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Fire Destroys Narrabeen Granny Flat, Veteran Escapes Unharmed

A Naval veteran narrowly escaped his burning granny flat in Narrabeen late Friday night when what began as odd popping sounds quickly escalated into an big fire that consumed his residence.

Fire and Rescue NSW responded to reports of a blaze on Pittwater Road near Clarke Street shortly before 9:30pm on May 9. Firefighters from the nearby Narrabeen Station arrived to find smoke and flames already rising above the single-level dwelling, prompting immediate calls for backup.

“I was going to bed when I heard popping sounds from my veranda,” said the resident, a man in his 50s. He described grabbing a fire extinguisher, but in the seconds it took to retrieve it, the fire had already grown uncontrollable. Dressed only in underwear, he fled the rapidly burning structure.

Additional crews from Mona Vale, Dee Why, and Forestville stations joined the effort while Northern Beaches Police closed sections of Pittwater Road. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus encountered challenges with water supply, needing to conduct emergency repairs on street hydrants before establishing adequate water flow.

The fire was contained by 10:00pm and fully extinguished by 11:00pm. While the resident escaped without injury and did not require medical treatment beyond blankets provided by NSW Ambulance paramedics, he expressed concern about potentially losing military memorabilia from his Royal Australian Navy service.

Investigators from NSW Police and FRNSW returned to the scene Saturday morning to determine the exact cause of the blaze, which appears to have originated from an outdoor electrical appliance on the veranda. Crews also returned to address concerns about potential airborne asbestos from the older structure.

While the main house on the property was largely saved, the granny flat sustained significant structural damage. Pittwater Road, which operated with a temporary contra flow traffic system during the emergency, fully reopened by 12:15am Saturday.

Published 10-May-2025

Man Arrested for 2011 Narrabeen Armed Robbery

Photo Credit: Facebook / NSW Police Force

A 36-year-old New Zealand-born builder has been arrested and charged for an armed robbery that occurred at a Narrabeen service station in 2011, following a recent public appeal by NSW Police.

The arrest comes after NSW Police issued a public appeal last month on April 22, 2025, exactly 14 years after the incident occurred at a service station on Pittwater Road, Narrabeen.

According to police reports, on April 22, 2011, shortly before 8:00 am, a man entered the service station store and allegedly threatened a 20-year-old male staff member with a sawn-off rifle before fleeing on foot with stolen cash. The suspect was last seen running west along Robertson Street.

Despite an extensive investigation at the time, police were unable to identify a suspect. However, following a recent review of the case and with assistance from Queensland Police, a breakthrough was made.

The suspect was apprehended at 9:30 am on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at the Acacia Ridge Hotel on Beaudesert Road in Brisbane. After his arrest, he appeared at the Brisbane Magistrates Court where an extradition order to NSW was granted.

Northern Beaches Police Detectives escorted the man to Sydney Airport on Wednesday, May 7, where he was taken to Mascot Police Station and formally charged with robbery while armed with a dangerous weapon.

The accused appeared at Downing Centre Local Court on Thursday, May 8, where he was refused bail. He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to reappear at the same court on Thursday, July 10, 2025.

This arrest highlights the persistence of law enforcement in resolving cold cases and brings hope for closure to what has been a 14-year investigation for the Northern Beaches community.

Published 8-May-2025

Narrabeen Service Station Robbery Case Reopened After 14 Years

Photo Credit: Facebook / NSW Police Force

Northern Beaches detectives have reopened the investigation into an armed robbery that occurred at a Narrabeen service station 14 years ago today.

On April 22, 2011, a man armed with a sawn-off rifle threatened a staff member at a Pittwater Road service station before fleeing with cash. Despite the significant time that has passed, police are determined to solve the case and have issued a fresh appeal for public assistance.

Photo Credit: Facebook / NSW Police Force

“Today marks the 14th anniversary of when the hold-up occurred, and we are asking for help from the public,” Inspector Mick Boutouridis said.

“Despite the passage of time we never give up on trying to solve serious offences, especially when a firearm is produced.”

The suspect, who would now be approximately 39 years old, was described as Caucasian, around 170 cm tall with a medium build and short, spiky dark hair at the time of the robbery. A distinctive barbed wire tattoo on his right upper arm may help identify him.

During the 2011 incident, the armed man was wearing a white cap, brown jumper with red patterns on the sleeve, light blue track pants, dark gloves, and dark shoes. Some of his clothing was later recovered on The Esplanade following the robbery.

The suspect was last seen running down Robertson Street after the hold-up, which resulted in no physical injuries.

“Someone must know something about this case, and we are calling on anyone who knows anything to call Manly Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000,” Inspector Boutouridis added.

Published 22-April-2025

Narrabeen Sports High School To Build 500-seat Theatre In Major Campus Revamp

Photo Credit: Narrabeen Sports High School/Facebook

Narrabeen Sports High School is set to receive a purpose-built 500-seat performing arts theatre, giving students a dedicated space to learn, rehearse and perform in dance, drama, music and entertainment production.

A Campus Renewal For Creative Learning

For the first time in its 71-year history, Narrabeen Sports High will have a dedicated performing arts centre, featuring a 500-seat theatre, two music rooms and a dance-ready rehearsal space. The new venue will also host school and community events.

*Photo Credit: Narrabeen Sports High School/Facebook*

School principal Heidi Currie described the development as a major step forward, saying staff and students are looking forward to using modern spaces that support a wide range of learning experiences. She said the upgrades will offer a more inclusive and flexible environment, especially for senior students completing HSC subjects in performance.

School Upgrades Already Underway

The theatre is part of a larger NSW-funded upgrade, which has already delivered new science labs, updated TAS rooms, refurbished amenities, a new roof, and fresh turf on the school oval previously used by a nearby primary school.

Next, 20 general learning classrooms in Block C will be rebuilt, with designs finalised and a builder to be appointed soon. The theatre, known as Block K, will go to tender in the coming months.

Community Support And Advocacy

The school’s P&C has been recognised for its strong advocacy, helping raise concerns in recent years about leaking roofs, mould and water damage, issues identified in 2023 that helped shape the current upgrade.

MP Jacqui Scruby said she advocated for improved facilities and welcomed the inclusion of performing arts, reflecting Pittwater’s creative culture and giving students more ways to express themselves.

A Year 8 student from the school’s dance program described the announcement as meaningful, saying it would finally give creative students a space equal to what already exists for sport.

A Future-focused Investment

Narrabeen’s upgrade is part of a $8.9-billion NSW schools investment. While works run through to 2027, most classrooms will be ready by mid-2025.

The school community says changes are already making a difference, with the new theatre seen as a much-needed boost for local talent.

Published 17-April-2024

Narrabeen Beach Faces Threat of Disappearance Amid Seawall Debate

The iconic Narrabeen surf breaks are at risk of vanishing within decades, as a controversial seawall at neighbouring Collaroy continues to divide the community.

The Seawall’s Impact

The construction of a seven-metre high concrete seawall, designed to protect beachfront homes from the severe erosion experienced in 2016, has sparked concerns about its long-term effects on the surrounding beaches. Coastal scientist Andrew Short predicts that the wall, while currently providing protection, will eventually lead to the permanent loss of the beach as sea levels rise and natural sand movement is disrupted.

According to Short, the natural cycle of sand deposition and erosion, which has historically maintained the beach, is now being impeded. He suggests that the wall will cause the beach to disappear more frequently, eventually leading to a point where there is no beach left, just a seawall.

Community Division and Costs

The seawall construction has placed a significant financial burden on affected homeowners, who were required to contribute 80 per cent of the costs, amounting to over $300,000 each. Some residents have expressed frustration, stating they were pressured into building the concrete wall and were denied the option of using rock revetments. One anonymous homeowner stated that they did not want a seawall, but the council did not allow them to use rocks. They were also told they had to build the wall block by block.

However, other residents believe the seawall effectively protects their properties and was built in consultation with engineers. One resident stated that the claims that the wall is causing damage are misguided and misinformed. Northern Beaches Council acknowledges the historical risk to properties built on the dunes, and they claim that the beaches have recovered from erosion over time. The council also claims that the wall is being used for shade by beachgoers.

Environmental Concerns and Future Predictions

Research commissioned by the Surfrider Foundation has raised concerns about the impact of climate change and rising sea levels on surf spots like North Narrabeen. The organisation’s chief executive, Steph Curley, highlighted the risk to the Australian beach lifestyle, stating that action on climate change is crucial to protect these areas. A coastal scientist, Andrew Short warned that the decision to prioritise private property protection over public land sets a problematic precedent for coastal management.

He stated that the rising sea levels will cause beaches around the coast to erode, and if every threatened house is protected, beaches will become rocky coasts with seawalls. Ben Short, a North Narrabeen Boardriders Club member, observed a decline in surf quality in recent years and noted the increasing temperatures in the region. Locals have also noticed changes, with one resident, Geoff, who has lived in Collaroy for 30 years, saying that sand used to wash up on Pittwater Road, but now with houses and the seawall, erosion has worsened.

Another resident, Todd Hammond, stated that the wall has meant that locals sometimes cannot walk the length of the beach. Mick, a resident of 50 years, said that beach erosion discussions have only become more prevalent in the last 15 years, and that development near sand dunes has increased the issues.

Need for National Action

Andrew Short has emphasised the need for federal intervention to address the widespread issue of coastal erosion, stating that it is a national problem that requires significant resources.

He said every state has places at risk, and that rising sea levels will worsen the situation. The council spokesperson has stated that the 2016 storms required action, and all coastal protection works have been subject to environmental impact assessments.

Published Date 26-March-2025

Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club Faces Rebuild Challenges After Fire

Photo Credit: NorthernBeachesCouncil

A fire from a paddle shop at the club’s rear destroyed the Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club’s facilities and equipment, including the Hawthorne learn-to-sail fleet, in November 2021, leaving the community sailing group to operate from temporary storage.

The Fire and Immediate Aftermath

The fire, which started on 27 November 2021, caused extensive damage to the club’s infrastructure. The destruction included the complete loss of their learn-to-sail boats, the committee boat, and many members’ sailing craft stored on the premises.

Due to asbestos in the debris, club members have been unable to access the site to salvage any remaining items. The club has relied on the generosity of other organisations to keep their programs running. The Open Skiff Association lent the club a trailer with ten boats, which allowed the Learn to Sail classes to continue. Whitworths donated eight new Opti boats to help rebuild the fleet.

Rebuilding and Council Plans

The Northern Beaches Council has taken responsibility for coordinating the rebuild. Council assessments have been conducted, and fencing and park toilets have been organised. The council is also working to provide on-site storage solutions.

The council intends to use insurance funds to cover the cost of rebuilding partially and is seeking grant opportunities to address any financial shortfalls. The council’s plan involves creating a facility with a community room and a café, which will be rented out. This vision differs from the sailing club’s desire for a simple, cost-effective clubhouse.

Council has advised the club that no funds are currently available to proceed with the building. However, the council’s website indicates that construction is expected to commence in late 2025 and take approximately 12 months, weather permitting.

Community Support and Club Activities

Despite the challenges, the Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club has continued to operate. The club celebrated its 120th anniversary on 2 February 2025 with a regatta and a community gathering. The club has received support from various groups, including the Sail GP team, who provided access to VIP facilities and arranged auctioned items. Concord Ryde Sailing Club organised a fundraiser during their Sail GP event.

Dobroyd Aquatic Club and Lane Cove 12ft SSC shared their experiences with facility rebuilds. Port Hacking Open Sailing Club allowed a club member to participate in Sail GP youth sailing events. Federal MP for Mackellar, visited the site and is assisting with grant applications.

A local business has provided discounted food for club members. The club runs Learn to Sail classes on Sunday mornings, followed by coaching for experienced young sailors and afternoon races. The club will also host the 2025 Sabot Southern Zone NSW Championship in March.

Club History and Background

The Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club has a long history, dating back to 1904 when brothers George and Thomas Sneesby began racing their skiffs on Narrabeen Lake. By 1924, they and boat shed owners Willis Douglass and Don Maclean officially formed the club.

The club experienced significant growth, particularly in the 1930s, when it had Sydney’s largest fleet of 16-footers. The club’s activities were interrupted by the World Wars and a drought. The club reached another peak in the 1970s, with nearly 100 boats racing regularly.

The club aims to provide a safe and supportive environment for sailors of all ages and abilities and operates on Sundays during the sailing season.

Published Date 17-March-2025

Ozzie Wright From Narrabeen Proves Age Is No Barrier in Surf Film

Photo Credit: Ozzy Wright/Instagram

Celebrated surfer, artist, and musician from Narrabeen, Ozzie Wright has once again made waves with an electrifying short film showcasing his unrelenting passion for surfing. The film highlights Mr Wright’s signature aerial moves and fearless approach, proving that age is just a number.

Ozzie Wright surfing legend — *Photo Credit: Ozzie Wright/Instagram*

A Surfing Icon from Narrabeen

Ozzie Wright is known for his energetic surfing style and artistic flair. He has been a major figure in the surf community for decades. A resident of Narrabeen for many years, he made a name for himself with his distinctive aerial prowess and unconventional artistry. His pen-and-ink sketches, often seen in Volcom surfwear ads, reflect the same offbeat creativity that defines his surfing.

Beyond the waves, Mr Wright is also the lead singer of the Goons of Doom. It is a punk-influenced band formed in 2004. His impact extends beyond surfing, influencing surf culture, music, and fashion. Mr Wright once had Australia’s FHM magazine ranking him among the country’s best-dressed men.

A Legacy Rooted in Narrabeen

Mr Wright’s connection to Narrabeen runs deep. His former home, located just 100 metres from the famous sand-bottom left at Loftus Street, played a key role in surf culture. There, the surf film Doped Youth was conceived and filmed in 2003-2004. Featuring legends like Kelly Slater, Tom Carroll, Mick Fanning, and Joel Parkinson, the film remains a classic among surf enthusiasts.

In 2018, Mr Wright sold his two-storey Narrabeen residence, designed in the style of Frank Lloyd Wright, and later relocated to Newport. Despite moving on, his legacy in Narrabeen’s surf scene remains intact.

Ozzie Wright Narrabeen — *Photo Credit: Ozzie Wrong*

Riding the Wind: The New Surf Short Film

The latest film featuring Mr Wright is a segment from the surf documentary Riding the Wind, directed by Zack Balang. Shot between 2020 and 2023, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the film captures the resilience and passion of surfers during uncertain times.

Mr Wright’s section in the documentary stands out, displaying his signature aerial skills and sharp, free-flowing style. Fans and fellow surfers have praised the film for its energy and inspiring message, reinforcing that surfing is a lifelong pursuit, regardless of age.

Community and Surfing Enthusiasts React

The release of Mr Wright’s segment in Riding the Wind has sparked excitement in the surfing community. His ability to maintain top-level performance while embracing his creative roots has cemented his status as a surfing icon.

For middle-aged surfers, Mr Wright’s latest performance reminds them that passion and persistence outweigh age. His journey continues to inspire a new generation of surfers and artists alike.

What’s Next for Ozzie Wright?

With this latest project, Mr Wright remains at the forefront of surf culture. Whether through music, art, or surfing, his influence continues to shape the sport and its surrounding lifestyle. As he nears his 50th birthday, Mr Wright shows no signs of slowing down, embodying the spirit of surfing that has defined his career for decades

Published 8-Mar-2025

Fat Pomelo: The New Must-Visit Asian Fusion Spot in Narrabeen

Photo Credit: Fat Pomelo

A fresh addition to the Northern Beaches dining scene, Fat Pomelo on Ocean Street, Narrabeen delivers bold Pan-Asian flavours, creative cocktails, and a stylish yet relaxed vibe.

Asian fusion dishes at Fat Pomelo Narrabeen — *Photo Credit: Fat Pomelo*

A Fresh Take on Fusion Dining

Owned by Songpol and Lyn Manoonpong, the team behind Paddington’s Chubby Cheeks and Mona Vale’s Armchair Collective, the restaurant is inspired by the pomelo, a citrus fruit symbolising prosperity and good fortune. Designed by Giant Design, the space blends bold prints, rattan textures, and vibrant lime-green accents. A sit-up bar caters to casual diners, while a private room is available for special occasions.

Fat Pomelo Narrabeen interior design — *Photo Credit: Fat Pomelo*

A Bold and Vibrant Menu

Curated by ex-Mimi’s chef Julian Luczyc-Wyhowski, Fat Pomelo’s share-style menu celebrates fresh ingredients and rich Southeast Asian spices.

Small Bites

Prawn & Shiitake Dumplings – Served in a flavourful tom yum broth
Cracking Sticky Pork Belly – Tamarind glaze, green apple salad
Pot Sticks Pork Gyoza – Crispy skirt, chilli soy vinaigrette

Hearty Mains

Beef Cheek Rendang – Slow-cooked richness, served with roti
Grilled Honey Glazed Pork Cutlet – Smoky Asian rub, eggplant nam prik
Drunken Noodles with Smoked Wagyu Brisket – Spicy kick with basil and chilli

Seafood Selections

Steamed Infinity Blue Barramundi in Lotus Leaf – Infused with turmeric, ginger, lemongrass
Chilli Soft Shell Crab – Tossed in chilli oil with eggs and shallots

VIEW MAIN MENU

Creative Cocktails & Drinks

Fat Pomelo’s drink menu features tropical, Asian-inspired cocktails, alongside premium sakes, Asian beers, and a well-curated selection of Australian wines.

Signature Cocktails

Frozen Phuket Colada – Served in a tiki glass
Ocean St Spritz – Refreshing and beachy
Passionfruit Caprioska – Zesty and tropical

VIEW DRINKS MENU

A Local Favourite

Since opening, Fat Pomelo has quickly become a standout dining spot in Narrabeen, praised for its flavour-packed dishes, stylish interiors, and top-tier service.

Locals highly recommend the Prawn & Shiitake Dumplings and Pork Belly Bao, calling them must-try dishes. The $52 Favourite Feast has also been a crowd favourite, offering generous portions and great value.

Fat Pomelo Narrabeen — *Photo Credit: Fat Pomelo*

Beyond the food, diners love the modern, Pinterest-worthy decor, relaxed coastal vibe, and friendly service. The restaurant often books out on busy nights, making reservations a smart choice for those planning a visit.

Plan Your Visit

Lunch: Friday – Sunday, 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Dinner: Tuesday – Sunday, 5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Closed on Mondays

For bookings and enquiries, visit Fat Pomelo’s website.

BOOK A TABLE

Published 22-Feb-2025

Narrabeen Sailing Club Awaits Clubhouse Replacement After Devastating Fire

Photo Credit: Narrabeen Sailing Club

Narrabeen Lake Sailing Club (NLSC) has been waiting for a new clubhouse since a fire destroyed their previous building in 2021. While insurance money has finally been received, the project faces further delays due to funding shortfalls.

Narrabeen Sailing Club Awaits Clubhouse Replacement After Devastating Fire — *Photo Credit:* *Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club/ Facebook*

The club is eager to find a solution to continue its programs and serve the community.

The 2021 fire completely devastated the NLSC’s facilities, destroying the clubhouse and its equipment. The blaze required significant effort from firefighters to extinguish. For the past three years, the club has relied on donated shipping containers for storage, a temporary measure while they awaited the promised rebuild.

Following community consultation, the Northern Beaches Council designed a new clubhouse with expanded facilities, including public restrooms, a meeting room, storage, a cafe, and a canteen. However, the project’s estimated cost has risen to over $3 million after floodproofing considerations, exceeding the $1.9 million insurance payout recently received by the council. To reduce costs, the NLSC has been exploring alternative solutions, including demountable buildings.

The NLSC proposed a demountable building design, similar to one previously used by the council at Balgowlah Oval, which they believed would be a more affordable and quicker option. The club expressed concerns about the impact of the delays on membership and volunteer numbers, highlighting the need for a functional space for meetings, training, and shelter from the weather.

The council, however, has stated that a demountable building would not be the most cost-effective option in the long term, and it would be difficult to adapt the modular design with public amenities and broader community uses planned for the new facility. Councillor Vincent De Luca acknowledged the club’s concerns about delays and increasing costs, urging the council to expedite the process.

The council has indicated that receiving the insurance funds will allow them to pursue grant opportunities to address the funding gap. They plan to meet with the sailing club to discuss the next steps.

While the Narrabeen Lake Sailing Club has managed to survive through fundraising and perseverance, they are eager to have a permanent home again to continue serving the community and growing their programs. The timeline for construction remains uncertain.

Published Date 11-Feb-2025

Narrabeen Celebrates its Youngest Hero: Saskia Rundle Trowbridge Awarded for Bravery

A Narrabeen teenager has been recognised as the Northern Beaches Young Citizen of the Year for her incredible bravery in rescuing three youths from dangerous surf conditions.

Saskia Rundle Trowbridge, a 16-year-old lifesaver from Narrabeen, received the prestigious award at the 2025 Australia Day ceremony for her outstanding courage and quick thinking during a rescue operation at Warriewood Headland in January 2024.

Saskia was part of the Warriewood Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) crew when the call came in about three teenagers stranded in treacherous conditions. Without hesitation, she volunteered to enter the surging swell to reach the youths.

A Daring Rescue

Narrabeen Celebrates its Youngest Hero: Saskia Rundle Trowbridge Awarded for Bravery — *Photo Credit:* *Northern Beaches Council/ Facebook*

One of the teenagers had suffered a head injury and possible concussion, making the rescue even more critical. Saskia demonstrated remarkable composure as she donned a life vest and plunged into the dangerous waters.

She reached the injured youth and, despite the challenging conditions, successfully guided him back to the safety of the rescue boat. Her decisive actions and leadership ensured that all three teenagers were brought back to shore safely.

Recognising Bravery and Community Spirit

The Australia Day Awards celebrate the extraordinary contributions of individuals and groups who make the Northern Beaches a better place. Saskia’s heroic efforts embody the spirit of these awards, showcasing young people’s vital role in the community—her bravery, quick thinking, and commitment to helping others inspire all.

Saskia’s story highlights the importance of Surf Life Saving Clubs and the dedication of their volunteers. Her actions have encouraged others to consider joining these clubs and contributing to community safety.

Published Date 29-Jan-2025