redevelop one of the blocks via DA/249/2020.

The proposal outlines an ambitious target – a goal to increase the student population by a staggering 400 pupils over the next five years.

As the 2023 academic year dawned, the school stood at a student population of approximately 650. They envisioned a steady progression, with an expected 1,100 students gracing their halls in the years to come. Naturally, this growth would necessitate the recruitment of 20 additional staff members to support the burgeoning student body.

In their application, Corpus Christi College championed the positive social impacts of their proposed expansion. They emphasized that schools were not merely institutions of learning but vital components of thriving communities. The accessibility of the campus would extend its reach to a broader section of the community.

“Schools are a vital part of any healthy and thriving community and the increase in the student and staff cap would allow the school to function as an important civic place for parents, teachers and students,” the planners outlined.

“The proposal to increase staff and student numbers would support the upgrades to school facilities under DA/249/2020 and would allow access to better student outcomes through the provision of a quality learning environment for broader section of the community.

“The proposed development would provide short term and long-term economic benefits. In the short term the proposal would support the creation of additional full-time employment gradually offsetting the loss in full time employment created by the relocation of the primary school campus.

“Long term, the productivity and growth as a result of student’s continuing education would drive better labour market outcomes by supporting students as they acquire formal education allowing them to remain employed and learn new skills in the future.”

Published 29-Sept-2023