Randwick City Council Archives

Pioneers Park Patrols Increase After Pets Fall Sick in Baiting Scare

A confirmed dog-baiting incident at Pioneers Park in Malabar has prompted urgent warning signs and extra patrols of the off-leash area, leaving local dog walkers on edge as authorities urge the community to stay alert to protect pets from harm.

Locals have expressed concern about pet safety, with some sharing past experiences of pets falling ill or, in one case, dying after visiting the park. One resident reported their dog consuming what appeared to be minced meat found in bushes, and the animal was taken to a vet for treatment before being monitored for potential poisoning. The meat sample was kept in case authorities wanted to test it.

Calls for additional security measures have grown louder on neighbourhood community pages, with several people urging cameras and more frequent park inspections to deter further harmful behaviour.

Randwick City Council responded swiftly after being notified of the suspected incident at the northern end of Pioneers Park, installing warning signage and increasing ranger patrols to search for suspicious materials that could endanger animals. Council said it had referred the matter to NSW Police, which is investigating, and urged dog owners to keep their dogs on leads and under close supervision while in the park.

While rangers continue patrols during busy morning and evening periods, some dog owners remain cautious about bringing their pets to the beloved local green space.

Police have not yet publicly confirmed formal reports of the incident, but Council maintains it is working closely with them to address the situation and keep the community and their pets safe. Dog walkers are encouraged to report anything unusual to either council staff or NSW Police as the investigation continues.

Dog baiting — the intentional placement of food laced with harmful substances — is illegal and can be life-threatening for pets and wildlife. Incidents like this have stirred strong responses in other parts of Sydney as well, and local authorities stress early reporting and vigilance to prevent harm.

The park was searched and warning signs were put in place after the incident was reported on 7 January 2026. Increased patrols and community alerts have remained active since then as further checks are conducted and police continue their inquiry.

Published 13-Jan-2026

Maroubra Beach to Get Expanded Outdoor Gym Beside Skate Park

Photo Credit: Randwick City Council

A new outdoor gym is taking shape at Maroubra Beach, offering locals more space and equipment for exercise by the sea.

Construction and Timeline

Work began in early October 2025, with the gym scheduled to open in mid-November. The new facility will sit beside the Maroubra Skate Park at the south end of the beach.

It will replace the existing gym near the Surf Life Saving Club, which is being removed to make way for improvements to the playground area. The project by Randwick City Council aims to upgrade community recreation facilities and promote healthy living for residents.

Features of the New Facility

The new gym will feature a wide range of strength and cardio equipment, including an elliptical trainer, step-up station, chest press, pull-downs, leg press, parallel bars, monkey bars, pull-up bars, and sit-up benches.

This marks a significant upgrade from the 2013 gym, which focused on low-impact exercise for older residents. The equipment will cater to a wider age group, encouraging both casual and fitness-focused users to work out outdoors.

Community Consultation and Feedback

Council consulted the community in February and March 2025, receiving 170 responses on equipment preferences and surface design.

Residents supported relocating the gym to a more open and accessible area near the skate park. The consultation reflected local interest in inclusive recreation spaces and durable fitness infrastructure.

Council’s Broader Health Focus

Deputy Mayor Clare Willington said the project reflects the council’s ongoing investment in public health and social connection.

The Maroubra upgrade follows the opening of Little Bay’s first outdoor gym in August 2025, with another planned at Coral Sea Park in the coming year. Together, these projects support the council’s goal of improving public open spaces and encouraging active lifestyles.

Published 13-October-2025

Heffron Park Netball Court Gets Major Upgrade as Local Sport Grows

Photo Credit: Randwick City Council/Facebook

Netball players in Maroubra now have better protection from sun and rain thanks to a new shade structure built over three courts at Heffron Park, one of Sydney’s busiest community sports hubs.

Upgrades Make Courts Safer and More Accessible

In May 2025, Randwick City Council finished building a roof over three of Heffron Park’s 28 netball courts to improve comfort during the busy April–September season. The upgrade includes lighting, better footpaths, and drainage near courts 1 to 6.

*Photo Credit: Randwick City Council/Facebook*

Council stated the improvements were made in response to community feedback and to support the growing demand for netball facilities in the area. The sport is currently the most popular among Randwick residents, drawing in large crowds throughout the local winter competition season.

Plans for More Enhancements Await Funding

Randwick Council is considering more upgrades, including extending the shade to six courts and adding tiered seating. These plans depend on future funding, with no set timeline yet.

These future developments aim to give the growing netball community more protection from the elements, while also enhancing the functionality and appearance of the court area.

Pride, Persistence and Local Legends

Marcia Ella-Duncan OAM, a La Perouse local and Bidjigal-Yuin woman, started netball with Randwick at age 10 and went on to break ground as the first Aboriginal athlete at the AIS and later as an Australian Diamond. She says the recognition is important, not for her, but to show young girls what’s possible.

At Heffron Park, that legacy lives on. A wall of plaques honours volunteers, and president Jenny Morrissey says it’s the local women who keep the game going, turning up each week to support the next generation.

Community Facilities at the Heart of Local Sport

Heffron Park is a key site for local sport, especially netball, and the upgrades support Randwick Council’s wider push to improve outdoor community spaces. Officials say making safe, accessible places for recreation remains a long-term priority.

By making sure that community courts like those at Heffron Park stay updated, Randwick is helping its residents stay active, connected and engaged in local sport.

Published 15-May-2025

Matraville Town Centre Set for Major Revitalisation with Bunnerong Road Upgrade

Photo Credit: Matraville Public Domain Masterplan

Matraville is poised for a significant transformation as the city kicks off its ambitious revitalisation project with upgrades to Bunnerong Road.

The works, which commenced this week, will see the existing footpath on Bunnerong Road between Daunt Avenue and Beauchamp Road completely replaced. There will be a wider asphalt path with paver borders in its place, along with several new street trees.

This initial phase marks a crucial step in the Council’s comprehensive plan to breathe new life into the Matraville Town Centre.

Mayor Philipa Veitch emphasised the importance of the project, stating that the Matraville Town Centre is a vital hub for local businesses and shoppers. The Council has collaborated closely with the community over the past few years to develop a plan that aims to unlock Matraville’s full potential, transforming it into a vibrant destination for visitors and residents alike.

*Photo Credit:* *Matraville Public Domain Masterplan*

“The Bunnerong Road streetscape upgrade is a critical first move in bringing the Matraville Town Centre masterplan to life,” Mayor Veitch said. “By expanding the footpath, we will create more room for outdoor dining and enhance pedestrian safety.”

The Mayor expressed her enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the numerous benefits it will bring to the area. The upgrades will not only improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists but also enhance the street’s overall aesthetic appeal, with the new trees providing welcome shade during the warmer months.

The extensive work entails the excavation and demolition of the existing pavement, then the pouring of fresh concrete and asphalt. The installation of new pavers, street trees, street furniture, and bins will complete the transformation.

Council has taken steps to inform Matraville residents about the commencement of the works through a letterbox drop. Mayor Veitch assured the community that the Council is dedicated to minimising any disruptions caused by noise, parking, and traffic during the construction period.

While acknowledging the potential for some inconvenience, Mayor Veitch expressed her gratitude for the patience and understanding of residents and local businesses as this essential upgrade progresses.

Published Date 07-June-2024

Malabar Lands New Bike Park for Adrenaline Junkies

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Thrill-seekers and cycling fanatics in Malabar have scored a major win, with Randwick City Council giving the green light to build a dedicated bike park right in the heart of the suburb.

At their April 30th meeting, councillors endorsed Cromwell Park North as the site for the region’s first facility catering to mountain bikers, BMX riders, stunt cyclists, and scooter enthusiasts.

The decision comes after strong lobbying from local bike riding groups who have been pushing for a park to call their own without having to trek to the Northern Beaches or Sutherland Shire.

Randwick Mayor Philipa Veitch said the large expanse of Cromwell Park and its proximity to parking made the Malabar location an ideal choice for a bike park.

“Bike riding is a popular activity for many young people. Bikes parks have been built in the Northern Beaches and Sutherland Shire and there has been strong demand from Randwick City residents for a local facility,” Mayor Veitch stated.

If the $1.35 million plans are realised, adrenaline junkies can look forward to a buffet of riding experiences including mountain bike trails, an asphalt pump track, a skills zone with stone and timber obstacles, and a dirt jump area.

**Concept Plan proposed by Trailscapes**
Photo Credit: Randwick City Council

The bike park ticks off a key initiative in the Council’s Open Space strategy and will be a huge draw card for families across the eastern suburbs looking to foster an active lifestyle.

**Trailscapes also proposed these tracks, trails and ramps for the new bike park**
Photo Credit: Randwick City Council

With concept designs and community consultation next on the agenda, construction is slated to kick off in the 2024-25 financial year.It’s a win for Malabar’s thrill-seekers, who will soon have a world-class riding playground right on their doorstep.

Published 5-May-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

Maroubra’s Iconic Rubik’s Cube Has Been Solved

Photo Credit: Facebook / Randwick City Council

After fifteen years, the Rubik’s Cube that sat on the shore of Maroubra Beach that many have taken to calling the ‘Maroubrix Cube,’ has finally been solved.

This piece dates back from 2008, when anonymous street artists added the quirky fixture that has captivated locals and tourists since then.

**The unsolved Cube right next to an actual Rubik’s Cube, taken October 2023.**
Photo Credit: Facebook / Cubos R Py

The unusual design of the Cube, endearingly called the Maroubrix Cube, has caught the attention of Maroubra Beach’s passersby. It was intentionally designed to be unsolvable, which caught on to Rubik’s Cube enthusiasts.

Maroubrix Cube is mentioned on Wikipedia’s Big Things of Australia, and is even featured in a children’s book as a ‘portal to another realm’.

Although the recent transformation of the Cube has been made by the still-anonymous artists themselves, a lively debate has sparked among the Maroubra community. This has divided the locals between embracing the refreshed look and cherishing the unsolved puzzle that gave it its original charm and recognition for over a decade.

Randwick Council Mayor, Philipa Veitch, expressed her surprise at this sudden change. She acknowledged the artists’ intention as thought-provoking. She states that this public art transformation challenges the community to contemplate and stimulate a healthy dialogue.

While some residents have applauded the Cube’s new appearance as “satisfying” and “long overdue,” others have voiced nostalgia for the original design, resisting the change. Over the years, temporary alterations like festive costumes and pastel paint caused mixed reactions, showcasing the community’s attachment to the artwork.

The ongoing debate revolves around honouring the artists’ intentions and the council’s role in preserving or altering public art. Mayor Veitch advocates for maintaining the solved state. She highlights the importance of allowing artistic expression to evolve naturally without intervention.

As Maroubra grapples with this unexpected twist, the future of the Rubik’s Cube remains uncertain. Whether it will persist in its solved form or undergo further transformations, the Cube continues to serve as a focal point for artistic expression and community conversation in this beachside locale.

Published 19-December-2023

Shark Mitigation Technologies Deployed in NSW Beaches Including Maroubra Beach

Photo Credit: Randwick City Council / randwick.nsw.gov.au

Did you know that shark mitigation technologies are being trialled along Randwick’s coastline? These technologies – SMART drumlines and shark listening stations – were rolled out in February this year, along with drones flying over NSW beaches, including Maroubra Beach.

Following Randwick Council’s decision in April 2021 approving the deployment of shark mitigation technologies in cooperation with the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI), SMART (Shark Management Alert in Real-Time) drumlines and listening stations were deployed along Randwick coastlines in February 2022.

These tools were put in place in at least 21 locations, 500 metres off the coastline to catch, tag, release and monitor dangerous sharks, and will complement the two shark nets already positioned in Maroubra and Coogee.

What exactly are SMART drumlines and listening stations?

A SMART drumline is a baited hook attached to two buoys and equipped with a GPS that can send alerts to contractors when an animal takes the bait. The contract boats then go to the site to tag the shark with an acoustic tag before taking it about one kilometre offshore and finally releasing the animal.

SMART drumlines are shown to be 15 times more efficient than nets in catching target sharks and are less likely to catch non-target animals. As a result, animals caught by these tools have 99 per cent of survival as compared to 40 per cent in nets.

Listening stations, on the other hand, are buoys that are capable of sending real-time alerts to the SharkSmart app, website and Twitter account whenever a tagged shark is detected to be within 500 metres. It provides the date and time, the location where it was previously detected and where it was tagged.

See the Shark Smart map here.

“They don’t often stick to one beach and ‘lurk’,” said Dr Paul Butcher, Principal Research Scientist with the DPI who has been tracking sharks since 2015.

“They move quite vast distances. We’ve seen one white shark travel to WA and back three times. It’s covered more than 40,000kms since it was first tagged in 2016.

“The benefit of this program is that we primarily catch the species that are responsible for most serious shark bites in NSW.”

Non-lethal alternatives

Along with these technologies, drones are also being used on 50 NSW beaches including Maroubra Beach. Dr Butcher is currently working on a program that would make autonomous, image recognition software-equipped drones that could fly over beaches and detect shark presence close to the beach and alert lifeguards who would usher beachgoers to safety.

Another research project aims to eliminate the need to capture sharks altogether. The project involves some environmental DNA sampling of water columns to “detect spikes or troughs that would indicate the presence or absence of white, tiger and bull sharks.” Dr Butcher said that a one-litre sample of water is enough to determine the presence of dangerous sharks in the region.

According to International Shark Attack File data, Australia ranks second in the world when it comes to the number of unprovoked shark bites in 2021. There have been just 12 unprovoked incidents recorded in 2021 which is lower than the region’s recent five-year annual average of 16 and significantly lower than the top ranked USA’s 47 incidents.

New South Wales recorded six incidents – two were fatal – whilst Western Australia had four and one of which was fatal. Queensland and Victoria have one incident each.

Four School Pedestrian Crossing Upgrades in Maroubra Completed

Photo Credit: Randwick City Council / randwick.nsw.gov.au

Four school pedestrian crossing upgrades in Maroubra have been completed. The upgrades include raising two existing pedestrian crossings, installation of pedestrian refuge in two areas, and even a wombat crossing.

The upgrades involve converting pedestrian crossings into raised “wombat” crossings, installing pedestrian refuge islands, and installing signalised intersections at an accident blackspot location on Anzac Parade.

The various pedestrian crossing safety projects, funded under the Federal Stimulus Road Safety Program School Zones project, are situated in 29 locations near local school areas.

In Maroubra, four projects were already completed:

Loch Maree Street, Maroubra – Raise existing crossing
Fitzgerald Avenue (at Robey Street), Maroubra – Install pedestrian refuge
Fitzgerald Avenue (at Walsh Street), Maroubra – Install pedestrian refuge
Moverly Road, Maroubra – Raise existing pedestrian crossing, create wombat crossing

The pedestrian crossing safety project on Wride Street (at Duncan Street), Maroubra involving the installation of pedestrian refuge is now in its design phase.

Did you know that a study on raised platforms published in the Journal of the Australian College of Road Safety revealed that “wombat” crossings reduce casualty crashes by as much as 63 per cent?

Raised “wombat” crossings are zebra crossings placed on a raised section of the road to allow better visibility of pedestrians and encourage approaching vehicles to reduce speed. The same principle applies to raised pedestrian crossings.

A refuge island, on the other hand, is a median with a refuge section installed to help pedestrians determine when it is already safe to cross the road.

The list of Council’s school pedestrian crossings upgrade projects and their status are as follows:

Status	School area	Location and project
Completed	Clovelly Public School / St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School	Varna Street (at Arden Street), Clovelly – Install pedestrian refuge
Completed	Coogee Boy’s Preparatory School / Randwick Coogee Preschool / Randwick Public School	Botany Street (at Waratah Avenue), Randwick – Upgrade existing pedestrian refuge
Completed	Coogee Public School	Howard Street (near Lee Street), Coogee – Install pedestrian refuge
Completed	Coogee Public School / Rainbow Public School / Randwick Boy’s High School / Randwick Girl’s High School	Oberon Street & Higgs Street, Coogee – Install pedestrian refuge
Completed	Emanuel School / St Margaret Mary’s Catholic Primary School	King Street, Randwick- Install pedestrian refuge near Montifiore Randwick (Head Office)
Completed	Kensington Public School	Bowral Street (near Doncaster Avenue), Kensington – Raise existing crossing
Completed	Kensington Public School	Bowral Street, (near ANZAC Parade), Kensington – Raise existing crossing
Completed	Maroubra Junction Public School	Loch Maree Street, Maroubra – Raise existing crossing
Completed	Our Lady of the Annunciation Primary School / South Sydney High School / Champagnat Catholic College	Sturt Street (west of Paton Street), Kingsford – Install raised pedestrian (wombat) crossing
Completed	Our Lady of the Annunciation Primary School / South Sydney High School / Champagnat Catholic College	Fitzgerald Avenue (at Robey Street), Maroubra – Install pedestrian refuge
Completed	Our Lady of the Annunciation Primary School / South Sydney High School / Champagnat Catholic College	Fitzgerald Avenue (at Walsh Street), Maroubra – Install pedestrian refuge
Completed	Our Lady of the Rosary Primary School and Our Lady of the Rose College	Villiers Street (at Addison Street), Kensington – Install pedestrian refuge
Completed	Randwick Girls’ High School/ Randwick Boys’ High School	Barker Street West of Easy Street – Pedestrian Refuge
Completed	Randwick Primary School, Coogee Preparatory Primary School	Church Street (at Frances Street), Randwick – Install pedestrian refuge
Completed	South Coogee Public School	Rainbow Street (at Hendy Avenue), Coogee – Install pedestrian refuge
Completed	St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School	Arden Street, Clovelly – Raise existing crossing
Completed	St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School	Clovelly Road (at Knox Street), Clovelly – Install pedestrian refuge and kerb nibs
Completed	St Anthony’s Primary School	Arden Street (north of Clovelly Road), Clovelly – Raise existing pedestrian crossing, create wombat crossing
Completed	St Bridgid’s Catholic Primary School	Arden St & Bream St , Coogee – Pedestrian Refuge
Completed	St Margaret Mary’s Catholic Primary School	Avoca Street, Randwick – Raise existing crossing
Completed	The French School (Lycée Condorcet)	Moverly Road, Maroubra – Raise existing pedestrian crossing, create wombat crossing
Construction Phase	Brigidine College and Claremont Primary School	Perouse Road (at Aeolia Street), Randwick – Raise existing pedestrian crossing, create wombat crossing
Construction Phase	St Margaret Mary’s Catholic Primary School / Emanuel School	Carter Street (at Avoca Street), Randwick – Install continuous foot
Construction Phase	St Margaret Mary’s Catholic Primary School / Emanuel School / Randwick Primary School	Clovelly Road (at Centennial Avenue), Randwick – Install pedestrian refuge
Design Phase	Coogee Public School	Bream Street (at Mount Street), Coogee – Install pedestrian refuge
Design Phase	Emanuel School	Chepstow Street (at Stanley Street), Coogee – Install pedestrian refuge
Design Phase	Matraville Sports High School	Anzac Pde at Franklin Street (southern intersections), Matraville – Signalise multi-carriageway intersection
Design Phase	Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Primary	Dutruc Street (at Alison Road), Randwick – Install pedestrian refuge
Design Phase	South Coogee Public School	Rainbow Street (at Ellen Street), Coogee – Install pedestrian refuge
Design Phase	St Margaret Mary’s Catholic Primary School / Emanuel School / Randwick Public School	Gilderthorpe Avenue (at Frenchmans Road), Randwick – Install pedestrian refuge
Design Phase	St Mary, St Joseph Catholic Primary School / Maroubra Public School	Wride Street (at Duncan Street), Maroubra – Install pedestrian refuge

Source: Randwick City Council

The $4.365-million project is made possible through a grant awarded to Randwick City Council under the Federal Stimulus Road Safety Program School Zones project. The Australian Government committed a total of $3 billion for the Road Safety Program over three years from 2021 to 2021 and is offered to states and territories to help fast track their lifesaving road safety upgrade projects.

The program is being offered under a “use it or lose it” scheme where states and territories are to use their funding within each six-month tranche for them to receive the full allocation for their next tranche.

Drowning in Little Bay Prompts Call to Observe Increased Rock Fishing Safety Measures

Surf Life Saving Australia is calling on the public to observe increased safety measures for rock fishing following the tragic drowning of a father and his son in Little Bay near Maroubra.

Shane Daw, the general manager for coastal safety of Surf Life Australia has been advocating for those engaging in rock fishing to wear lifejackets and he believes that this should be mandated nationwide. The safety expert also wants more education on the importance of a lifejacket, including in areas where it has become compulsory.

A 40-year-old father and his nine-year-old son were believed to have been swept by the tide as they were rock fishing in Little Bay on Monday, 31 Jan. The pair were not wearing lifejackets when paramedics took them out of the water. According to reports, the dad and son were in critical condition and could not be saved.

According to Mr Daw, every council in Australia should have laws about mandatory lifejackets, as well as continued enforcement and education about its use. He said that even in councils where it has been required, many fishers are still not aware of the law, especially among recreational fishers. He believes that this safety guideline should also be taught in schools and community groups as the death toll has been climbing.

Data from Surf Life Saving Australia showed that 80 per cent of all rock fishing fatalities were not wearing a lifejacket.

Little Bay, under Randwick City Council, is considered one of the most dangerous places for rock fishing. In 2018, the Council mandated lifejacket use for rock fishers.

However, according to NSW Police, only two violations have been logged in Little Bay since its enforcement. The recent accident is the fourth rock fishing-related death in the area since 2017 and the 21st since 2001.

A review of the lifejacket policies, education, and implementation will be conducted by Randwick Mayor Dylan Parker. Meanwhile, the victims’ family and friends have launched a GoFundMe page for the mother, who painfully watched her husband and son drown in the water.