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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

Fishing Spots in Narrabeen Get Cleaner with New Tangle Bins

Photo Credit: NBC

The NBC is addressing fishing waste in Narrabeen by installing new tangle bins, ensuring clean and safe fishing spots for all.

Fishing-related litter has been identified as a key environmental threat across New South Wales (NSW). Discarded fishing tackle, such as fishing lines, hooks, lures, traps, and nets, poses a significant risk to aquatic habitats and wildlife. Birds, turtles, platypuses, seals, and other aquatic animals can be injured by becoming entangled in or ingesting this waste.

New Initiative

To combat this issue, the NBC, in collaboration with OzFish and the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA), has taken a proactive step by installing new fishing tangle bins in several popular fishing spots, including Narrabeen. This initiative aims to provide fishers with the means to properly dispose of their unwanted tackle, thereby keeping these areas clean and safe for both people and wildlife.

The new tangle bins have been installed at the following locations in Narrabeen:

Narrabeen Lagoon Bridge area

Berry Reserve, Narrabeen

What Can Be Disposed of in the Tangle Bins

The tangle bins are designed to collect various types of fishing waste, including:

Fishing lines
Rinsed bait packaging
Hooks
Lures
Sinkers
Swivels

The collected waste will be monitored and audited to assess the types of fishing waste being captured. Where possible, the waste will be recycled through the OzFish Tackle Loop program.

Community Sentiment

The local community has shown positive reactions to the installation of the tangle bins. Many fishers appreciate the convenience and environmental benefits, noting that these bins help maintain the cleanliness and safety of their favourite fishing spots.

By using the tangle bins, fishers in Narrabeen and other Northern Beaches locations can contribute to a cleaner and safer environment. The NBC, together with OzFish and the NSW EPA, continues to monitor and improve this initiative to ensure its effectiveness in protecting local wildlife and aquatic habitats.

Published 23-Jan-2025

Emergency Response Beacons Boost Safety at Narrabeen Beach

Photo Credit: NSWSLS

Volunteer lifesavers in Narrabeen have been bolstered by new Emergency Response Beacons (ERBs), which are helping to cut down critical rescue times on unpatrolled beaches along the New South Wales coastline.

The rollout of ERBs, including one at Narrabeen Beach, is part of a broader $16-million initiative to install lifesaving technology at identified drowning hotspots over four years.

Since December 2024, lifesavers across the state have responded to more than 1,000 rescues, and the Narrabeen beacon is a vital addition to these efforts as beach attendance surges during the summer months.

Lifesaving Technology in Action

The ERB at Narrabeen, along with 52 others installed across the NSW coastline, connects beachgoers directly to the Surf Life Saving NSW State Operations Centre (SOC). When activated, the beacon provides an immediate communication link between a distressed person and a State Duty Officer, who can quickly assess the situation and dispatch appropriate resources.

These resources include jetskis, inflatable rescue boats, drones, or helicopters. Cameras installed on the beacons further assist by giving operators real-time visuals of the scene.

The ERB network is particularly significant for locations like Narrabeen Beach, where lifesavers are not present year-round. State Operations Centre officials have stated that these beacons ensure even remote areas are covered, providing lifesaving measures previously unavailable in unpatrolled spots.

Community-Focused Safety

Narrabeen’s inclusion in this program highlights the community-focused approach of the initiative. Surf Life Saving NSW emphasised that no drownings have occurred on patrolled beaches during operational hours, underscoring the importance of swimming between the red and yellow flags. The ERBs aim to extend these safety measures to areas beyond the reach of routine patrols, enhancing the overall safety of the coastal community.

To complement these efforts, NSW has also delivered 14 jet skis to various locations across the state this summer, with 67 expected to be deployed over the next four years. The total investment includes a record $72 million commitment to Surf Life Saving NSW, supporting lifesaving programs and technology advancements.

Expanding Coverage

The 53 ERBs currently in place span a variety of high-risk locations, including other Northern Beaches such as South Curl Curl and Fisherman’s Beach. These locations were selected based on data identifying frequent incidents, as well as their status as unpatrolled or remote beaches.

Future expansions will see an additional 15 ERBs installed in 2025, with new-generation features like flotation devices and high-definition live-streaming capabilities. These upgrades are expected to further reduce emergency response times and enhance public safety at beaches statewide.

Published 23-January-2025

Narrabeen North Public School Students Enjoy Early Upgrade Completion

Photo Credit: DanielMokkheyMLC/ Facebook

Students at Narrabeen North Public School are settling into their revamped learning environment much sooner than anticipated following the early completion of major school upgrades.

The extensive refurbishment project has delivered a range of improvements across the campus.

The upgrades, which encompassed various areas of the school, included revamping science labs, prep rooms, and chemical storerooms and replacing roofs across several blocks.

Student and staff amenities received a much-needed refresh, while the technology and applied studies classrooms were also modernised. Furthermore, existing classrooms underwent refurbishment to provide improved learning environments.

The project team has been working closely with the school’s leadership to ensure the upgrades align with the school’s needs. Designs for further improvements, including a refurbished STEM room and upgraded woodwork, textile and computer rooms, have been finalised. A tender for this project stage was awarded in August 2024, with work commencing soon after.

Plans are also in place to upgrade 20 classrooms in another block. Construction is expected to begin towards the end of 2024, primarily during the December school holidays. The school’s new PA system is currently being installed and will be operational shortly.

The final stage of the project will see the removal of temporary classrooms from the sports oval in September 2024, once essential services have been disconnected. This will open up valuable outdoor space for students to enjoy.

This significant investment in Narrabeen North Public School is part of a broader commitment to providing high-quality education facilities for students nationwide.

The 2024-25 NSW Budget allocated a record $8.9 billion for new and upgraded schools, ensuring that growing communities have access to world-class learning environments.

Published Date 01-October-2024