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Narrabeen Ambulance Station Declared Unfit As Paramedics Walk Out Over Mould, Broken Windows

Paramedics have walked out of the Narrabeen Ambulance Station, saying the 64-year-old building’s black mould, broken windows, and peeling paint have made it unsafe for staff. The once-busy Pittwater Road base, now empty, has been labelled “not fit for purpose” after years of complaints about health and safety risks.

Unsafe Conditions Spark Staff Walkout

The walkout began after paramedics and the Health Services Union (HSU) declared the Narrabeen station uninhabitable. Inside, thick mould spread across ceilings and walls, while smashed windows were covered with plywood. Paint flaked from doors, ceilings, and locker rooms. Paramedics described the building as damp and unsafe, with some calling it “the worst station in the region.”

*Photo Credit: northernbeachesadvocate/instagram*

The HSU confirmed that members formally voted to place a work ban on the site following an emergency meeting held on 10 October. Staff were directed to report instead to the Mona Vale Ambulance Station, about ten minutes north. The decision followed repeated complaints that had gone unanswered for months.

Health And Safety Concerns Deepen

The 1961-built facility is among the oldest still operating on the Northern Beaches. Paramedics say the site has long suffered water leaks, asbestos concerns, and general neglect. Security issues have also been raised, including reports of an intruder confronting paramedics inside the building several weeks before the walkout. The station had no locked gates, and fencing added earlier in the year was described by staff as “mostly cosmetic.”

Union officials said the move was necessary to protect frontline workers from unsafe conditions. NSW Ambulance management supported the temporary relocation, acknowledging that the building could not be brought up to safe standards immediately.

Government Response And Future Plans

The NSW government confirmed that a replacement ambulance station is planned for Dee Why, first announced in September 2023. Health Minister Ryan Park previously told Parliament the Narrabeen building was aged and failed to meet modern standards. NSW Health Infrastructure said the Dee Why site had been identified, with final checks underway before public announcement.

Local MP Jacqui Scruby, who represents Pittwater, said the community needs clear information on how ambulance coverage will continue during the transition. NSW Ambulance has assured residents that services will remain 24 hours a day, with Mona Vale covering the area.

Community Impact And Next Steps

Narrabeen residents have expressed disappointment that the station has fallen into such poor condition but support the paramedics’ decision to prioritise health and safety. Community groups have called for transparency about the timeline for the new Dee Why facility.

For now, the Narrabeen Ambulance Station remains closed to staff, marking the end of its six-decade service to the community. NSW Ambulance and the Health Services Union continue to consult on long-term options for staff and infrastructure upgrades across the region.

Published 14-October-2025

Man Charged Over Alleged Chainsaw Threats on Narrabeen Lagoon Trail

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A 50-year-old man will face Manly Local Court this week after allegedly threatening two walkers with a chainsaw on the Narrabeen Lagoon Trail.

The incident occurred on the morning of Sunday, 2 November, when two people in their 20s were walking near Pipeclay Point. According to NSW Police, the pair encountered a man with a battery-powered chainsaw who allegedly activated the tool and made threatening gestures towards them.

The walkers quickly left the area and contacted police from Jamieson Park on The Esplanade in Narrabeen, where they provided officers with a description of the man.

Officers from Northern Beaches Police Area Command followed the trail to a makeshift campsite, where they located the 50-year-old man in possession of a chainsaw. He was arrested at the scene and transported to Manly Police Station.

The man, who has no fixed address, has been charged with being armed with intent to commit an indictable offence and intimidation with intent to cause fear of physical or mental harm. He was refused bail and is scheduled to appear before Manly Local Court on Wednesday, 12 November.

Police also seized a white 2015 Ford Fiesta that had been parked in bushland adjacent to the trail near the man’s camp. The vehicle had reportedly been noticed in the area in recent weeks.

According to police, the location has previously been used as an unofficial campsite, and there have been prior reports of walkers being threatened on the trail. Northern Beaches Police have contacted Northern Beaches Council to explore options for preventing unauthorised vehicle access to the area.

The charges carry maximum penalties of seven years and five years imprisonment respectively.

Published 11-November-2025

Narrabeen Lagoon Entrance Clearance Underway to Protect Homes and Beach

The Narrabeen Lagoon entrance is undergoing clearance works to help reduce flood risk and maintain one of Sydney’s most important waterways. The project, which started in early September 2025, involves relocating large volumes of sand around the Ocean Street Bridge area.

Read: Narrabeen Lagoon Tip-off Stops Netting Of Hundreds Of Fish

Between 22,000 and 30,000 cubic metres of sand will be removed from the lagoon mouth. Most of the sand is being transported by truck to Collaroy-Narrabeen Beach to help replenish the shoreline, while a smaller portion is being placed at Lagoon Street Reserve. The effort is part of the ongoing Narrabeen Lagoon Entrance Management Strategy, which seeks to balance environmental management with community use.

Photo credit: Facebook/Northern Beaches Council

For locals and visitors, the works bring temporary changes to the area. Birdwood Park carpark, on the southern side of the Ocean Street Bridge, is closed while machinery operates. Trucks are accessing the beach via Mactier Street and the Collaroy Beach Reserve. Noise, dust, and pedestrian detours are being carefully managed, with contractors working closely with Northern Beaches Council to minimise disruption.

Walking tracks, fishing spots, picnic areas, and open spaces make the lagoon a popular destination for families, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers. The clearance works are aimed at protecting these community assets by improving water flow through the lagoon entrance and reducing the likelihood of flooding in nearby streets.

Sand naturally accumulates at the entrance over time, which can affect water movement and local safety. By clearing the entrance, experts hope to maintain a stable waterway that supports wildlife, recreational activities, and surrounding residential areas.

The project is supported by the Commonwealth Government through the NSW Flood Recovery and Resilience Grant Program. Northern Beaches Council has stated that the works are guided by expert advice and careful planning, ensuring both environmental protection and public safety.

Read: Narrabeen Beach Faces Threat of Disappearance Amid Seawall Debate

Once the sand has been redistributed to the beach and Lagoon Street Reserve, the project will have improved the flow at the lagoon entrance and reduced the risk of flooding in the area. Works are expected to finish before the December school holidays, weather permitting.

Residents are encouraged to plan for temporary detours and to exercise caution around the work zones. Council continues to provide updates on lagoon management and progress of the clearance works via its website.

Published 14-October-2025

New Performance Hall and Upgrades Progressing at Narrabeen Sports High

Photo Credit: NSW Gov

Upgrades at Narrabeen Sports High School are progressing, with classroom refurbishments underway and a new 400-seat performance hall set for construction in 2026.

Ongoing Works at Narrabeen Sports High

Narrabeen Sports High School is undergoing extensive upgrades as part of a multi-stage education infrastructure program. The project began in mid-2023 and is scheduled for completion by early 2027.

The works form part of a $9 billion state-wide investment to deliver new and upgraded public schools.

Classroom Refurbishments Underway

Refurbishment of 20 classrooms in Block C is progressing, with the first stage—nine classrooms and a staff room—expected to finish by the end of Term 3, 2025. The remaining classrooms will be completed by mid-December 2025.

Preparations for the Block K upgrade are also in place. Work will begin in November 2025 after HSC exams, led by NACS Constructions NSW Pty Ltd.

New Performance Hall Plans

Concept designs for the school’s new performance hall were released in August 2025, with a community information session held on 28 August. The hall will feature a large stage, rehearsal and backstage areas, a control room, change rooms, and accessible entry.

It will include tiered seating for about 400 guests and is designed to support performances, exhibitions, and workshops. Construction is expected to begin in early 2026 following completion of environmental and tender processes.

Completed and Additional Improvements

Previous stages have delivered upgrades to technological and applied studies classrooms, science labs, staff amenities, and roofing across multiple blocks.

Further enhancements include two acoustically treated music rooms and a smaller performance space with a sprung wooden floor.

Narrabeen school upgrades — *Photo Credit: NSW Gov*

Next Steps

Refurbishment works in Block C will continue through the spring holidays. Demountables will be removed in December 2025 to prepare for main construction.

Construction hours are from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays, with no work on Sundays or public holidays unless advised.

The upgrade aims to provide modern facilities for students while minimising disruption to learning.

Published 14-Oct-2025

Narrabeen Lagoon Tip-off Stops Netting Of Hundreds Of Fish

Photo Credit: NSW Fisheries/Facebook

Two men in their 40s were stopped and questioned at Narrabeen Lagoon when they were found with a long, monofilament net and more than 270 fish after a young local raised the alarm.

How The Tip-off Unfolded

Late on Sunday, 29 June 2025, NSW Fisheries officers received a report of a long net being set in the lagoon. NSW Fisheries posted details of the case on 25 August at 8 am. Officers re-directed a patrol from more than 50 kilometres away.

A young Northern Beaches resident saw two men set a long net across the water after dark and phoned Broken Bay Water Police at Church Point. The information went to NSW Fisheries officers on patrol. Officers located two persons of interest at their vehicle and found a large quantity of fish. Further checks uncovered more fish nearby and a monofilament net hidden in bushland.

What Officers Found

Officers first received a report of a suspected 200 metre set in the water. They later seized a 160 metre monofilament net. More than 270 fish were allegedly taken, across several species, including mullet, sand whiting, yellowfin bream, dusky flathead, silver biddies and luderick.

Officers recorded 34 fish of a prohibited size. NSW Fisheries said the haul points to after-hours netting that targeted a sheltered public lagoon used by families, paddlers and shore-based anglers.

Alleged Offences And Penalties

NSW Fisheries alleges the men used an illegal net, possessed fish taken illegally, possessed fish of a prohibited size and held species in excess of possession limits. NSW Fisheries said briefs of evidence are being prepared for prosecution consideration.

On-the-spot fines start at about $500 per offence for unlawful net use, possessing undersized fish and exceeding limits. If the matter goes to court under the Fisheries Management Act, higher penalties apply.

Why This Matters For The Community

NSW Fisheries said community intelligence helps them target patrols and protect local fish stocks. Anglers who commented on the agency’s post said large illegal hauls reduce future catches for everyone.

The agency urged residents to report suspected illegal fishing with clear details such as time, location and what was seen. Reports go to the Fishers Watch phoneline on 1800 043 536 or through the NSW DPI online form.

Published 08-September-2025

Narrabeen Sports Academy To Rebuild $6.7m Athletics Track

Photo Credit: NSW Gov

Narrabeen will see major facility upgrades, with a $6.7 million rebuild of the Sydney Academy of Sport athletics track and a new performing arts hall at Narrabeen Sports High School.

Athletics Track Closure and Impact

The Sydney Academy of Sport athletics track in Narrabeen has been closed since December 2023 after water seepage caused the synthetic surface to bubble and loosen, making it unsafe. Around 800 athletes, including those preparing for elite competitions, have had to travel to other venues such as the Central Coast to continue training. A temporary six-lane grass track was set up on the site’s football ovals but has not replaced the demand for a full facility.

Rebuild Details and Timeline

The athletics facility will be replaced at a cost of $6.7 million. The new track will meet World Athletics standards and feature a moisture-resistant surface, new asphalt sub-base, and upgraded drainage and stormwater systems. Designs are scheduled for completion by October 2025, with a builder to be appointed in November. Construction is planned to start in December 2025, and the track is expected to reopen between June and September 2026.

athletics track — *Photo Credit: Narrabeen Sports High School/Instagram*

Local Effect

The closure has disrupted school carnivals, community events and athletics club activities, with some organisations reporting lower participation numbers. Despite the setback, temporary arrangements have kept some athletes training in Narrabeen until the new facility is complete.

Narrabeen Sports High School Upgrades

In addition to the athletics track project, Narrabeen Sports High School will gain a new performing arts hall. Designs released in September 2025 show a facility with tiered seating for about 400 people, a large stage, backstage band room, rehearsal areas, and a professional control room. Accessibility features include a lift and a covered foyer. Construction is set to begin in early 2026.

Other School Improvements

The performing arts hall follows earlier upgrades at the school, including refurbished science laboratories, chemical storerooms, and technical and applied studies classrooms. Further works underway include two acoustically treated music rooms and a smaller performance space with a sprung wooden floor.

Looking Ahead

The athletics track rebuild is targeted for completion by September 2026, restoring a critical venue for elite and community sport on the northern beaches. The new performing arts hall at Narrabeen Sports High will begin construction in 2026, continuing staged improvements that aim to enhance student learning and creative opportunities.

Published 9-Sep-2025

Free Solar Advice Comes to Tramshed Narrabeen for One-Day Roadshow

Photo Credit: Northern Beaches Council

Locals curious about cutting their power bills can now get free, practical advice on solar, batteries and home energy efficiency, right at the Tramshed Narrabeen. The Council’s Solar & Energy Roadshow is stopping by the popular community hub, offering residents a chance to speak face-to-face with sustainability experts in a casual, drop-in setting.

Helping Households Understand Their Options

Thinking about going solar? Drop by the Tramshed Arts and Community Centre on Tuesday, 12 August, between 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm for a free info session run by Northern Beaches Council. With energy prices climbing, the event offers an easy way to learn about rooftop solar, home batteries, rebates, and smarter appliance use.

*Photo Credit: Northern Beaches Council*

Council sustainability officers will be there to answer your questions, no appointment needed, just walk in when it suits you. Bring your latest electricity bill or any solar quotes for tailored advice. Whether you’re just curious or ready to make the switch, this relaxed session is a great place to start.

Making Sense of Rebates and Incentives

Government rebates can be tricky, but Council staff at the Tramshed event will help simplify the options. Right now, incentives can slash the upfront cost of solar by about 35%, with fresh battery subsidies also rolling out.

The event aims to help residents figure out if solar suits their home or apartment and how to access support. There’s also good news for those in strata buildings, shared solar grants of up to $150,000 are available to cover half the cost. This state-funded program runs until December 2025 or until the funding pool is exhausted.

A Broader Push Toward Sustainability

This roadshow is part of the Northern Beaches Council’s broader climate action plan to boost solar adoption across the region. With about 22,400 local homes already using solar, cutting an estimated 144,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually, the impact is equivalent to taking 44,000 petrol cars off the road.

The Council aims to have half of all suitable homes powered by solar by 2030. Beyond the roadshow, locals can access free 20-minute phone consults, webinars, or in-person advice through the Solar Conversations program. These services are designed to make the switch to solar simple, practical, and budget-friendly.

Why the Tramshed Session Matters

The Tramshed Narrabeen is a well-known community centre, and its central location makes it easier for residents to drop in for information that could save them hundreds, or even thousands, on their annual energy bills. As the demand for renewable energy grows, events like these give the community a local, trusted space to ask questions, get guidance, and explore greener living options without sales pressure.

Whether people are just starting to think about solar, or already collecting quotes, the Council wants to make sure they have access to independent advice that helps them move forward.

Tramshed Narrabeen

ANZAC Village Redevelopment Plans Progress in Narrabeen

Photo Credit: RSL LifeCare

RSL LifeCare has proposed a long-term redevelopment of ANZAC Village in Narrabeen, aiming to modernise housing and care services for veterans and seniors.

Historic Site Set for Major Upgrade

Founded in 1939 by two returned servicemen, ANZAC Village in Narrabeen has long supported veterans through housing and aged care. Operated by RSL LifeCare, the village has expanded over time to include retirees from civilian backgrounds, with approximately 1,600 residents and more than 800 staff across a mix of independent and supported accommodation.

The 86-year-old site currently includes around 700 retirement residences, from studio apartments to freestanding homes, and four nursing facilities housing over 300 people.

Masterplan Targets Modern Living and Care Needs

In June 2025, RSL LifeCare announced its first site-wide masterplan for ANZAC Village, which will be delivered in stages over 10 to 15 years. The plan includes demolishing outdated buildings and replacing them with modern housing and new community-focused infrastructure.

Key features include:

A Lifestyle and Wellness Precinct
A Main Street and Health Precinct
Linked green spaces, walking trails and commemorative areas
Updated workspaces and facilities to support staff

The development responds to both the condition of current facilities and broader regional needs. Sydney’s Northern Beaches is facing a shortfall of approximately 1,500 senior homes, with demand growing by 200 dwellings annually. Across New South Wales, an aged care workforce shortage of 65,000 workers is projected over the next decade.

Community Involvement in Design Process

The masterplan has been shaped with feedback from residents, staff, and the broader community. RSL LifeCare is encouraging continued participation through its Have Your Say portal and is forming a Community Reference Group to guide the planning process.

The village drew national attention through the ABC program Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds, which showcased intergenerational interaction at the Narrabeen facility.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Next Steps for the Redevelopment

A State Significant Development Application is expected to be lodged with the NSW Government by late 2025. An on-site Community Information Hub has also been established at the Gallipoli Building in Narrabeen, open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for those seeking more information or wanting to provide input.

The plan aims to maintain the site’s legacy while delivering a safe and connected community tailored to the changing needs of veterans and older Australians.

Published 21-July-2025

Narrabeen Firefighters Raise Over Half a Million for Kids with Burns

Photo Credit: Fire NSW

Narrabeen firefighters have helped raise more than $523,000 to support children with severe burns at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead.

Local Station, Statewide Impact

On 26 June, Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell and firefighters from Narrabeen presented a record-breaking $523,000 to the Burns Unit at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead. The donation is part of decades-long fundraising efforts by FRNSW crews across the state.

Narrabeen firefighters have taken a leading role, especially in the annual five-day Beat The Burn challenge held in Jindabyne. They also take part in the City2Surf, running the full race in full gear to raise awareness and funds. These community-driven efforts have helped contribute to more than $4.6 million raised since the campaign began.

Where the Money Goes

The money goes to the Burns Unit at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, managed by the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation. Past donations have helped hire specialist staff, buy advanced laser equipment, and train regional nurses.

The 2025 funds will support a major refurbishment of the unit, due for completion in 2026. The upgrade includes more space and improved treatment facilities. This will allow children with serious burns to receive faster and more comfortable care.

Community Charity Grows

Last year, FRNSW formalised its fundraising efforts by registering Firefighters For The Burns Unit Inc. as a charity. This allows the public and businesses to make tax-deductible donations.

Their campaign includes creative touches like turning old fire helmets into donation boxes. They’ve also launched the Sydney Sick Kids fund to help children with lesser-known conditions receive proper care.

A Station with Heart

The Narrabeen fire crew is known not just for emergency response but for their commitment to helping children recover. Through fundraising and community events, they’ve played a key role in a statewide effort.

Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell said this kind of work reflects FRNSW’s broader mission to support people beyond the crisis. Narrabeen’s efforts show the impact one local crew can have when a community comes together.

Published 11-July-2025

Sydney Academy of Sport to Receive Major Track Rebuild Following Safety Closure

A key athletics facility on Sydney’s Northern Beaches is finally set for a full rebuild, after being shut down due to safety concerns. The Sydney Academy of Sport in Narrabeen will receive $6.7 million to replace its damaged synthetic athletics track, giving local athletes a safer and more reliable space to train and compete.

Track Closure Sparks Strong Community Response

The Sydney Academy of Sport track was closed in December 2023 due to water damage and structural issues that made it unsafe. The closure disrupted training and events for over 800 athletes, including school groups and Little Athletics clubs.

As the only World Athletics–compliant track north of the Harbour Bridge, its loss left many without a local alternative. A temporary grass track was set up, but it wore down quickly and couldn’t withstand wet weather. Families were forced to travel long distances to other facilities, adding pressure to local sport programs.

New Track to Meet International Standards

The rebuild will feature a new synthetic track on a strengthened asphalt base, with improved drainage to prevent water damage. It will meet World Athletics standards, making it suitable for elite training and events. Engineers are also considering raising the track above its current flood-prone level.

The project is part of a broader $8.3 million upgrade to the Sydney Academy of Sport, which includes infrastructure improvements. Designs will follow updated environmental and material guidelines to ensure long-term durability.

Local Representatives Welcome the Rebuild

Local and federal representatives began pushing for funding in early 2024, citing the track’s importance to youth sport and community life. They said the Sydney Academy of Sport was more than a training venue, it was a space where young people built confidence and stayed active.

Athletics NSW supported the investment, describing it as a timely move to address long-standing infrastructure issues. The organisation had already identified Narrabeen as a high-priority site in its statewide review. Its closure had highlighted the urgent need for upgraded, accessible facilities in the region.

What Happens Next

The Office of Sport is now finalising designs, engineering plans and a construction timeline, though no start date has been confirmed. Updated turf and material guidelines will take effect from August 2025 to meet environmental standards.

While construction is underway, the grass track and nearby fields will stay open but with limited use. Community groups have been advised to expect some disruptions during this time. Once complete, the upgraded facility will restore access to a safe, high-quality athletics hub for Sydney’s northern suburbs.

Published 03-July-2025