Maroubra Archives - Page 8 of 14

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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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

Sleepless Night Turns into Life-Changing Moment for Maitland Man with $615,000 Windfall

Photo Credit: PX Here

A Maitland resident’s sleepless night has turned into an unimaginable stroke of luck, as he discovered he had secured a substantial windfall of more than $615,000 in the recent weekend draw.

The ecstatic winner, who prefers to remain anonymous, had only recently dipped his toes into this game of chance, making his triumph all the more thrilling. He held the sole winning entry for the first division in the draw that took place on Saturday, 9 Sept 2023, securing the entirety of the $615,902 prize.

“Wow. I’m a bit emotional! I haven’t slept at all,” the winner said upon receiving the life-altering news.

An official from the game reached out to confirm his newfound fortune on the following morning, which only added to his astonishment.

“It was a last-minute decision. I have only entered [this game] three or four times, and I bought the ticket just before the draw closed on Saturday night. I don’t even know what to say. I’m speechless.”

The unexpected windfall couldn’t have come at a better time for the lucky winner.

“We have been through a fair bit recently, so it means a lot. It’s going to change everything. I’ll be able to buy a house for my family and take some days off work. Thank you so much.”

The winning numbers that secured his life-changing victory were 11, 9, 14, and 29, in the exact order they were drawn during the event.

For this fortunate Maitland resident, the sleepless night that followed his last-minute decision has turned into a dream come true, opening up new horizons and opportunities for him and his family.

Published 16-Sept-2023

Ingham’s Dinner Done: Maroubra Young Star Charlee Feildel Shines Alongside Dad Manu in the Kitchen

Charlee Feildel, a cheeky and talentd eight-year-old has taken her first steps into the world of cooking. What makes her so special? She is the other half of the father-daughter duo that also includes her father, the renowned celebrity chef, Manu Feildel.

Charlee and Manu, both proud Maroubra locals, are setting the stage for a joint journey exhibiting their shared passion for cooking as they put their own twist on classic recipes and delicious dishes that bring families together.

Charlee’s charming confidence and a touch of cheekiness adds a unique flavour to the kitchen as she playfully challenges her Papa’s culinary prowess.

The father-daughter team has come together to whip up two mouthwatering chicken recipes as part of Ingham’s Dinner Done initiative. Here’s a taste of what it’s like to have these two in the kitchen.

Charlee helps Manu cook Mexi-Bean Loaded Chicken Chippees

At first, Charlee wants to go out for dinner to have loaded fries. Manu, comfortable in his slippers, is not so keen and suggests Mexi-Bean Chicken Chippees instead.

Showing her cheeky personality, Charlee challenges Manu: “Papa, I always see you judging people on TV. So, because I really want those loaded fries, tonight I’ll be judging you. No pressure.”

Together Charlee and Manu cook the chicken chippees in the oven, mash the guacamole, cook the corn, and layer the cooked chippees with olives, corn kernals, salsa and cheese – returning it all to the oven to melt. After presenting the loaded chippees with guacamole, halved cherry tomatoes, sour cream, and coriander it’s time to taste.

And the final score Charlee gives her celebrity chef dad? “Presentation, good. Smell, good. Taste, good.”

Charlee and Manu create Tempura Chicken Nugget Lettuce Cups – a twist on mum Clarissa’s San Choy Bao

“I’ve been a kid for over eight years, and it’s time for us to change things around here,” announces Charlee. “I love Mumma’s San Choy Bao, but what if we use chicken nuggets?”

Manu agrees, “That’s a great idea. What about lettuce cups, vermicelli noodles, some salad vegetables, chicken nuggets and a dressing over the top?”

Manu shows Charlee how easy it is to use an air-fryer, and Charlee shows Manu how to really shake the dressing.

On the couch, Manu and Charlee reveal what this father-daughter duo is all about.

Charlee: “I really like spending time with my dad and making dinner with him.”

Manu: “It’s always fun to be working with my daughter. She seems to understand the gig for some reason.”

When asked who the better cook is, Charlee doesn’t miss a beat: “He’s pretty good, but I think I’m a bit better.”

Ingham’s Dinner Done was launched earlier to provide quick, simple, and delicious recipes to get midweek dinners done with flavour and fun.

GET ALL RECIPES

Ingham’s has launched a free recipe e-book, “10 Easy Dinner Done Recipes the Family Will Love” available to download from inghams.com.au.

And to help Aussie’s get dinner on the table with the rising cost of living, Ingham’s has launched a cook-snap-win Dinner Done competition – giving away eight $500 grocery vouchers from September to December 2023.

Learn more about the competition

To learn more about Ingham’s and Ingham’s Dinner Done, visit and follow Ingham’s on Instagram @InghamAustralia Facebook @ingham’s and YouTube @Inghamschicken.

Published 12-Sept-2023

Broadarrow Reserve in Maroubra Eyed for Parking Expansion and Markets

Broadarrow Reserve in Maroubra Beach could undergo a transformation, potentially serving as additional parking during peak periods and hosting regular markets.

Currently, the reserve serves as an off-leash dog park and occasionally provides overflow parking during major events. Randwick Council is actively engaging with the community to gather input on these initiatives to make some changes. The goal is to alleviate the severe parking congestion experienced on nearby streets during sunny days when Maroubra Beach attracts a large number of visitors.

Thus, from 1 November to 31 March each year, the reserve may be used as a supplementary parking site exclusively on weekends and public holidays, adding over 300 parking slots in the area.

Access to the reserve on designated days would be primarily for cars, ensuring a smoother flow of traffic. Safety remains a top priority, and activation of the reserve for parking would depend on favourable beach and surf conditions.

In addition to the parking expansion proposal, Randwick Council is planning to introduce regular markets starting in February 2024, offering the community an exciting avenue for engagement.

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to participate actively in shaping the future of Broadarrow Reserve. A survey is available on Council’s Your Say website to voice opinions and concerns.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Alternatively, ideas and feedback can be submitted via email with the subject line “Broadarrow Reserve Parking” to council@randwick.nsw.gov.au or through traditional mail to 30 Frances Street, Randwick NSW 2031.

The consultation window is open now and will remain so until 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, 19 Sept 2023.

Published 7-Sept-2023

Police Appeal to Identify Man Rescued from Maroubra Beach

The emergency services came to the aid of an unconscious man who was pulled from the water at Maroubra Beach. The man, whose identity remains a mystery, was reportedly in critical condition and is currently being treated at St George Hospital.

The incident unfolded around 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, 27 Aug 2023, when calls alerted authorities to a man in distress off the north rocks at Maroubra Beach. The individual, who is believed to have been rock fishing, was swept into the water by the powerful currents, according to witnesses.

Responding swiftly to the emergency, officers from the Eastern Beaches Police Area Command, surf lifesavers, and a rescue helicopter rushed to the scene along Marine Parade. The man, described as being of Asian appearance and aged in his 50s or 60s, was located unconscious in the water.

Maroubra Beach rescue. Photo Credit: Ben Klein/Google Photos

Lifeguards from Maroubra Beach played a pivotal role in the rescue, skillfully navigating Jetskis to retrieve the unconscious man from the water. They initiated CPR whilst awaiting the arrival of paramedics. The man was then transported to St George Hospital, where he remains in critical condition.

Despite extensive efforts by law enforcement, the man’s identity remains a puzzle, leaving authorities with no means of contacting his next of kin. To aid in the investigation and identification process, the New South Wales Police have issued a public appeal for assistance.

Authorities have described the man as approximately 160cm to 170cm tall, with a slim build and an olive complexion. He was found wearing long black pants, a white long-sleeved button shirt with a grey cardigan, a black vest, and white speckled boots. The man was also carrying a blue Nike backpack and had fishing gear in his possession.

Anyone with information about the incident or the unidentified man to come forward. Maroubra Police Station can be contacted at (02) 9349 9299, and information can also be provided to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.

Published 29-Aug-2023

New Splash Park Coming to Des Renford Leisure Centre

Excitement is building as construction progresses on the new splash park at the Des Renford Leisure Centre (DRLC) in Maroubra.

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

Slated for completion in late September 2023, the new splash park will feature an impressive selection of in-ground and above-ground structures. Among the highlights are exhilarating slides, refreshing water sprays, a captivating spiral tunnel, and the delightful Fun-brella.

Additionally, children will have a blast with the Sneaky Soaker, whilst thrill-seekers can enjoy the Surf Cannon and Surfboard attractions. For an ultimate drenching experience, a towering Dump Bucket will provide endless laughter and excitement.

Photo credit: Des Renford Leisure Centre/Facebook

One key aspect of the splash park’s design is its focus on sustainability. In line with the growing need for responsible water usage, the park incorporates a water circulation system that emphasises conservation.

This innovative system will recycle and reuse water, allowing up to an impressive 95 percent of used water to be recovered.

In addition to its water features, the design of the splash park also takes into account the comfort and convenience of parents and caretakers. New landscaping and seating areas will provide ample space for families to relax and supervise their children whilst enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

About the Des Renford Leisure Centre

The Des Renford Leisure Centre, owned and operated by the Randwick City Council, is renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities and attracts over 500,000 visitors each year.

The centre features a range of aquatic and fitness amenities, including a 50-metre outdoor Olympic pool, a 25-metre indoor competition pool, a 25-metre indoor training pool, an enclosed outdoor dome pool, and a dedicated toddler’s outdoor pool.

Photo credit: Garry Robinson/Google Maps

The centre also has its own spacious gym equipped with the latest cardio equipment, catering to the diverse wellness needs of the community.

The centre is named in honour of the late Des Renford MBE, a renowned Australian marathon swimmer.

Read: Little Bay Beach Could Soon Have Lifeguards

Renford devoted many hours to the centre and generously shared his time with the Special Olympics group and his beloved Coffee Club. Through the Coffee Club, he created a welcoming environment where individuals of all swimming abilities could swim together and enjoy a cup of coffee, fostering a sense of camaraderie and inclusivity.

Published 16-June-2023

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

Heffron Centre, the eagerly anticipated world-class facility in Maroubra, is now officially open to the public, offering an array of sports, dance, and gymnastic programs for people of all ages and abilities.

The indoor multipurpose facility boasts a two-court sports hall capable of accommodating various sports such as netball, basketball, badminton, volleyball, and indoor futsal. The site includes a dedicated gymnastics area featuring high-quality equipment, ensuring a safe and progressive environment for gymnasts to develop their skills.

BK’s Gymnastics Heffron Centre, a prominent program offered at the facility, has carefully curated classes to cater to various age groups and skill levels. The programs follow a two-week plan focused on skill competencies relevant to each developmental milestone, ensuring a safe and progressive approach for gymnasts.

From the Stepping Stars program for children as young as walking age up to 2 years, to the Gym Fundamentals, Club Gym, Ninja Stars, and All Stars Academy programs for older children and competitive gymnasts, there is something for everyone.

BK’s Gymnastics coaches incorporate elements such as strength, coordination, flexibility, mobility, support, and balance to help gymnasts progress to more advanced levels. Special events like Check-In Week and BK Carnival provide opportunities for participants to showcase their progress and celebrate their achievements.

Heffron Centre also introduces the Dance Society, a program aiming to bring dance to life within the Maroubra, Hillsdale, and surrounding communities. The Dance Society offers classes for preschoolers (3-5 years), Junior Hip Hop (6-14 years), and Open Dance classes.

The Open Dance class offers adults an opportunity to explore dance for the first time or relive their former dance glory days. These classes combine Jazz, Classical Ballet, and musical theatre, delivering a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for beginners and dance enthusiasts alike.

Not only does the Heffron Centre offer sports and gymnastics programs, but it’s now the new home and the high-performance centre of the South Sydney Rabbitohs. This facility also supports Souths Cares’ educational and community initiatives.

Moreover, visitors can enjoy various publicly accessible areas, including a café, a hall of fame, a merchandise shop, and a fan area with a view of the NRL standard showcase field, where training sessions can be observed.

Published 19-May-2023