Homepage Latest News Archives

Yahoo Serious Faces Eviction Battle in Palm Beach

Photo Credit: Rolling Stone AU/NZ/Facebook

Yahoo Serious, once a name in Australian film history, now faces eviction in Palm Beach as legal and financial troubles continue to cloud his future.

Palm Beach Housing Dispute Unfolds

Former Young Einstein star, Yahoo Serious, faces eviction after allegedly moving into an elderly man’s Palm Beach home without permission. The property belongs to Charles Porter, who is now in aged care.

Serious was initially given a place to stay in a granny-flat on the property, but legal representatives claim he later took over the main house without approval.

Tribunal Hearing Set for March 19

A March 19 hearing at the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal will determine whether Serious must vacate the property. Margaret Charlton, holding power of attorney, seeks Porter’s removal to sell the home for his medical care and living expenses.

Reports indicate that Serious does not pay rent or utilities, adding to the financial strain. This is not the first time Serious has faced housing issues.

In 2020, he was evicted from a rental in Avalon Beach after failing to pay $15,000 in rent, citing financial difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Palm Beach dispute has reignited concerns over his financial stability and living conditions.

Community Divided Over the Case

The Palm Beach community is divided on the issue. Some locals sympathize with Serious for his contributions to Australian cinema, while others prioritize Porter’s welfare and legal rights. The case has drawn attention to broader discussions about property rights, elder care, and financial hardship.

Legal Battle Continues

For now, Serious remains at the Palm Beach home, awaiting the tribunal’s decision. Whether he will be forced to leave depends on the upcoming legal proceedings, which could mark yet another chapter in his struggles with housing and financial stability.

Published 14-March-2025

Palm Beach Rowing Teams Dominate Surf Boat Competitions

Photo Credit: Palm Beach Surf Life Saving Club

With their many crews and consistent wins, Palm Beach’s “Palmy Army” of surf boat rowers establishes the club as a leading force in Australian sports.

Strong Rowing Presence

The Palm Beach Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) has cemented its reputation as a powerhouse in surf boat rowing, fielding many crews across various age divisions.

“Palmy Army” reflects the club’s large, competitive surf boat rowing teams. In the 2018/2019 season, they boasted 14 rowing crews, demonstrating their commitment to the sport. This dedication to rowing is a core part of the club’s identity.

Competitive Success and Achievements

Palm Beach SLSC crews have consistently achieved success in surf boat rowing competitions. Recent results show their strength, particularly in women’s categories. At the NSW Surf Boat Metro, Regional and Interseries Championships, they secured wins in the Under 19 Metro, Under 23 Metro, and Open Female divisions.

This follows years of successful participation in both internal and external competitions. The club’s success is attributed to dedicated training, experienced sweeps who can read the water, and crews who have worked together for years.

Club Culture and Community Focus

The “Palmy Army” fosters a strong, unified, competitive spirit. The club welcomes experienced rowers and newcomers, providing opportunities for all skill levels to participate. Boat Captain Peter Spence stated that the club has built its boat section over the past 20 to 25 years, and that the love of the sport has been an integral part of Palm Beach SLSC since just after it was formed in 1921.

This passion for surf boats translates to highly fit and water-savvy individuals who serve as volunteer patrol members, contributing to beach safety. Spence noted the work put into training and the focus on improving form as important factors in the club’s success.

The Team Navy Australian Surf Rowers League 2025 Open in Coffs Harbour from February 13 to 16 provided a platform for surf boat rowers from across Australia to compete. This annual event, a favourite among surf boat rowers and sweeps, was a key lead-up to state and national championships.

The event allowed crews to fine-tune their skills and assess their competition. The recent NSW Surf Boat Metro, Regional and Interseries Championships, held at Ocean Beach on the Central Coast on February 1 and 2, highlighted the depth of surf boat competition in NSW.

Published Date 04-March-2025

Injured Seal Off Palm Beach Spotlights Marine Wildlife Dangers

Photo Credit: TikTok / @lachiiekiing

An injured seal discovered off Palm Beach has highlighted the serious threat boat strikes pose to marine wildlife along Sydney’s northern coastline.

Read: Barrenjoey Headland Gets a Revamp: New Amenities Boost Accessibility and Comfort

Sydney man Lachie King documented his discovery of the severely wounded seal floating near Palm Beach, at the northern end of Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Video footage showed the animal with a serious injury above its tail, consistent with propeller damage, and appearing severely weakened in the water.

Sydney man Lachie King documented his discovery of the severely wounded seal floating near Palm Beach.
Photo Credit: TikTok / @lachiiekiing

King reported using jet skis to keep sharks away from the vulnerable animal while attempting to secure help. Despite contacting NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, the Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans (ORCCA), NSW Maritime, and water police, King struggled “for hours” to find an authority willing to assist.

“It’s definitely done a lot of tissue and muscle damage,” King said of the seal’s injuries.

ORCCA representatives eventually arrived to photograph and assess the seal, confirming it had been struck by a boat. Though they determined the animal should be transported to Taronga Zoo for treatment, safety concerns prevented the volunteers from moving it. After nearly a day-long effort, the seal was left on its own, with its current condition unknown.

The Palm Beach incident occurs in an area known for its marine activity, with the northern beaches waterways hosting significant recreational boating traffic. This combination of busy waterways and marine wildlife creates ongoing risk for species that must surface to breathe.

Boat strikes have become an increasing concern in Sydney’s coastal waters, with Palm Beach’s position at the entry to Pittwater and its proximity to Barrenjoey Headland making it a particular hotspot for both marine wildlife and vessel traffic.

Read: The Joey: Noise Complaints Fail to Stop Palm Beach Restaurant’s Extended Hours

The Palm Beach case adds to recent incidents along Australia’s east coast, including fatal injuries to a turtle in Noosa and serious injuries to a dolphin in January, reinforcing calls for boaters to exercise greater caution in known wildlife areas.

Published 18-February-2025

Barrenjoey Headland Gets a Revamp: New Amenities Boost Accessibility and Comfort

Photo Credit: Northern Beaches Council

New amenities at Barrenjoey Headland at Sydney’s Palm Beach are taking the visitor experience to a whole new level. While the breathtaking views have always been a draw, the addition of essential facilities makes the journey far more comfortable.

Read: The Joey: Noise Complaints Fail to Stop Palm Beach Restaurant’s Extended Hours

New Amenities for a Better Experience

Visiting Barrenjoey Headland has always been a bit of an adventure. While the view from the top is absolutely worth the climb, there were often a few hurdles to deal with—like the lack of basic amenities.

Now, things have changed. At the summit of the Barrenjoey Headland walking trail, new public amenities were added. These include 3 unisex toilets, a convenient water refill station, and baby change facilities.

For those visiting with young kids, those with health needs, or anyone just looking for a bit of comfort, these upgrades make a world of difference.

Blending Design with Nature

What really stands out about these new amenities is how well they’ve been designed to fit seamlessly into the natural environment. Barrenjoey Headland is a heritage-listed site with sweeping views and an untouched, rugged landscape. The team behind the project knew that any new additions had to complement the beauty of the area.

The building uses galvanised wire mesh baskets filled with rocks, which creates a strong structure that blends in with the landscape. It preserves the integrity of the natural surroundings while still offering the modern conveniences that visitors need.

Sustainability and Native Planting

3,000 native plants have also been introduced to the area, helping to restore and protect the local vegetation. Some of these plants are even positioned on the roof of the new building.

The focus on sustainability is evident in every detail, from the choice of materials to the plants that now help support the ecosystem. Timber battened screens, painted to reflect the colours of the surrounding environment, ensuring the new structure blends naturally with its surroundings.

Smoother Trails and Safer Paths

The walk up to Barrenjoey Headland, while rewarding, has often been tricky due to uneven paths and rough sections. But that’s changing too.

The walking trail has received much-needed attention, with about 60 tonnes of crushed sandstone used to smooth out uneven areas. These changes make the path more accessible and safer for all visitors.

Temporary fencing will remain for a while, allowing the newly planted vegetation to establish itself. But already, the improvements are making the trail a lot easier to navigate.

Supporting the Community and Sustainability

The new amenities not only benefit visitors, but they also serve a broader purpose. As more people have flocked to Barrenjoey Headland over the years, the demand for better facilities has grown.

The new upgrades help manage the increased visitor numbers while also addressing environmental concerns like littering and waste, which often come with high foot traffic.

Read: Residents Push Back Against Controversial Palm Beach Development Approval

Looking to the Future

Barrenjoey Headland is stepping into a new era. Now, visitors can enjoy the experience with greater comfort and ease.

The future of Barrenjoey Headland looks bright, and with these improvements, there’s no doubt it will continue to be a must-see destination for years to come.

Published 13-Feb-2025

The Joey: Noise Complaints Fail to Stop Palm Beach Restaurant’s Extended Hours

Photo Credit: The Joey

A popular Palm Beach restaurant, The Joey, can now serve customers late into the evening after a seven-month battle with the Northern Beaches Council over its operating hours.

Read: Residents Push Back Against Controversial Palm Beach Development Approval

The Joey’s owners, Ben May and Rob Domjen, took over the historic beachfront property in August 2023 and spent over $7 million on renovations. They wanted to keep the restaurant open until 11:00 p.m., allowing diners to enjoy the sunset views with dinner and drinks.

However, Council initially denied their request to extend the operating hours past 4:00 p.m., citing noise complaints from many nearby residents.

Community Divided

Photo Credit: Mod2023/0684

The decision sparked a heated debate within the Palm Beach community. While some residents expressed concerns about potential noise and traffic, many others supported The Joey’s extended hours.

Some locals believe the restaurant is a valuable addition to the area, which has seen a decline in dining options. A long-time resident felt the decision went against the majority’s wishes. Another argued that The Joey replicates what has existed in the area for over 50 years.

When The Joey applied to change its closing time, 139 submissions were made, with most in favour of the change and only seven opposed to it.

Despite an independent planner recommending approval, the application was rejected, stating that longer operating hours would increase noise and traffic, impacting the area.

A Hard-Won Victory

Photo Credit: The Joey

Following the decision, The Joey’s owners took the matter to court. After months of wrangling and acoustic testing to address noise concerns, the court finally ruled in favour of the restaurant on Christmas Eve.

The Joey can now open year-round until 11:00 p.m. every day and host two weekly private events. Though pleased with the outcome, Mr May and Mr Domjen expressed disappointment at the limitations on private events, representing a significant potential income source. They plan to revisit this issue in the future.

Read: Ondas, A Palm Beach Project Approved After Three Years

This case even caught the attention of state officials who recently passed a bill requiring local officials to consider “vibrancy guidelines” when assessing similar applications, especially for venues far from residential areas. Mr May believes this bill will make it easier to negotiate in the future.

The Joey’s owners and staff are excited to welcome diners throughout the day and evening. MR Domjen highlighted the restaurant’s stunning sunset views and the opportunity to finally offer customers a relaxed dining experience during this beautiful time of day.

The Joey is now open from 7:00 a.m. until late, Wednesday to Sunday.

Residents Push Back Against Controversial Palm Beach Development Approval

Photo Credit: DA2022/0469

An approved development on Barrenjoey Road in Palm Beach, has drawn significant attention, with local residents voicing concerns about its potential impact on the area.

Read: Palm Beach Becomes the First Urban Night Sky Place in Australia

Photo Credit: DA2022/0469

Consent for the development at 1102 Barrenjoey Rd was granted under development application (DA2022/0469), despite strong opposition and earlier rejections by NBC’s planning panel.

Local residents have expressed frustration over the approval process, arguing that the development’s design will overshadow the heritage-listed Barrenjoey House, limit sunlight for neighbouring properties, and disrupt the coastal suburb’s aesthetic harmony.

Photo Credit: DA2022/0469

The development proposes a structure exceeding the 8.5-metre height limit outlined in the Pittwater Local Environmental Plan. The approved design includes street-facing dormer windows at 10.3 metres (21.1% over the limit), a parapet reaching 11.5 metres (31.1% over), clerestory windows at 11 metres (29.4% over), and a rooftop plant enclosure measuring 10.8 metres (27% over). These features have raised significant concerns about the bulk, scale, and harmony of the development with Palm Beach’s established character.

Photo Credit: DA2022/0469

One resident described the building as “a bulky structure that not only flaunts height restrictions but is of an ugly, pretentious post-modern design; a complete anachronism.” Many in the community feel their concerns about preserving Palm Beach’s character have been overlooked.

Council’s earlier rejection of similar plans in 2023 April had been celebrated by residents. However, their optimism waned when experts and lawyers accepted amended plans, leading to court approval via Consent Orders in 2024 September. Critics argue that the amended plans were virtually identical to the earlier rejected design, leaving key community concerns unresolved.

However, Acting Commissioner A. Thorpe’s judgment emphasised the alignment of Council and expert evidence over objections raised by residents, noting that the proposal complied with the necessary technical standards and planning controls, despite exceeding height restrictions.

Next Steps for Residents

Residents are exploring potential avenues to appeal the decision. Advocacy groups are encouraging continued community engagement in the processes to ensure greater consideration of public input in future developments. Details of the court’s judgment are available on the NSW Caselaw website.

Residents and advocacy groups remain committed to preserving the unique character of Palm Beach and addressing concerns about urban development that might set a precedent for similar projects.

Read: Locals Blame Construction Over Landslide Crushing Parked Car

This case highlights the ongoing tension between development ambitions and the preservation of Palm Beach’s coastal charm, leaving many residents questioning how to balance growth with community values.

Published 24-Dec-2024

Ondas, A Palm Beach Project Approved After Three Years

Photo Credit: DA2022/0469

Tech billionaire Robin Khuda’s Ondas is finally approved for its luxury apartment development in Palm Beach, following three years of approval process. The project will transform the former Palm Beach Fish & Chips Shop site on Barrenjoey Road into six upscale apartments with three ground-floor retail spaces.

Read: Palm Beach Becomes the First Urban Night Sky Place in Australia

The Rob Mills Architecture-designed development, located next to Barrenjoey House, faced multiple challenges since its 2021 submission. Initial plans were rejected by the Northern Beaches Local Planning Panel, with local residents voicing concerns about the building’s height, bulk, and potential impact on the area’s character.

Photo Credit: DA2022/0469

Acting Commissioner Thorpe has now endorsed the revised project, stating it will “provide much-needed amenity, commercial business, and housing” while being “respectful of the adjacent heritage item.”

Read: Locals Blame Construction Over Landslide Crushing Parked Car

The Palm Beach development adds to Ondas’s expanding portfolio of luxury residential projects. The company has completed six apartments in Manly and plans to launch a new development in Melbourne’s St Kilda in 2025.

Published 13-December-2024

Palm Beach Becomes the First Urban Night Sky Place in Australia

Palm Beach Headland has been officially designated as Australia’s first Urban Night Sky Place by DarkSky International. The 62-hectare sanctuary is also heralded as the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.

Read: Revamping Palm Beach: The Rise of The Joey

The newly minted Urban Night Sky Place (UNSP) at Palm Beach marks a significant milestone for local stargazers and conservationists. The place, incorporating Gov Phillip Park and Barrenjoey Headland, stands out due to its minimal light pollution despite its proximity to Sydney, promising pristine starry views amidst the urban sprawl.

Certified on 25 June 2024, the site has been the focus of years of community and expert preparation, involving extensive consultation with residents, local businesses, and the Northern Beaches Council.

Barrenjoey Headland and the surrounding parkland, known for their natural beauty, are now poised to serve as a responsible lighting and stargazing model. The area is well-positioned away from the city’s glare, sandwiched between the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park and the ocean, offering unparalleled views of celestial phenomena, including the Milky Way.

Community Efforts and Educational Goals

The push for Palm Beach’s designation was significantly influenced by local advocate Marnie Ogg, whose expertise in dark sky preservation through the Australasian Dark Sky Alliance played a crucial role.

Photo Credit: Dark Sky Alliance/Marnie Ogg

The Northern Beaches Council, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, and experts like astronomy lecturer Richard McDermid from Macquarie University highlighted the environmental and educational benefits of reducing light pollution.

The UNSP aims to offer breathtaking views of the stars and focuses on protecting local wildlife affected by artificial lighting, such as the area’s microbat colonies. Educational programs on the impacts of light pollution on the environment and human health are planned, hoping to foster a greater appreciation for the night sky.

Photo Credit: Northern Beaches/YouTube

Impact on Local Economy and Safety

Local businesses anticipate increased interest and economic benefits from events and tourism drawn to Palm Beach’s starry nights. Ausgrid’s involvement with new street lighting that aligns with Dark Sky requirements ensures that the area remains safe and accessible while preserving its nocturnal charm.

The operational lighthouse within Barrenjoey Headland will continue guiding ships, its functionality unimpeded by the designation, demonstrating a balance between safety and starlight.

Read: No Decision Yet on Overnight Stays at Barrenjoey Lighthouse in Palm Beach

Mayor Sue Heins expressed pride in the community’s achievement, underscoring the extensive collaborative efforts that made this designation possible. Palm Beach now joins an elite network of over 160,000 square kilometres of protected land and night skies across 22 countries, showcasing a global commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the night amidst growing urban development.

Published 11-July-2024

Locals Blame Construction Over Landslide Crushing Parked Car

Photo Credit: Facebook / Danielle Farrow-Pryke

A massive landslide caused by heavy rains struck Palm Beach this week, sending a six-tonne sandstone slab crushing a parked car.

Read: Aussie Swimmer Dean Summers Writes History with Newcastle to Sydney Swim

The silver sedan was crushed under an enormous rock on Whale Beach Road after the landslide on Wednesday. While no one was injured, the incident has left locals shaken and fuming at nearby construction projects they believe are destabilising the area.

With up to 10 days of steady rainfall forecast across New South Wales, the incident has heightened safety concerns in the coastal suburb plagued by repeated landslips during heavy weather. Many residents were quick to blame the landslide on erosion caused by extensive construction projects occurring on the area’s cliffs and slopes.

Photo Credit: Facebook / Danielle Farrow-Pryke

“Many dwellings are being built into the rock face which affects groundwater flow and increases erosion,” said a resident.

“This is the result of hacking into the land to create homes that won’t fit without destruction of the environment,” another said.

Photo Credit: Facebook / Danielle Farrow-Pryke

However, a spokesperson for the Northern Beaches Council disputed claims that construction caused the landslide, stating “there are no construction sites directly adjoining or uphill of the landslip site that could have contributed to the landslips.” The council says its geotechnical experts assessed the area and implemented precautions like a concrete catch basin.

Read: Revamping Palm Beach: The Rise of The Joey

As the severe weather system pummels the NSW coast, many in Palm Beach remain on edge about the possibility of additional landslides in the coming days. Residents are calling on authorities to restrict over-development in the erosion-prone area before further incidents put lives at risk.

Published 3-May-2024

Palm Beach Tycoon Lets Go of $25 Million Mansion Due to Excess

Photo Credit: Website / Real Estate AU

Yacht broker Ian Malouf of Ahoy Club has relinquished one of his two coveted beachfront properties in Palm Beach.

Read: DA Rejected for $13-Million Palm Beach Apartment -Block

The seven-bedroom, four-bathroom estate named Moondoggie, situated on a 617-square-metre block, recently went under offer for approximately $25 million through LJ Hooker agents David and BJ Edwards.

Photo Credit: Website / Real Estate AU

This transaction marks a significant turn since Malouf’s acquisition of the property in December 2021 for approximately $20 million from Joanna McNiven, widow of the late bond dealer John McNiven. Notably, Moondoggie had initially changed hands for a modest $2.06 million back in 1997.

The decision to part ways with Moondoggie comes amidst Malouf’s strategic real estate manoeuvres, as he had also listed his adjacent property, Gidget, for sale with LJ Hooker. Gidget, boasting a vibrant 1960s Palm Springs-inspired renovation since its acquisition for $18.6 million in early 2022, features five bedrooms, four bathrooms, and sits on a 613-square-metre plot adjacent to Snapperman Beach Reserve, adorned with leopard-patterned carpet.

Photo Credit: Website / Real Estate AU

Malouf, commenting on the rationale behind the listings, attributed the move to an excess of luxury properties within the same locale, stating, “It’s too many toys on one street.” He had initially aimed to fetch a combined sum of $65 million for both properties.

Despite the hefty price tags on Malouf’s properties, PropTrack reports that Palm Beach’s median house price has decreased modestly by 3% over the past year, coming in at $4.85 million.

However, this hasn’t deterred other high-profile transactions in the area, with the Roche family, renowned for their Nutrimetics empire, making notable acquisitions. Their purchase of a nearby weatherboard holiday home for $16 million this year, along with the $21 million acquisition of Palm Haven, the acclaimed Phillip Cox-designed residence, in 2020, further exemplifies Palm Beach’s allure among affluent buyers.

Malouf, renowned for his entrepreneurial ventures, notably selling his Dial-a-Dump business to Bingo Industries in 2018 for a staggering $577 million in cash and shares, has outlined his plans to retain his nearby double-block home, Anakela.

Photo Credit: Website / Real Estate AU

This property set the $40 million price record in late 2022, underscoring Malouf’s ongoing investment in prime real estate assets.

Moreover, Malouf and his wife Larissa have recently expanded their Double Bay compound with a $9.5 million addition to a two-lot cul-de-sac harborfront consolidation, further solidifying their footprint in Sydney’s prestigious real estate market.

With his entrepreneurial acumen and burgeoning wealth, Malouf’s ventures extend beyond residential real estate. Recently valued at $1.13 billion by The List: Richest 250 in The Australian, Malouf is venturing into the development arena with his first residential property project on the Gold Coast at Broadbeach.

REMI Developments, a Malouf family company in partnership with developer Peter Wilding, is poised to unveil a 30-level, 49-residence tower known as REMI Residences. Offering buyers the unique opportunity to experience the rental lifestyle before committing to purchase, units are priced at $2.5 million, catering to discerning buyers seeking luxury living on the Gold Coast waterfront.

Read: Local Community Group up in Arms Against Short-Stay Accommodation Plans for Barrenjoey Lighthouse

Published Date 01-May-2024

Posts navigation

Page 1 Page 2 … Page 4 Next page