Despite his own hardships, Glen Mezei, the owner of Little Bay’s Site Pizza Bar sets an exemplary example of businesspeople driven by a stronger sense of empathy for the community in an era where financial margins frequently dictate business decisions.
Site Pizza Bar, which is right in the middle of Little Bay, is more than just a restaurant; it’s a place where people meet and help each other. Giving away free food isn’t just a kind thing for Mezei to do; it’s a reflection of his values and a promise to help those around him.
At first glance, this kind of behaviour might make you wonder if it can last. But for Mezei, it’s not about making money; it’s about making a difference. “I believe that, as a business owner, I have a responsibility to give back to the community that supports us,” Mezei says. “It’s not just about selling pizzas; it’s about contributing positively to the lives of others.”
Photo Credit: Facebook/Site Pizza Bar
Mezei’s path to giving back to the community isn’t easy. Just like many other businesses, he also had to deal with uncertainty. However, Mezei didn’t run away and he saw a chance to step up and help where it was most needed. “The outbreak showed how important it is for people to help each other. People were having a hard time, and I felt like I had to do everything I could to help,” Mezei says.
He feeds field workers and gives free pizzas to families who are having a hard time with money. He also helps people feel like they belong and are part of the community.
Photo Credit: Facebook/Site Pizza Bar
But Mezei’s generosity and kindness extend beyond his business dealings. To increase his influence, he collaborates with local organisations. By collaborating with food banks and shelters, he ensures that his assistance reaches those who need it most. “When we collaborate, we can do much more. In order to truly impact people’s lives, Mezei asserts that “collaboration is the key.”
Photo Credit: Facebook/Site Pizza Bar
Positive comments about it have come from several neighbours. Many clients applaud Mezei for his selflessness and are inspired to follow in his footsteps. Glen’s goodwill is contagious. “It motivates us all to improve and support one another more,” a regular customer comments.
His story shows how love and charity can change things. His actions give us hope in a divided world. They demonstrate that cooperation for the greater good can provide benefits.
Mezei is still on a mission to feed both the body and the soul, and he wants other people to help him make society more caring and welcoming. “Your acts, no matter how small they may seem, can make a difference. “Together, we can make the future better for everyone,” Mezei says, ending with a smile that shows how generous he is.
A striking case has emerged in Maroubra, focusing on a newly completed apartment building that has revealed significant structural issues, including “excessive cracking” and water leaks.
The state’s building watchdog, Fair Trading NSW, has taken decisive action against Maroubra Living Pty Ltd, the developer behind the Jardin building located at 128a Garden St, Maroubra.
Following an inspection of 33 defects, a building work rectification order was issued on 21 March 2024.
The identified defects, including severe cracking in the building’s rooftop concrete slab, constitute breaches of Australian building standards, highlighting the urgent need for repair to ensure the safety and amenity of its residents.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
The inspection uncovered various issues, ranging from water ingress through a damaged wall panel to inadequate drainage and fire safety standards violations. It also noted that a concrete slab within the Jardin building needed to be properly vibrated or compacted, leading to structural weaknesses.
The roof’s inadequate drainage and a defective fire stair door underscore the significant risks posed to occupants’ safety and the building’s integrity.
Elizabeth Stewart, the Department of Customer Service’s director of legal operations, has stipulated four months for Maroubra Living Pty Ltd to rectify the defects. This directive underscores the balance between the developer’s financial costs and the critical benefits to the owners and occupants, ensuring the building’s construction aligns with approved plans, the Building Code of Australia, and Australian standards.
Despite the defects, the Jardin building is currently occupied by tenants and has been promoted as offering “impeccably presented” apartments designed with accessibility in mind.
Maroubra Beach is set to host the inaugural Street Paws Festival, a celebration of our furry companions and their companionship with humans. Supported by Rotary Clubs Botany, Randwick, and Maroubra, this event promises a fun-filled day for both dogs and their owners.
The festival, which will take place on 7 April 2024 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Arthur Byrne Reserve, boasts diverse activities and competitions.
Photo Credit: StreetPawsFestival/Facebook
Schedule of Events
10 am: The festival starts with a warm welcome by the Mayor of Randwick.
11 am: Watch the dogs showcase their talents in Best Tail Wagger, Best Trick, and Best Dancing Dog categories.
Noon: Get ready to be amazed by the creativity displayed in the Best Fancy Dress Dog competition.
1 pm: Honour the wisdom and grace of senior dogs in the Most Dignified Old Timer contest.
2 pm: Prepare for an overload of cuteness as puppies vie for the title of Cutest Puppy.
In addition to the main events, attendees can participate in a raffle, enjoy a sausage sizzle, paint their faces, and explore various dog-themed market stalls. This event is perfect for families looking for a delightful day out with furry friends.
Photo Credit: StreetPawsFestival/Facebook
Photo Credit: StreetPawsFestival/Facebook
Since its inception in 2018, the Street Paws Festival is committed to becoming an annual fixture across Sydney. Organisers plan to rotate the festival to various locations, ensuring accessibility to dog lovers citywide.
Future iterations of the event are expected to return in other suburbs, providing communities with continued opportunities to celebrate the bond between humans and their four-legged companions.
Lynne McGranger, famed as Irene Roberts in “Home and Away,” is set to captivate Maroubra with “The Grandparents Club,” premiering at The Juniors Auditorium along Anzac Parade.
This unique Australian musical comedy, celebrating the dynamic lives of modern grandparents, promises laughter and poignant moments and marks Ms McGranger’s return to her theatrical roots alongside a talented cast, including Laurence Coy, Meredith O’Reilly, and Andrew James.
The show, which will run on 30 June 2024 in Maroubra, promises an unforgettable experience. McGranger anticipates the return with excitement, highlighting the musical’s blend of humour, warmth, and grandparental glory under the creative guidance of Wendy Harmer and John Field.
Beyond Maroubra, the tour is set to traverse metro and regional NSW, ACT, and VIC from May to August 2024, making stops in various cities, including Batemans Bay, Wollongong, Penrith, and many more.
Tour Schedules
• 30th May – Yuin Theatre, BATEMANS BAY(3.00pm & 7.00pm)
For those in Maroubra and beyond, this production is more than a musical; it’s a testament to grandparents’ evolving, vibrant role in today’s families, promising laughter, tears, and, most importantly, a grand time.
About the Cast
Apart from Irene Roberts on “Home & Away,” Ms McGranger has showcased her versatility across Australian television, becoming the longest-serving female cast member on any Australian scripted TV show by 2014. Not just confined to acting, McGranger has also excelled in dance, securing the runner-up position on “Dancing with the Stars” and authoring her memoir, “Acting Up,” during the 2020 lockdown. With a background in teaching and a rich history in performing arts, McGranger’s career spans various roles on stage and screen, emphasising her passion for acting and contributions to theatre and pantomime.
Laurence Coy, known for his quick wit, started his career as a stand-up comedian in Australia and internationally. His talents extend beyond comedy to acting and singing, making him sought after in theatre, musical theatre, television, and film. He has worked with various state theatre companies and notable productions such as “Summer Rain,” “Calamity Jane,” and “The Fantasticks” in musical theatre. In film, he has appeared in “The Appleton Ladies Potato Race,” “Ladies In Black,” and “San Andreas,” among others. Television credits include “Mr Inbetween,” “Black Comedy,” and “Rake.” Additionally, Coy has co-written and directed series like “Tough Nuts – Australia’s Hardest Criminals” for Foxtel and “The Kangaroo Gang” for the BBC.
Photo Credit: Supplied/David Hooley
Andrew James has had a distinguished career in Australian theatre and television, showcasing his acting and comedic talents. He has performed for esteemed theatre companies such as Bell Shakespeare and Sydney Theatre Company, as well as in national and international tours of musicals like ‘Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story’. His versatility extends to roles for young audiences and adaptations like ‘Pete the Sheep’ and ‘The Magic Pudding’. On television, he has appeared in various shows including ‘Home and Away’, ‘Rake’, and ‘Prisoner’. James has portrayed a diverse range of characters, from historical figures like Winston Churchill to animals like a dog, kangaroo, and sheep. Notably, he is about to become a grandparent. Additionally, he enjoys playing the harmonica and ukulele in his free time.
Meredith O’Reilly boasts a rich, 35-year career as a professional entertainer, earning nominations for prestigious awards in roles such as Grandma Addams in “The Addams Family” and Sylvia St Croix in “Ruthless.” Notable stage appearances include “Les Miserables,” “Love Never Dies,” and “Hello Dolly!” among others. She has also played principal roles in Australian productions like “Karaoke the Musical” and “King Of The Air.” Meredith’s versatility extends beyond stage acting to television dramas, commercials, and voiceovers. She has showcased her vocal talents with the Big Band, Horns Plus, and in her jazz duo and quintet. Moreover, her cabaret “Curtains,” reflecting on her showbiz journey, has received acclaim at various venues. Additionally, she has hosted radio shows and narrated audiobooks for Vision Australia.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
A recent parking incident has ignited a discussion among residents inMaroubra, 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.
