Beaches COVERED. Issue 35: Summer Chillin' by beachescovered

BEACHES THE KIDS ARE CHILLIN’. WE’RE DRINKING WINE, EATING CHEESE AND CATCHING RAYS. YOU?

CHILLIN’ Hug me, Love me, Hold me.

Summer vibes are here and so are we… bringing you fresh grooves from The Spit, Terrey Hills and Avalon. Cruising out of Sydney to explore the magic of Gerringong and the delicious South Coast. And amidst it all, we found time to savour coffee and chase sunrises and sunsets from some of the best vantage points along The Beaches. All this so you can spend your Summer Chillin’. Enjoy reading our epic mag. We loved making it for you! Proudly serving the Northern Beaches, Sydney, Australia – since 2014.

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chillinǓ issue 35

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6. The Drinks of Summer: Manly Spirits 8. Summer Events 10. Music & Gigs 12. BAD: Groundswell 2023 Wrap-up. 14. BAD: History and Future of Music 16. Brookvale Surf Club: Funky Fresh Feels 18. The GoodBar: Goodradigbee 20. Harvey Galleries Turns 30 22. Glen Street Theatre: 2024 Lineup 24. Coastrek:The Best Walk You’ll Ever Take 26. Where is the Vision?: Mark Smith 27. James Grifﬁn: Manly is Bouncing Back 28. Colourmaker: Sustainable Painting 30. Queenwood: Heart and Mind 32. St Augustine’s College: An Awesome Journey 34. John Colet School: Getting Your Hands Dirty

HOT SUMMER FINDS 36. Rockstaring Cover Models 37. Cabana, Sunplay Australia and BeachFox 38. Energy Electric Bikes, Salvage Australia and Sway Home 39. Beddie 40. Long Reef Surf Co.

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Summer 2023/24

GETAWAY

42. Gerringong, Gerroa and Kiama 45. The Charm of Greta 46. Sundara Beach House 49. Norfolk & Co 50. Natural Necessity Surf Shop 51. Easts Beach Holiday Park

The Spit

AND SURROUNDS 72. Experience a stretch of boating bliss, featuring marinas, restaurants and water-based businesses at the renowned Spit Bridge – the gateway to The Beaches.

Sunrises Terrey Hills & Sunsets 53. Zubi Sunrise 54. Summer Sessions at Q 55. Manly Paciﬁc Staycation 56. Summer at the Manly Skiff Club 58. Hugos: A Sunset Feast

78. Terrey Hills got its name from the original landholders, Samuel Hills and Obediah James Terrey. Now, it serves as a go-to spot for supplies, gardening pleasures and delicious delicacies.

AvalonVillage 59. Stella Blu: Love and Laughter 60. Bottega 60. Belgrave Cartel 61. Ormeggio at the Spit: Tradition Meets Trendy 62. Long Lunch at Chiosco 63. Cavallino: Time to Celebrate 63. Ciccia 64. Forestway Fresh: Family of Foodies 65. Pilu at Freshwater: They’ve Done It Again

66. Finding Your Inner Warrior 67. Sporty Spice at °CYRO 69. Holiday Harmony with David Lee 70. New Coach at NS Swim School 71. Joanna Newham

86. The jewel of the north, where trend meets beach chillin’ vibes and sophisticated chic, where you’re just around the bends but a thousand kilometres from care.

BEACHES COVERED. ISSUE 35: SUMMER 2023/24 Circulation: 12,500 PUBLISHER: John Vickery CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Megan Vickery EDITOR: Donna Armstrong SUB EDITOR: Lucy Cheek JOURNALISTS: Lauren Goldsack, and Samara Robertson SALES + DISTRIBUTION: Sal Burton COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: Ben Symons CONTRIBUTORS: Jill Healy-Quintard, Mark Gibson, Mark and Joseph Smith. If you would like to contribute to Beaches COVERED. email us at: info@allbasescovered.com.au

MARKETING PARTNERSHIPS: << Scan for contact details. John Vickery: 0412 415 657 CONNECT WITH US BeachesCOVERED

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TAG US #beachescovered @beachescovered Beaches COVERED. / All Bases Covered Phone: 0412 415 657 / www.beachescovered.com.au info@allbasescovered.com.au While all care has been taken, some information in this magazine may have changed since its publication. All Bases Covered regrets it cannot accept liabilities from errors or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse, withdraw or amend all advertisements without explanation. Reproduction in whole or part of this publication is prohibited under copyright laws. All advertisements must comply with the Trade Practices Act as such all responsibility and liability falls on the advertising company to comply. The Publisher will not be liable for any damage or loss caused through late publication, error or omission of an advertisement. The views expressed in articles or advertisements are not endorsed by the Editor or Publisher. No responsibility is accepted by the Editor or Publisher for the accuracy of any information contained within any article or advertisement. All articles throughout the magazine are to be deemed sponsored content for the purposes of showcasing what the business operator is providing as a service or product. As such, All Bases Covered will not be liable for any damage or loss caused through interpretation, error or omission of editorial content. Published by All Bases Covered Pty Ltd. www.allbasescovered.com.au. Ph: 0412 415 657 Email: info@allbasescovered.com.au. ABN 46 075 758 548. © Copyright 2023/24 All Bases Covered Pty Ltd

cover COVER PHOTOGRAPHER:

Ben Symons 0438 885 919 @bensymonsphoto bensymonsphotography.com

This information contained within Beaches COVERED. is given in good faith, obtained by from sources believed to be accurate. All information contained herein is gathered from sources we believe to be reliable. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Publishers, All Bases Covered, who do not expect or invite any person to act or rely on any statement, opinion or advice contained herein. We cannot guarantee its accuracy and interested persons should rely on their own enquiries.

Beaches COVERED. has been printed using sustainable paper certiƓed against the PEFC chain of custody standard. Please recycle responsibly.

Sunsets & Sundowners Chasing sunshine, embracing sunsets: Our deck, your Summer paradise! CNR EAST ESPLANADE & STUART ST, MANLY • (02) 9977 3322 • WWW.MANLYSKIFF.COM.AU Social: Music, Arts & Community

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

This issue, Summer Chillin’, is a fun lover’s dream: coastal getaways, village shopping, sunrises and sunsets, new bars, Italian restaurants, sunhats, sundowners and beautiful beach days. We’ve packed a lot into this issue – so, kick back after the mad rush of festive season, settle in on your hammock and grab some afternoon rays for a good ol’ snoozy read. Welcome to Summer Issue 35: Chillin’ 2023/2024.

he Beaches COVERED. crew took a trip down to Gerringong to check out an escape not too far from Sydney and to discover how much the South Coast rocks. It’s a must for your calendar for 2024.

The photographer’s little helper!

Gerringong’s got beautiful beaches, rolling hills, epic surf breaks, fabulous shops and places to stay. Also worth a visit is the Natural Necessity Surf Shop. It’s as historic as the wax brand that started it all, Honey Surf Wax. Back on the home deck, Harvey Galleries is celebrating 30 years of art this season; plus, the BAD crew are chatting about the music scene and the NSW Government’s push for the 24/7 economy, as well as giving us a wrap-up on GroundSwell’s success in October.

Also, Mark from The Perfect Space is building houses on The Beaches with an advanced proven system. And for all your paving, tiling and designer pool needs, have a chat with Nathan from Miller Stone & Co. and Dean from Focus Pools. They bring expertise and coolness to enhance your outdoor spaces.

OUR MODELS

There are three more new venues in Brookvale: we welcome the sophisticated elegance of the GoodBar by Goodradigbee, Brookvale Surf Club’s cool vibes, and Jake is back with Chubb’s 2.0.

Check out our cover: our mini-models – Ruby, Scarlett, Ivy, Ruby and Eva – enjoying a morning of fun while showcasing Long Reef Surf Co. gear. We’ve also got magical sunrises and sunsets to experience, plus tasty ‘Italian Job’ feasts and delicacies. Sporty Spice drops into °CYRO, and witness the

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Or, if James Bond is more your thang, visit the Avalon store where the curator of ﬁne furnishings, Diana from Sway Home, has revitalised Paciﬁc Green, a brand born and bred in Avalon. It’s comfort and sustainability built into one. Lastly, Marina from Harvest Nursery discusses your Summer garden haven and how treating the animals with kindness starts with the bush food they need.

Sign up your crew to participate in Coastrek’s walk for the Heart Foundation next May, and read about Colormaker, who is racking up the environmental initiative awards with an onsite battery that is storing and driving the business while pouring excess power back into the grid. We also have HOT SUMMER FINDS for summer fun. Think bags, beach tents, cruisey bikes, sunscreen, comfy armchairs… and the crew at Long Reef Surf Co. have all the gear your need to get into the water.

We also got inspired by the beautifully designed, built and landscaped private residence crafted by the formidable ‘Gerringong Three’ of Robertson Collectif, ArtHouse Projects and Formed Gardens. Located at Jaspers Brush, just south of Berry, this project showcases their collective expertise in creating a stunning living space for their client.

It all makes for thirsty work – so why not mix yourself a Manly Spirits G&T and chill out this Summer, relaxing and unwinding with our Summer Chillin’ edition of Beaches COVERED. inception of the IV nation. Just a glimpse of some exciting pages awaiting you. This is all before we take you on a trip around The Beaches’ villages of The Spit, Terrey Hills and, in the north, my favourite village, Avalon. When you decide to ﬂip you will ﬁnd Beaches HOME & PROPERTY, Issue 3. There’s a hot new development coming to town from Upstate – Casa Delmar. Get in quick if you want a Beaches pad to show off to your mates. Plus, Coco Republic can style that pad for you.

The BC team is gearing up for a Summer of snoozing and boozing. Wishing everyone a Merry Xmas and the happiest New Year! Here’s to turbocharging into 2024.

Love J & M P.S. Big thanks to our team for a fantastic year of bringing together Beaches COVERED. It’s been a laugh! To many more ahead – cheers! •

Curators of Extraordinary Art Since 1994

FEATURED ARTIST: KEN DONE

NORTHERN BEACHES SYDNEY: 515 Sydney Rd, Seaforth NSW THE ART OF DR. SEUSS: Queen Victoria Building, Sydney & The Block, Melbourne

BOOK YOUR PRIVATE VIEWING (02) 9907 0595 HARVEYGALLERIES.COM.AU

M A N LY S P I R I T S A R T I SA N D I ST I L L E RY

The Spirits of Summer Sunshine is synonymous with a good cocktail and you won’t ﬁnd a better one than on the sundrenched deck at Manly Spirits Co. in Brookvale. Take a seat at the cool distillery or crack out the cocktail shaker and try out one of these delicious recipes at your next Sunday garden session. Move over margaritas – Manly Spirits Amber Spiced Gin is set to be the taste of Summer.

AMBER MAI THAI A delightful fusion of ﬂavours that combines the warmth of Amber Spiced Gin with the tropical notes of pineapple and the zesty kick of fresh lime. Sip slowly and enjoy this exotic and refreshing cocktail. Bottoms up! 60ml Manly Spirits Amber Spiced Gin 10ml triple sec 15ml orgeat 15ml pineapple juice 30ml fresh lime juice In a cocktail shaker, combine Manly Spirits Amber Spiced Gin, triple sec, orgeat, pineapple juice and fresh lime juice. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously to ensure all ingredients are well combined and properly chilled. Single-strain the cocktail over ice in a rock glass. Garnish your Amber Mai-Tai with an orange wedge and a sprig of fresh mint.

Christmas Spiced Punch

Refreshingly light with the tingle of ginger and tang of blood orange, this party punch is a real crowd pleaser for Christmas Day. Ho ho ho! 120ml Amber Spiced Gin 120ml blood orange juice 240ml ginger ale 4 slices ginger

Amber Negroni Indulge in this fun mix of Amber Spiced Gin, Campari, sweet vermouth and coffee beans. Sip, savour and salute!

In a glass jug, combine Manly Spirits Amber Spiced Gin, blood orange juice and 4 slices of ginger. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure the ﬂavours blend harmoniously. Hold a handful of fresh mint leaves in your hand and give them a gentle clap. This releases the aromatic ﬂavours of the mint. Add to jug. Pour ginger ale into the glass jug and top with ice. Give it a gentle stir and add extra slices of ginger and sprigs of mint.

Whether you’re having a backyard BBQ or lounging by the pool on a scorching Christmas Day, this punch is a refreshing and delightful way to celebrate this season.

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30ml Manly Spirits Amber Spiced Gin 30ml Bitter Orange Liqueur (Campari) 30ml sweet vermouth 5 coffee beans Begin by muddling and crushing the coffee beans to release their rich flavours. In a rocks glass, add Manly Spirits Amber Spiced Gin over ice. Follow with bitter orange liqueur and sweet vermouth. Stir all the ingredients together until well chilled, allowing them to harmonise. Garnish your Amber Spiced Negroni with a twist of orange peel for a burst of citrus aroma, and float a few coffee beans on top for a touch of intrigue and delightful layers of flavour.

Manly Spirits gins, vodkas, liqueurs and whiskies are available online at: manlyspirits.com.au Love us on

@manlyspirits

The Distillery Bar: 4A/9-13 Winbourne Rd, Brookvale (02) 8018 5144

Celebrating

15 years

We would like to thank all our loyal customers who have supported Hugos over the past 15 years here at Manly Wharf. Also, a big thank you to our amazing team of hospitality professionals who have been with us on this wonderful journey and continue to create an extraordinary dining experience for each of our customers. We look forward to many more great years ahead so everyone can continue to enjoy our iconic waterfront restaurant at Manly Cove.

Manly Wharf East Esplanade. Manly NSW Australia 2095 (02) 8116 8555 Social: Music , Arts & Community

S U M M E R , T H E F E ST I V E S E A S O NS EOCFT TI OHNE HY E A DR .I NRGE L A X A N D H AV E A G O O D T I M E !

Social MUSIC THE ARTS It’s Summer! The sun is shining, the days are long, and we’re excited for beach days and BBQs with friends and family. Discover local events, festivals and new experiences, and get ready to enjoy the season … and start the countdown to an unforgettable few months.

COASTREK 2024 Coastrek – Wild Women On Top presents an amazing challenge, full of reward! From Sydney’s most Northern point, Barrenjoey Head, to Balgowlah Heights, walk in nature taking in some of the best views in Sydney. Whether it’s your ﬁrst time and the 20km is for you or you’re keen to push your limits with a whopping 50km, your trek will be for both ﬁtness and fundraising! Together with 70,000-plus trekkers you could be a part of helping Coast Trek reach its goal of $5,900,000!

SYDNEY TO HOBART AT Q The Q Station has one of the best spots in Sydney to watch the yachts race down Sydney Harbour in the Annual Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. Visitors are invited to bring a picnic rug and join the gathering on the grass or, if you’re feeling fancy, reserve a spot in our Piper Heidsieck VIP Area. All guests choose from a range of picnic hampers to enjoy on the day which includes 2 or 4 tickets to the event and a complimentary drink on arrival, or enjoy a BBQ and beer. 33 NORTH HEAD SCENIC DRIVE, MANLY | 11 AM TO 2PM, 26 DECEMBER 2023

46th Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras

FRIDAY 16 FEBRUARY TO SUNDAY 3 MARCH 2024

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FRIDAY 3 MAY 2024. FROM 6AM (50KM), 7AM (30KM), AND 12PM (20KM) TO REGISTER, VISIT: COASTREK.COM.AU

OUT FRONT 2024: THIRTY YEARS OF EXPRESS YOURSELF In 2024, the 30th edition of the Express Yourself exhibition will showcase artworks by HSC Visual Arts students from 20 Northern Beaches secondary schools.The 2024 edition, titled Out Front 2024: Thirty years of Express Yourself, introduces a mentorship program to aid students in transitioning to emerging creative practices. The exhibition will present diverse art forms exploring contemporary themes relevant to today's youth, emphasising a broad range of expressive works. FRIDAY 1 MARCH 2024 TO SUNDAY 14 APRIL 2024

Tickets for Sydney's Mardi Gras Festival are now on sale! The Festival program, brimming with sequins, joyously commemorates the entire LGBTQIA+ community. With more than 100 vibrant community events, dance parties, theatre performances and music, the celebration reaches its zenith with the globally acclaimed Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade on Saturday 2 March.

TE WHEKE-A-MUTURANGI: THE ADVERSARY Lisa Reihana, a versatile Mãori artist, brings forth her grand creation, Te Wheke-a-Muturangi: The Adversary, which will ﬁnd its home in Watermans Cove at Barangaroo. Crafted from over 1,000 pieces and inspired by a tale from Mãori mythology, this colossal female octopus will gracefully come to life through the gentle animation by harbour breezes and shifting currents, illuminated by both sunlight and moon-glow. To deepen your connection with the artwork, simply scan the on-site QR code to unravel Te Wheke’s extraordinary story. Alternatively, embark on a kayak tour on the harbour for an intimate, up-close encounter. 5–28 JANUARY 2024 | FREE | BARANGAROO NSW 2000

IMAGE @ SYDNEY_FESTIVAL

The Barrenjoey Women’s Classic Get ready for The Beaches’ most amateur women’s golf showdown in the Southern Hemisphere! It’s not just a tournament; it’s a Jean Derrin Event, open to all women with an Aussie or overseas golf handicap. The Barrenjoey Week of Golf tees off on 12 February 2024, starting with the 18-hole individual competition, moving on to foursomes on 13 February, and ending on 15 February 2024 with the fourperson team event. Beyond the swings and putts, the BWOG Committee spices things up with a presentation night at Manly Golf Club with a rafﬂe, featuring prizes from local and regional businesses and golf clubs. It’s more than just golf; it’s a charitable celebration supporting Women & Children First. Registration closes 28 January 2024. 12 TO 15 FEBRUARY 2024 CROMER, LONG REEF, MONASH, BAYVIEW AND MANLY BARRENJOEYWEEKOFGOLF.COM

IMAGE @ SYDNEY_FESTIVAL

SYDNEY FESTIVAL 2024 The Sydney Festival in 2024 spans 24 days, presenting 130+ events for a dynamic cultural experience. Featuring diverse performances, visual arts, and entertainment, the festival showcases both global acts and local talents, inviting varied audiences to celebrate creativity and innovation. It transforms the city into a lively cultural hub. 5 TO 28 JANUARY 2024 | SYDNEYFESTIVAL.ORG.AU

LOST IN PALM SPRINGS

GLEN ST LINEUP 2024 Lost in Palm Springs is a collaborative exhibition featuring 14 creatives, including artists, photographers and thinkers from the US and Australia. This interdisciplinary showcase explores the magical qualities of Palm Springs' landscape and iconic mid-century modern architecture. Strengthening ties between Palm Springs and Australia, the exhibition explores themes of place, home, desert atmospheres and Bauhaus sensibilities. The works collectively reﬂect a renewed interest in modernist architecture, highlighting the connections between these distant locations. NOW SHOWING UNTIL 25 FEBRUARY 2024 | MANLY ART GALLERY AND MUSEUM

Glen Street Theatre in Belrose is set for a vibrant 2024 lineup, featuring a mix of exciting new acts and beloved classics. From live music and comedy to drama, ﬁlm screenings, family shows, dance and storytelling – there’s something for everyone. Secure your membership online for preferred seating at your favourite shows. GLENSTREET.COM.AU

Social: Music, Arts & Community

Mu sic YUNG MILLA Yung Milla, the 20-year-old Marranungu rapper from Palmerston, delves into the gritty reality of his urban landscape in his latest single, ‘Land Down Under’. Rather than an idyllic paradise, this Top End artist paints a vivid picture of a world tainted by violence and temptation, a place where he’s determined to address wrongs and rise above. The track, featuring a killer guitar line and a fist-pumping groove, serves as a proud declaration of belonging and has resonated strongly in the Top End community, notably at the Barunga Festival. Yung Milla’s journey, marked by tragedy and loss within his community, finds redemption through his brother J-MILLA’s influence. Now working as an Adventure Therapist and at the Saltbush accommodation centre for young Aboriginal men, Yung Milla aims to guide others through troubled times, breaking the cycle that leads to alarming youth incarceration statistics. Accompanied by an official music video shot in Darwin CBD, directed by Tully Hemsley, the visual narrative provides a glimpse into Yung Milla’s daily life, reinforcing the theme of belonging and celebrating the bonds he shares with his crew. ‘Land Down Under’ is part of Yung Milla’s trilogy, preceded by ‘Daily’, ‘Better Days’, and ‘Used To Be’. His righteous path has garnered early support from triple j and triple j Unearthed, along with a nomination for Best Hip Hop Song at the 2022 NT Music Awards.

‘LAND DOWN UNDER’ IS OUT NOW. INSTA: YUNGMILLA_ | PHOTO: @ZEALOUSLYZO PAGE 10 | BEACHES COVERED.

THE TULLAMARINES

HANNAH STOW Hannah Stow, the indie-pop artist from Boorloo/Perth, continues her impressive 2023 streak with the release of ‘I Loved You First’, her fifth single this year. The track, marked by soft acoustic guitars and ethereal backing vocals, showcases Hannah’s dynamic and attention-commanding vocal delivery, embodying a raw and confident edge in her traditional pop songwriting. Thematically, ‘I Loved You First’ delves into the emotions of betrayal after a challenging breakup, exploring feelings of entitlement and observing the former significant other moving on. Hannah Stow’s songwriting process prides itself on authenticity, a quality evident throughout her work. Having recently completed her debut national tour across various Australian cities and opening for legendary artist 360, Hannah has built a strong online presence with more than 52,000 TikTok followers and 13,000 on Instagram. Her music’s popularity is reflected in healthy streaming numbers, with 14,000+ monthly listeners and 1.6m+ total streams on Spotify. Noteworthy support from radio stations like triple j, 2SER, 4ZZZ, RTR, Southern FM and SYN further emphasises the buzz surrounding Hannah Stow, hinting at a promising future in the music industry.

‘I LOVED YOU FIRST’ IS OUT NOW. INSTA: HANVMSTOW

Adelaide-based indie newcomers, The Tullamarines, deliver their bold EP ‘Ugly Cry’, a culmination of the collective minds of four overthinkers. The EP, featuring standouts ‘Never Do That’ and ‘I’m So’, marks a signiﬁcant step for the band, showcasing their social commentary on issues like income disparity in ‘Head Roll Back’ and their candid take on love and infatuation. Recorded at Forest Range Studios in Adelaide Hills and mixed by Ben Waltho, Josh Thomas and Michael Cutayar, ‘Ugly Cry’ reﬂects the band’s sharp songwriting. Mastering by Filippo Cimatti adds a professional touch, with additional post-production in their home studios, highlighting each member’s talent. The Tullamarines, dubbed the ’Tullies’, gear up for their debut headline tour along Australia’s East Coast. The quartet, rapidly gaining recognition with previous performances alongside The VANNS, Teenage Joans, The Buoys and Towns, has secured a spot with national booking agency Seismic Talent, sharing the roster with acts like Alison Wonderland and The Presets. Previously backed by triple j (Home & Hosed), Spotify (Fresh Finds, Fresh Finds Rock) and triple j Unearthed, The Tullamarines have amassed over 60,000 streams across platforms. Their breakout single, ‘I’m So’, earned immediate rotation on triple j and triple J Unearthed, solidifying their status as Adelaide’s rising stars in the indie scene.

‘UGLY CRY’ IS OUT NOW. INSTA: THETULLAMARINES | PHOTO: JACK FENBY

Listen TO THIS 90IVY: NEW SINGLE THE COLLIFLOWERS ROMANIE ‘Public Displays of Deﬂection’ ‘LET ME GO’ ‘ARE WE THERE YET?’

KINGSWOOD ‘LITTLE RED JUMPSUIT’

GROUNDSWELL 2023 WRAP-UP JOHN GRAHAM, MINISTER FOR MUSIC, ARTS AND NIGHTTIME ECONOMY SCANS THE 10-METRE FRANKENSTEIN

A celebration of

Culture & Creativity

Photo: Gabby Villalba @kayapa_cs

selection of electronica artists and DJs hosted by LABEL, plus eight bands and music artists performing at the Saturday Music Sessions with Le Shiv headlining and a closing DJ set from Crocodylus. There was a distinctly Bavarian vibe at 4Pines with their Truck Bar transformed into a German beer hall to celebrate Oktoberfest with clashing beer steins, bratwurst and an Oompah band.

EDGECLIFF – SECOND SUPPORT AT THE SATURDAY MUSIC SESSIONS AT LABEL. Photo: Neil Thompson @monocaptus

BAD collaborated with Behavioural Analytics to track visitor numbers over the weekend. Creating a data capture zone along Orchard and Powells Roads they recorded more than 16,000 individual visitors to that part of Brookvale and a conservative estimate of 20,000 across the whole precinct. A key feature of the festival was the Ben Brown augmented reality (AR) exhibition of large-scale paste-ups and street posters in ﬁve locations, including at Manly Spirits, Bucketty’s and Supreme Coffee. Festival goers were able to activate AR animations by downloading the Artivive app and pointing their phones at each of the paste-ups and posters to experience the artworks in a new and dynamic way.

BEN BROWN T-SHIRT SPOTTED AT BUCKETTY’S Photo: Renate Rienmueller

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”It was fantastic to be part of GroundSwell. Seeing my work upscaled to such a magniﬁcent size and spread over such a wide area was great,” says artist Ben Brown. “The augmented reality treatment was awesome. I loved seeing people using the app to view animations

TM AA

There was an exciting line-up of music throughout the weekend with a Battle of the Bands showcase at Bucketty’s, a Gin and Jazz offering at Manly Spirits, and a

Simply D Ceramics ran a selection of clay workshops and Moor in the Sun hosted a pot-painting session.

G YO ND

It’s the ﬁrst community activation by the BAD team and it came with a diverse offering of music, creative workshops, masterclass talks, wellness sessions and more, drawing thousands of visitors across the precinct.

A GIN

roundSwell 2023 took place in Brookvale Arts District (BAD) during the last weekend of October as a celebration of art, music, culture and community spirit.

BAD’s Education Partner ICMS ran a series of Masterclass Talks with creative, culture and business presentations, including a panel discussion on the BAD initiative and an insightful journey into the musical history of The Beaches by local ﬁlmmaker Simon J. Heath.

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Neil T hompson @monocaptus

of the artworks… I’ve had so many comments from people that attended the festival or have since stumbled across the art while in the area.” The Artivive app recorded 2,310 individual scans over the weekend. “I’ve been working with Artivive for several years now and that number is off the charts,” says BAD Founder and Artist Miguel Gonzalez. Most of the artworks remain in situ and available to activate in a number of locations including the Bucketty’s laneway, Supreme Coffee wall, the corner of Orchard Road opposite Charlton Lane, and the side wall of the Mimmos Pizza building on Pittwater Road. Ben was thrilled with the experience and is already looking forward to next year. ”I have a long history with Brookvale, and plastering the area with my demented drawings was a blast. Bring on GroundSwell ’24.” •

SAY I DO AT Q

Located in the stunning Sydney Harbour National Park, Q Station offers a range of locations for your ceremony & reception. Whether you are looking for a picturesque ceremony with views over Sydney Harbour, a fun cocktail reception in the Glasshouse, or a formal dinner in the Governor Bourke Ballroom. We have it all. Weddings@qstation.com.au | 9466 1500

Margan Photography

Q Station Weddings, North Head Manly

B R O O K VA L E A R T S D I ST R I C T : B A D

History the future

OF LIVE MUSIC ON THE BEACHES

The Beaches has long been a vibrant and vital place for music. However, after a long period of decline, a passionate community of individuals are determined to bring back quality stages and venues for the current lineup of established and emerging artists.

rom the mid-’70s to early ’90s The Beaches was recognised as one of the world’s most important and proliﬁc districts for live music. Today it remains home to a signiﬁcantly large number of Australia’s emerging, established and legacy music artists.

Regulation has been a challenge with authorities limiting both venue capacities (sometimes by more than 50%) and hours of operation in arbitrary ways that lack consistency and logic. This seriously inhibits the viability of some operators who have already invested substantial time and resources in their venues.

In those earlier decades, local venues hosted gigs every night of the week with bands from The Beaches, Greater Sydney and all over the country. Midnight Oil, INXS, Hunters & Collectors, The Angels, Cold Chisel and countless others – as well as many international touring artists including Iggy Pop, The Cure and David Bowie – graced the stages. Sadly, many venues that once populated the suburbs from Manly to Palm Beach have all but gone. To some extent the disappearance of live music became a global trend further magniﬁed here by a few local factors – the old Sydney story of vexatious complaints from new residential developments closing down pre-existing venues, an adverse and often absurd regulatory environment, plus the subsequent introduction of poker machines into pubs and clubs.

OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES The emergence of Brookvale breweries, distilleries and other performance spaces in recent years is helping to generate and support a burgeoning arts and entertainment sector, with an impressive 650 live music performances in Brookvale alone in the last six months of 2022. The NSW government has recognised music’s economic importance by providing funding for the industry’s development and making changes to the regulatory environment.

GRXCE at GroundSwell 2023 Photo: Neil Thompson @monocaptus

However, the local musical spirit lives on in a parade of inspiring talent from emerging to established artists including Angus & Julia Stone, Lime Cordiale, Ocean Alley, Winston Surfshirt, Crocodylus, Le Shiv, Eagle Eye Jones – and the list goes on.

David Bowie performing at Mobys, 1989 | Photo: Tim Barber

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While venues are often pumping Thursday to Sunday, if you walk through Brookvale after hours on almost any night of the week you can hear the many aspiring musicians rehearsing and recording at Housefox Studios, Ear Candy Music and in factories, warehouses and workshops. “This is an already important social and economic asset for the district with massive potential and we need to have the venues available for this The Cure played at the Manly Vale pipeline of talent Hotel in 1980 | Online Archives to shine,” says Brookvale Arts District (BAD) President, John Meredith. Live music is a cornerstone of the BAD agenda, and John has already done

“Many people have forgotten INXS, Icehouse, Midnight Oil and countless other bands and performers all came out of this crazy melting pot of rock, surf and style.” SIMON J. HEATH, FILMMAKER

Celibate Riﬂes to Hunters & Collectors, including UB40 at the Manly Vale and The Stranglers at the Royal Antler in Narrabeen,” adds John. “For me, those formative experiences are an important motivator to ensure the BAD initiative can help secure a renewed, viable, high-quality and thriving music scene on the Northern Beaches.”

CREATING THE VISION Edgecliff at GroundSwell 2023 Photo: Neil Thompson @monocaptus

extensive work lobbying regulatory authorities and working with industry associations such as APRA AMCOS and the Live Music Ofﬁce to build solid ground for a sustainable local live music scene where punters can enjoy quality gigs in their own hometown. “From 1977, when you could sneak into a pub at the age of 16, I was most fortunate to enjoy an amazing music scene, seeing everyone from

John invited his friend and fellow ﬁlmmaker Simon J. Heath to present on the topic at the ICMS Masterclass Talks at GroundSwell 2023. Heath recently shot a documentary on the history of live music on The Beaches and is looking to secure funding for the post-production work. “Groundswell – a three-day art, ﬁlm and culture event – is everything Brookvale, The Beaches and Sydney needs. And it works because BAD is building a genuine community of rockers, artists and stakeholders who back their vision for a place in the sun where music and art will thrive,” says Heath.

SIMON J. HEATH – ICMS Masterclass Talks at GroundSwell 2023 | Photo: Gabby Villalba @kayapa_cs

“It’s an amazing vision to bring forward because many people have forgotten INXS, Icehouse, Midnight Oil and countless others all came out of this crazy melting pot of rock, surf and style… and there’s so many more to come.” Emerging Avalon-based band Edgecliff were the main support at GroundSwell 2023’s Saturday music sessions and their drummer, Jacob Lock, was impressed with the experience. “We had an absolute blast. The venue was great, the staging was very cool and the sound blokes were awesome. Absolutely stoked to have been part of GroundSwell 2023 and would love to be involved in the future,” says Jacob. Brookvale Arts District is currently planning a Future of Live Music event for 2024 which will include a panel discussion with Simon J. Heath and local musicians. •

KENT STEEDMAN (Celibate RiŴes) at Groundswell 2022 Photo: Renate Rienmueller

Social: Music, Arts & Community

B R O O K VA L E S U R F C L U B

FUNKY fresh FEELS Bustling Brookie’s newest venue, Brookvale Surf Club, has swung open its doors just in time for some Summer sundowners. Located on the corner of Orchard Road and Charlton Avenue, the cool new kid on the block is bringing uptown funk with its neon-chic indoor and outdoor spaces ﬁlled with atmospheric DJ beats and live music.

ipped to quickly become one of Sydney’s most popular casual dining scenes, Founders Kieran Bailey and Roland Bleyer have dug deep to create a venue that successfully combines chilled, dreamy surf vibes with a chic and slick atmosphere. Proven good-vibes curator, Kieran is the man behind iconic venues including Tropikana, Jamtown and Miss Marley’s, along with Brookvale’s popular LABEL – a unique multi-purpose warehouse-style spot that’s part-club, part-bar and part-art space. The name and nostalgic ﬁt-out featuring Brookie surf memorabilia is a nod to The Brookvale Six, the number-one players in surfboard manufacturing in the ’50s. “The Brookvale Six tell a story of six young mates who shaped surf culture

in the area. We are here to continue the story over good food, awesome cocktails and laid-back music,” explains Roland. Evolving from a boutique tropical café in the morning into a lively but chilled afternoon and evening oasis, the menu delivers a selection of Aussie coastal staples with a twist, ﬁne-roasted coffee brews, cold beer, blissful cocktails and natural wines. Expect DJ sets from street soul jazz to Balearic lounge beats, plus live acoustic and surf-vibe-inspired artists as part of the incoming line-up. “After a day of surﬁng, working or whatever it is that keeps you busy, you’ve just got to end it by tucking into some good food, listening to great music and downing some cold beer. We’ve proudly teamed up with

SurfCraft Brewing to bring you an exclusive Brookvale Beer on tap,” says Roland. Brookvale Surf Club is another stop on the buzzing and ever-growing Brookie bar crawl scene. Driving up the sophistication with cocktails and ﬁne beats, it’s the perfect place for a boozy brunch and beyond. •

10-18 Orchard Rd, Brookvale 2100 | Insta @brookvalesurfclub | brookvalesurfclub.com

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Shop 5a The Corso, Manly Beach | 02 8937 4403 | www.manlyjewellers.com Social: Music, Arts & Community

Osier Belle 17

G O O D R A D I G B E E D I ST I L L E R S

THE goodBAR In the heart of the Brookvale Arts District, Goodradigbee Distillers has arrived and opened the doors to The GoodBar, one of the coolest establishments to hit The Beaches in a very long time. Looking for top food, new drinks and total charm? Get yourself down there, pronto!

Ordinarily, spirits are matured in French or American oak barrels with traditional Scotch-whisky production methodology – a process that can take up to 10 years to achieve a ﬂavoursome result.

From comfy Chesterﬁeld lounges and stylish interiors, to smooth acoustic tunes and unbelievable spirits that are uniquely aged in native hardwood cubes, John has launched a hot local bar and a cool new drinks category to Australia.

John was on a ski trip drinking saké out of square wooden cups when he realised the surface area of a cube, compared with a barrel, is vastly signiﬁcant. Amazed it hadn’t been done before, he began the trial and error process in 2018.

“Goodradigbee is the only distiller in the world using Australian hardwood cubes to make whisky and gin,” he says.

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Wanting to make something distinctively Australian by ageing spirits in native

hardwood cubes for months, not years, he created a sweet and complex taste that is anything but conventional. “What we’ve uncovered is a new spirits category through how we mature our single-malt spirits. Our business is not set and forget; we monitor and stir the liquids in cubes, a process that’s unique to Goodradigbee Distillers.”

Words: Samara Robertson Photography: Goodradigbee Distillers and Rob Edgren

elcome to The GoodBar. Thanks to Founder and Chief Distiller, John O’Connor, the brand-new gin, whisky and cocktail bar in Brookvale is one of a kind.

And the Australian hardwoods they use come from the alps and high country including Jarrah, Ironbark Yellow, Ironbark Red, and Tasmanian Blackwood. “Due to the extreme weather conditions they grow in, the wood is very heavy, hard and dense,” says John. The hardwoods interact powerfully with the spirits, causing them to crack open and imbibe the liquid – resulting in exceptional malt spirits. And while there was a little pushback at first, everything changed when the critics dared to try it! “The malt spirits win everyone over,” he smiles. “Unlike the traditionalists, using Australian hardwoods provides an unparalleled taste profile.” Speaking of taste, The GoodBar’s menu features some sophisticated dishes designed by Head Chef Rob Phillips who’s known for his work at local haunts The Cumberland, Donny’s, In Situ and Garfish. Standouts include the kingfish sashimi, cured in Goodradigbee’s Freshwater Gin, smoked duck breast cooked with their own Ironbark Malt Spirit, and the chocolate tart, made with Tasmanian Blackwood Malt Spirit.

A FLASH OF INSPIRATION John’s journey to spirits pioneer has been an amalgamation of fateful moments. As a young lad working on a sheep station in the middle of Western Australia, he was pleasantly bewildered by the scent of cinnamon while burning a Jarrah railway sleeper.

Goodradigbee’s product range also extends to wood-infused gins and vodka. The gins incorporate Indigenous bush ingredients such as native juniper and Kakadu and Davidson plum, ethically sourced through partnerships with 100% Aboriginal-owned social enterprises. The vodka is also meticulously aged in Grey Ironbark and subjected to a double distillation process.

John had a similar experience when he went ﬁshing on Goodradigbee River in the Snowy Mountains district of NSW – the smell of chocolate became present when burning Ironbark. And these critical moments went on to inﬂuence the reaction of John’s Australian hardwood malt spirits. While their malting, mashing and distillation remains the same, from fermentation onwards the Goodradigbee process is in a class of its own.

GET AMONGST IT So, if you’re after an exceptional night out full of good vibes and brand-new ﬂavours, book an evening excursion to The GoodBar – you won’t regret it. •

41 Orchard Rd, Brookvale 2100 | 0410 841 007 | Insta @thegoodbar.brookvale | goodradigbee.com

H A RV EY G A L L E R I E S

Celebrating

30 YEARS OF ART

n the intoxicating realm of artistic aspirations, Harvey Galleries was founded by the visionary Harvey family in 1994, with high hopes of crafting a dynamic and inclusive space for contemporary art. Over the past three decades, Australia has seen its fair share of economic difﬁculties including the Global Financial Crisis in 2008, which left the real estate sector doing an ungraceful shufﬂe. Then the COVID-19 pandemic throttled in, a rather unwelcome guest after almost three decades of economic restfulness. Despite these challenges, the Gallery stands strong in the same location, with

OWNER OF HARVEY GALLERIES, TREVOR HARVEY

the same phone number and the same family behind it all! Proving that art, like a ﬁne wine, only gets better with time. Curator and team member James explains that the gallery’s location in Seaforth has had a substantial impact on its success. “Being one of the only commercial ﬁne art galleries this side of the Harbour Bridge, Harvey Galleries’ clientele spans from Palm Beach to Kirribilli,” he explains. Throughout its 30 years of existence Harvey Galleries has consistently exhibited the works of exceptional artists. The team’s dedication to curating works from a broad range of artists and art ensures there is truly something for everyone… even those after something whimsical. ‘What do we mean by whimsical?’ you ask. While the owner of Harvey Galleries, Trevor Harvey, was working in a publishing house in Chicago in his early twenties, he came into contact with the Chase Publishing Group. A decade later they had a booth at the same art fair, and among friendly chit-chat a professional relationship blossomed.

PAGE 20 | BEACHES COVERED.

Smitten with the art and excited by the possibilities, Trevor took to obtaining the rights to the Art of Dr. Seuss in the southern hemisphere and set out to create a platform to preserve Theodor Seuss Geisel’s artistic legacy. Since then Trevor has been responsible for the ﬁrst two and only galleries in the world dedicated to the Art of Dr. Seuss. James is also fond of the work, and eloquently reﬂects that the art is “wonderful, whimsical, instantly recognisable, and evokes a nostalgia in all those that see it, making it so incredibly collectable and loved”.

Words: Samara Robertson | Photography: Harvey Galleries

Having opened its doors to the public 30 years ago, Harvey Galleries has many momentous moments to look back upon. The Seaforth gallery’s longstanding success is something we, at Beaches COVERED., are in awe of. This season we sat down with curator and team member James Mckinnon and picked his brain on all things Harvey Galleries.

UNVEILING TOMORROW’S TALENT Students of fine art studies are encouraged to develop creative independence, exposed to rigorous theoretical inquiry, and shown a dynamic range of contemporary possibilities. And while these skills are undoubtedly inaugural, Trevor saw an opportunity to assist the transition from a tertiary studio to a commercial gallery. For the past six years Harvey Galleries and the National Art School have collaborated in an exhibition. As the Bachelor and Master students put the finishing touches on their graduating collection of works, James and Trevor select a group of artists to exhibit at Harvey Galleries. “The experience offered by Trevor is an opportunity very seldom offered to any artist,” says James. “It teaches them the day-to-day business of the art world – we want to make sure they have a transparent understanding of how the art market functions.” Moreover, once Trevor had succeeded in creating a seamless conduit between artists and collectors in Australia, the thought arose, ‘How could I do more?’ Having always kept a close eye on talent in China, Harvey Galleries attended a show in Guangzhou around the mid- 2000s. From here, to the Art Beijing Art Fair, Trevor fell in love with the culturally rich nation and diversity of artists working in a plethora of disciplines. James recommends exploring the works of Zhu Pei Hong, one of the first artists to seek international representation with Harvey Galleries. His abstract acrylic landscape paintings delicately reflect the dynamism of urban infrastructure and leave the audience in wonder.

DAVID DARCY

Another artist James recommends is David Darcy. Nestled in the exquisite collection of Harvey Galleries lies a portrait painting by David Darcy, unbelievably lifelike and realistic. The level of detail achieved is nothing short of extraordinary, rendering the piece truly enchanting. What elevates this piece to a realm of its own is the fact that its creator, David, began his journey as a painter a mere decade ago, following a lengthy stint as a photographer. James believes David’s ability to ”capture his subjects, whether painted or photographed, is truly magical”. In this relatively brief time, David has catapulted himself into the echelons of artistic acclaim. He was a ﬁnalist in the prestigious Archibald Prize and the proud recipient of the 2019 People’s Choice Award in the same competition! James explains that Harvey Galleries are always in search of an exciting edge: “Art that brings you to a standstill, that makes you question, feel uncomfortable or allows you to breathe,” he says. There is innate power in a piece of art that instantly conjures inner contemplation and is a distraction from mundanity, and Harvey Galleries excels in curating collections of work that achieve this effect. We believe their dedication to representing artists that draw from a place of genuine creativity and pure passion contributes to the gallery’s success over the past 30 years. Cheers to 30 years – we cannot wait to see what the future holds for Harvey Galleries! •

UPCOMING The NAS Bachelor and Masters graduated student exhibition EXHIBITION opens 15 February and remains open until 29 February 2024!

KEN DONE

515 Sydney Road, Seaforth 2092 | 02 9907 0595 | Insta: @harveygalleries | www.harveygalleries.com.au

G L E N ST R E E T T H E AT R E – N EW Y E A R , N EW P R O G R A M

YOUR PASSPORT TO

entertainment

The longest-running play of all time, Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap, is coming to Glen Street in August! For over 70, years this epic West End and Broadway classic has captivated audiences worldwide and promises to be the event of the year. Join us and solve the oldest mystery on stage. Dance enthusiasts will be blown away by The Tap Pack. With sold-out Opera House shows and widespread acclaim, this performance is a must-see. And back by popular demand, A Taste of Ireland promises a memorable fusion of Irish dance and music. This show will sell out, so make sure you book early!

FOR DRAMA QUEENS (AND KINGS) Glen Street Theatre is home to some of the best nationally touring plays, including the stunning Pulitzer Prizewinning Wit by Margaret Edson and the enchanting Australian drama

PAGE 22 | BEACHES COVERED.

The Highway of Lost Hearts by Mary Anne Butler. Get ready for an emotional rollercoaster – these shows evoke laughter, tears, and perhaps a new outlook on life!

NEED A LAUGH? Revel in the return of Glen Street Theatre favourites, The Wharf Revue, as they present their searingly hilarious political satire, Pride in Prejudice. Alternatively, laugh your socks off at stand-up nights featuring the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow, showcasing Australia’s top comics, or Are You Pulling My Leg? – a raucous inclusive comedy event with an award-winning lineup of performers with disabilities.

FILM BUFFS UNITE Embark on a cinematic journey with the best adventure films from around the globe, including gravity-defying climbing films at Reel Rock 18 and a look through the archives of celebrated snow sports chronicler Warren Miller’s ALLTIME. Be a part of film history at Manhattan Short,

THE HIGHWAY TO LOST HEARTS the only worldwide ﬁlm festival that asks the audience to decide the winner.

FOR LITTLE ONES A trip to the theatre is a wonderful way to spark creativity, empathy and joy. Plus, make memorable school holidays with timeless tales like The Gruffalo or chase some baddies at Dog Man the Musical! Marvel at the beautiful adaptation of Li Cunxin’s iconic autobiography Mao’s Last Dancer in the stunning production of The Peasant Prince. More shows announced throughout the year, so stay tuned!

LOVERS OF MUSIC From Fleetwood Mac to Freddy Mercury, you’ll ﬁnd a music tribute to all your favourite musicians at Glen Street, as well as homages to ABBA, Elvis, Electric Light Orchestra, Neil Diamond and more! Delight in the soulful sounds of Northern Beaches’ own Prinnie Stevens in Lady Sings the Blues Vol 2 and acclaimed artists Damien Leith and Darren Coggan, performing history hits in In Good Company.

Words & Photography: Glen Street Theatre

FUN FOR EVERYONE

THE PEASANT PRINCE

THE TAP PACK

Glen Street Theatre in Belrose plays host to some of the best live entertainment on The Beaches. The 2024 lineup is full of exciting new acts and beloved classics. With live music, comedy, drama, film screenings, family shows, dance and storytelling, there’s something for everyone. Grab a ticket or two – your diary will thank you!

20 24

WHAT’S ON – FEBRUARY TO OCTOBER 2024

AC T

ONE

Seize your calendar and don’t miss these program highlights

WITH LOVE, AMADEUS 4 FEBRUARY 2024 Australian theatre legend John Bell traces the life and career of Mozart. Concert pianist Simon Tedeschi sets the soundtrack with a range of piano pieces, including Mozart’s beloved classics.

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL ROADSHOW 4-5 JUNE 2024

AGATHA CHRISTIE’S THE MOUSETRAP

THE WHARF REVUE: PRIDE IN PREJUDICE 14-28 MARCH 2024

ARE YOU PULLING MY LEG?

The Wharf Revue returns with sensational value, boasting a 7% increase in satirical content and 8.3% laughter quotient all while keeping ticket prices the same as last year! Take that, Philip Lowe!

A raucous, accessible event that features award-winning performers sharing entertaining and uncensored insights into their disabilities and beyond.

LADY SINGS THE BLUES: VOL 2

WIT

5 APRIL 2024

29 FEBRUARY-2 MARCH 2024

Beaches local Prinnie Stevens takes the spotlight again in Lady Sings The Blues: Volume 2, which delves into the stories of women who have shaped the history of music.

Recipient of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, Wit isn’t a play about death, it’s a play about the essence of life and everything that makes us who we are.

ANH DO’S THE HAPPIEST REFUGEE LIVE! 5-6 MARCH 2024

Showcasing the ﬁnest talents from the 2024 Melbourne International Comedy Festival, delivering a dose of laughter right to your doorstep!

THE PEASANT PRINCE 16-18 MAY 2024

8 JUNE 2024

THE TAP PACK 9 JUNE 2024 After sold-out shows and acclaim on London’s West End, Sydney Opera House and worldwide, The Tap Pack, Australia’s hottest tap dance sensation, is now heading to Glen Street Theatre!

AGATHA CHRISTIE’S THE MOUSETRAP 15-25 AUGUST 2024 Experience the ultimate murder mystery on the West End. Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap, a genre-deﬁning production by the best-selling novelist, has captivated global audiences for 70 years – case closed!

From his best-selling book, Anh’s live performance combines stand-up comedy with real-life stories, photos and ﬁlmed pieces to offer an unforgettable recount of his extraordinary story.

The children’s version of Li Cunxin’s iconic autobiography, Mao’s Last Dancer, The Peasant Prince is an extraordinary production of a remarkable story – of a peasant boy turned dance giant.

DOGMAN THE MUSICAL

THE HIGHWAY OF LOST HEARTS

THE GRUFFALO

31 MAY-1 JUNE 2024

After sell-out seasons in London’s West End and Broadway, The Gruffalo returns to Australia! Join Mouse on a magical, musical adventure through the deep, dark wood in this enchanting adaptation of the classic picture book.

9-12 MARCH 2024 With the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, Dog Man loves to ﬁght crime and chew on the furniture. But can he save the city from Flippy the cyborg ﬁsh and the world’s most evil cat, Petey? Find out in this epic musical.

LOVE LIVE PERFORMANCES? BECOME A MEMBER!

Half gritty road journey, half magic realism, and all heart. It leaves you pondering the question: when your heart goes missing, what lengths will you go to in order to ﬁnd it again?

16-19 OCTOBER 2024

General ticket sales start on 18 December, but members can secure their seats earlier. Visit glenstreet.com.au or call the friendly Box Ofﬁce team on (02) 9470 5913. This is just a taste of what’s to come – explore the website or drop by for the ACT ONE brochure at the Box Ofﬁce. •

Cnr Glen Street, Blackbutts Rd, Belrose NSW 2085 | (02) 9470 5913 glenstreet.com.au | FB: @Glen Street Theatre | Insta: @glen.street.theatre

Social: Music, Arts & Community

W I L D WO M E N O N T O P

BEACHES ON SHOW FOR

Coastrek

Magical. That’s the word that continually pops up when Freshwater local, Ann Jenkins, talks about Australia’s most iconic hiking challenge, Coastrek, which is returning to the Northern Beaches in May 2024. And with 20 events under her well-worn walking boots, no one knows more about the joy Coastrek delivers.

Striding out on Friday, 3 May 2024 with three distances – 50km, 30km or the Twilight 20km – Coastrek stretches from Palm Beach to Balgowlah Heights and traverses wild rocky headlands, meandering nature trails and golden arcs of sand. Freshwater local, Ann Jenkins, has participated in 20 events and is already looking forward to 2024! “It really is a magical experience – and you don’t need to be a top athlete to take part,” says Ann.

PAGE 24 | BEACHES COVERED.

DI WESTAWAY, COASTREK FOUNDER

“It’s just a matter of committing to the training with your teammates. Then it’s one foot in front of the other and before you know it, you’re carried along by the beautiful concept that is Coastrek, the people you meet along the way and the spectacular views. It truly is an inspiring thing to do.” As part of a team experience, Coastrek has also been a huge source of selfdiscovery for Ann. “It’s taught me to be gutsy when I’m uncertain; that I can do things I never dreamed I could do; that I’m not a middle-aged, average woman, and that I’m strong and make a difference to so many people.”

INTO THE WILD

Since its inception, Coastrek has raised more than $48 million dollars for Australian charities including The Fred Hollows Foundation (2009-2018) and Beyond Blue (2018-2022), and in 2024 the event will continue to support the Heart Foundation – raising funds for life-saving research in the ﬁght against heart disease. Over 70,000 trekkers have trained and completed Coastrek with friends, and Ann emphasises the importance of empowering your teammates (there’s four to a team) and the wider Coastrek community, who walk together on event days. “I always get a bit competitive in the last 10km or so,” she laughs. “I want to run as fast as I can to the ﬁnish and burst over the timing strip with an improved time. But it really is

Words: Yvette Peverell | Photography: Wild Women on Top

reated by Wild Women On Top, one of Australia’s largest and longest running women’s health movements, Coastrek is an uplifting event that invites participants to trek scenic coastal trails around Australia, while championing wellness, community and fundraising to help end heart disease.

“It really is a magical experience – and you don’t need to be a top athlete to take part.”

COASTREK SYDNEY 3 MAY 2024

ANN JENKINS

about getting the team there in one piece with smiles on their faces. The finish line is a huge adrenaline rush, backed up by the greatest sense of achievement.” Fellow Northern Beaches dynamo and Coastrek founder, Di Westaway OAM, has walked alongside Ann for more than 20 years, and it’s her enduring passion for getting women into nature for fitness, fun, and connection that gave rise to Coastrek in 2009. However, the idea originated nine years earlier when, as an almost 40-year-old with three young children (and a lagging zest for life), Di was invited to join an expedition to climb Mt Aconcagua in Argentina. “I was fatigued, fed up and seriously unfit,” explains Di. “With nothing but a bottomless washing basket to look forward to, I started wondering: is this all there is?” While the team didn’t reach the summit – “it was a big, fat fail” – it was life changing. On her return, Di started a women’s fitness business focused on Trek Training in Sydney Harbour National Park (at night, so members could put the kids to bed and then get their glow-up), and in 2004 she launched Wild Women On Top. “When our first Coastrek event was held, there was a lack of female representation in outdoor adventure and endurance events,” says Di. “Today, while we’re unapologetically female focused, everyone is welcome to take part in Coastrek – we’re committed to getting more people moving in nature and falling in love with fitness, and helping the community while they do it.”

TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE JOIN COASTREK’S EPIC CHARITY HIKE CHALLENGE! Come join Ann, Di and the Coastrek family as they walk the breathtaking headlands, bush tracks and sand spits of the Northern Beaches in May. You’ll receive complete support with a expert-designed training program, and there’s an active community cheering you on from the moment you register until you cross the ﬁnish line! Visit coastrek.com.au and get ready for a life-changing Northern Beaches adventure. •

Grateful hearts “It feels amazing to be part of a buzzing community event!” WALK 50KM, 30KM OR 20KM COASTREK.COM.AU

Coastrek – Wild Women On Top | Insta: @coastrek | coastrek.com.au

M A R K S M I T H , P O L I T I C A L W R I T E R F O R B E AC H E S C OV E R E D.

WHERE IS THE VISION? After years of political indirection, absolute waste of taxpayers’ money with doomed referendums and unfulﬁlled promises, will there be any inspirational leaders that will ever stand up and be counted in the future?

ith worldwide atrocities going on in the Ukraine and Gaza, it sometimes seems quite trivial to dwell on things closer to home. Everything is, of course, relative. But in the words of street rapper Eminem, “Will the real Slim Shady please stand up?“

It can now be said, with some conﬁdence, that the honeymoon for both federal and state Labor governments is now over. All new governments come to power with a fair bit of political capital, and not much time to use it. As Labor’s luck would have it, both federally and state, they went to the election basically saying, “Vote for us because we’re not them” – with relative no vision/policy for the future. As I’ve said repeatedly, I’m sick and tired of governments of both persuasions merely seeming focused to stay in power, but do nothing with it except stay there. Just recently was the 60th anniversary of the death of JFK. I’ve looked back on some of his speeches and it makes me so disheartened to listen to the rubbish that gets thrown at us by politicians of all stripes. It’s no wonder that Labor got into power with only 32% of the primary vote. That basically means that two in three voters decided to go with someone else. The Coalition are no better. And the ‘Teals’ have proven to be of little value.

The youth of today must be screaming out for someone, or some sort of movement/party that inspires them to excel and achieve great things for themselves and others. Just hearing leaders from both sides – like Kennedy, Churchill, Reagan, Gorbachev and Australians such as Hawke and Howard, it makes me sad for the state of this country leadership vacuum.

BLESSED COUNTRY? We really are the blessed country in so many ways. We have a lot of advantages over other countries, but we have a bunch of uninspiring leaders that seemingly are doing nothing with what we have. Where is the leadership in this state and this country showing a path to the future with intelligent decisions? With abundant minerals and vast land resources, why do we struggle to harness our potential? We could pioneer world-ﬁrst agricultural power plants with advanced technologies, utilising the uranium in our ground to meet our needs affordably and safely. We possess expansive reservoirs of fresh water in the far North West, ready to be piped across the country to nurture the food bowl on the East Coast. Where is the vision? Where are the bold leaders who can advocate, present a compelling case and drive progress?

They are simply not there. Productivity, wages, education and health are stagnating, stuck in the ’80s and ’90s. We cannot let ourselves fall behind. Even boring subjects like major economic reform aren’t being discussed as politicians are too scared to risk their job positions. In my view, it’s much better to die on your feet (metaphorically), than live on your knees. There could be arguments about an increase to the rate of GST to pay for the things that Australians now expect, or the outrageous cost of private health cover which forces people back into the public system. Not to mention negative gearing, trafﬁc congestion and the biggie: cost of living. It was the current Prime Minister who promised our electricity bills would be on average $275 less. Are you kidding me? These are just a few of the topics we should be focused on. But, I fear that won’t happen until someone is brave enough to stand up and say that this is what they believe in, argue their case, and take the country with them. Are we close to ﬁnding that person? I don’t think so, let alone a party with the clarity to take us forward into the future with policy, growth and prosperity. •

Our Commercial Law & Commercial Litigation Team can assist with your commercial transactions, dispute resolution and litigation. Contact Jordan, Ahmad or Helena. Helena Westphal Junior Solicitor hwestphal@wmw.com.au

PAGE 26 | BEACHES COVERED.

Ahmad Hamidi Solicitor ahamidi@wmw.com.au

Jordan Candido Senior Associate jcandido@wmw.com.au

(02) 9938 2444 www.wmw.com.au

Dear Beaches COVERED. Readers

MANLY IS

BOUNCING BACK! I

t would be difficult to find a better place to chill out over Summer than in the magnificent Manly electorate. The rolling surf, white sands, clear water and magnificent harbour make it an ideal venue for surfing, swimming, diving, fishing and boating. There are spectacular walks along the harbour foreshore through North Head well as many developed attractions, through wide range of businesses. The challenges of COVID lockdowns thankfully seem an eternity ago. During that time and for a considerable period after, many of local businesses shut their doors and some never re-opened.

and as a

our

Words & Photography: James GrifƓn - Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements

So, after a big effort by the Manly Tourism and Economic Recovery Taskforce which I set up during COVID, it is terrific to see our local businesses having a renaissance. In a few months there have been some welcome and exciting new additions. • Venice Manly (Sydney Road) • Calibrate Coffee (Whistler Street) • Manly Boatshed (Bolingbroke Parade, Fairlight) • Goodradigbee Distillers (Brookvale) • Recoverie (Manly) • Pico (Curl Curl) • Henry G’s Wine Bar (Manly) The other interesting evolution is the increase in professional services firms that are either providing a hybrid or complete office operation in Manly. Gone are the days of Manly being a ‘one-trick pony’. A combination of eateries, cafés, professional services and creative businesses is exactly the right mix

JAMES WITH HIS FAMILY AND SANTA CLAUS

we need to develop a long-term sustainable local economy, one that is not reliant on millions of tourists over summer, but instead functions year-round to the beneﬁt of visitors and locals alike. Urban myth has it that outdoor dining fees paid by local cafes in Manly are as expensive as those in Circular Quay making it prohibitive and high risk for local businesses to provide al fresco dining options. Under the previous Coalition Government many draconian hospitality rules and regulations were removed during COVID, allowing for some ﬂexibility in how our open and public spaces were governed. In some areas the balance was right, in others not so much. The Council is currently seeking feedback on the Manly Place Plan. Essentially the vision for Manly, how it looks, how it feels and how it should evolve. I encourage

you to check it out on their website. Key will be moving from a plan to a funded project. So, over the warmer months, I encourage you to support our local businesses while also enjoying the many natural attractions of the Manly electorate. May you ﬁnd time to breath in the fresh sea air, take a dip in the water, feel the sand between your toes and generally chill out. I wish all readers of Beaches COVERED. a wonderful Christmas and a healthy and prosperous 2024.

James Grifﬁn MP Member for Manly Shadow Minister for Energy and Climate Change Shadow Minister for Digital Government Follow me on Instagram! jamesgrifﬁnmp

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C O L O R M A K E R – 1 0 0 % C O M M I T T E D T O S U STA I NA B I L I T Y

A WORLD FIRST IN BROOKVALE An environmental world ﬁrst is taking place in Brookvale, thanks to Colormaker Industries. The paint and ink manufacturer has successfully commissioned its 144 kWh ReVolve® battery and is making waves on its path to Net Zero.

ased in Brookvale, Colormaker Industries recently celebrated a massive eco milestone, successfully commissioning their cutting-edge 144 kWh ReVolve® battery.

Battery and solar has also enabled us to reduce demand, a measure of strain on the grid by 85%,” he adds. “We’re still struggling to comprehend the enormity of what we’ve achieved.

Two years in the making, the battery is made from repurposed Nissan Leaf EV batteries. A week after the ReVolve®’s connection, Colormaker’s morning production was completed entirely with electricity produced by their solar array the day before and stored in the ReVolve® overnight.

“Just imagine what could happen if this technology was deployed not at one small business, but across thousands of businesses and communities across our wide brown land and indeed our South Paciﬁc neighbours.”

“The ReVolve® battery will assist us in eliminating buying any power during the evening peak, taking strain off the grid, while also improving our self-sufﬁciency,” says Colormaker Managing Director, David Stuart.

Colormaker has been widely recognised for their eco efforts with a swag of awards. As well as being honoured with the Solar Champion award – from the Solar Alliance Brookvale – they secured the Northern Beaches Sustainability Award in July, and were announced winners of the Excellence in Sustainability award for the Sydney Metro region by Business NSW in October. They were also listed as a Finalist for the NSW State Award for Excellence in Sustainability.

MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE

“Our first battery moved us in that direction, so we were very confident of big things from the new ReVolve®.” Once approved, the ReVolve® battery, on Colormaker’s Brookvale site, will be the first in the world to be fully certified, commissioned and operating commercially, as a solar sponge.

ECO PIONEERS Colormaker is certainly a pioneer when it comes to running a sustainable business, and the team are consciously committed to reducing their carbon footprint to achieve net-zero emissions by 2025. Four years ago they installed a 100-kW solar array which has resulted in the avoidance of 630 tonnes of greenhouse gases and pumped out clean electricity every single day. The solar array was originally designed to generate twice the electricity required for internal operations, but prompted

Colormaker to reassess its energy consumption practices. One major change was the installation of a new compressor, leading to a 23% reduction in overall electricity usage across the entire site. “Having such a huge energy surplus has been a great enabler for Colormaker. We now produce 2.3 times as much electricity as we use, but until recently, we’ve only been 65% self-sufﬁcient,” explains David. ”With only three weeks of the ReVolve® operating, we’ve smashed that up to 89%. With a battery added to solar, for every kWh that we’ve taken from the grid over the last 12 months, we’ve put 5.4 in.

With three EVs for deliveries and staff commutes, an electric forklift (no LPG on site), the new compressor, two batteries, a mega shredder to give cardboard a second life as packing material, and a new reverse cycle air conditioner in their carbon abatement assets, Colormaker is a leader in eco-friendly manufacturing practices. “This is the future that we want, that we deserve and, given our abundant sunshine, that we have an obligation to demonstrate to the rest of the world,” states David. Well done, Colormaker! You are deﬁnitely dedicated to making the world a better place through colour. •

44 Orchard Rd, Brookvale 2100 | (02) 9939 7977 | Insta: @colormaker_industries colormaker.com.au

PAGE 28 | BEACHES COVERED.

SWIMMING POOL PAINT @simonhunterphotography

Create your dream backyard with LUXAPOOL® LUXAPOOL® premium swimming pool paint has been trusted by generations of Australians to surface and resurface their pools. LUXAPOOL® Epoxy delivers a smooth, hard, durable surface that is resistant to the growth of algae and simple to maintain. Available in 25 on-trend colours, LUXAPOOL® Epoxy paints are suitable for use over most pool surfaces

Visit the LUXAPOOL website Targeting

including cement render, concrete, pebblecrete, fibreglass, marblesheen and previously painted epoxy. LUXAPOOL® Epoxy paint is sustainably manufactured on the Northern Beaches using 100% renewable energy. Drop into the Colormaker paint shop for advice or to hire submersible boards in LUXAPOOL® colours to trial in your own pool environment.

44 Orchard Road, Brookvale NSW 2100 www.luxapool.com.au Shop hours: 7:30am–4pm Monday–Friday 8am–12pm Saturdays until 30th December 2023 Parking at rear of Colormaker building Phone: 1300 LUXAPOOL

F O ST E R I N G H E A R T A N D M I N D

THE OTHER SIDE OF THE REPORT CARD Exceptional academic results are just one side of the report card at Queenwood, in Mosman, where a unique approach to education fosters both the heart and the mind. Director of Wellbeing, Suzanne Kerr, delves deeper into this exceptional philosophy.

As a school community, we are incredibly proud of the achievements of our Year 12 students and their success in both the High School Certiﬁcate and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. In 2022, Queenwood was ranked 21st in the State*, with the top 20 HSC and IB students obtaining a combined median ATAR of 98.79. For a school that’s not academically selective we have enormous pride in our students’ results. Yet academic success does not stand alone – it is only one side of the report card. It is the other side of the report card that encapsulates the culture of our school and the importance we place on caring for the wellbeing of the individual child. As a school community we do not underestimate the inextricable relationship between wellbeing and learning. If you were to walk amongst us, attend a lesson, sit in our assemblies, listen to our conversations, and share in our laughter, you would begin to understand what wellbeing is at Queenwood. Every child, from K–12, is engaged in a wellbeing program that encapsulates social and emotional competencies and addresses themes that are both

age appropriate and socially relevant. For example, Year 8 are currently completing the Teen Youth Mental Health First Aid Certiﬁcate. Yet, there is so much more.

UNLOCKING SUCCESS THROUGH RELATIONSHIPS What is key to our everyday lives at Queenwood are our relationships. The relationships between students, whether they are built in the classroom or participating in cocurricular activities such as drama productions, debating, rowing, waterpolo, or developed from a shared passion of reading the classics, or building solar cars, or participating in art life drawing classes. These relationships exist, not only with class peers, but across year groups, allowing students to observe and ﬂourish. Our students build relationships with their teachers as they share a love of English or time spent sipping tea around the campﬁre, or hours spent outside the lesson unpacking complex thinking. The relationships at Queenwood are real and they change and develop as the child moves from Kindergarten to Year 7 to Year 12, and that is the

“As a school community we do not underestimate the inextricable relationship between wellbeing and learning.” SUZANNE KERR, DIRECTOR OF WELLBEING.

magic of a school. In today’s world, it is not uncommon for our students to have hundreds of friends online but are they authentic relationships? Of course not, and that is why a school like Queenwood works. When we say we know each girl, we mean it. While we are big enough to compete on all stages, we are small enough to know one another. Our relationships are authentic and that truly matters. The wellbeing of our students stems from our belief in their capacity. We encourage them to raise the bar, to raise the bar in managing their social interactions, in understanding themselves, and in their capacity to make responsible decisions that foster achievement. As parents we often talk about the nature of parenting, and authoritative parenting is described as a more balanced approach in which parents are nurturing, responsive and supportive, yet sets ﬁrm limits for their children. This certainly resonates with how we interact with our students; we are a community that is respectful, honest, and fair. This sits alongside our desire to raise young women of the future, young women who recognise and cherish their capacity and it is for these reasons Queenwood’s report card is one of pride, and, one of celebration. •

Words by: Suzanne Kerr, Director of Wellbeing. Photography: Queenwood *This ranking refers to the 2022 Sydney Morning Herald HSC League Table.

ueenwood has been providing a balanced education for girls, from K–12, for over 90 years.

A tradition of excellence and a culture of curiosity. CURIOUS ABOUT OUR K-12 SCHOOL? NOW ENROLLING KINDERGARTEN, YEARS 3, 5 AND 7 QUEENWOOD.NSW.EDU.AU/ENROLMENT

Section Contact Details Section or or Contact Details

B EYO N D AC A D E M I C S

An AWE AWEsome some Wellbeing Journey At St Augustine’s College in Brookvale, its pastoral care structure, wellbeing framework, and academic discipline are intertwined, acknowledging the reciprocal link between student wellbeing and academic achievement. Its wellbeing program, Augustinian Wellbeing in Education (AWE) is recognised as industry leading.

he Augustinian Wellbeing in Education program, otherwise known as AWE, at St Augustine’s College is a holistic and universal approach to enhancing student wellbeing that includes bespoke initiatives targeting the speciﬁc needs of different groups. Explicit teaching of social and emotional learning occurs in timetabled lessons, and student-led and peer-based Friday sessions. The College collects data from its annual student wellbeing surveys to deliver targeted and relevant programs for each year group, using evidence-based programs such as the Positive Education Enhanced Curriculum (PEEC) from the Institute of Positive Education, the Black Dog Institute, and The Greater Good Science Centre. In Year 9, AWE provides students with hands-on experiential learning through activities including volunteering in local nursing homes, schools, and charities, learning how to cook, iron and shave, visiting the local Headspace centre, and more.

Young Men of Heart Start Your Son’s Journey saintaug.nsw.edu.au (02) 9938 8200 | enquiries@saintaug.nsw.edu.au Alfred Rd, Brookvale 2100 NSW | CRICOS No. 03300G

PAGE 32 | BEACHES COVERED.

APPLY NOW

What Saints Has Taught Me About Wellbeing

Here’s what a few of the boys had to say:

WELLBEING PREFECT, HAMISH ROSE

VICE CAPTAIN, CHARLIE BLANK

“The College’s wellbeing program allows boys to be in touch with themselves as human beings with idiosyncrasies, ﬂaws and strengths, and it allows us to grow and to focus on the parts of ourselves that make us who we are. It’s a vital part of our community and is a studentled and championed program, exploring may difﬁcult topics among young men in 2023.”

“In one of our Augustinian Wellbeing in Education sessions on the topic of exams, one of the teachers said, ‘Exams are only a representation of you on that particular day’. This comment gave me a sense of relaxation and shows that the teachers are on your side if you ever need help during stressful times.”

SPORT PREFECT, NICHOLAS KIMBALL

PREFECT AND HOUSE CAPTAIN, HARRY WHITELAW

“Our wellbeing sessions have taught me that in times of stress, write down all the things you’re stressed about on paper, and cross out all the things you can’t control. Then you can focus your mental energy towards the things you can change the outcome of.”

SRC PREFECT, TYLER MISCIAGNA

Words & Photography: St Augustine's College - Sydney

As senior students enter their ﬁnal Summer school holidays, they reﬂect on the importance of the self-care skills they learnt at St Augustine’s College as part of its AWE program.

“Our sessions make me feel included within a supportive community, which helped me realise there are many people I can talk to and ask for advice if things get overwhelming. The discussions we have during these sessions allow us to build community so we can all help one another to become better people.”

“I have learnt that things will happen to us throughout life, and instead of living in fear for the future, we can live in peace knowing we are prepared. ‘We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.’”

PREFECT AND HOUSE CAPTAIN, MITCHELL STEWART “Failure can be a useful experience as it develops resilience, presents chances for development and learning, and stimulates creativity. It makes us stronger, offers insightful information, and inspires original thinking, which contributes to our long term success and personal growth.”

St Augustine’s College is an Institutional Member of Positive Education Schools Australia (PESA), the peak association for wellbeing education. For more information on how the College nurtures Young Men of Heart visit saintaug.nsw.edu.au •

St Augustine's College – Sydney | 18-22 Alfred Rd, Brookvale 2100 | (02) 9938 8200 | saintaug.nsw.edu.au | Insta: @staugsydney

JOHN COLET SCHOOL

Dirty

GETTING YOUR HANDS

The tribe of happy children at John Colet School in Belrose have been thoroughly enjoying a good old-fashioned dig in the mud in their new organic garden. The process, yield and sustainable mindset are in perfect alignment with the school’s whole-child development philosophy, contributing to emotionally healthy, well-rounded and slightly dirty young learners.

an incredible amount of satisfaction contributing to the ﬁeld to plate process.

consumers to becoming responsible little producers.

“We are already seeing an increase in produce being used in our student lunches and as this area continues to develop we hope to expand on this.

This journey goes beyond just learning practical skills; it also builds resilience in households and local communities, crucial for facing an uncertain future potentially with less energy resources.

As the co-founder of the successful Edible Garden Trails scheme, Laurie is passionate about sustainability, permaculture and the importance of living off the land. The joy and satisfaction that she has brought the students has been phenomenal. She has imparted a wholesome mindset towards home gardening and a deep connection with nature in the students.

“Eating a healthy vegetarian meal together ensures that students get the fuel they need. We ﬁnd this beneﬁts their attention and focus throughout the afternoon,” says Headmaster Julian Wilcock.

Lunchtime Garden Club has proved to be very popular across all age groups and the fruits of their labour often become a well-earned lunch for the teachers and children alike. The school’s in-house vegetarian Head Chef, Glen Galloway, is having a ﬁeld day working with the fresh, organic produce, and the students are gaining

THE BENEFITS OF GARDENING ARE DEEP ROOTED Without even realising it, students are gaining valuable life skills, including responsibility and understanding cause and effect, like how plants need water and how weeds can be tricky competitors. Plus, they’re boosting their self-conﬁdence by achieving goals and enjoying the food they’ve grown. When we weave permaculture ethics and principles into children’s daily lives, it sparks a shift from just being

As kids get the hang of applying these principles, they’re not just learning, they’re gaining thinking tools that help them adapt to change. By planting the seeds of a permaculture mindset early on, we’re giving the next generation the power to contribute to sustainable practices and embrace a holistic way of living in sync with nature. As pioneers in ethical education and whole-child development strategies, the team at John Colet are always looking for exciting ways to challenge, grow and engage their students. The new garden is the crowning, green glory on an already exceptionally well-rounded school. •

“I love the Garden Club because you get to interact with nature and learn new things about plants. And when I learn new things about plants I can take them home and inspire my family.” A year-3 class student from John Colet School.

Words: Lauren Goldsack | Photography: John Colet School

eaded up by aptly-named, award-winning landscaper Laurie Green, the oncederelict piece of land has been expertly reimagined as a thriving, wallabyproof organic garden that the children can’t get enough of!

Social: Music , Arts & Community

R E M M U S H OT Finds

SECTION HEADING

TURES AND DLESS ADVEN EN IF E? YL ST ER N YOUR SUMM TO HELP YOU UP THE HEAT O THE BEST BUYS RN N O TU P O TO O Y SC AD E GOT TH GS FOR THE ARE YOU RE AUTIFUL THIN E AFTER, WE’VE BE ’R U D YO AN S AT H KE W BI E EAM, ECOOL VIBES AR US WHEN YOU NTS, TO SUNCR U CAN BLAME TOTES AND TE YO H S, YE AC . BE ES M AV O UST-H SIZZLE. FR D.’S LIST OF M RATED COVERE CU VE E’ W E, HOM IS SUMMER! K FABULOUS TH O LO D AN H FEEL FRES

Ivy is rocking: O’NEILL GIRLS BAHIA 2MM LONG SLEEVE SPRINGSUIT | $179.99 ROXY HONEY COCONUT CAP | $25.99 RIP CURL CLASSIC SURF BEACH TOTE BAG | $29.99

Ruby’s

Must-Haves RIP CURL MELTING WAVES GIRLS SURF SUIT | $89.99 LAYDAY SHALLOWS BEACH TOWEL | $59.95 ROXY SUMMER FLOWER TOTE | $49.99

SCARLETT LOVES O’NEILL REACTOR II 2MM SHORT SLEEVE SPRINGSUIT | $99.99

ICE CREAM DREAMS SNORKEL | $29.95

GIRLS BAHIA HOODED CHANGE TOWEL | $69.99

RIP CURL ANTI-STINK WATERPROOF TOTE | $89.99

CRUSH BUTTERSCOTCH SUNGLASSES | $49.95

LONG REEF SURF CO PAGE 36 | BEACHES COVERED.

FELINE POLAR CHAMPAGNE SUNGLASSES | $59.95

MANLY OCEAN POOL, FAIRY BOWER SPHOTO ON YM @ BENS PHOTO SHOT BY

CABANA LIFESTYLE Born on The Beaches, Cabana Lifestyle introduced us to Australia’s original waterproof totes in 2015. Super in size, sand-free and self-standing, these gorgeous, family-sized beach bags changed our lives forever. “It had to be practical, it had to be the highest quality and it had to be gorgeous,” says Owner and local mum, Victoria Gregory. Vic still designs every product and runs the business from her home on The Beaches. She is most proud of her customers’ consistent ﬁve-star reviews on the entire range of totes, towels and candles. “Stuff me full of wet, sandy towels… I am the labrador of tote bags.” SCAN THE QR CODE AND ENTER CODE ‘BEACHES10’ TO RECEIVE 10% OFF YOUR ORDER.

CABANALIFESTYLE.COM.AU

Local Beaches mum, Ally Garrad, is passionate about two things – spending time with her kids and making outdoor adventures easier for everyone! It’s these values that inspired her to launch SunPlay Australia – beach tents that tick all the boxes for the whole family. Imagine a beach tent so beautifully designed you can set it up and pack down with one hand, carry it in a lightweight backpack (that also ﬁts your towel, water bottles and cozzie), and play in it all day long because the UV protection is so good! SunPlay tents come in four stunning designs and have picked up prestigious awards, including Best Beach Tents In Australia and the People's Choice Awards – No.1 Best Beach Tent for Mothers!

SUNPLAYAUSTRALIA.COM

Sunkissed Safety!

THE BEACHES’

VERY OWN SUNSCREEN!

AVA IL A B L E ON L IN E AT: B EA CH FO X .C O M OR AT A N Y L EA DIN G PA RTICIPATI NG RETA IL STORE

R E M SUM FINDS H OT

GET CRUISEY!

Salvage Australia launched in August 2023, with a focus on sustainability. Made from recycled plastic bottles, these fun-loving and colourful totes are the brainchild of eco-friendly mum, Louisa, who is on a mission to prioritise style without compromising the environment. Each tote reduces waste, rescuing materials from landﬁlls and oceans, and 1% of sales are donated to The Ocean Cleanup project. If you like vibrant colours and fabulous prints, jump online and pop in an order for summer! We’ll be taking the one with the lobsters.

SALVAGEAUSTRALIA.COM

EMBRACE ICONIC COMFORT Dive into the world of e-bikes at Energy Electric Bikes in Brookvale, where each model is a cool combo of style, design and functionality. With prices dancing between $1,799 and $4,000, there’s an e-bike for every taste and budget, promising the perfect sidekick for your cycling escapades. This Summer, cruise to and from the waves in style! One of our most popular e-bikes is the Dirodi Rover Fat Tyre, a nod to vintage motorbike vibes. It can carry up to 150kg and, with a 500W motor packing serious torque and a whopping 48V 15.6AH battery, it will take you up to 80km on a single charge (depending on the terrain). Or get cruising on the super-stylish Smartmotion XCity Neo if you want to get a bit more off-road action. This unique bike is a cross between a mountain bike and a trekking bike. This will allow you to go between the two terrains effortlessly. With mid-drive motor it will conquer any hill including the steepest of driveways.

Cosy up in style! Discover er your ideal occasional chair or armchair at Swayy Home in Avalon Beach. As Paciﬁc Green ambassadors, ors, they present sustainable e Palmwood furniture with h a touch of allure and contemporary elegance.. Each piece is meticulously sly hand-sculpted using timemehonoured craftsmanship. p. Treat yourself – visit Sway ay Home this weekend!

Shop 6/674 Pittwater Rd, Brookvale 2100 | 0418 977 227 ENERGYELECTRICBIKES.COM PAGE 38 | BEACHES COVERED.

24/11-13 Avalon Parade, Avalon Beach 2107

SWAYHOME.COM.AU

visit us at www.beddie.com.au au

Social: Music, Arts & Community @beddie_beautiful_bedding

www.beddie.com.au

F R SU

R A GE

SU RF, SW IM , SN OR KEL !

SECTION HEADING

Since 1985, Long Reef Surf Co has been helping surfers, swimmers and active watersport lovers Ɠnd the perfect wetsuit, board or accessories. In fact, they’re Australia’s original wetsuit specialists! So, next time you’re ready to hit the beach with a mate, partner or the whole family, swing by and check out what’s on offer. You won’t be disappointed!

Rip Curl Sun Catcher Long Sleeve Girls Surf Suit | $89.99 Crystal Junior Silicon Mask Snorkel & Fins Set | $69.99

PAGE 40 | BEACHES COVERED.

FAIRY BOWER OCEAN POOL, MANLY

Rip Curl Classic Surf Beach Tote Bag | $29.99 O’Neill Girls Bahia 2mm Long Sleeve Springsuit | $179.99 Roxy Honey Coconut Cap | $25.99 Roxy Stay Magical Hooded Towel | $69.99.

Roxy Floraya Onesie Swimsuit | $69.99 DMC Elite Max Swim Fins | $99.00 Ice Cream Dreams Snorkel | $29.95

Clearwater Mask & Snorkel Set | $44.95 Rip Curl Melting Waves Girls Surf Suit | $89.99 DMC Super Fin Swim Training Fins | $59.00

PHOTO SHOT BY @ BENSYMONSPHOTO

SKATEBOARDS Penny Cruiser Cactus Wonderlust 27” | $149.00

Dragon Swim Mask Green Glider | $55.95

Roxy Stay Magical Hooded Towel, $69.99 | Roxy Ritual Kiss Lunchbox, $79.99 | Crush Mint Sunglasses, $49.95

TOP RIGHT: Crush Butterscotch Sunglasses, $49.95 | Holiday Tropics Bloom Thongs, $24.99 | Roxy Surf Saavy Onesie Surfsuit, $109.99 | Rip Curl Premium Surf Towel, Mint, $89.99

Snorkels & ﬂippers While stocks last. Prices are correct at time of publication but are subject to change.

DMC Repellor Surf Fins | $99 Dragon Swim Mask | $55.95 Long Reef Surf Co OG Tee | $45

Natural Zinc Tinted Covering Cream, $27.95 | Sun Bum CocoBalm Lip Balms, from $5.49

1012A Pittwater Rd, Collaroy 2097 | (02) 9982 4829 | Insta: @longreefsurf | longreefsurf.com.au Hot Summer Finds

E X P L O R E T H E O F F E REIXNPGLSO AR RE OTUHNEDOGFEF RE RR II NN GG OS NAGR OAUNNDDI TGSE RN RE II NG GH OB NO GU RAI NN DG IATRSE NA ES I G H B O U R I N G A R E A S GETAWAY

Gerringong Gerroa & Kiama

LOOK, WE GET WHY YOU WOULDN'T WANT TO LEAVE THE BEACHES … I MEAN, OUR BACKYARD IS PARADISE! BUT IF YOU FANCY A ROAD TRIP AND A SUN-SPLASHED GETAWAY IN THE NEW YEAR, THE NSW SOUTH COAST IS BRIMMING WITH BEAUTY, COASTAL CHARM AND LUXURY PLACES TO STAY. ROUND UP YOUR FAMILY OR BEST MATES AND DIVE IN…

PAGE 42 | BEACHES COVERED.

OURIE POOL, WERRI BEACH @EATREADLOVER FOR SUNDARA BEACH HOUSE

GERRINGONG @JEFFSHEPPEARD_PHOTOGRAPHY

Along the South Coast of NSW, Gerringong emerges as the quintessential getaway destination. With both coastal charm and tranquil countryside – beaches, rolling hills and a welcoming community – Gerringong invites you to unwind. We checked it out for you and found all the best spots to visit and things to do.

Big 4 Holiday Park

Whether you seek a tranquil retreat or want to embark on an exciting journey to discover the enchanting attractions of the South Coast, BIG4 Easts Beach Kiama Holiday Park stands as the ideal destination. Spread across 35 acres, the park is cradled in a valley with a picturesque mountain setting, sloping towards the glistening sands and sapphire waters of Easts Beach.

Discover the abundant offerings at BIG4 Easts Beach Kiama, featuring a resort pool complex, Sunny’s Aquaventure Park, a jumping pillow, two playgrounds, an indoor games room with Little Monkeys Play Corner, on-site groceries, takeaway food, and an array of activities for both the young and the young at heart. Choose from a diverse selection of fully self-contained accommodation tailored to meet various needs and budgets. Alternatively, if camping is more your preference, they provide ensuite sites and powered sites for a memorable outdoor experience.

NORFOLK & CO. Located in the heart of Gerringong, Norfolk & Co. is a homewares and lifestyle store dedicated to creating a unique collection of products that embrace a conscious coastal lifestyle. In 2022, the dynamic duo of Jeff and Lisa, a husband-and-wife team, breathed life into Norfolk & Co. This store is a thoughtful blend of Australian and select international

brands, providing customers with a unique shopping experience. Lisa’s taste in exquisite homewares and lifestyle products is evident in the curated range she has chosen for the store. Meanwhile, Jeff, driven by his passion for nature and adventure, skillfully captures the scenic coastline through his photography. To truly appreciate his photos and hear about his adventures, a visit to the store is a must!

THE HILL The Hill is one of the premium spots on the South Coast of NSW to have a drink and a bite with an amazing view. Located on Fern Street in Gerringong, the restaurant overlooks the stunning Werri Beach and surrounding farmlands. The industrial decor creates a chic yet relaxed setting, making it an ideal venue for a memorable dining experience. Join them for a casual beer in the sun, weeknight dinner with the family, or a long lunch with your crew!

Continue to page 44 >

PHOTO: @JEFFSHEPPEARD_PHOTOGRAPHY

Getaway: Welcome to Gerringong

EXPLORE THE OFFERINGS AROUND GERRINGONG AND ITS NEIGHBOURING AREAS

PHOTO: @JEFFSHEPPEARD_PHOTOGRAPHY

in the world of craft beverages. Stoic is committed to the highest standards of product and service, and takes care in selecting the highest quality of ingredients. The journey of each brew is meticulously planned, researched and dedicated to pushing the boundaries of beer innovation. Visiting Stoic is an immersive experience in a community-driven space where every sip tells a story of expertise and zeal.

CROOKED RIVER WINERY

PHOTO: @JEFFSHEPPEARD_PHOTOGRAPHY

Natural Necessity Surf Shop

enthusiasts seeking top-notch supplies and stylish apparel. With a rich and impressive history, the journey of this iconic surf store is a testament to passion and dedication. Today, it stands as a beacon in the surf community, offering not just products but embodying a culture and history that resonates with every wave rider who walks through its doors.

STOIC BREWERY In 2018, Steve and his son Andrew, proud residents of Gerringong, established Stoic Brewery. In 1976, Honey Surf Shop opened its doors to the world on the main street of Gerringong. Little did owner Kent Ladkin know then that he would eventually transform this unassuming store into the largest independent surf shop in Australia, rebranding it as Natural Necessity Surf Shop.

Driven by their vision to create a haven where the community could meet, enjoy locally brewed beer and cider amid the brewing vats, their dream was to design a space that exuded the warmth of home, fostering a community that moved beyond patrons and felt more like an extended family.

Natural Necessity Surf stands as the paramount destination for surf

Stoic is a stellar destination for those seeking an unparalleled experience

Hidden in the scenic embrace of Gerringong on the captivating south coast of NSW, Crooked River Wines stands proudly as a family-owned and operated winery. Over the span of 24 years, this winery has won multiple awards for its exceptional red and white wines. With a continuous spirit of experimentation, the winery is dedicated to crafting the perfect drop, ensuring that every sip reﬂects the passion and expertise woven into each bottle.

Gerringong Pizza Gerringong Pizza takes pride in delivering mouth-watering pizzas with fresh, quality ingredients. From classic favourites to innovative specialties, each slice is the perfect combination of crunchy crust and a gooey cheese centre.

THE COLLECTIVE BEAT The Collective Beat in Gerringong is more than a store; it's a carefully curated space that transforms shopping into a unique experience. With a focus on details and a commitment to featuring local artisans, it's become a community hub, creating a connection between customers and the stories behind each product. The inviting atmosphere and diverse range of goods make The Collective Beat a shop where you might ﬁnd yourself wanting a bit of everything on the shelves.

Continue to page 48 PAGE 44 | BEACHES COVERED.

The Charm

of Greta Greta Cottage is a stunning, boutique fourbedroom home located in the centre of town, on one of Gerringong's oldest streets, Greta Street. Walking distance to Werri Beach, shops and restaurants makes it the perfect location for your next South Coast getaway. This 50s-style cottage has recently undergone a full renovation, making it a dream destination for families, small groups and couples.

DREAM LIVING Greta Cottage can comfortably sleep eight people with three queen rooms and two singles. There are two bathrooms and the luxurious main has a double shower, double vanity and bath. The hub of the home includes a large kitchen and open-plan living/dining perfectly set up with all your home-away-from-home needs. Bifold doors connect the internal areas with a huge covered deck and bar/outdoor kitchen. In the backyard you'll ﬁnd a cosy ﬁrepit area, swimming pool, huge lawn and a fully-kitted-out games shed!

BOOK IT IN If you're ready to escape The Beaches and looking for a fun South Coast getaway you'll ﬁnd everything you need, and more, at Greta Cottage. Follow the venue on socials and lock in your diary for 2024. While you're there book a table at Crooked River Winery and Cellar Door, lock in a round of golf, and check out the local surf shops, cafes, and boutiques. •

@GRETACOTTAGE_GERRINGONG

Getaway: Welcome to Gerringong

S U N DA R A B E AC H H O U S E

Ser en ity in the Sun With the golden sand of Werri Beach only metres from your doorstep, Sundara Beach House promises relaxation, rejuvenation and the playful embrace of a coastal haven for your next getaway. This luxury beachfront home has been meticulously designed to make every moment tranquil. Book your stay and wake up to the soothing sound of the waves.

Located just steps from Werri Beach, Sundara has room for everyone. The haven features seven bedrooms, ﬁve bathrooms, a heated pool and spa, cubby house, two living areas and air-conditioning. The games room is home to a mighty pool table, the BBQ area is perfect for entertaining and covered with an alfresco deck, and the golf course is not far away. Whether you’re getting away to spend time with the family, or to escape them, Sundara delivers coastal luxury at its ﬁnest.

Words: Samara Robertson | Photography: @EATREADLOVER and The Palm Co

undara Beach House combines barefoot luxury with relaxed reﬁnement, establishing itself as one of the most popular beach houses on the South Coast.

ON THE DOORSTEP The scenic Werri Beach is known for its surf breaks, sweeping headland, rock pools and natural lagoons. And whether you’ve come to the beach to surf, swim or ﬁsh, Werri welcomes you warmly. After a morning in the sun, take a short trip into Gerringong, where a world of adventure awaits. From cafés and restaurants with stunning views, to workshops, homewares and clothing boutiques, galleries and stunning wineries, this South Coast gem has it all, including a microbrewery! If you’re really here to relax, the team behind Sundara can help organise all your unforgettable memories. Why not try horse riding on the beach or a bespoke food and wine tour? There’s private yoga and pilates classes, surf lessons, in-house spa treatments, private chefs and grazing platters all up for grabs. Time to get the adventure rolling… plan your Gerringong getaway now! It's less than two hours from Sydney and the perfect spot to uncover the beauty of the South Coast.

LAUNCHING THIS SUMMER – UMA ON WERRI Opening this Summer, Uma on Werri is a brand-new designer beach house tucked away at the north end of Werri Beach.

inviting alfresco areas, a kids’ playroom and a co-working space, you may want to move in for good.

With seven bathrooms, plus a heated pool and spa, it’s made for relaxation and entertainment. With open-plan interiors,

As if one brilliant designer beach house isn’t enough, now you have your pick of two! • umaonwerri.com | @umaonwerri

info@sundarabeachhouse.com | Insta: @sundarabeachhouse | sundarabeachhouse.com

EXPLORE THE OFFERINGS AROUND GERRINGONG AND ITS NEIGHBOURING AREAS

GERRINGONG @JEFFSHEPPEARD_PHOTOGRAPHY

your collection. You are invited to explore the vibrant and ever-evolving realm of Fern Street Gallery.

HART & SOUL In 2019, Courtney Bassett established Hart & Soul with a mission to unite mind, body and soul through thoughtfully curated products. To bring her vision to life, Courtney partnered with industryrecognised naturopaths and holistic specialists. The handpicked selection of products encapsulates love and nourishment, offering a unique range that supports mental wellbeing. From indulgent beauty treats to body-cleansing items, Hart & Soul encourages self-care and nurtures the body inside and out.

34 Degrees South Trading Company Described by visitors as a hidden gem, 34 Degrees South is more than just a typical retail shop – it’s a destination full of uniquely exquisite homewares that you can’t ﬁnd elsewhere. The store draws inspiration from the love of the sea and all things coastal and, as a proudly locally owned and operated establishment, the team take pride in curating a diverse selection of homewares and curiosities. The result is a fusion of classic and sophisticated styles that seamlessly blend with rustic, casual beach vibes. Drop in for a browse – we guarantee you won’t be disappointed!

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Nuform Pilates PHOTO: @JEFFSHEPPEARD_PHOTOGRAPHY

FERN STREET GALLERY Fern Street Gallery is the go-to spot for art lovers on the South Coast. At Fern Street Gallery, their mission is to support and showcase both established and emerging Australian artists. They take pride in representing a diverse group of talented resident artists while also playing host to a wide array of national artists. Fern Street Gallery's resident artists have a dedicated space, offering a permanent exhibition that spans various mediums, including painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, assemblage and mixed media. The front of the gallery is reserved for visiting artists, ensuring a constantly changing display of fresh and exciting art with each visit. Step into the world of art, where the creators are approachable, the art has room to breathe, and there’s always something new to discover and add to

NUFORM Pilates is all about ﬁtness and enjoyment. They focus on encouraging and challenging clients with exercises that are both safe and tailored to individual needs. Whether you’re seeking ways to keep your body active, they offer classes that will keep you smiling, breaking a sweat and eager for more. Become part of their lively community, forge new friendships, share laughter, work out, and even enjoy a relaxing glass of wine on a Friday afternoon!

TONIC FACIAL BAR Indulge in a day of pure relaxation at Tonic Facial Bar on your getaway. Unwind with facials, soothing massages and expert skincare treatments. The serene atmosphere and skilled therapists create a haven for self-care. Immerse yourself in tranquillity, emerging refreshed and radiant; a perfect escape for a blissful retreat. If you want some more – and, by the way, you do deserve more – Tonic Facial Bar offers nail, hand, waxing, tint, make-up and tanning services. •

Your Coastal Lifestyle Haven in Gerringong.

2/141 Belinda St, Gerringong 2534

Founded by a husband-wife duo, Norfolk & Co in Gerringong curates a mindful collection of Australian and international brands for a distinctive shopping experience. Lisa meticulously selects quality homewares, while Jeff, inspired by nature, captures the unique beauty of the coastline through his photography.

norfolkandco norfolkandco.com.au open Wednesday to Monday Getaway: Welcome to Gerringong

HOMEWARES | FASHION | HEALTH & BEAUTY | FURNITURE | PHOTOGRAPHY

NATURAL NECESSITY SURF SHOP

ON A WAVE OF NECESSITY If you’ve made your way to Gerringong, there’s a good chance you’ve visited Natural Necessity Surf Shop – the largest single-doorway surf shop in Australia. And the life story behind this gorgeous, 40-year-old, family-owned business is nothing short of inspiring. Here, Owner Kent Ladkin tells us all about it.

At this point surfers are still using blocks of brittle parafﬁn wax from the petrol station to wax their boards. Kent thinks there must be a better way and begins experimenting with a new formula. n

t’s 1970. A 19-year-old Merewether teen by the name of Kent Ladkin has spent a year studying economics while working as an office clerk. But the lifestyle is all wrong. Kent drops out. An alternate life beckons. Kent hitch-hikes to the sleepy South Coast of NSW and spends the summer of 1970 camping and surfing Green Island and Aussie Pipe. When Winter arrives he heads north to Angourie, near Yamba, where a friend offers him a treehouse in the bush. Living next to the town’s iconic point break, the young Aussie spends his days surfing uncrowded waves, reading books and doing yoga. And, while life is great, he knows it can’t last forever – his entrepreneurial spirit is just beneath the surface.

Adding beeswax, with a few other key ingredients, makes a far more effective product – it’s easier to apply and doesn’t flake off and become slippery. At this moment, he discovers one of the world’s first surf-specific waxes and calls it Honey Surf Wax. When Kent’s brother Brad calls to say he’s moved onto an old farm in Gerringong, Kent moves south and falls in love with the rolling green hills and beautiful coastline. The farm’s old dairy and barn make the perfect wax factory and Brad leaves his job to manage the production.

At this time there are no board covers on the Australian market until Kent’s mate’s auntie makes him a cool cover. Suddenly, alongside the wax, they are selling thousands of board covers a year. After that comes surfboard leashes and the business moves to an exciting level. That’s when Kent decides to open the ﬂagship Honey Surf Shop in Gerringong.

ASHES TO NEW OPPORTUNITIES One cool August morning in 1976, while dropping wax to Sydney, Kent calls home to discover the factory, along with eight tons of wax, has caught on ﬁre. By the time the ﬁre brigade arrives, there’s nothing they can do. “They literally sat back and had a cup of tea, waiting for it to burn out,” recalls Kent.

Ten times a year Kent visits every surf shop, from Gerringong to Noosa, to supply wax. His brother visits Victoria and stores rave about the personal service and the product.

That afternoon, the local council calls to say they’ve withdrawn permission for the surf shop to open as it’s not zoned retail. Within hours, the wax business has burnt to the ground and the freshly renovated surf shop has been blocked.

“To save on litter, the only packaging we used was recycled boxes and newspapers, while the wax itself had nothing except a sticker. As it turned out, when people peeled it off, it was

Soon after, Kent’s offered a betterpositioned property on the main street of Gerringong and The Honey Surf Shop opens its doors. Clothing labels approach Kent to distribute their goods and one of

GENERAL MANAGER RYDER WITH WOMEN'S FLOOR MANAGER INDI

OWNERS

Viv & Kent PAGE 50 | BEACHES COVERED.

Words: Donna Armstrong | Photography: Natural Necessity Surf Shop

The Birth of Honey Surf Wax

easier to slap it on something than ﬁnd a bin, so we ended up with hundreds of thousands of stickers representing the brand on cars, signs, fridges; you name it. It was amazing,” smiles Kent.

Holiday on ABSOLUTE BEACH FRONTAGE

them, Aussie footwear brand Maseur Sandals, ends up selling millions. Kent has the honour of selling the very ﬁrst pair. “I remember waiting in the factory while the very ﬁrst pair was glued up, so I could take it on the road,” he says. When Kent receives an offer to launch the Maseur Sandals brand in the USA, he hands the Honey Surf business over to his brother and moves to California.

L E AV I N G A L E G A C Y

After 10 years and a great life, Kent returns home. Brad has sold the Honey Surf label and wax production to fellow surf brand Ocean & Earth, and the shop in Gerringong is being leased. Luckily, Kent still owns the property and moves into the ﬂat out the back. When the shop lease ends Kent reopens the surf store and Natural Necessity Surf Shop is born. He also relaunches his weekly yoga classes and meets student Vivienne Ryder. Six months later, Viv and Kent are married and three sons, Forrest, Ryder and Taj, follow. Today, with the boys all grown up and Forrest running the online store, Kent and Viv are certainly living the dream of creating Australia’s ultimate surf shop. “Over the last 10 years my vision has been to create an Australian coastal lifestyle business that will last for over 200 years,” says Kent proudly. “The store has become a destination. The vibe with the coffee aroma, the high wood ceilings with sunlight streaming in, cool music and over 1,000 boards makes it a dream shopping experience… People often come for hours at a time.”

BEACHFRONT ACCOMMODATION AND FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY BIG4 Easts Beach Kiama Holiday Park offers an ideal absolute beachfront escape. Whether seeking family-friendly relaxation or South Coast adventures, our 35-acre park, nestled in a lush valley with a mountain backdrop, leads to Easts Beach's golden sands. Choose from beachside retreats, villas, cabins, or camp in style with ensuite or powered sites. The kids will love the resort's pool complex, Sunny's Aquaventure Park, a jumping pillow, two playgrounds, and an indoor games room with Little Monkeys Play Corner. We offer onsite groceries, takeaway food, and a variety of activities for both the young and the young at heart.

So, next time you’re on the South Coast, if it’s fun vibes, good coffee and the best surf rf apparel you’re after, do yourself a favour and d drop into Kent’s place. •

Natural Necessity Surf Shop 115 Fern St, Gerringong 2534 (opposite Town Hall) alnecessity (02) 4234 1636 | Insta: @naturalnecessity naturalnecessity.com.au

www.eastsbeach.com.au 30 OCEAN STREET KIAMA 2533 (02) 4232 2124

Getaway: Welcome to Gerringong

EXPLORE THE OFFERINGS AROUND GERRINGONG AND ITS NEIGHBOURING AREAS

Relax in the bliss of your Summer getaway. Delight in solving this holiday puzzle to rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit. M P E U E R C W T O M G F K F K V J H D T R B N W O M L U L L Q V P Q E K S E V A W O Y B E A C H D U Y O X J Z R H A B P S G Z G Y O U R C K C A B K C I K F H J L O G N P Y D V C E S A E P P A C W J N E U A L G V S J K Z E M I T E M W H Z R N R O S L P E F R T W A W S S G E P N Z R K Q X R C Z X R M J P E C Y H Q T S P R A W L K I P L A V P K I T U O D A E R P S V F U N M E Q S T P M P L O P J N I F A E T F F O E M I T Q B X X V Q U G Z H K U P P A H O L X J D T P R R O A I R G G G Z G D M A T S U N R M A N J S H E O F X H S E V V I Z X U D R Y F I C P M U L S S V E F D Z O T N R S D G Q C E P A K T Q O E L W S N C A T P L E V Z H D G Y W I N U E Q X M K G I X G E F A Q V O T A H Z L X H S R F E S L Y D L H S N P O E V L K N E L Z P C R R W C E R P M L U X U R I A T E L O I L W E N L U H A N G O U T Z W Y T C V H S N E U I D V Z N S N Y E Y F S I D D Y G S U Y Z A O G F I T E N B Y E T E G Q E R T E C L U S O L H N A R P N S J M O E T V D Q Z Z T R S X J E L T G S N L N H P C J I L D R X W A C C R E I L I Q Q A T J S Z G X X U S F Y Q D E E S T B H U N B E N D E C T N Y M N R V Z F K Y A N Y I J N H B R R E I B L D M A W K Y C H Y S R Q E N J O Y M E N T L E I A T V Y F A W E N E N O W T E Z P K E U S Z M J U H R I T L A L T E W V R X O V H T R D U Q G F O A P I S H M T V B J N N N M L A I P X B V M L R C F W E X I G L E M L E L G N A T N E S I D I D U C E R W Y L O L L O U N G E F L A I N C W S G B S S Y J O H B Q X P C G C A E K R L E V A R N U P T R I Q Z J U Q S J Y H C N E L C N U F I U D S S H C T E R T S Y N O N N J A M D V I G W U C L P T S Z B X P M Z A I P Y L I M A F C W T N T Z S W P T K C T Z J H L Q G B B B I D L E B P I Y U V M K L O A F P F D Y R V D A J Z J U Q R M Z T APPEASE BEACH CALMNESS CHILLIN DESTRESS DISENTANGLE EASE EASEUP

PPAGE PAG PA AG A G E 5522 | BBEA BE BEACHES EEAA CCH CHE HEE S CCOVERED. H OVVVEER OVE O E RRED REED E D.

EASYGOING ENJOYMENT FAMILY FLOP FULFILL HANGOUT HAT IDLE

INACTIVITY INDULGE KICKBACK LAZE LEISURE LOAF LOLL LOOSEN

LOUNGE LULL LUXURIATE METIME OCEAN PAMPER PEACE QUENCH

QUIET RECLINE RELAX REPOSE RESPITE REST REVEL SLOWDOWN

SLUMBER SLUMP SPRAWL SPREADOUT STILLNESS STRETCH SUNCREAM SUNNINESS

SUNNIES TIMEOFF TRANQUILITY UNBEND UNCLENCH UNRAVEL UNWIND WAVES

Sunrises SUNSETS “ T H E B E ST DAYS A R E B O O K E N D E D W I T H C O F F E E A N D A C O C K TA I L .” L AU R E N G O L D SAC K , S C R I B E , P H I L O S O P H E R A N D S E A S O N E D C O C K TA I L E R

One of the greatest things about Summer is setting your alarm clock for sunrise and ordering a cocktail for sunset. With such an abundance of amazing lookouts to drink your coffee and sip your French martini, it’s hard to know where to start. It’s a tough life… sigh. Well, your loyal Beaches COVERED. crew take your coffees and cocktails very seriously. Here’s our guide to the some of the best places to have your sunrise coffee and your sunset cocktail. Don’t say we never do anything for you!

SUNRISES

SUNSETS & SUNDOWNERS

INSTA MOMENT: Classic Coffee at Avalon Beach is an iconic coffee van that sits gracefully on the southern headland.

THE OFFICE, MANLY: Ask any Manly local and they might tell you this secret spot at Manly Cove.

LOCALS ONLY: Zubi at Billy’s is our tiny little secret at Bilgola. It's an epic sunrise vantage and the brekkie is heavenly too. Shhh, don't tell anyone! MORNING SURF: Sunrise Kiosk inside Warriewood Surf Club is so close to the beach you can taste the salt water. BREKKIE WITH A SHOW: Nothing says ‘good morning’ like a sunrise at Cabana Beach Kiosk, Narrabeen. SANDY FEET: The Beach Shed at Dee Why Beach is the perfect place to caffeinate while the sun rolls in. MANLY: Take in the sun at Fairy Bower Point followed by a swim at halfway pool. Get your coffee hit at The Boathouse at Shelly Beach.

ORMEGGIO AT THE SPIT: She's one classy lady with a view of Middle Harbour that glitters all the way into your glass. MANLY SKIFF CLUB: A place you take the out-of-towners to show off. Delicious cocktails, wine, beer and food and that sunset view overlooking Manly Harbour. Q-STATION: Historically signiﬁcant, aesthetically beautiful. Don't miss the Sunday sessions with the best sunset view to Manly. HUGOS: A-class and renowned for celebrity sightings, this is the ultimate spot this Summer. Enjoy the best espresso martinis and pizzas in town as the sun sets. •

MAP NOT TO SCALE

AT BILLY’S, BILGOLA BEACH Arguably the best spot on The Beaches to enjoy a coffee while enjoying the surf, this protected oasis is a sanctuary where you can easily devote a day to a sip, swim and sandwich. Insta-worthy sunrises at

zubi_cafes

THE SERPENTINE, BILGOLA BEACH 2107 Sunrises, Sunsets and Sundowners ALSO AT: DEE WHY | NARRABEEN | NEWPORT

summer sessions at the Q

From sunset sessions and live music to exceptional food and unforgettable tours, Q Station has something for everyone. Get yourself there and make this Summer the highlight of your year!

SUNSET SESSIONS

DIVE IN AT QUARANTINE BEACH

Fortnightly | 3.30pm to 7pm If you haven’t experienced Sunset Sessions at Q Station, you’ve missed out on one of the best things about Summer on The Beaches. Think live music, delightful drinks and tasty treats, including top-notch cheese, charcuterie and seafood hampers.

Immerse yourself in the calm waters of Quarantine Beach, where you can swim, snorkel, kayak, take a bushwalk or simply chill out on the serene shores.

Featuring a different artist every fortnight, you can enjoy your afternoons on the grass, overlooking the stunning shores of Sydney while watching the sunset. Don’t forget to grab a ﬂute of sparkling, a glass of wine, a 7th Day Brewery Beer or a Manly Spirits G&T to round off your day. Face painting is also available for the kids!

This is the perfect place to bring the whole family and enjoy the refreshing, restorative beauty of the Australian bush and the salt sea air. Hire a kayak, SUP or snorkel and dive on in! The beach is located right next to Boilerhouse Kitchen & Bar and the Wharf Café in case you get peckish.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY HISTORY TOURS Quarantine Wander | Daily at 11am If you’re ready to delve into the rich history of Q Station, check out the daily Quarantine Wander Tour at 11am.

For a full artist line-up, visit qstation.com.au

HAPPY HOUR AT BOILERHOUSE KITCHEN & BAR Lunch | Saturday and Sunday, 12pm-5pm Dinner | Wednesday to Saturday, 5pm-9pm If unwinding on the weekend sounds like your cup of tea, indulge in relaxation on the Boilerhouse terrace, with a glass of wine or cocktail in hand, listening to fresh tunes from some incredible artists on Saturdays and Sundays from 1pm to 4pm. Boilerhouse Kitchen & Bar is a waterfront dining experience with a difference – housed in the original boiler house building of Sydney’s oldest operational quarantine facility. Take advantage of happy hour on Saturdays and Sundays from 1pm to 4pm, serving $7 house spirits, Furphy Refreshing Ales and house wines, along with espresso martinis at only $15, and make it a sunset to remember.

The Wharf Precinct stands as the most signiﬁcant place to understand the arrival and daily routines of Quarantine Station residents. With friendly guides, you’ll explore heritage buildings and unravel the compelling stories of migrants from the 19th and 20th centuries. Skip Through Quarantine | Wednesday to Saturday 20 December 2023 to 27 January 2024 Embark on an epic journey in this special one-hour adventure, customised for kids and their parents. Traverse the historical quarantine process and step back in time to the arrival experience at Quarantine Station on the RMS Niagara in 1921. Kids can experience life aboard the ship and how arriving passengers were processed as they landed at Quarantine Station. This engaging and fun tour promises a memorable adventure to discover something entirely new. Experience Sunset Sessions at Q Station. It's one of the best things about Summer on The Beaches. •

CHECK OUT THE WEBSITE FOR THE SUNSET SESSIONS LINE-UP →

1 North Head Scenic Drive, Manly | (02) 9466 1500 | Insta: @qstation | qstation.com.au PAGE 54 | BEACHES COVERED.

M A N LY PAC I F I C SY D N EY M G A L L E RY C O L L E C T I O N

THE PERFECT

Staycation

You deserve a break, and we mean more than the humble but yummy KitKat. Among the bustling events of daily life there becomes an increasing need to unwind. Manly Paciﬁc Sydney MGallery Collection has designed their rooms with you in mind – a staycation at Manly Paciﬁc beckons with promises of sandy toes, lazy afternoons and charming sunsets.

EXPERIENCE A NEW WORLD OF LUXURY

unforgettable experience, seamlessly blending luxury and lifestyle.

Manly Paciﬁc has created the perfect balance between coastal beauty and urban sophistication. Their rooms exude peacefulness, featuring light-oak timbers and neutral colours that reﬂect the essence of Manly. Whether you’re on a leisurely escape, spending time with family or here for business, your room has been thoughtfully designed with your comfort in mind.

THE INFINITY RESIDENCE The premium villa at Manly Paciﬁc comes with your very own Beach Butler! You quite literally won’t have to lift a ﬁnger.

Words: Samara Robertson | Photography: Manly PaciƓc Hotel

Manly Pacific’s location provides a world of potential exploration: the beach, local markets, boutiques and cafés all sit on its doorstep. The sunny atmosphere of the Corso, with its array of shops, provides a whimsical backdrop for strolls and casual shopping. The plethora of water-based activities, from surfing to paddleboarding, caters to those seeking an adventurous experience. Manly Pacific tailors its offerings to accommodate a spectrum of budgets while maintaining an unwavering commitment to luxury and refinement. From exclusive suites to elegantly appointed rooms, every accommodation option is infused with a sense of sophistication and comfort that allows financial considerations. Whether choosing a more modest option or opting for a lavish room, Manly Pacific encourages guests to relish in the coastal charm without compromising on the finer things in life.

THE VILLAS The ocean-facing villas redeﬁne coastal living, hugging you with a blanket threaded with pure indulgence. Each room has been meticulously designed to complement the ocean’s beauty and carefully crafted to immerse you in an atmosphere of sophisticated relaxation. Every aspect is curated to ensure an

COASTAL VILLAS Enjoy the divinity of stunning ocean views while you feel the sea breeze on your private balcony! These rooms are spacious for all and accommodate up to four guests. OCEAN TERRACE ROOM It’s OK to be lazy and, in fact, this room encourages you to! With sun loungers on your 100sqm sun terrace, lounge back and bask in the sun. When you reserve your room at Manly Pacific, you unlock a variety of benefits at the Infinity Residence, Coastal Villas and Ocean Terrace rooms. These include valet parking for convenient arrivals and departures, a daily breakfast personalised to your tastes, handcrafted cocktails for a touch of evening sophistication, entry to an upgraded mini-bar stocked with complimentary soft drinks and snacks, complimentary tea and coffee all day, exclusive access to the infrared sauna for relaxation, a thoughtful turndown service to create a serene environment when you return, priority access to the Beach Club for leisure and recreation opportunities, and the chance to participate in yoga classes on Thursdays at 6am and Saturdays at 7am. Additionally, kick-start your mornings with a health shot available from 7.30am at the Beach Club desk. Contact Manly Pacific today and secure your Summer getaway right on the doorstep of The Beaches. •

55 N Steyne, Manly | (02) 9977 7666 INSTA: @manlypaciﬁc | manlypaciﬁc.com.au Sunrises, Sunsets and Sundowners

M A N LY 1 6 F T S K I F F SA I L I N G C L U B

Why you'll be

SPENDING YOUR SUMMER AT THE SKIFF! We’ve found the perfect location for you to spend your Summer afternoons! At Manly Skiff Club you can do it all: bask in the sun, enjoy delicious meals and soak up the stunning scenery. The events are lively and the atmosphere welcoming, with the perfect combination of relaxation and fun. If that’s not enough, here’s seven more reasons we’ll see you there…

THE NEW MENU

Justin has spent 15 years living in Asia and is excited to bring influences and flavours from his travels to the plate. “The new menu is created with Summer in mind; the dishes are light, fresh and there is something for everyone,” he says. A new flair to the selection of salads will have even the meat lovers wanting a plate of greens, and the range of vegetarian, vegan and glutenfree options means everyone is catered for.

PAGE 56 | BEACHES COVERED.

Magical Sunsets There’s no better spot to watch the sun bid its ﬁery adieu than the deck at Manly Skiff. Arrive at 7pm and spend an hour sipping cold drinks among warm rays of amber and rose. As the seabirds settle in for the evening they sing a sweet chorus of good nights. The new table-service system means you don’t have to lift a ﬁnger to enjoy a cocktail or towering seafood platter. But don’t take our word for it – they say a picture says a thousand words…

THE SALMON SASHIMI The Tasmanian salmon sashimi tastes like sophisticated innovation. Tasmania is renowned for growing some of the best salmon in the world; the fresh pureness found in Tassie waters creates rich, buttery ﬂavours and silky textures. To elevate this classic dish, creamy coconut milk and green nam jim sauce is delicately drizzled, with a burst of citrus from a native Australian ﬁnger lime. The fusion of premium ingredients creates a delicious experience that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Justin recommends accompanying this dish with a glass of riesling or prosecco.

Words: Samara Robertson | Photography: Kyle Ingram Photography

Stealing the spotlight, The Skiff's new Summer menu is creating a ﬂavour frenzy! Carefully crafted by Executive Chef, Justin Wong, and his team, it’s designed to get your taste buds dancing. A few of the old favourites have remained – the team didn’t want to leave us without our most-beloved staples – but the selection of new dishes is exceptional.

Never a Dull Moment! You can almost guarantee that if you’re sitting on the deck you’ll be privy to the club’s sailors navigating the water’s surface upon their Skiffs. Whether you’re soaking up the rays or cool beneath the shade, the billowing sails and talented mariners become an inherent part of the ambience.

THE BEACHES’ BEST BURGER The new Korean fried chicken burger maintains the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. Justin shares, “I am most excited for customers to try the new Korean fried chicken burger; it’s innovative and like all the new dishes meticulously crafted.” The burger is an amalgamation of three of Justin’s favourite meals presented in a bun. The outcome is something entirely original. He infuses a sauce that he’s been making for eight years, and while ordinarily the sauce is sweetened with sugar or honey, Justin’s secret ingredient leaves you wondering how something can taste so divine.

The sailors’ nimble skiffs share the water with the iconic Manly ferries. And as your evening passes, the rhythmic coming and going of the ferries becomes a seamless part of the seaside ballet. While punters bring their own charm, it’s the local sea-life spotting that brings pure joy. Dining on the patio offers a front-row seat to an underwater world of colourful ﬁsh, stealthy stingrays and easygoing turtles gracefully swimming beneath. If luck’s on your side you might spot the waddle of a penguin or a breaching whale!

AFTER-DINNER TREATS Your requests for a cheese plate have been heard loud and clear! Many guests have been asking for a cheese option to be added to the Skiffy menu, and now a range of artisan cheeses including oak blue, Gouda, Taleggio DOP and quince paste have been carefully selected and are available for you to devour. We asked Justin about his favourite dessert and, while he’s enthusiastic about the addition of cheese, he can’t look past the sticky date pudding. “The Skiff’s sticky date is a long-lasting recipe that has never been changed or removed, because it’s jjust so good.”

MEMBERSHIP PERKS A membership at Manly Skiff isn’t just about receiving a cool card – members are entitled to a range of amazing beneﬁts, savings and fantastic experiences. As a member, you’re given discounts on all food and beverages, access to the big screens for all major sporting events, cheap tickets to events like New Year's Eve, Melbourne Cup and wine dinners, up to half-price when hiring the iconic Harbour View Room, and exclusive access to reservations on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Imagine never having to worry about getting an ocean-view table on a weekend! •

We’ll see you at The Skiff over Summer! Sunsets and Sundowners Cnr East Esplanade & Stuart St, Manly | (02) 9977 3322 | Insta + FB: Sunrises, @manlyskiff | manlyskiff .com.au

Sunset H U G O SS EMCATNI OLYN |HME A NDLY I N GW H A R F

feast

With its prime location on Manly Wharf, Hugos Manly is one of the best venues for a sunset meal or a whole night out. As one of The Beaches’ most iconic hangouts since 2009, we checked in to ﬁnd out why it’s still a fave.

It's no surprise this epic venue has picked up plenty of awards over the years. Hugos Manly recently grabbed Best Casual Restaurant 2023 in NSW, and National Best Family Restaurant 2023 at the Restaurant and Catering Awards. In its ﬁrst year of operation (2009), Hugos Manly was awarded Best Pizza in NSW at the Good Food & Wine Show and Best New Venue in Australia at the ALIA Awards. In 2010 they were named Best Bar In Australia and scored Best Pizza in the World in New York in 2008.

making a slice of pizza at Hugos a timeless indulgence. It'll be a struggle to decide on your fave. As for the rest of the menu, every dish has been carefully created using fresh ingredients, fresh ideas and sublime attention to detail.

WELL DONE, WINE MAESTRO! Hats off to the sommelier who curated the wine list at Hugos, because the palette of vinos is diverse yet magically connected to the spirit of The Beaches. The staff will help you pick the perfect wine to match your meal, and their knowledge of ﬂavour proﬁles is so good, it will ensure a seamless pairing that elevates your whole experience.

PERFECT PIZZAS

SERIOUS SUNDOWNERS

As the home of the world's best pizza, it's easy to see why people travel from near and far to indulge in Hugos Manly's doughy delights.

If you're after a sundowner with a little bit more magic, you've come to the right place. Order yourself The Gun Margarita or a Frangipani Kiss, pull up a seat at the window, and take it all in as dusk paints warm tones across the sky. Our Beaches beauty is deﬁnitely on full display when the sun begins to set outside Hugos. •

The chefﬁng team have designed the perfect blend of crisp-yet-chewy crust, gooey cheese and aromatic herbs,

Manly Wharf, Manly | (02) 8116 8555 | Insta: @hugosmanly | hugos.com.au

PAGE 58 | BEACHES COVERED.

Words: Samara Robertson | Photography: Hugos Manly

egardless of the table you book at Hugos Manly, you’ll be engulfed by Insta-friendly ocean views, and the ambience is always a perfect mix of welcoming liveliness and total charm.

Job

THE

ITALIAN JOB of the Best Italian Restaurants on The Beaches

Lucky for us, The he Beaches is home to some of the he best Italian restaurants in Sydney. This season we’ve compiled a list of those with the biggest, boldest flavours, heritage, history, passion and exquisite cuisine. Get ready to experience the essence of Italy in your backyard!

Words: Lauren Goldsack | Photography: Stella Blu

Every meal ﬁlled with love & laughter

When Stella Blu opened its doors in Dee Why in 1992, it emerged as one of a handful of dining establishments on Dee Why beachfront. Today, it’s a local hotspot with some of the best beachfront views and ﬁnest menus for lunch and dinner. In the early days, the menu at Stella Blu offered pizza, focaccia, pasta, coffee and desserts, along with a cosy environment. Now, it’s a true ‘ristorante,’ with all the cherished traditions of Italian hospitality, dedicated to serving the ﬁnest modern Italian dishes in Sydney.

For over 30 years, Stella Blu, as it’s known by locals, has remained one of the most beloved Italian restaurants on The Beaches. Favourite dishes include lightly crumbed zucchini ﬂowers with basil and ricotta, pappardelle with lamb ragu and grated pecorino and, of course, the Australian seafood platter for two. There’s also a great selection of meals for the little people in your life. Stella Blu caters to group bookings and lives by the philosophy, “We celebrate every meal with love and laughter.” That’s our kind of place for Summer.

Stella Blu Cafe | 18 The Strand, Dee Why Beach | (02) 9982 7931 Stella Blu Kitchen & Pizzeria | Glenrose Village: 33/56 Glen St, Belrose (02) 9975 7777 | stellablu.com.au The Italian Job

T H E I TA L I A N J O B

In a charming and bustling little pocket of Manly (the Market Place lanes outside Manly Library), Bottega has opened its doors and produces some of the friendliest service and most delicious dishes on The Beaches. Treat yourself to scrumptious paninis and mouth-watering focaccias by day and tempting antipasto and exquisite carpaccio by night. Not to mention a beautiful selection of great wines and Italian beer. The A-team at Bottega are committed to creating a magical dining experience

for every guest and are on hand to guide you through a journey of ﬂavours. They really take their time to chat so they can create the perfect meal just for you. Warning: If you pop down for lunch make sure you have some time as there’s usually a long line out the door. But believe us, every mouthful is worth the wait.

27 Sydney Rd, Manly 2095 | (02) 9099 1190 Insta: @bottegamanly

If you haven’t found your way to Belgrave Cartel in Manly for breakfast, lunch or dinner, do yourself a favour and get there! It’s like a little trattoria in the back lane of Rome, where you’ll Ɠnd locals indulging in coffee in the morning and enjoying vino and food by night. Born in 2010 by the Bruzzese brothers, Belgrave Cartel began as a humble café-inthe-wall, serving coffee, jafŴes and good times. While still exuding the warm vibes of Nonna’s house, the menu has evolved into a more reƓned experience.

Breakfast is available seven days a week and includes early-day classics, like Mick’s MaƓa Eggs and all their famous jafŴes.

time you’ll Ɠnd sacred recipes, from Mamma’s famous lasagna to Nonna’s tiramisu, skillfully infused with Head Chef Peter Welsh’s creativity.

If you Ɠnd yourself here when the lights go down you're in for a treat. The space comes to life, with a unique and eclectic vibe, and is a top spot whether you’re after an intimate dinner or just a cheeky cocktail.

The drinks menu shines with a seasonal cocktail list, carefully curated wine list and two exclusive house craft beers, made in collab with Yulli’s Brewery. The classic Cartel larger features a Sopranos-esque label of the brothers and Rippa Rita IPA is a nod to the boys Mamma, Rita.

The Bruzzese boys are second-generation Italians and their family’s been enriched into the Manly fabric since the 1940s. At dinner

ONE THING’S FOR SURE, BELGRAVE CARTEL IS A NEIGHBOURHOOD INSTITUTION YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS!

6 BELGRAVE ST MANLY 2095 WWW.BELGRAVECARTEL.COM.AU PAGE 60 | BEACHES COVERED.

belgrave_cartel

Words: Lauren Goldsack | Photography: Bottega Manly

ITALY’S LITTLE SECRETS

Bottega Manly recently made its debut on the culinary scene, and truth be told, it’s such a gem we wanted to keep it all to ourselves. But, in the spirit of Italian hospitality, we can’t resist sharing the news of this Market Place hotspot!

WHERE TRADITION MEETS Trendy When you conjure up an image of Italian sophistication, exceptional food, exquisite furniture, opulent design, and beautifully tailored people, Ormeggio at the Spit comes to mind.

ombining the elegance of Italian tradition with a modern, vibrant twist, this dynamic seafood haven and cocktail bar ticks all the boxes. Ormeggio at the Spit is a waterfront gem – reinvented in 2020, it has become the place to be seen with its progressive approach to dining, offering an excellent blend of sustainability, quality and the unmistakable ﬂavours of Italy.

The ever-changing sharing menus pay homage to the roots of Italian gastronomy, and creates a beautiful dining experience that marries the past and the present.

As one of Australia’s top Italian restaurants, it has consistently been a hatted restaurant since opening in 2009. And what really sets Ormeggio apart is the high-quality food, fresh perspective and cool, bougie feel. The vibe here is spot on.

The ambience is as delightful as the cuisine, and the knowledgeable, professional and friendly waitstaff will ensure your experience is merry and memorable.

CULINARY SYMPHONY

Words: Lauren Goldsack | Photography: Ormeggio at The Spit

The dishes at Ormeggio at the Spit are a celebration of Italian tradition with a contemporary twist, and the menu is a completely meat-free seafood menu. Head Chef, Gianmarco Pardini, has a decade of experience at Ormeggio at the Spit and leads the kitchen, ensuring each dish is a masterpiece of light, fresh and exacting ﬂavours.

If sipping cocktails overlooking Middle Harbour in a designer setting is your thing, you’re in luck! The alfresco area is tasteful and the perfect place to enjoy an aperitivo.

Ormeggio at the Spit is not only committed to high-quality, sustainable seafood but unique crockery and tableware; plus homemade ‘coppa gelato’ – Italy’s answer to the ice-cream sundae – means every visit is a true celebration. •

Buon appetito!

D’Albora Marina, Spit Rd, Mosman 2088 | (02) 9969 4088 INSTA: @ormeggio | ormeggio.com.au The Italian Job

T H E I TA L I A N J O B

Head> Long Lunch at Chiosco

Long Lunch at Chiosco This is our go-to Italian: Simple, authentic and unforgettable. What Chiosco by Ormeggio has nailed is the balance between casual and ﬁne dining, striking a relaxed trattoria feel with exquisite food in a stunning setting. Tick, tick and tick.

The absolute best thing about this place is the vibe. It’s all about celebrating great produce and good friends. No pretence, just excellent food that manifests Italian fare and ﬂavour with vigour. Settle in for a long one with their sharing feast menu, showcasing the best of Italian cuisine including signature dishes like the vitello tonnato, burrata, calamari fritti and busiate alla puttanesca. Go all in with deliciously creamy, freshly shucked oysters and huge gamberoni. The care and enthusiasm from the staff is infectious. After greeting you with a hearty, ﬂamboyant ‘ciao’, the staff look after you personally, as if you were sitting at their family table. Passionate about your experience, they inject so much passion in their descriptions of the

food and their recommendations, reﬂecting the charm and charismatic personality of Chiosco by Ormeggio. From the staff to the hand-rolled pasta, the essence of Chiosco by Ormeggio is authentic. In a celebration of age-old techniques married with creativity and ﬂamboyance, you are in for a true Italian treat.

We love... The spaghetti ai frutti di mare, which is homemade spaghetti with scampi, vongole, calamari, mussels and cherry tomatoes. Also, there's spalla d’agnello, a slow-cooked lamb shoulder that's perfect for sharing. The restaurant is fully licensed and for added convenience they also offer a BYO option for your favourite wine or champagne at any time of the day. Gather the gang and head to Chiosco by Ormeggio this Summer for an unforgettable Italian feast. •

D’Albora Marina, Spit Rd, Mosman 2088 | (02) 9046 7333 INSTA: @chioscobyormeggio | chiosco.com.au

PAGE 62 | BEACHES COVERED.

Words: Lauren Goldsack | Photography: Chiosco by Ormeggio

rought to you by the same team as Ormeggio at the Spit, expect high-end restaurant quality food and sweeping views across Middle Harbour without the price tag.

T H E I TA L I A N J O B

MOMENTO DI FESTA! Time to Celebrate

Nestled among a gorgeous woodland setting in Terrey Hills and bordering Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Cavallino is an authentic Italian restaurant and wood-ﬁred pizzeria offering soulfully honest Italian fare. Oh, and if you’re looking for more than just a meal, they’ll host your wedding, birthday party and more.

Words: Lauren Goldsack | Photography: Cavallino

If you really love tasty, wholesome Italian food, Roberto and the chefﬁng team at Cavallino’s will make you proud. With a passion for fresh, simplistic, seasonal dishes they know exactly how to capture the intricate ﬂavours of Italy on a plate. From the moment you walk in the door there’s a homely charm to Cavallino. The staff treat customers like family and the venue is warm, not just for dinner (and lunch on Sundays) but for weddings, birthdays and corporate events, Christmas parties and more.

There are several areas you can book in the restaurant for your special occasion, and the whole venue can seat 150 guests (or 300 standing if you’re serving canapés). With old exposed wooden beams and high ceilings it really is a beautiful spot for a wedding. If you do nothing else this Summer, head to Cavallino and unleash your inner foodie.

1 Yulong Ave, Terrey Hills (02) 9450 1777 | ciao@cavallino.com.au Insta: @cavallino.restaurants | cavallino.com.au

Enjoy a Great time at Ciccia. Food, Drinks with Italian Vibes.

ciccia _ syd

We love Catering and Functions. Enquiries at info@ciccia.com.au

16A Lawrence St, Freshwater 2096

The Italian Job

F O R E ST WAY F R E S H

A family

of Foodies

The Polistina family are the proud owners of Forestway y Fresh, an exceptional, authentic and Italian food-loverss paradise in Terrey Hills. Thanks to Nonno Pasquale, Domenic Polistina and his sons, Pasquale and Tony, have created a gourmet foodies paradise with an Italian ﬂavour you won’t ﬁnd anywhere else!

OUR TOP 5 PICKS TONY PASQUALE

The Polistina family and team m test everything for taste and quality! Iff you y ﬁnd yourself there thiss Summer don’t leave leavve without trying...

PASTA: A:

ith a rich history, deeply rooted in the Italian philosophies of love your food, love your family, love your neighbours and drink good wine, Forestway Fresh, in Terrey Hills, is one of the coolest food experiences you can have on The Beaches. Nonno Pasquale left Reggio Calabria in Italy in 1949, bound for Australia. He settled on a farm at Warrimoo Road, St Ives and in 1954 the rest of his family immigrated to Australia including a young Domenic Polistina. The family leased farms and began growing tomatoes, eggplants and potatoes for the Sydney Markets, and today, they have celebrated their 20-year anniversary, at the corner of Myoora and Mona Vale Road in Terrey Hills. “Everything we do at Forestway Fresh is infused with our passion for food and family. Everything in the store has an Italian touch,” says Domenic. The family makes many Italian products in house like porchetta, ready-made

lasagnas, pasta sauces, baked ricotta cakes and freshly piped cannoli. They also source from local Italian families who create products in the traditional artisanal way like mortadella, guanciale, gelato, premium egg pastas and homemade Nonna-style biscuits. Plus, they stock an extensive selection of imported oils, olives, antipasti, coffee, desserts and wines from Italy. “It’s a whole food experience,” says Pasquale proudly. “Some people spend over an hour in here just browsing. They look at the products and we tell them little stories about where they originated.”

With over 45 varieties and 150 different pasta products from premium Italian and Australian brands you’ll deﬁnitely ﬁnd the right shape for your dish.

PANETTONE: Domenic Polistina has a penchant for panettone and every year takes it upon himself to taste the 50 different types of panettone and pondoro they stock for Christmas.

BAKED RICOTTA CAKE: Their patisserie chef bakes the best ricotta cakes on the Northern Beaches. Order online or pick-up in store.

HOMEMADE LASAGNA: Based on the recipe that Tony and Pasquale grew up with. They make their own ready-made lasagnas for you to take home and enjoy.

WINES AND LIQUEURS: For the Polistinas, food and family is what it’s all about. In fact, relaxing and eating with family is what inspired them to add a café and adjoining grassy playground to the store back in 2016.

From chianti and Dolce Gabbana rosé to limoncello and bellinis – you'll be spoilt for choice.

“We had young kids at the time, and couldn’t ﬁnd anywhere that served parents decent, fresh food and, also let the kids run around! So we created the Tasting Deck and it’s been a huge success for us,” adds Pasquale.

Pop in for more Italian treats including Cantucci and Amaretti biscuits, Torrone Strega (Italian nougat), Galantino extra virgin olive oil, real Italian gelato and Ordigno, an Italian chilli and spice mix from Calabria. •

2 Myoora Road, Terrey Hills 2084 | (02) 9486 3340 | Insta: @forestway_fresh | forestwayfresh.com.au PAGE 64 | BEACHES COVERED.

Photography: Forestway Fresh

DOMENIC

P I L U AT F R E S H WAT E R

They’ve Done It Again Perched perfectly overlooking the ocean and sand, Pilu at Freshwater has solidiﬁed its reputation as a dining masterpiece by obtaining the prestigious honour of two hats for the 19th consecutive year. With full marks for service, food, wine, location and style, this really is beachside ﬁne dining at its best.

iovanni Pilu is a distinguished restaurateur who made a name for himself in the late ‘90s through the quaint Sardinian eatery, Cala Luna, at The Spit. In 2004, he opened the doors to Pilu at Freshwater, which has now thrived as one of Sydney’s best restaurant experiences for almost two decades.

Words: Samara Robertson | Photography: Pilu by Freshwater

At Pilu at Freshwater the definition of fine dining comes to life, because at the heart of it lies Giovanni’s philosophy: “Food, and the hospitality associated with sharing it, is integral to the Sardinian way of life.” Sardinian-inspired, thanks to his homeland, Giovanni’s menus also draw from the north of Italy, in Lombardy, where the flavours are rich, to Campania in the south, where fresh seafood from the Tyrrhenian Sea is always a winner.

At Pilu you can opt for the a la carte menu or spoil yourself with The Sardinian Experience ($198 per person and designed to be experienced by the whole table). Think mouth-watering dishes like yellowfin tuna tartlet with black olive mayonnaise for starters, squid ink spaghetti, mussels, cuttlefish, tomato and friarielli for your main, and Seadas, Sardinian fried pastry filled with creamy ricotta and sultanas, served with warm honey for dessert. Giovanni and his team approach cheffing with care and the menu changes seasonally. The in-house sommeliers are always refining the restaurant’s 300+ wine list to take you on a vinous adventure. We dare you not to lose yourself from the minute you step on the path that winds from the beach and through the garden to Pilu’s beautiful old beach house.

LA CENA È PRONTA.

Dinner is served.

Moore Rd, Freshwater 2096 | (02) 9938 3331 | Insta: @pilurestaurant | pilu.com.au The Italian Job

Wellbeing WELLNESS NEVER SHINES BRIGHTER THAN IN SUMMER. KEEP GLOWING THIS SUNNY SEASON WITH OUR GUIDE TO A HEALTHIER YOU.

FIND THE WARRIOR WITHIN YOU Trust us, Head Coach Mick McSeveny, owner of Brookvale's Warrior Training Academy is who you want in your corner. An expert in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and achieving personal bests, he will bring out skills in you that you never thought possible. Warrior Training is fun, weirdly calming and an excellent full body workout.

he academy stands out as the best MMA facility on the Beaches, offering a comprehensive and state-of-the-art training experience for individuals at all levels. Home to Legacy Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Northern Beaches and the renowned The Alta Warrior challenge (formerly known as Wimp 2 Warrior), there is something for everyone.

It sees mixed martial arts as a tool for life guidance, encouraging personal growth and assisting individuals on their unique journeys. Whether you are looking for physical ﬁtness or competitive success, Warrior Training Academy provides a welcoming and expertly guided path for all.

One of Warrior Training Academy’s strengths lies in its diverse range of programs, catering to everyone from absolute beginners to seasoned athletes. From classes that focus on foundational techniques, defensive strategies, and overall ﬁtness all the way to elite competitive programs.

Forget the idea that you have to be a spring chicken to throw punches or execute a perfect roundhouse kick.

Beginners are welcomed with open arms. Mick loves to watch the development in both strength and conﬁdence of new warriors and has created a really approachable and supportive community. Mick and the team of highly experienced coaches are dedicated to helping individuals achieve their goals, going beyond conventional martial arts training.

Learning the art of kicks, jabs and takedowns isn’t just a workout; it’s productive exercise and an instant conﬁdence boost. Whether you’re 5 years old, 25, 55 or older, grab those gloves, unleash your inner warrior! Say goodbye to mundane gyms and elevate your ﬁtness journey with Warrior Training Academy. •

22 Orchard Road, Brookvale 2100 | 0416 024 358 Insta: @ warriortrainingacademy | warriortrianingacadamy

PAGE 66 | BEACHES COVERED.

LOOK WHO WE SPOT TED!

SPORTY SPICE SPOTTED AT

°CRYO in Freshie Famous Spice Girl, Melanie C, added a touch of spice to her inaugural DJ tour, with a visit to °CRYO Northern Beaches. The Sporty one dropped by the boutique, located at the Harbord Diggers in Freshwater, for some well deserved wellness.

ontrary to the usual snapshots that accompany the arrival of an international celebrity on our shores, there were no airport paparazzi shots or glimpses of Sporty Spice, Melanie C, at any of the typical celeb hot-spots when she jetted into Australia. In fact, the DJ made it her mission to stop by °CRYO Northern Beaches where she indulged in whole body, and localised, cryotherapy to conquer jet lag and aid in her recovery and rejuvenation while on tour. "It's pretty full on but it's so good for you!" said Mel C, in a video posted on °CRYO’s Instagram page that showed her stepping into the cryotherapy chamber.“ “It’s good for recovery, it’s good for your immune system, it’s good for metabolism,” she said.

Words: Donna Armstrong | Photography: °CRYO Northern Beaches

I’LL TELL YOU WHAT I WANT °CRYO Arctic is the world’s safest cryotherapy chamber. In just a few minutes, the whole body is exposed to 100% breathable air, and temperatures ranging from -110°C to -140°C. (Mel hit -140°C of course!) With the full body exposed to subzero temperatures, the treatment stimulates the autonomous nervous system which produces a multitude of physical and mental health beneﬁts. Whole body cryotherapy is said to accelerate muscle recovery, relieve

pain, enhance performance, reduce stress and fatigue, improve sleep, boost immune system, and improve blood circulation which is exactly what you need if you’re about to tour your DJ set around the country. Mel also incorporated Localised °CRYO for preventative care to manage high impact activity during her Australia tour. According to the team at °CRYO Northern Beaches, “Prevention is better than cure… Cryotherapy minimises injuries by reducing systemic and local inflammation in muscles and joints to ensure stamina, mobility, flexibility, and stability is improved.” This was Mel C’s first visit to Sydney since 2020. She kicked off with a sold-out DJ set on Sydney Harbour on November 11, before playing festivals in Melbourne and Adelaide. She then took her set to Brisbane and Darwin before playing at two more festivals, in Sydney. It’s no surprise Cryotherapy is part of Mel C’s wellness routine, no matter where she is in the world.

Keen on enjoying the beneﬁts of whole-body cryotherapy, just like Sporty Spice? The team at °CRYO Northern Beaches provides customised packages to meet your needs. Give them a call and schedule your °CRYO session today.

Located at Harbord Diggers | 8/88 Evans St Freshwater NSW 2096 1300 888 600 | INSTA: @cryonorthernbeaches | www.cryonorthernbeaches.com.au Beaches Wellbeing

WO M E N ' S W E L L B E I N G

I’M STILL HOT, BUT IT COMES IN FLUSHES NOW! Beaches COVERED. columnist Jill Healy-Quintard from Body and Balance is a ﬁrm supporter of women, particularly those navigating the 'change of life', menopause. Join us as we explore Jill’s insightful perspective and learn how to nurture this transformative journey.

Unlock the power of IV vitamin therapy New customers receive 30% off Group bookings available We come to you!

our years ago, I wrote an article on menopause, only to be informed that it wasn’t a subject of interest for speciﬁc demographics.

Fast forward to 2023, and it has become the most talked-about topic. Predictions suggest that by 2025, the global population of post-menopausal women will reach a staggering 1.2 billion. Just like everyone else, these women aspire to maintain their wellbeing, appearance and balanced ﬁtness as they age gracefully. In Australia, there are 5 million women battling pre to postmenopausal symptoms, with a staggering 80% experiencing a spectrum of menopausal symptoms. These symptoms vary from irregular periods and night sweats to sleep disturbances, weight gain and hormonal imbalances. With so many women experiencing menopause, it is crucial that we educate ourselves about it. Embracing our womanhood, we can recognise this phase as a joyous transition, marking a newfound freedom. I want to encourage women to embrace this transformative time with positivity and acceptance.

MY TIPS! A positive mindset, proper exercise and nutrition are key. Maintaining a healthy weight and building muscle can prevent osteoporosis, a common concern during menopause. Vitamin supplements like B12, Vitamin D and E, Zinc, Chromium and options like HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) or nonmedical alternatives, Chinese herbs and acupuncture can help. Awareness is crucial, as menopause can affect women as early as 37 due to lifestyle factors, environmental toxins, GMO foods and climate changes. My journey into menopause began during a heatwave in France. While the initial panic is common, most women ﬁnd life post-menopause liberating. A survey I recently read showed that many women feel just as attractive, feminine and even more empowered post-menopause. They feel younger and experience a newfound sense of freedom. I invite you to join a supportive community of women to embrace this stage of life. Movement is medicine. I offer small group classes combining ﬂow, mobilisation, stretch, strength, cardio, core, balance, breath, focus and relaxation, guided by my ten principles developed over 35 years. This holistic approach is designed to help you make the most of this remarkable phase of life. •

www.ivnation.com.au PAGE 68 | BEACHES COVERED.

Jill Healy-Quintard | Body & Balance | 0412 422 868 jill@bodyandbalance.com.au | www.bodyandbalance.com.au

Holiday harmony:

YOUR GUIDE TO A STRESS-FREE FESTIVE SEASON As a life coach and mental health practitioner, David Lee knows a thing or two about staying sane. Here he shares his top tips for creating less stress over the silly season.

ith its cheerful celebrations and vibrant gatherings, the festive season can also usher in a rush of stress and overwhelming commitments.

6. MAINTAIN HEALTHY HABITS

Striking a balance between the joy of the holidays and the demands of work, family, and social obligations calls for a mindful approach. Here are eight practical ways to help you sail gracefully through the festive frenzy and navigate a calmer Christmas.

Even with all the festivities you can prioritise your physical and mental wellbeing. Stick to your exercise routine, eat nourishing foods, and ensure you get enough rest. These habits will contribute to your overall resilience and enable you to navigate the festive rush with energy and a positive mindset.

1. PRIORITISE AND PLAN

7. SCHEDULE DOWNTIME

Identify all the essential events and tasks and plan accordingly. Break down big tasks into smaller steps you can manage, to avoid feeling overwhelmed. A clear plan will provide structure and alleviate the stress associated with uncertainty.

Whether it’s reading a book, enjoying a quiet moment by the ocean, or practicing a hobby, allocating time for yourself is crucial for maintaining balance and preventing burnout.

2. BE REALISTIC It’s easy to get swept up in the holiday spirit and overcommit to activities. Be realistic about what you can accomplish and maintain a healthy balance. Remember, it’s okay to say no to some invitations to avoid stretching yourself too thin.

3. ESTABLISH BOUNDARIES It’s crucial to establish and communicate clear boundaries, especially now. Communicate your limitations and be ﬁrm in protecting your time for self-care and relaxation. This will help you avoid burnout and maintain balance in both personal and professional spheres.

your home or planning meals. Foster a sense of community and teamwork to make it enjoyable for everyone involved.

4. EMBRACE MINDFULNESS AND GRATITUDE Amidst the chaos, take moments out of your day to practice mindfulness. Enjoy activities that ground you, like deep breathing, meditation, or a mindful walk on the beach. Fostering a sense of gratitude can also shift your focus from stressors to the positive aspects of the season and promote emotional wellbeing.

5. DELEGATE AND COLLABORATE Don’t hesitate to delegate tasks and collaborate. Sharing responsibilities can lighten your load, whether it’s organising family events, decorating

8. REFLECT AND ADJUST It helps if you regularly reﬂect on your commitments throughout the silly season. If you notice signs of excessive stress or imbalance, be willing to adjust your plans. Flexibility is key in adapting to unexpected challenges and ensuring a more enjoyable holiday. As the author of Is Your Boss Making You Sick? The 8 E’s of Equilibrium To Master Work-Life Balance, these strategies will help you maintain a healthy worklife balance. By implementing these practices, you can survive and thrive during the festive rush.•

GET 25% OFF DAVID LEE'S HEALTHY WORK-LIFE BALANCE BOOK Beaches COVERED. Readers, are you ready to ignite the spark for life? Grab your copy of David Lee's book this Summer and enjoy a 25% discount off the cover price, along with free shipping. Just enter the code "BEACHES" at checkout when purchasing his book online at www.leeway.com.au

David Lee | Leeway Mind and Body Mastery | 0410 485 700 | Insta: @leewaymastery | www.leeway.com.au Beaches Wellbeing

NS SWIM SCHOOL

MAKING A SPLASH

WITH ANGELO BASALO

NS Swim School, in Brookvale, is excited to welcome heavily acclaimed Angelo Basalo as their new Head-Coach. With thirty years experience training elite swimmers, he’s set to make waves. Beaches COVERED. caught up with Angelo to ﬁnd out his secrets behind supporting a successful swimming career.

“My greatest achievements are working with swimmers throughout their journey."

arelle Simpson, and the team at NS Swim couldn’t be more delighted to welcome Angelo Basalo onboard.

ANGELO BASALO

swimmers are no longer being over trained but supported through accessible programs allowing them to have a life alongside a career in swimming. This means that they can keep swimming competitively well into maturity,” he shares.

Well known for his quality programs for Learn to Swim Junior Squads, Performance Squads and International Champions, he’s been heavily involved in all facets of swimming and coached around 20 Australian champions and record holders. The students at NS Swim are in for a real treat and after all these years Angelo still loves what he does!

When asked what attributes he believes make a great swimmer, Angelo believes control prevails over explosive energy.

“My greatest achievements are working with swimmers throughout their journey. I’ve worked with individuals over 20 years, taking them from four years old through to 26. It brings me great joy to help someone have a long career in the pool,” says Angelo. As a coach Angelo says his main goal is to create a comprehensive training structure that allows swimmers to achieve a successful work, life, swim balance that will ultimately result in a long and healthy career in the water. “My forte is taking students along for the whole journey. It is not about instant results, more about longevity.

I aim to keep people swimming for many years through a well balanced, structured program, from beginner all the way to Australian representatives.”

Having recently relocated to The Beaches, Angelo and his wife are all set to enjoy the water for themselves.

Over three decades Angelo says he’s deﬁnitely seen the culture of swimming evolve.

“My wife and I have just moved from Botany to Narrabeen. We are really excited about the sea change and looking forward to exploring the beautiful area.”

“Sport science has been one of the biggest advancements I’ve seen during my years as a coach. Also, there is more awareness about life balance. Young

We welcome you with open arms Angelo, and look forward to watching our local swimmers on the big screen soon. •

9B Green Street, Brookvale | Warringah Aquatic Centre | Manly Andrew “Boy” Charlton Swim Centre (02) 9907 4637 | Insta: @nsswimschool | nsswimschool.com.au

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Words: Lauren Goldsack Photography: Beaches COVERED.

“Attitude, commitment, and a solid work ethic make a great swimmer. Temperament is also important; a cool head and calmness goes a long way. Call it an internal burn rather than a combustion,” he laughs.

EXPLORE THE OFFERINGS AROUND THE SPIT AND ITS NEIGHBOURING AREAS

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AS THE GATEKEEPER TO THE BEACHES, THE SPIT IN MOSMAN IS A DAZZLING WATERFRONT HAVEN WHERE THE CAFÉS AND RESTAURANTS ARE DEFINITELY THE STARS OF THE SHOW. IF YOU’RE AFTER CHIC AMBIENCE AND PANORAMIC VIEWS, V GOURMET FEASTS OR E BL L T B AT ARTISANAL BRUNCHES, YOU’VE COME TO THE RIGHT PLACE. POP ON DOWN AND TASTE THE GLAMOUR.

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FUN FACT:

The history of The Spit, Mosman, is an interesting tale! Its name comes from the narrow sand spit stretching into Middle Harbour. Since 1834, Barney Kearns ran a ferry, later becoming Peter Ellery’s sixpence punt in the 1850s. The journey continued with a government steam punt in 1889, a wooden bridge in 1924, and the iconic bascule bridge in 1958, now a familiar route for those heading southbound from The Beaches. Quite a journey through time!

ST SIANDRA

CHIOSCO BY ORMEGGIO

ORMEGGIO AT THE SPIT

Indulge in the allure of St Siandra at The Spit – where style meets sensational seafood and spritzes galore! The Mediterranean-inspired menu celebrates local seafood and producers, making it the perfect destination for lunch or dinner. For a taste of Summer holiday vibes, sip on cocktails and Champagne while overlooking the private beach. If you want to make a grand entrance, arrive in style by water taxi or book the exclusive berth for your own private boat. As the new, cool kid on the block you’ll feel like you’re in the Amalﬁ Coast, without leaving Sydney. Bella!

Welcome to Chiosco, where the atmosphere is BYO and barefootfriendly, embodying the true spirit of an Italian trattoria by the sea. As the laid-back sibling to Ormeggio at The Spit, Chiosco exudes Italian charm and a relaxed vibe. Feel free to dress up or down; either way, a warm welcome awaits you with a plate of Italian passion and excellent views. Perched on the jetty, there’s no better place to sip your Aperol and enjoy calamari fritti. The menu boasts bold ﬂavours, featuring slow-cooked wagyu ragu and the signature Risotto alla Nerano. If that’s not enough, ﬁnish with the best Bombolone you’ll ever taste.

Book yourself a table at Ormeggio at The Spit and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by high-quality sustainable seafood, spectacular views, great cocktails and delicious desserts. Not to mention a completely meat-free, a la carte seafood menu! Explore the everchanging ‘Ormeggio Classic’ sharing menu – perfect for group gatherings. And prepare your palate for specialties, from the Pavoni risotto to the tempting tuna ‘cotoletta’ and refreshing crudo crostini. Cap it all off with ‘coppa gelato’, Italy’s show-stopping answer to the ice-cream sundae, executed at the bar with some of the most heavenly homemade gelato. Buon appetito!

75 LOWER PARRIWI RD, THE SPIT, MOSMAN 2088 (02) 8251 2444 | INSTA: @STSIANDRA

D’ALBORA MARINA, SPIT RD, MOSMAN INSTA: @CHIOSCOBYORMEGGIO (02) 9046 7333

D’ALBORA MARINA, SPIT RD, MOSMAN 2088 (02) 9969 4088 | INSTA: @ORMEGGIO

stsiandra.com.au

chiosco.com.au

ormeggio.com.au

EYACHTS, TMG YACHTS AND COBLI Fergusons Marina is home to some seriously impressive and stunning yachts showcased by Eyachts, TMG Yachts and COBLI, leaders in luxury yacht ownership and share boating. Their ﬂeet includes numerous worldrenowned Axopar adventure boats, alongside #1 Catamaran brand, Lagoon Catamarans. If you have ever wanted to be your own captain, the team here can help. Choose full ownership through Eyachts or TMG Yachts, with an impressive portfolio that epitomises innovation and European style, enabling you to indulge in boat ownership in Sydney. Alternatively, dive into shared ownership with COBLI, where a ﬁfth share of an Axopar 28 can be yours now for just $70,950, granting access to unforgettable voyages with minimal hassle. Embark on your boating adventure today by visiting the team at Fergusons Marina today.

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SYDNEY HARBOUR SURF CLUB If you’re looking for ﬁtness and a great community, look no further. Sydney Harbour Surf Club is the antidote to mundane indoor gyms, catering to anyone who enjoys the open ocean. With surf ski classes for all abilities, the club stands out for fostering a friendly and inclusive community. Through organised surf lessons, events and exciting trips to places like Noosa, Molokai and Hawaii, it brings paddlers of all skill levels together. They’ll even let you try it out for free. Go on, you’ll love it!

75 LOWER, PARRIWI RD, MOSMAN 2088 INSTA: @SYDNEYHARBOURSURFCLUB_SHSC sydneyharboursurfclub.com.au

HARVEY GALLERIES Harvey Galleries is a distinguished ﬁne-art gallery committed to nurturing artists at various stages of their career. With a track record of guiding artists from emergence to establishment, they have cultivated strong relationships with acclaimed talents both in Australia and internationally. They’ve played a pivotal role in the Chinese Contemporary Art scene, spearheading the Art Beijing art fair and connecting Australian collectors with China’s leading artists. Dedicated to offering optimal representation, Harvey Galleries ensures a diverse exhibition calendar and offers engaging programs for collectors, including artist talks, print materials, private consultations and a digital space for provenance. In the Art of Dr. Seuss Galleries, the gallery proudly preserves Theodor Seuss Geisel’s artistic legacy. Over a twodecade partnership with the publishers of Dr. Seuss, they’ve pioneered the world’s ﬁrst dedicated Art of Dr. Seuss Gallery.

515 SYDNEY RD, SEAFORTH 2092 | (02) 9907 0595 | harveygalleries.com.au

BOSK RESTAURANT AND THE KIOSK Sundresses, sandals, sea and spritzers. How does washing down your salmon crudo with a lychee and coconut martini sound, while your kids play in the sand? Europe has mastered the beachfront Aperol and dining scene – sand beneath your feet and waves within reach. (Australia, take note!) The absence of true beachfront ﬁne dining has us longing for a pricey ticket to Capri. But fear not, Bosk has come to the rescue! Indulge in delectable food and drinks by the sea under an iconic Moreton Bay Fig tree. Relax and savour three courses and a few bottles on a sun-soaked afternoon. The modern Australian menu spoils you for choice with heroes like burrata, soft-shell crab, BBQ prawns, PAGE 74 | BEACHES COVERED.

homemade gnocchi and Bosk’s take on the classic affogato. Sunday sorted! If you’ve spent the morning dusting off the inﬂatable SUP for a family day in the sun, The Kiosk has your back. Keep the family fuelled with great coffee, ample kid-friendly eats, and wholesome salads. Grateful parents across The Beaches appreciate this familyowned spot for making Summer days easier with reasonably priced ﬁsh and chips and ice creams to keep the three-foot moaners content. See you there!

CLONTARF RESERVE, SANDY BAY RD, CLONTARF (02) 9948 2373 | KIOSK OPEN DAILY RESTAURANT OPEN WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY INSTA: @BOSK_CLONTARF | bosk.com.au

IS BETTER WITH BSA Boating Syndication Australia has transformed the way we experience boat ownership. By introducing a true shared co-ownership model and offering comprehensive services, they have effectively eliminated the burdens associated with individual ownership, getting you on the water without the hassle.

wning a boat is a dream for many, but the costs and responsibilities associated with sole ownership can often be daunting. Boating Syndication Australia (BSA) has revolutionised the boating landscape by offering a unique shared the ownership model while providing comprehensive services such as cleaning and arranging all maintenance and servicing. With 49 staff in six locations, their dedicated staff make sure all the very best is done to ensure your vessel is always well looked after. BSA goes above and beyond in ensuring a fair and transparent system for booking boat usage. By implementing a well-designed allocation process, BSA guarantees that all owners have equal opportunities to access and utilise the boats.

This fair approach ensures an equal distribution of boating days among owners, promoting harmony and enhancing the overall experience. Plus, it eliminates potential disputes over scheduling conﬂicts.

ownership rights, allowing them to use their boats without geographical limitations and take in the decisionmaking process while reaping the beneﬁts of shared costs and responsibilities.

Unlike conventional boat chartering or leasing, boating syndication enables individuals to maintain true ownership of the boats. BSA serves as a facilitator, enabling boat owners to pool their resources and expertise, collectively owning the vessels. This approach empowers owners by preserving their

Boating Syndication Australia, with a 15-year track record, offers genuine boat ownership. They have proven reliability and are committed to serving boat owners well into the future. Experience the boating lifestyle with BSA, where boating is simply better. •

FE FERGUSONS BOATSHED MARINA, SUITE 4, 83 PARRIWI RD, MOSMAN 2088 SU (02) (0 9960 1808 / 0488 500 092 IN INSTA: @BOATINGSYNDICATIONAUSTRALIA boatingsyndicationaustralia.com.au b

Explore The Spit, Mosman

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THE WINE ROOM

Two-dollar oysters paired with Veuve Clicquot Champagne – say no more. There’s a reason why The Wine Room at Bally RSL is multi-award winning, including having been awarded “Best Restaurant in a Pub/Club in Australia” by the Restaurant & Catering Association. Balgowlah RSL has rewritten the rules by offering an unexpected experience hovering above a bustling club Ambiance is key here, and they’ve mastered it. Dim lighting and a ﬁreplace create an evening of cosiness, sophistication and allure, accompanied by an impressively curated wine list. To be honest, you’ll struggle to believe you’re not in an underground midcity hotspot. The menu is designed to be shared but is wonderfully ﬂexible. Whether you’re craving a formal three-course dinner in the restaurant, sharing plates in the lounge, or prefer grazing on a charcuterie board on the balcony, The Wine Room has it all. Mark your calendars for Wednesday nights this summer, where $2 natural oysters and wine tastings – featuring six to eight wines and canapés – steal the spotlight at just $20. If you’re a seasoned sipper, a casual grazer or you just want to escape witching hour, The Wine Room is ready for you.

BALGOWLAH RSL, 3038 ETHEL ST, SEAFORTH 2092 (02) 9949 5477 | OPEN: WEDNESDAY TO SATURDAY INSTA: @THEWINEROOMBALGOWLAH thewineroombalgowlah.com.au

MIDDLE HARBOUR 16FT SKIFF CLUB Despite passing by the iconic Middle Harbour 16ft Skiff Club countless times, if you haven’t stepped inside ‘Skifﬁes’, you’re missing out on a hidden gem. Nestled on the Spit, this is our top choice for a familyfriendly bistro with options for everyone. The spacious open restaurant and unobstructed views create the perfect backdrop for a laid-back experience, anytime of the day. If you’re ready to indulge in a must-try seafood platter, a generous, fresh seafood feast for two awaits you at only $135, including a bottle of wine. What’s not to love? PAGE 76 | BEACHES COVERED.

The bistro-style menu serves hearty classics like steak and chips, Wagyu burger, seafood marinara, and pie of the day so you can enjoy wholesome food with an ice-cold beer. The next time you want to treat the family to a Sunday lunch without the hassle of washing up, make Skifﬁes your go-to spot. And if you’re not a member but want to try lunch or dinner, you can book now as a guest of the Manager. Mention Beaches COVERED. when you call Karen or Nick on 9932 4600 or email a booking request to karen@middleharbourskiffs.com.au

237 SPIT RD, MOSMAN 2088 (02) 9932 4600 | INSTA: @MH16FTSC middleharbourskiffs.com.au

Spotlight on: The Spit

LEARN TO PADDLE NOW LIKE, RIGHT NOW!

veryone should embrace the thrill of surf-ski paddling at least once in their life, especially when living in a prime location that offers such abundant opportunities. Learn To Paddle Now, a local family-run business, operates from two premium locations at The Spit and Narrabeen Lake, providing the perfect backdrop for fun, fitness and adventure, surrounded by nature. Embarking on the world of surf-ski paddling with Learn To Paddle Now is an exciting and supportive adventure. Whether you’re an absolute beginner or a high-performing competitor, their team guides you every step of the way. Whether you’re aiming for serious competition or just having fun, take it at your own pace, learn the ropes and enjoy the harbour at your leisure. Ever wondered why paddlers are so ripped? Surf-ski paddling delivers a total-body workout, enhancing cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, core stability, posture and balance. It’s the full package, and you’ll be ripped too after a few sessions on the water. Lessons cater to everyone, with introductions for beginners, dynamic group sessions and personalised one-on-one training. Whether you’re a newbie seeking the thrill on the water or an elite paddler refining your skills,

Learn To Paddle Now have you, and everything you need, covered. Beyond individual lessons, Learn To Paddle Now run team-building, fundraising and corporate sessions – a super-fun way to bring your team together on the water. Surf-ski paddling is more than just paddling; it’s a lifestyle, a community, and definitely a first-hand celebration of the amazing area we have at our fingertips on The Beaches. What are you waiting for? Dive into the excitement, explore the possibilities and get yourself out there. •

BOOK A $10 SESSION > Learn To Paddle Now provides introduction sessions for $10 at both locations, Spit Bridge and Narrabeen Lake, during the week and on the weekends. Bookings essential. Scan the QR code to book!

SPIT BRIDGE: THE 16FT SKIFF CLUB, MIDDLE HARBOUR, 237 SPIT ROAD, MOSMAN NARRABEEN LAKE: JAMIESON PARK, NARRABEEN 0406 951 511 | INFO@LEARNTOPADDLENOW.COM.AU INSTA: @LEARNTOPADDLENOW learntopaddlenow.com.au

Explore The Spit, Mosman

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IT’S OFFICIAL: TERREY HILLS IS COOL. WITH EXCITING NEW PLACES POPPING UP ALL OVER THE JOINT, WE MADE IT OUR JOB TO GET OUT AND EXPLORE WHAT THE AREA HAS TO OFFER. LOCAL HOTSPOTS HAVE HARNESSED THE ABUNDANCE OF AMAZING PRODUCE, AND THE SPACE, TO CREATE SOME EXCEPTIONAL PLACES TO EAT, DRINK, SHOP AND LEARN. LET’S GO!

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GOURMET PROVIDORE PARADISE

Forestway Fresh, at the corner of Myoora and Mona Vale Road in Terrey Hills, is the go-to paradise for foodies, offering the highest-quality fruit and vegetables, fresh ﬂowers, gourmet groceries, artisan cakes, meat, liquor, and a family-friendly café where you can savour every delight. Led by the Polistina family, whose culinary passion spans generations, it’s sprinkled with Italian charm and complemented by service with a smile.

FRESH IS BEST When you walk into Forestway Fresh, it’s easy to feel like you’re at the fruit and veg exhibit at the Easter Show. The colours are so vibrant, it feels like every piece of produce has been hand selected and perfectly polished, and the truth is not far off! The Polistina family are meticulous about providing the freshest and highest-quality products, replenished daily. We dare you not to leave with a bag of everything!

THE DELI & THE BUTCHER

HOLY CANNOLI!

With an extensive range of farm-fresh deli items, including unparalleled cured meats such as salami, prosciutto, guanciale, bresaola and their own smoked ham – plus the perfect smorgasbord of antipasto – Forestway Fresh is your one-stop shop for home entertaining. The in-house butcher, a second-generation expert, is passionate about farm-to-table food and utilises every part of the animal for homemade broths and secret marinades. His commitment ensures high-quality, hormone-free, grass-fed meat and poultry for great taste and even better health.

One bite of the ricotta-ﬁlled crumbly cannoli at Forestway Fresh and you’ll want to hug in-house Pastry Chef, Adam. The cakes here are as pretty as they are delicious. You’ll ﬁnd ogle-worthy, elegant desserts like baked ricotta and pear, black forest, continental sponge, raspberry torte and red velvet, as well as a variety of baked cheesecakes. Adam also makes cakes to order, so the next time you’re planning a special celebration, give him a call and make it a memorable one.

FABULOUS PETALS AND BESPOKE WINES

THE TASTING DECK After salivating your way around the store, the great news is you don’t have to wait until you’re home to savour every delight. Favourites like the woodﬁred skillet omelette, roasted cauliﬂower salad and signature baked eggs are must-tries at the Tasting Deck. This special sun-drenched patio provides the perfect setting to enjoy a taste of Forestway Fresh. After all, what’s a foodie destination without a place to enjoy its spoils? Dog-friendly and with a grassy playground for the kids, you can’t go past this spot for an early coffee, brunch, lunch or afternoon tea with family and friends. •

Handpicked daily, the selection of fresh ﬂowers here is stunning. The in-store ﬂorist crafts irresistible arrangements with seasonal blooms like hydrangea, peony, roses and grevillea. The liquor store has meticulously chosen wines to complement your blooms. Discover exclusive boutique wines, seen nowhere else, and explore craft beers, liquors and spirits.

Spend $50 in-store, mention ‘Beaches COVERED.’ GET 10% OFF and get 10% off at the checkout! YOUR NEXT SHOP! Valid one per customer until 29 February 2024. Redeem in-store only.

2 MYOORA ROAD, TERREY HILLS 2084 (02) 9486 3340 INSTA: @FORESTWAY_FRESH forestwayfresh.com.au

Discover Terrey Hills

WILDBRUMBY JAM FLOWER POWER With Sydney’s widest range of top-quality plants, plus indoor and outdoor pots, gardening accessories, landscape supplies, homewares and furniture, Flower Power is your destination for a beautiful home and garden. A family-owned business of over 50 years, Flower Power really are The Garden People. They grow most of their own plants, so they can guarantee quality and offer expert garden advice. Shop in-store or online for Click & Collect or delivery.

277 MONA VALE RD, TERREY HILLS INSTA: @FLOWERPOWERGARDENCENTRES

When in Terrey Hills, it is of utmost importance that you do not leave without a pot of Wildbrumby Jam. This roadside stall exudes charm with cloth-topped pots, patchwork bunting and Shetland ponies grazing nearby. The family-owned and run stall grows, makes and sells some of the most delicious and award-winning jams and chutneys. The signature raspberry jam is a must-try, the pineapple and passionfruit jam is insane, and you’ll enjoy the marmalade made from their handpicked orange trees. They even sell organic raw honey from their bees just a few blocks away. Next time you are looking for somewhere to go on a slow weekend, jam it!

99 BOORALIE RD, TERREY HILLS 2084 FB: @WILDBRUMBYJAMS

ﬂowerpower.com.au

BERKELO The team of food-loving folks at Berkelo have done it again! Their newest café in Terrey Hills is abundant with country charm and character, proving that everything they touch turns to golden breadcrumbs. Formally Tempo Café, they have made the place their own, injecting some effortlessly cool Berkelo flair and decorating the place with their famous breads and cakes. With a much larger menu, the café features more lunch and grab-and-go options than the other Berkelo shops. Everything looks extra-delicious in the beautifully wholesome setting. The well-nurtured old weatherboard building and outdoor seating are the perfect place to enjoy coffee, breakfast or lunch in the open air surrounded by nature. Committed to providing better, more healthy options, Berkelo are very particular about their ingredients. They use certified sustainable flour from their mates at Wholegrain Milling Co, who mill slowly and at cooler temperatures to preserve the precious essential enzymes and nutrients. You can taste the love. Keep an eye out for evening events at Berkelo, featuring local beers and wines. Enjoy popular gatherings like Pasta and Wine nights or Family BBQs held outdoors, complete with live music to enhance your Summer experience. Located on the corner of McCarrs Creek Road before heading to West Head, Church Point or Cottage Point, it serves as an excellent starting point for your morning adventures or a perfect spot to conclude your day.

205 MONA VALE RD, TERREY HILLS 2086 INSTA: @ BERKELO.AU | berkelo.com.au PAGE 80 | BEACHES COVERED.

THE PALMS SYDNEY

WELCOME TO WONDERLAND In the luscious landscapes of Terrey Hills lies The Palms, an exceptional indoor-outdoor restaurant, nursery, and homewares store, crafted by Pip and Andrew Goldsmith, the mastermind couple who originally brought us The Boathouse. Whether you’re shopping for plants, keen to transform your home through one-of-a-kind furnishings, or looking for somewhere to share an unforgettable meal with friends, you’ll be blown away by this hidden gem.

THE NURSERY Plantaholics will feel right at home in The Palms Nursery. Continuing the 30-year legacy of the long-standing Palm Land Nursery, this special place is a sanctuary for green-thumb gurus.

The Nursery also hosts an extensive range of bespoke outdoor furniture, and carefully curated pots, to enhance every space in your home. Just make sure your car boot is empty!

THE HOMEWARES STORE

Blooming with gorgeous coastal plants like bromeliads, heliconias, gingers, canna lilies, ornamental bananas, Cordylines, Strelitzias, ferns, cacti, olives and succulents, we highly recommend you take a stroll around the grounds and breathe it all in.

If you’re on the hunt for a statement piece of furniture, to create that wow factor or smaller accents to elevate your interiors, the Homewares team is also ready to help!

If you’ve got questions about pots, plants or landscaping for your home, there’s a clever team of friendly horticulturalists on hand to help you out.

With an incredible collection of textiles and tableware, artisanal furniture and carefully curated pots, the eclectic range of thoughtfully sourced pieces is dangerously attractive. Believe us, you’ll want to take it all. And then there’s the pots! From terracotta and porcelain to seriously ceramic, the range at The Palms is so vast and pretty, if you can’t ﬁnd what you’re looking for here, we’re afraid you won’t ﬁnd it anywhere.

YOUR OWN DESIGN TEAM There’s deﬁnitely a ﬁne art to crafting thoughtfully designed homes, gardens and commercial spaces, and The Palms’ team, led by dynamic duo, Pip and Andrew Goldsmith, excel in just that. From expert interiors to personalised planting plans, their know-how will help you bring all your dreams to life.

The Eatery If the allure of flora leaves you feeling hungry, fret not – The Eatery at The Palms has got you covered! Bright, airy, spacious and green, The Eatery is one of those unique venues that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re after a laid-back bite or somewhere to host a special celebration. The indoor-outdoor restaurant boasts a fabulous menu, with wood-fired pizzas, Summer salads, fresh seafood, mezze plates, homemade scones and more. The cocktail selection is tempting and a matching wine list adds to the charm. Little ones will love the cheesy spaghetti or cheeseburger and chips. There’s also a group menu available with delicious dishes including the buffalo mozzarella, eye fillet and lemon cheesecake. Perfect for those Summer get-togethers. The Eatery is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. Reservations are recommended, although walk-ins are also warmly welcomed. •

327 MONA VALE ROAD, TERREY HILLS (02) 9974 5008 | EATERY OPEN DAILY 10AM TILL 10PM NURSERY & HOMEWARES OPEN DAILY 8AM5PM INSTA: @THEPALMSSYDNEY | thepalmssydney.com.au

Spotlight on: The Spit

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TERREY HILLS TAVERN HARVEST SEEDS & NATIVE PLANTS

Terrey Hills Tavern stands as the quintessential local pub, a reliable friend that never disappoints. The beer is always cold, the food is always hot, and the service is always solid. Up there with the best. The sprawling bar features a variety of seating, while the sports bar is the ideal spot for gamewatching. Families can also sit back and relax while the kids make use of the play area. The highlight is the beer garden where you can grab a bite to eat, from salads and pizzas to ﬁsh and chips, burgers and cooked-to-order steaks, all while basking in the sun. There is always something going on at the Tavern, including arcade games and pool tables, trivia nights, happy hours, live bands and school holiday activities, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening.

Harvest Seeds & Native Plants embodies the Jimmy Barnes of nurseries, capturing Australia’s true spirit. Dedicated to showcasing the vast array of native ﬂora, this nursery specialises in local native seeds and plants, offering a wealth of species from trees, shrubs, grasses, groundcovers, and bush foods. Marina Grassecker, the Founder, and her team at Harvest Seeds & Native Plants are the go-to experts. If your goal is to rejuvenate and re-wild your backyard with an extensive range of native beauties, this nursery is the perfect destination for embracing and enhancing Australia’s unique plant diversity.

2 AUMUNA RD, TERREY HILLS 2084 (02) 9486 3343 | INSTA: @TERREYHILLSTAVERN

281 MONA VALE RD, TERREY HILLS 2084 | (02) 9450 2699 INSTA: @HARVESTSEEDSANDNATIVEPLANTS

terreyhillstavern.com.au

harvestseeds-nativeplants.com.au

KINMA BUSH SCHOOL Kinma Preschool, nestled in ﬁve acres of Terrey Hills bushland, is a haven on the edge of Garigal National Park. Kids have a lot of fun with plenty of time and space, playing with diverse materials and sparking boundless imaginations. The school’s environment encourages hands-on exploration, empowering children to manipulate and discover. Play and imagination are the core of Kinma’s approach. Educators actively promote cooperative play and social interactions, serving as role models for kind and respectful relationships. Children are guided through a play-based curriculum that nurtures selfmotivation and decision-making skills. Children can spend much of the day in nature, fostering a deep connection from a young age and learning to appreciate and respect the environment. Check out the school’s sustainability program, where recycling, reducing waste, conserving resources and caring for the Earth are part of daily teachings. With hands-on care for a worm farm and chickens, the kids learn responsibility and gentleness. Enrolling your child at Kinma offers a rich educational experience, instilling values and skills that shape a future of responsibility and environmental awareness. It’s a space where kids have the time to play and discover their true selves.

127 COOLOWIE RD, TERREY HILLS 2084 PRIMARY: (02) 9450 0738 / PRESCHOOL: (02) 9486 3018 INSTA: @KINMA.SCHOOL | kinma.nsw.edu.au PAGE 82 | BEACHES COVERED.

The Pet Specialists If you’re a pet owner on The Beaches, you should know all about NVS – Northside Veterinary Specialists – in Terrey Hills. As the exclusive provider of specialist pet care, the clinic is on the move and they are rebranding to The Pet Specialists. Here’s the scoop on what you need to know now.

n search of a name that truly captures their identity and mission, the once Northside Veterinary Specialists (NVS) has undergone a transformation and is now called The Pet Specialists. With a brand-new name comes a fresh identity, logo and website, and the facility has also moved to a new location.

T E E M THE TEAM

The Pet Specialists team is made up of visionary directors whose expertise ensures compassionate care for our furry friends.

The updated space will allow the team of highly-trained veterinary surgeons and physicians to enhance patient treatments and provide advanced care, as well as extending their services to local GP Vet clinics and catering to all pets on The Beaches. The Pet Specialists can now be found at 16 Myoora Road, Terrey Hills, and still contacted on the same phone number – (02) 9452 2933.

ANIMAL AVENGERS As the cool cats (and dogs, of course), of the veterinary world, The Pet Specialists are your go-to crew for everything relating to pet health.

Dr Eugene Buffa

Dr Dave Collins

BVSc MMedVet Surgery Small Animal Surgery Specialist and Founding Director

BVSc FANZCVS Small Animal Internal Medicine Specialist and Founding Director

Dr Alen Lai

Dr Kathleen Chow

BVSc (Hons), GradCertVetStud, FANZCVS Small Animal Surgery Specialist

BVSc (Hons I) BSc(Vet) MVS FANZCVS Diagnostic Imaging Specialist

This independently-owned veterinary referral hospital serves Sydney, Northern Beaches, North Shore and beyond, providing specialised care and treatments in internal medicine, surgery, cardiology, anesthesia, exotics, rehabilitation and diagnostic imaging. The Pet Specialists pride themselves on providing an exceptional service and standard of care to reach the best outcomes for clients and their pets. The team promote a healthy work environment and have a strong focus on overall wellness in the veterinary industry. •

Formerly known as

16 Myoora Road, Terrey Hills 2084 (02) 9452 2933 | INSTA: @ thepetspecialists info@tps.vet | thepetspecialists.au Discover Terrey Hills

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ORGANIC HAIR CO Organic Hair Co – wellness for hair and beauty – is a low-tox sustainable salon. A place to love your hair, health and the planet. Rosanna and her team, who have been organic since 2002, are passionate about creating glamorous, healthy hair without the compromise. The salon is dedicated to balayage colour and supporting women in embracing their greys and making a complete transition. The hair products and colours are ideal for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, those pursuing toxin elimination, and individuals with allergies or chemical sensitivities. Organic Hair Co are also a specialised Curly Salon and help educate those with curly hair how to embrace and love their

natural curls. Using an extensive cutting approach, the team individually addresses each curl while the hair is dry, ensuring a precise outcome and promising a frizz-free result. The salon places environmental consciousness at its core, recycling 95% of waste. Shampoo bottles are reﬁlled and recycled foil and biodegradable towels are used. Clients are even treated with organic teas and coffee. Receive a 10-minute scalp massage and treatment when you book any colour, cut and blowdry/curly ﬁnish. Book now at organichairco.com.au or (02) 9986 3300.

6/19 YULONG AVE, TERREY HILLS 2084 (02)9986 3300 | INSTA: @ORGANIC_HAIRC organichairco.com.au

PITTWATER MOWERS Pittwater Mowers stands proudly as the leading supplier of outdoor power equipment for the local community. With expansive showrooms in Terrey Hills and North Manly, they offer their services to The Beaches and beyond. Dedicated to offering only the ﬁnest of brands, Pittwater Mowers stocks renowned names such as Stihl, Honda, John Deere, Masport and Segway – which sets them apart as a trusted destination for outdoor power solutions. At Pittwater Mowers, they understand that every garden is unique, and so are its needs. That’s why they consistently maintain a diverse inventory, ensuring that they always have the right tools for you and your garden. Pittwater Mowers are more than just a supplier; they are your partners in maintaining the perfect outdoor space. Pop in on any day of the week, and their dedicated team will guide you towards achieving the garden of your dreams!

287 MONA VALE RD,TERREY HILLS (02) 9986 122 INSTA: @PITTWATERMOWERS pittwatermowers.com.au PAGE 84 | BEACHES COVERED.

your greatest MEMORY STARTS HERE... Miramare Gardens in Terrey Hills is one of the best places in NSW for weddings, events and boutique accommodation. And hey, if it was good enough for Dan and Sandy on Married at First Sight, it’s good for us!

ucked among four acres of spectacular gardens in Terrey Hills, Miramare Gardens is one of the most stunning places in Sydney to have dinner, host a special event or, even better, tie the knot! In the latest season of MAFS, Miramare was on display for everyone to see as one of the show’s top wedding venues, and you only have to step inside the grounds to see why.

CELEBRATE Operating since 2005, Miramare has plenty of unique spaces to host any event, big or small. Whether you’re after an intimate room for a small private gathering,

like a christening, the grandeur of the Ballroom for a wedding to remember, or an outdoor oasis, you’ll ﬁnd everything your heart desires.

carefully prepared dishes are a real treat and, with the surrounding gardens, it might be tough to put down your phone.

From the stunning wedding pavilion or gazebo, to a dine-in wine cellar and the piano lounge, there really is an event space for everyone.

Miramare Gardens also offers boutique accommodation that’s perfect for a relaxing break or a romantic getaway.

STAY OVER

DINE IN Food is also part of the fanfare at Miramare. There’s corporate and event catering on hand and the delightful Sandstone Café is open for breakfast, snacks, lunch and dinner. Book a table and eat in at the Hamptonsinspired restaurant or dine al fresco, under the stars, on the terrace. The chefs’

Couples and families are welcome, and there are plenty of room styles to choose from, including king and twin bedrooms, garden suites and a three-bedroom penthouse that sleeps six! The team at Miramare Gardens are passionate about making every single event the best! Whatever your budget, you’ll receive 5-star service in one of the most unique settings Sydney has to offer. •

MIRAMARE GARDENS EVENTS AND BOUTIQUE ACCOMMODATION 289 MONA VALE ROAD (ENTRY VIA 48 MYOORA ROAD), TERREY HILLS 2084 (02) 9450 2000 | INSTA & FB: @MIRAMAREGARDENS miramaregardens.com.au

Discover Terrey Hills

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AVALON, NESTLED BETWEEN THE PACIFIC OCEAN AND KU-RING-GAI CHASE NATIONAL PARK, IS A BEACHES HAVEN WHERE CAREFREE VIBES MEET SALTY AIR. WHETHER YOU’RE A BAREFOOT BEACHCOMBER OR CAFÉHOPPING AFICIONADO, AVALON OFFERS A SEASIDE SPIRIT AND ECO FLAIR. FROM BONFIRE BREAD TO SUNSET DINER, IT’S A SEVEN-DAY PARADISE OF GOOD VIBES AND FLAVOURS. OH, AVALON, WE LOVE YOUR AURA!

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Avalon Village

MANA HAIR

KRISTINA BRENKE STUDIO Kristina wears many hats: shopkeeper, curator, maker and acclaimed jeweller. Her brand is intimately tied to its aesthetic and mood and always looks holiday-ready. It beckons and brims with all the good stuff: window-candy extraordinaire for passers-by and beachside loungers whose taste levels are always a notch or ﬁve above the norm. In this exotic treasure chest, you’ll ﬁnd clothing from Italy and India, scarves and beach apparel from France, handcrafted Summer fashion, and accessories and hand-painted bags alongside her own jewellery collection. A shopper’s delight!

45 OLD BARRENJOEY RD, AVALON BEACH INSTA: @KRISTINA_BRENKE_STUDIO kristinabrenke.com

Established in 2009, MANA Hair is one of Avalon Beach’s leading hair salons. The salon is driven by a deep passion for enhancing your natural beauty with unwavering attention to detail. Their extensive experience in hair styling guarantees that your hair will reﬂect your unique lifestyle and help you look and feel your absolute best. Deeply caring about your wellbeing and the environment, the salon exclusively uses Davines sustainable hair products from Italy. With Davines, you can have gorgeous hair without compromising the planet. Discover the comprehensive range of hair treatments, cuts and colours tailored to suit your individual style and needs. When you walk out of their salon, you won’t just love your new hair – you’ll adore it. Experience the MANA HAIR difference for yourself and receive 10% off your appointment when you mention Beaches COVERED.* *One-time use only. Available to new and existing customers from 1 Jan 2024–31Mar 2024.

MACMILLAN COURT, 4/11 AVALON PARADE, AVALON BEACH 2107 (02) 8919 0146 | INSTA: @MANA_HAIROFFICIAL manahair.com.au

VOSS STORE Discover the relaxed Northern Beaches lifestyle fashion trends at VOSS STORE, marking seven years of style excellence since December 2016. Nestled in the heart of Avalon on the breathtaking Northern Beaches of Sydney, Voss Store stands as a sartorial haven where fashion enthusiasts and discerning gentlemen alike converge. It’s the go-to destination for both locals seeking wardrobe essentials and tourists yearning for a slice of Sydney’s fashion scene. Voss is now an integral part of the community, dressing locals in functional workwear, wedding and occasion outﬁts, fashion forward street/casual wear, denim for all enthusiasts, swimwear, footwear and a vast array of gifts and grooming options. Voss transcends the traditional shopping experience, offering a carefully curated selection that caters to the diverse tastes of our clientele. Every garment tells a story, and every purchase is a celebration of timeless style and coastal charm. When you’re next shopping in the Avalon village, drop in to view our extensive range of everything for men. We look forward to meeting you.

SHOP 2/25 OLD BARRENJOEY RD, AVALON BEACH INSTA: @VOSSSTOREAVALON

vossstore.com.au

Destination Avalon Village

SWELL CAFÉ

MAMAPAPA

AVALONS ORGANICS

There’s nothing ordinary about the loaded bacon and egg rolls at Swell. Packed with cheese, mushroom, tomato, hashbrowns, avocado and housemade chilli sauce, it’s the perfect fuel for a full day of surﬁng. The barista knows many local customers by name, and whips up their usual without prompt. The coffee is as smooth as the staff and strong enough to give you a caffeine hit. Swell is a reliable, homely and relaxed spot that offers honest and generous breakfast options, along with a variety of sandwiches, wraps and milkshakes for lunch. The house favourite is the wild mushrooms on toasted sourdough with poached eggs, feta and thyme oil.

A tonal delight, everything in this boutique has a breezy elegance that screams ooh-la-la. Think shabby-chic French farmhouse filled with crisp white linen with beautiful children skipping barefoot among the vines; this place is style personified. Their clothing has an organic quality, made from natural fabrics with flattering, floating shapes, perfect for keeping cool on Sydney Summer days. They sell a suave selection of homewares, children’s and adults’ fashion and lifestyle items from brands including Pony Rider and Numero 47 and Mes Demoiselles.

There is a reason why the people of Avalon look so good! If clean living is your thing, then look no further than Avalons Organics – your organic shop and green grocer. For over a decade, this locally family-owned business has been delivering fresh produce, affordable grocery staples and great service. They sell everything to stock your fridge, pantry and make-up bag including fresh fruit and vegetables, juice bar, organic meats, cosmetics, bulk foods, pantry staples and more! Dinner is sorted with their extensive range of healthy ready-to-eat meals, including their popular home-cooked lasagnas! Can’t shop in store? Explore their online shop for next-day delivery.

74 OLD BARRENJOEY RD, AVALON BEACH INSTA: @swellcafe

11/20 AVALON PARADE, AVALON BEACH INSTA: @VIRGINEMAMAPAPA 0403 948 823 mamapapa.com.au

25 AVALON PDE, AVALON BEACH, 2107 0481 810 779 | INSTA: @AVALONSORGANICS avalonsorganics.com.au

BONFIRE BREAD Don’t miss out on the delicious experience at Bonfire Bread in Avalon village. The irresistible aroma of freshly baked organic bread will lure you into this haven of bread goodness. Founded by Andrew Austin, a decorated baker with awards from prestigious competitions including two gold, two silver and two bronze medals at the 2019 Sydney Fine Food Show, Bonfire Breads also claims the Overall Champion Loaf at the National Artisan Baking Competition, earning Most Successful Exhibitor with victories in four out of five sourdough categories. Bonfire Bread takes it back to basics using traditional methods and certified organic ingredients, resulting in spectacular bread. Their heavily accoladed sourdough bread is deliciously bubbly and satisfyingly chewy, making it the perfect bookends for a sandwich. Beyond the bread, Bonfire offers organic stoneground grains loaded in minerals, antioxidants, vitamins and proteins, that help regulate blood-sugar levels. So, not only is it delicious, but it’s good for you too! When selecting your daily loaf, explore some sweet treats like their almond croissants, danishes and cookies. However, our top pick is a toasted slice of fig and fruit sourdough, and perhaps a cheeky cinnamon scroll while you’re there!

68 OLD BARRENJOEY RD, AVALON BEACH (02) 8926 1955 | OPEN: 7 DAYS INSTA: @BONFIRE.BREAD | bonﬁrebread.com.au

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We're all about easy vibes and good times – family-friendly with room for your furry friends. Chill out in our laid-back pastel pink beer garden. Our menu? Burgers, fresh salads, and signature thick shakes. We also have tap beers, wines, and cocktails – Check Insta and our site for details on our happy hours and live tunes and what's on. Sunset Diner is about creating moments, no pretence. Good food, laughs, and that friendly feel. No reservations needed – just swing by, say hi to Ben and the crew, and soak up the Sunset vibe.

41 OLD BARRENJOEY RD, AVALON BEACH NSW 2107

D E ST I NAT I O N AVA L O N V I L L AG E

AVALON RSL Avalon Beach RSL Club stands out with a diverse array of offerings tailored for everyone. Bistro 61 is open seven days serving up freshly made modern Australian cuisine, inviting guests to enjoy alfresco seating. The venue goes the extra mile with a spacious playground for the little ones and two bars spanning two levels, with an impressive selection of 20 beers on tap, wine and cocktails. From weekly live music, poker, giveaways, and rafﬂes to pool tables, meal specials, outdoor TV, trivia, TAB facilities and more, there’s always something exciting happening. Avalon RSL maintains a lively atmosphere with ever-changing live music events showcasing artists like Sons Of The East, British India and You Am I, solidifying its reputation as the ultimate go-to club for everyone.

1 BOWLING GREEN LANE, AVALON BEACH 2107 (02) 9918 2201 | INSTA: @AVALONBEACHRSL avalonrsl.com.au

AVALON FLORAL ART This blooming florist has been brightening up Avalon for over 25 years with its vibrant celebration bouquets, centrepieces and table flowers. The staff at Avalon Floral Art take great pride in creating beautiful arrangements using only the freshest flowers that are hand selected from the flower markets. Their hand-arranged floral bouquets are always delivered with care and dispatched the same day – making sure that you never miss an anniversary again!

3/55 OLD BARRENJOEY RD, AVALON BEACH INSTA: @AVALONFLORALART // avalonﬂoralart.com.au

AVALON BREWERY

PALOMA CAFÉ

This no-nonsense boutique brewery cares about one thing only: making a cracking brew. Well, they’ve nailed it. Their creamy Milk Stout is a hearty brew for a hearty crew, the Japanese Style Larger is crispier that a bag of chips, and their mid-strength is more refreshing than an ocean swim in Winter. Walking into this place is a bit like going to your best mate’s house: they’re always happy to see you and always make sure that you have a cold one in your hand. The private outdoor seating area is set back from the main drag with a breezy vibe, tunes playing and beer brewing in the background. The perfect place for settle-in-Sunday. Head down and pick up a slab or stay for a coldie and pizza on the patio every Friday and Saturday.

Step into a warm and inviting space where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee ﬁlls the air and the friendly chatter of people creates a lively ambiance. Paloma Café takes pride in delivering an exceptional dining experience that combines delectable food, impeccable service and a relaxed atmosphere. Paloma Café understand the importance of starting your day right. Their yummy coffee and delicious menu are just the start; Paloma Café is a point of interest in Avalon Beach. Situated not far from the golden sand and sparkling waves, the café provides a perfect spot to unwind after a day of sun-soaked adventures. Whether you’re seeking a quick coffee ﬁx, a leisurely brunch, or a tranquil place to catch up with friends, Paloma Café is the ideal destination.

30 REAR/26 AVALON PDE, AVALON BEACH INSTA: @AVALON_BREWERY | avalonbrewery.com.au PAGE 90 | BEACHES COVERED.

43 ELVINA AVENUE, AVALON BEACH | INSTA: @paloma_avalon

CRANZGOTS PIZZA CAFÉ

NASH + BANKS

An eclectic roadside café style restaurant with a welcoming, chilled-out vibe serves some of the best pizza in the Northern Beaches. There is nothing boring about this place. Cranzgots is full of surprises, from its larger than expected alfresco area, quirky artistic themed outdoor seating to its unique pizza toppings. There’s something for everyone’s tastebuds. With live music every Wednesday and Saturday evenings showcasing the best local talent, from established bands to up and coming artists. Our pick, order the Tika Tala pizza. It will blow your mind. Crack a beer or wine – it’s fully licensed - and enjoy the music. It’s well worth a visit – delicious food, great music, a vibrant atmosphere, and welcoming staff - it’s sure to hit the spot!

Nash + Banks stands out as a unique lifestyle shop, offering thoughtfully sourced homewares and gifts with a positive impact. Emphasising sustainability and supporting local suppliers, this store is ﬁlled with a stunning collection of gifts, homewares, fashion, accessories and more. With a commitment to ethical practices, Nash + Banks serves as a platform for Australian-made brands, innovators and artists. Founder and entrepreneur Niccii Kugler meticulously selects each product, resulting in a gallery-style shop ﬁlled with interesting and attractive items that not only captivate but also align with conscious-consumer values.

1 CAREEL HEAD RD, AVALON BEACH 2107 (02) 9918 5550 | INSTA: @CRANZGOTS

SHOP 1, 55 OLD BARRENJOEY RD, AVALON BEACH 2107 02 9918 7898 | INSTA + FB: @NASHANDBANKS

cranzgots.com.au

nashandbanks.com

SWAY HOME | PACIFIC GREEN Sway Home is an ambassador of Pacific Green, a design and manufacturing company that creates sustainable Palmwood furniture and architecture products. Their designs are renowned for encapsulating a balanced blend of allure and contemporary elegance, and their products celebrated for the exclusive use of natural materials and cultural influences. Sway Home, are proud to uphold Pacific Green’s legacy of sustainable luxury, superior craftsmanship, and environmental conscientiousness. Each unique creation is sculpted by hand and with craftsmanship that uses time-honoured techniques. You can see this in each masterpiece; each chair, sofa and coffee table looks and feels as though it has been created with meticulous care and intricate attention to detail. With the beautifully outlandish styles of this furniture, you’d assume comfort took a hit in the making. However, Sway Home is committed to ensuring each piece wraps you in a cosy hug when it’s time to relax. When you purchase a piece of furniture from Sway Home you are adding to your collection a handmade work of art that is destined to become a cherished heirloom. The knowledgeable team at Sway also offer a custom curtain service ensuring the perfect fit, fall and fabric for your windows. Finding the perfect sheers can add the finishing finesse that elevates the overall feeling of comfort and luxury in your home.

24/1113 AVALON PARADE, AVALON BEACH 1800 722 853 | swayhome.com.au Destination Avalon Village

SPOTLIGHT ON: XXXX XXXXX XXXXX XXXX XXXXX

AVALON WHOLEFOODS

This sustainable lifestyle fashion brand makes a statement with its timeless resort and swimwear pieces that are executed to the highest standards of cut, fit and finish. Every garment embodies eco-conscious luxury, with bold prints that strike a balance between fabulous and daring. With cuts so flattering you’ll be turning heads this Summer, Ephemera is the answer to all your holiday-packing dilemmas.

This family-owned health food store is a wholefood mecca where you’ll ﬁnd an impressive range of nutrient-rich teas, nuts, cereals, grains, dried fruit and snacks. Avalon Wholefoods is passionate about natural, organic foods and offers a range of products to support your lifestyle and wellbeing. Pop in for a chat with their in-store naturopath and nutritionist about the natural treatments available. Keen supporters of local producers and artisans, make sure you try an Orchard St freshly cold-pressed juice for breakfast, a Love Food salad for lunch or a Made for Mothers Chicken Noodle Soup for dinner.

LEVEL 1, 45A AVALON PARADE, AVALON BEACH INSTA: @EPHEMERARESORT

25 AVALON PDE, AVALON BEACH, 2107 INSTA: @AVALONWHOLEFOODS (02) 9918 6224

ephemeralive.com

beacheshealthfoods.com.au

EPHEMERA

GRAZE N CAKES If you ask any Avalon local about the best-kept secret in the village, they’ll undoubtedly send you to Graze N Cakes. Tucked away in north Avalon you’ll ﬁnd Viet, the wizard baker, and Sandy buzzing around the kitchen. The untraditional combination of bespoke celebration cakes, baked treats and Vietnamese takeaway adds to the charm of this small shop. The noodle bowls, phos, Vietnamese baguettes and rice-paper rolls have become so popular that they’re almost always sold out. Once you taste them, you’ll understand why it’s a cherished secret among Avalon locals.

3/38 BURRAWONG RD, AVALON BEACH FB: @GRAZE N CAKES | (02) 8919 0058

JOANNA NEWHAM SKIN HEALTH For a truly holistic skin treatment that goes the extra mile, you have to try Joanna Newham Skin Health. Globally acclaimed and highly accomplished, Joanna is an integrated dermal specialist who is on a quest to bring you strong, healthy, vibrant skin. The all-white studio lifts your mood and prompts an inner calmness. Her bespoke prescription facial is next-level zen, starting with a ﬁve-minute guided meditation followed by tailored treatments and gua sha massage techniques that will have you ﬂoating out of there! With over 20 years of global acclaim, Joanna uses premium dermatology products with advanced technology such as Biologique Recherché, Zo Skin Health, Dermaceutic, Dermalux Tri-Wave MD™, Pollogen Geneo™ by Lumenis and Dermapen 4™ to make sure that you get the most out of each incredibly relaxing treatment.

SHOP 5, 1113 AVALON PARADE, AVALON BEACH, 2107 BY APPOINTMENT ONLY | 0416 607 410 INSTA: @JOANNANEWHAMSKINHEALTH

joannanewhamskinhealth.com.au

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Leilah: Longevity, Lifestyle, luxury The heart of good design is in the detail. Super-chic homewares and lifestyle concept store Leilah is home to quality, well-made products, crafted with care to bring character and depth to your home. This sophisticated shop p oozes a luxe relaxedness that is effortlessly cool.

hey say you can’t buy taste, but Leilah is out to prove that theory wrong. g.

Interior Stylist and Owner, Rouba, has an exquisite eye for beautiful things that work together to add interest and style to any space. Her shop is an expertly curated treasure trove of ﬁne textiles, cushions, lighting, indoor and outdoor furniture, antiques, fashion and lifestyle accessories. Everything in the shop works in perfect synergy. You can see the continuity of Rouba’s signature style in the monochrome colours and tactile materials. Shopping here is like having your personal stylist. Leilah stocks their own brand alongside trusted Australian and international brands including beautiful Dinosaur Designs homewares, chic frames by Oscar + Frank, and handmade leather bags by Dragon Diffusion. Rouba is an expert on the key principles of design with a tasteful

eye for detail. This shop is dangerously attractive, with horn and bone inlay accents and decadent fabrics. Leilah is the height of luxury. They offer an in-home styling service suggesting new pieces and advice for existing furniture in your home. Rouba also loves moving existing furniture in your home so it takes on a new dimension. The styling fee is fully redeemable for any items proposed for your interiors or in the Leilah store. Next time you want to decorate your home, yourself or spoil a loved one, Leilah has you covered. •

“I love handmade, meaning ful things. My goal when I’m styling is to use products that last and tell a story a hundred times again.” Rouba, Interior Designer and Owner, Leilah

3739 OLD BARRENJOEY ROAD, AVALON BEACH 2107 INSTA: @LEILAHSYDNEY leilah.com.au

Destination Avalon Village

D E ST I NAT I O N AVA L O N V I L L AG E

CLASSIC COFFEE

MILLARDS LAWYERS

If you’re looking for a great cup of coffee, Classic Coffee is one of the best spots on the Northern Beaches. The team rolls in every morning at 6am in their customised US postal truck and begins brewing. Grab a ﬂat white and watch the waves roll in at South Avalon – it’s beautiful! The unrivalled view is arguably the most photographed scene on The Beaches. You’ll ﬁnd Classic Coffee at the top of Surfside Avenue, every day, Monday through to Sunday. There are many great things about the Northern Beaches; the beauty is one, Classic Coffee’s burritos are another.

The friendly team at Millards Lawyers have your best interests at the forefront of their philosophy. They believe in concise, honest advice and helping people to a fair resolution. With years of experience and a team of specialists, they cover commercial and business law, property law, family law, wills and estates, and family provision claims. The team at Millards Lawyers pride themselves on their common sense approach and reliable legal advice to the community which it has been loyally serving since 1966. Next time you need some legal advice, trust Millards Lawyers.

SOUTH AVALON HEADLAND, AVALON BEACH 2107

8/20 AVALON PARADE, AVALON BEACH 2107 (02) 9918 0222 | OFFICE@MILLARDSLAWYERS.COM.AU

INSTA: @classiccoffee

millardslawyers.com.au

PAPILLON HAIR Discover the new Papillon Hair Salon in Avalon! Envisioned by Alex from Knot Studio, the salon is home to a stylish design with natural elements like wood, marble and green tiles. Local craftsmanship takes centre stage, led by Deborah’s husband, Ben from Vanwood. Ben from Vanwood handled all the joinery work, while Ben from Haigh and Smith crafted unique furniture, including a stunning green marble desk. Papillon prioritises sustainability, recycling 97% of their waste through Sustainable Salons. This eco-friendly focus aligns with their commitment to community collaboration, partnering with local designers, artisans like Alex and all local trades, enhancing the salon’s aesthetics and strengthening ties to the community. Beyond the inviting atmosphere and ecoconscious approach, Papillon features top stylists with extensive experience, ensuring clients leave satisﬁed. At Papillon Hair Salon, experience a welcoming and community-focused atmosphere where craftsmanship, sustainability and expertise converge to create a salon like no other.

SHOP 4/20 AVALON PARADE, AVALON BEACH | (02) 9918 2601 INSTA: @PAPILLONHAIRAVALON papillonhair.com.au

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JOSEPH SMITH'S

G I B B O ' S Crossword SUMMER

scopes

13 14

DOWN 1. Without this, your day at the beach would be moist and gritty. 3. What is the self deprecating nickname Northern Beaches locals give to their region? “_______ Peninsula”. 4. Take nothing but memories, leave nothing but “______”. 5. The local slang term for the refreshing sea breeze that often sweeps through the Northern Beaches during Summer: “Southerly _________“. 8. Annual Aboriginal event, celebrating cultural heritage, that takes place on the Northern Beaches: “________ Festival”. 9. The annual Aussie sporting event on the day after Christmas: The Boxing Day “_____”. 12. Most popular game on the beach at lunch time on Boxing Day. 15. What’s the preferred Summer footwear on the Northern Beaches?

Across

2. The massive wave that dumps you right on the shoreline at the beach. 5. According to your parents, if one of these stung you, only vinegar or urine would help. 6. Take 3 for the “____”. 7. Classic fruity Summer cocktail. 10. Popular lifesaving event on The Beaches “____ Person”. 11. The Northern Beaches’ favourite pastime during Summer involves catching waves on a _______? 13. One of the most popular modes of transport to the beach in Summer. 14. Finish this Summer jingle: “In the sun this Summer say, _____”. 16. An Aussie ﬂower synonymous with Summer. 17. This Summer, “_____” and chill!

CAPRICORN

CANCER

DEC 22 – JAN 21 If you’re feeling down this week, remember that your mum still loves you and that you have many friends who use their relationship with you to make them feel better about themselves.

JUN 21 – JUL 20 The greatest joy in life is setting up an out of ofﬁce message in Outlook. Throwing in that your email is not being forwarded is like a second orgasm.

AQUARIUS

LEO

JAN 22 – FEB 21 If you’re lucky enough to own a pet, enjoy the fact that you’re probably never going to able to rent anywhere… ever again.

JUL 21 – AUG 22 Botox is not only a fruitless exercise but it’s also an expensive way to end up looking like you have permanent anaphylaxis.

PISCES

VIRGO

FEB 19 – MAR 20 If you’re easing into the Summer period with the view that next year will be better, you should expect that you’ll need to do more than just read these horoscopes for the answers to how that’ll happen.

AUG 23 – SEPT 22 Being short, as a man, has several advantages but none of them relate to success with women or basketball.

GEMINI

SAGITTARIUS

MAY 21 – JUN 20 The best goal is the one you never set. True achievement is not starting anything you could ever fail at attempting.

NOV 23 – DEC 21 The realm of the stupid is inhabited by the supremely conﬁdent. This includes both the participants and viewing audiences of reality TV. •

LIBRA

SEPT 23 – OCT 22 Just because you’re getting thin up top, ARIES MAR 21 – APRIL 19 doesn’t mean you Winter is over and hot girl still can’t be thick Summer season is back. around the middle. Just don’t forget your Drop that dump truck. sunscreen. Lobsters don’t SCORPIO look good in bikinis. OCT 23 – NOV 22 TAURUS I’m predicting this APRIL 20 – MAY 20 will be your best There’s nothing more Summer in years. rewarding for a man than Not ﬁnancially or having to apologise for emotionally though. the things he does in his Maybe physically? wife’s dreams. Sometimes Nope. Not that there’s no winning. either. Good luck.

Summer Destination Crossword Avalon and Scopes Village

BEACHES “HOME IS THE NICEST WORD THERE IS.” – LAURA INGALLS WILDER

home + property.

SOUTH COAST RETREAT Robertson Collectif Arthouse Projects Formed Gardens

This season we’ve had a ball exploring everything you need to make your home and property dreams come true. Find out how to build better on The Beaches, eco-furniture to blow your mind, tiles, pools and all the joys of brilliant ﬂoors! Plus, step inside one amazing private retreat on the South Coast. Proudly serving the Northern Beaches, Sydney, Australia – since 2014.

upstate.com.au

We connect people and property, wherever they may be...

The Future of Real Estate Our tech connects us with the right buyers or tenants for your property. As the algorithm changes, so does our approach.

Contents home + property.

22.

10. 5.

Stay Cool This Summer Upstate share their top tips on how to maximise your outdoor entertaining space for dining and lounging this Summer.

Upstate: Unlocking Opportunities How to become a savvy investor amongst the rocketing residential renting rates and ever evolving inclination to invest in a new build.

Dream Home, Expert Design Coco Republic’s expert design team share insights on how to give your space, whether it be a single room or an entire home, a stylish make-over.

20. The Power of Property Read about how Upstate has taken an innovative approach to residential sales by using unique strategies that have left their clients extremely satisﬁed.

22. Building Better on The Beaches Unadulterated Q & A with Mark Romeo about his secret formula to building exceptional homes on the Northern Beaches.

24. Crafting Outdoor Bliss Want to know how Focus Pools and Miller Stone & Co do it?! Read all about both company’s collaboration with one another to create immaculate outdoor living spaces.

10. Aspiring South Coast Retreat Exclusive Q & A with the architect, builder and landscape designer of Jaspers Brush, the ultimate retreat home on the South Coast.

16. Serenity Found in the Southern Highlands A bit about buyers agent Earth Property and their dedication to ﬁnding you the perfect family paradise for you outside of bustling city life.

18. Navigating the Commercial Landscape Discover how Upstate excelled in this year's commercial property sector and explore their future plans for 2024.

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28. If It’s Good Enough For James Bond... Diana Taylor’s journey to discovering an iconic Avalon Original Furniture Brand, and rebirthing it stylish, heirloom pieces of furniture art. Checkout Sway Home Avalon.

30. Taking Care of Your Financial Wellbeing Sam Ayliffe at Astute Manly is a ﬁnancial organising hero, guiding you toward your money goals and keeping you on track.

33. The Secrets to Bush Food Plants Managing Director of Harvest Nursery, Marina Grassecker is back to tell us all about the native bush foods that could be spicing up your garden.

COVER Aspiring South Coast Retreat | Jaspers Brush robertsoncollectif.com arthouseprojects.com.au formedgardens.com.au Photography: Anna Wiewiora (annamul)

LUXE BY

B R AT I

EXC

IGN

Danish Bespoke Design

AL DANIS

YEARS H

AWARD WINNERS BEST OF HOUZZ SERVICE 7 YEARS RUNNING

Showroom 7-8, 1000 Pittwater Road, Collaroy 2097 | 02 9972 9300 LIC NO: 185107C

collaroykitchen.com.au KI TC H E N S • L A U N DR I E S • B A TH R O O MS • W A R DRO B ES • O F F I C E S • E N TE R TA I N ME N T PROPERTY. UNIT S // 3 Beaches

U P STAT E P R O P E R T Y C O N C I E R G E S U M M E R T R E N D S

STAYING COOL THIS SUMMER With the long Summer days ahead and festive season in full swing, now is the time to maximise your outdoor space for dining, entertaining or lounging. We are loving the outdoor tren n ds this trends year; there are some fun and bright ide eas to bring ideas your space to life. Here’s somee we have our eye on.

Impress you your guests with an outdoor bar cart stocked with coloure coloured co glassware, unique cock cocktail shakers, fun straws and ingredients for your favouri favourite summer spr spritz. Huset

Elevate your tablescape this ffestive i season with i h ffun and contrasting colours. Make a move away from the traditional red and green by mixing and matching placemats, napkins and glassware in non-traditional colours such as pinks, oranges and blues. Pillow Talk

Instantly inject a pop of colour to your outdoor dining or pool area with a bright-coloured umbrella. Inspired by European beach clubs, these come in a range of colours and patterns sure to throw the right kind of shade to your outdoor space. Business & Pleasure Co.

Unwind in style with an outdoor sling chair. Comfortable and chic for your patio or by the pool, they are also easy to stash away or transport with you to picnics, the beach or camping. Temple & Webster

There’s so much playful glassware around at the moment. Be it ﬂuted glasses, tumblers or brightcoloured pitchers, the options are endless to make drinks time all the more exciting. Fazeek

Speak to your local Upstate team today, and they’ll show you the possibilities that are earning excellent results.

upstate.com.au Upstate - The Future of Real Estate | PAGE 5

U P STAT E S H A P E S T H E F U T U R E

Unlocking Opportunities: A CLEAR SOLUTION TO SYDNEY’S HOUSING CRISIS: NEW DEVELOPMENT City-wide, Sydney has a rental vacancy rate of under 1.5% and has experienced the annual rent increase of 27.5%. This is the highest annual rent increase since REIA records started in March 1994. A lack of development sees renters set to suffer most from high rents and dwindling supply of stock. Sydney’s real estate market may currently be feeling the effects of rising interest rates but it’s a different story in the rental market. Across the city, the median rent has risen by 25.6% over the past year, according to SQM data, with apartment rents lifting an incredible 29.3%. Nowhere is this price increase more evident than in the new development market.

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Dee Why and surrounding suburbs

Property Type

1970s-1980s Builds

New Builds

1 Bedroom

$450-$500

$650-$750

2 Bedroom

$525-$600

$800-$950

3 Bedroom

$680-$850

$1,300-$1,500

CASA DELMAR Indicative Investment Cashﬂow Table For 1-Bedroom Apartment Deposit Amount

10%

15%

20%

Purchase Price

$835,000

Deposit + Stamp Duty

$119,810

$161,560

$203,310

Total Loan Amount

$751,500

$709,750

$668,000

Annual Repayments (IO)

$47,340

$44,712

$42,084

Est. Strata (PA)

$2,600

Depreciation

$18,000

Expected Weekly Rental

$750

Annual Surplus/Shortfall

$7,060

$9,688

$12,316

Nestled in a serene enclave amid lush gardens bordering Stony Range Botanical Garden, select from a range of stunning one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses including a high-end, limited Luxury Collection of penthouses or garden apartments. Above is an outline of an Indicative Depreciate Schedule based on a one-bedroom apartment purchase in Casa Delmar. To learn more about the potential investment beneﬁts, register your interest at casadelmardeewhy.com.au or call 1800 335 627.

HERE IS A LIST OF BENEFITS FOR BUYING OFF-THE-PLAN DEVELOPMENTS: Modern amenities. Newer builds offer attractive amenities such as lifts, undercover parking and spacious common areas, providing a more enticing prospect for tenants. Tax deductions. You can establish a depreciation schedule across the property’s brand-new appliances and ﬁnishes, potentially saving thousands at tax time. Government grants. The Government has introduced several First Home Buyer

grants, assistance schemes and stamp duty concessions that also apply to purchasing off-the-plan. Maintenance-free living. With all ﬁxtures and hardware being brand new, investors can avoid the hassle and costs associated with the potential breakdown of old ﬁxtures translating to a more cost-effective investment. Upgraded features. New builds come equipped with contemporary features such as air-conditioning,

dishwashers and internal laundries, addressing the preferences of today’s tenants who prioritise modern conveniences over outdated facilities. In summary, choosing new builds ensures investors not only meet the evolving preferences of tenants but also stand to beneﬁt from higher rental incomes, reduced maintenance concerns and substantial depreciation beneﬁts. It’s the smart choice for a sustainable investment.

For personalised advice and tailored investment strategies, it's recommended you engage with one of our portfolio advisors. Our experts are well-versed in the nuances of the Sydney market and can guide investors towards making informed and proﬁtable decisions. Speak to our Projects Team on 0488 668 166.

Upstate - The Future of Real Estate | PAGE 7

COCO REPUBLIC INTERIOR DESIGN

DREAM HOME, EXPERT DESIGN

Words & Photography: Coco Republic

Whether it’s a single room or an entire home makeover you’re looking for, Coco Republic’s design team are experts when it comes to transforming spaces into cutting-edge and stylish interiors. And lucky for us, their ﬂagship showroom in Balgowlah also hosts an award-winning interior design studio. Read on to learn more about their latest interior design offerings.

nspired by worldwide design and architectural inﬂuences and well-versed in the art of how to live a well-designed life, Coco Republic has revamped their interior design packages to help you do the same.

The new tiered services cover every facet of residential interior design, so whether you want a room refresh or a customised interior design package for the whole home, Coco Republic has a comprehensive system to meet your needs. Showcasing a wealth of technical experience and a talent for bringing visions to life, Coco Republic’s team seamlessly blends practicality with unique and diverse styles.

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Discover the tier that’s right for you:

“Designing a space and selecting furniture can be time-consuming and overwhelming. Our designers can streamline the process, present you with curated choices, and handle the logistics of ordering, delivery, and installation.” DIANA RIBAREVSKI, DIRECTOR OF INTERIOR DESIGN AND STYLING, COCO REPUBLIC

TIER ONE YOUR DESIGN JOURNEY BEINGS Tier 1 is a complimentary service and offers a 60-minute consultation with a design consultant, in the showroom or virtually. The one-on-one session includes furniture and homewares curation along with materiality and palette selections. Finally, an easy way to feel like an expert on your own home.

TIER TWO UNLOCK YOUR STYLE This impressive package extends to an on-site analysis carried out by the design team, who will then create customised mood boards and furnished ﬂoor plans for up to three rooms, which will be presented during a showroom presentation. The fee for this service is $995 and additional rooms can be added for a fee.

TIER THREE TURNKEY DESIGN SOLUTIONS This brilliant, bespoke interior design package builds upon Tier 2 and includes optional extras such as turnkey design solutions, which can extend beyond furniture and homeware speciﬁcation, for up to ﬁve rooms. Assistance with window coverings, and colour and paint selections, along with an interior design renovation service menu, can be unlocked. This unique service has a starting price of $2,495 and includes a dedicated Project Manager.

Both Tier 1 and Tier 2 packages come with styling services. White-glove installation and delivery is available for an extra fee. Each package is tailored to provide unique outcomes based on individual needs.

COCO REPUBLIC'S INTERIOR DESIGN AND STYLING TEAM

Interior Design Insights Diana Ribarevski is the Director of Interior Design and Styling at Coco Republic. She understands how the Coco Republic team can provide a deep level of expertise and knowledge of interior design and furniture curation: “With the expertise and guidance of one of our designers, you can create a space that reﬂects your style, optimises functionality, and provides a harmonious and visually appealing environment. A well-designed space can enhance your daily living experience, create a positive ambience, and increase the value and appeal of your home. “Leverage the experience of our skilled designers to research, source and coordinate furniture options aligned with your vision. Designing a space and selecting furniture can be time consuming and overwhelming. Our designers can streamline the process, present you with curated choices, and handle the logistics of ordering, delivery and installation. This saves you time and minimises the stress associated with furniture shopping and design decisions.” •

Flagship Showroom at 198 Condamine Street, Balgowlah Insta: @cocorepublic | cocorepublic.com.au | interiordesign@cocorepublic.com.au

Beaches Home & Property

JASPERS BRUSH | SOUTH COAST NSW

Aspiring SOUTH COAST RETREAT

On our getaway to the NSW South Coast this season, we discovered a beautiful, architecturally designed, private home south of Berry. We also caught up with architect, Liam Robertson, Builder, Andy Bishop, and Landscaper, Luke Baldwin, from Formed Gardens, to understand how they came together to work on this special residential project. Sit back and discover how real dreams are made. The brief for this spectacular project on the South Coast of NSW was to design a home built for versatility. A space that seamlessly caters to the needs of its retired owners and has the ability to transform into a welcoming place for up to 18 children and grandchildren to enjoy. Balancing a blend of intimacy with expansiveness, the Architect, Builder and Landscaper worked seamlessly together to check every box. Come with us as we step inside and glean insights from the creative minds behind this exquisite home. Discover the inspirations, design process and thoughtful details that make this residence truly remarkable.

PART ONE: DESIGNING THE DREAM Liam Robertson is the Owner and Architect at Robertson Collectif, an architecture and interior design studio based on the South Coast of NSW. Here he talks about the importance of design and wants versus needs. Jaspers Brush is a divine home! Congratulations! How did you get involved with the team to bring this special property to life? We were initially introduced to our clients by Andy Bishop from Arthouse Projects, a South Coast construction company. Andy had constructed a residence for the clients previously and we had worked with Andy before so the process was easy. Luke Baldwin from Formed Gardens works with us on most of our South Coast projects and had worked with the clients before too, so collaboration was easy and each party already understood each other. This made for a really enjoyable process and project. How do you begin the design process for a client’s dream home? We meet our clients and talk as much as possible until we feel we fully understand the brief and the site. In this case there was an existing house to be reused as part of the brief. This required time to be spent assessing what portions of the existing building are possible items to retain and reuse or alter.

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How do you balance your expertise with a client’s vision? Understanding our clients is a huge part of the design process. Taking time to sit down and talk to them allows us to understand the underlying thoughts of their brief. Then we can answer or create design solutions that we feel will respond to everyone. Over the years we have learnt enough about wants versus needs to warrant a degree in psychology. We’re lucky to have clients who trust us to realise their brief. How do you ensure the design reflects a client’s lifestyle and functional needs? As part of the initial brief and project scope, we get a good understanding of how the finished project needs to perform and how it will be lived in by our clients. The most satisfying moment is seeing them enjoy the project we’ve created. How do you stay up-to-date on the latest design trends and technologies? We’re lucky to be based two hours from Sydney so it’s easy to access our suppliers in the city. Locally, we have a strong network of like-minded tradespeople and makers giving us a fantastic network to learn from. Architectural media is also a wonderful thing to keep anyone excited about the industry. If your dream home had a theme inspired by a fictional place, which one would you choose and how would you incorporate it into the design? This is hard… After a bit of thought, Springfield – the town from The Simpsons TV show. It’s full of bold, solid colours. Surely it would be a happy, bright place to live in. We have started to bring more colour into our interiors so bringing the colourful town of Springfield in could be really fun inside a new project.

Architect: Robertson Collectif info@robertsoncollectif.com @robertsoncollectif robertsoncollectif.com

CONTINUE >

Architecture | Interior design SOUTH COAST NSW Nominated Architect Liam Robertson NSW Arch. Reg. 9960 ACT Arch. Reg. 2465 info@robertsoncollectif.com PO Box 4021, Gerroa 2534 NSW @robertsoncollectif

www.robertsoncollectif.com Beaches COVERED. Home + Property

JASPERS BRUSH | SOUTH COAST NSW

PART TWO: BUILDING THE HOME As the owner of Arthouse Projects, a construction company based on the NSW South Coast, Builder Andy Bishop specialises in new homes and renovations. Here he discusses the challenges and the steps that made this project a dream. This is one special project. Did you face many challenges along the way? We were involved early on in planning how to construct the home the most economical, efficient and cost-effective way while keeping with the design team’s vision. The home has seven bedrooms and classified BAL-FZ ,which is the most extreme bushfire rating. Material shortages were causing massive delays when it was in the design phase so we had to think outside the box with a lot of the decision making. What’s your approach when collaborating with clients throughout the build? We have a simple belief that communication is the key to a successful project. We also use an online platform to log daily updates, progress pictures, videos and files to help streamline the process.

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“We had to think outside the box with a lot of the decision making.” ANDY BISHOP, BUILDER, ARTHOUSE PROJECTS

How do you ensure construction aligns with the design and the client’s vision? Firstly, we deﬁne the scope and goals of the project with both the client and architect. This is done by identifying key deliverables, milestones, budget, quality standards and risks of the project. How do you handle unexpected challenges or changes that pop up? It’s almost certain that unforeseen challenges or changes will arise, especially in current climates. We handle this by a combination of effective communication, collaborative problem solving and proactive decision making. What measures do you take to ensure the quality and durability of the construction work? Employing a team of superior craftspeople, appropriate material selection and experience is essential. We share regular progress reports and on-site inspections daily to ensure the quality and durability of our work. Communication and providing the right maintenance procedure for after construction care are also important. What steps do you take to keep a project on schedule? Pre-construction planning is key, also employing an expert site foreman for the duration of each job and sticking to a critical path.

Builder: Arthouse Projects andy@arthouseprojects.com.au +61 412 708 708 @arthouseproject arthouseprojects.com.au

arthouseprojects.com.au andy@arthouseprojects.com.au +61 412 708 708 @arthouseprojects ABN: 18626949237 | BUILDERS LIC: 340280C

CONTINUE > SOUTH COAST NSW

JASPERS BRUSH | SOUTH COAST NSW

PART THREE: FORMING THE GARDENS It’s often the gardens and green space that put the finishing touch on a beautiful home. Luke Baldwin is the brains behind Formed Gardens, a landscape design and construction company servicing Sydney and the NSW South Coast. Here he talks about all the elements that go into achieving a harmonious outcome. The gardens around this Jaspers Brush home are simply stunning. Tell us about the journey. I’ve worked with Liam and Andy on multiple projects and over the years we’ve built a great trust in what each person brings to a project. On this project the landscape and building design will evolve on-site no matter how resolved it is on plan, so having a building team that understands that, and has the ability to workshop ideas and execute the detail, is highly important to achieving the vision. Interestingly, I’ve looked back at the 3D designs that were created for this project and it’s almost identical to the end result. What that says to me is that in principle, although there may be tweaks along the way, a good team will ensure the intended vision and level of quality in finishes, and throughout, is brought to life. How do you understand a client’s ideas before starting the landscape design? Firstly, I listen to the client's needs and dreams, for the future use of the property or home. For instance, this is a holiday house for the clients and their extended family, including a clan of grandchildren. Then we figure out how that brief and vision fits into the site context and how it can work with the proposed architectural design and other factors like development controls, environmental challenges, budget and accessibility. How do you incorporate the natural surroundings and architectural features into your landscape designs? On a site like this, with so much natural beauty, it’s important for the landscape to blend with its surroundings and help settle the building into the site. Making sure landscape and architecture are speaking

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the same language is integral to achieving a harmonious outcome. One of the great things about working with Liam, and his team at Robertson Collectif, is the ability to create these marriages between building and landscape. An example of this is threading the stone element through the house and garden. What role does sustainability play in your landscape designs? Sustainability plays an integral role in all our designs, especially now with a warming climate and rising material costs and transportation challenges. We try to use as many locally sourced products as possible and stick to local native planting that once established is low water use and can handle variabilities in weather and climate. Particularly on a site like this which operates completely from rainwater supply.

Photography: Anna Wiewiora (annamul)

How do you balance aesthetics with functionality? Firstly, the design needs to perform the intended function. Spatially it needs to work and connect with key areas of the site and architecture. Getting this right sets up the aesthetic layers and that’s when the fun starts to happen to achieve a vision for the design, materiality and planting. Such layers are inﬂuenced by the architectural features and surrounding landscape environment. How do you ensure the longevity and ease of maintenance for the landscaping elements? Using sustainability principles, that is, materials that will stand the test of time and age gracefully within their environment. We also try to use local native plants where possible for these reasons. •

Landscaper: Formed Gardens Sydney | South Coast NSW (02) 8036 8580 @formedgardens formedgardens.com.au

Sydney | South Coast NSW (02) 8036 8580 formedgardens

www.formedgardens.com.au Beaches COVERED. Home + Property

S O U T H E R N H I G H L A N D S | N SW | B U Y E R ' S AG E N T

SERENITY FOUND IN THE SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS Escape the city hustle and discover tranquility in the Southern Highlands, just an hour and a half south of Sydney. Earth Property Buyers Agents, your local advocates and guides, not only unlock exclusive off-market gems, but ensure a seamless journey to purchasing your dream home.

community where markets brimmed with local produce, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked bread permeated the air. A foodie’s paradise, the region delighted palates with the ﬂavours of farm-to-plate goodness.

Tired of bustling city life, a family embarked on a transformative journey to this idyllic retreat, where time seemed to slow down amid rolling hills, cosy cottages and the sweet scent of eucalyptus.

For arts enthusiasts, the Southern Highlands opened its arms wide, adorned with galleries and theatres showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Shopping became an experience, with boutique stores offering unique treasures crafted by local artisans.

In the Southern Highlands, life’s pace was not dictated by the ticking of a clock but by the gentle sway of trees. Vast open spaces offered solace, with greenery stretching as far as the eye could see. Children revelled in expansive school yards, where education extended beyond books, encompassing the fresh mountain air and the world outside the classroom. This haven revealed itself as more than a tranquil escape; it was a vibrant

Embracing a slower, wholesome pace, the family found paradise. For those seeking to make the Southern Highlands their home, Earth Property Buyers Agents stood as trusted local guides, weaving dreams into reality as advocates in ﬁnding dream homes. The region, akin to a story unfolding every day, became a canvas for new beginnings.

As local award-winning buyer’s agents, Earth Property Buyers Agents navigate the real estate landscape, often unveiling exclusive, off-market gems tailored to unique needs. Their robust real estate relationships, market knowledge and negotiation prowess ensure a seamless journey from aspiration to acquisition, saving time and resources. Let Earth Property Buyers Agents be your advocates, turning the page to an exciting new chapter of home ownership in the idyllic Southern Highlands. Visit earthproperty.com.au or call 0418 797 701 to embark on your Southern Highlands dream.

SCAN THIS QR CODE FOR YOUR COPY OF SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS: THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE

0418 797 701 | earthproperty.com.au Insta @bowral_buyers_agent | @southernhighlandsbuyersagent PAGE 16 | BEACHES COVERED.

Words: Adam Marsden | Photography: Bodhi Todd

estled an hour and a half south of Sydney in the heart of NSW, the Southern Highlands unfolds as a picturesque haven, beckoning weary souls to embrace the enchanting beauty of a treechange.

Get the return on investment without the hassle.

Have your commercial property managed by the most professional team on The Beaches with full support from the largest leasing team who place more tenants than any other agency.

You will receive a detailed monthly ʟnancial statement

We study the market and ensure rent reviews are up to date

We manage tenants, ensuring your property is well maintained

Qualiʟed commercial managers specialise in legal compliance

The team you can trust to manage your commercial assets, helping you achieve your property goals. Let’s chat and let’s get your property managed by the best. 02 9971 9000

upstate.com.au

Enjoy peace of mind, knowing your asset is in good hands

U P STAT E C O M M E R C I A L W R A P - U P 2 0 2 3

NAVIGATING THE COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPE While Upstate has certainly made its mark on The Beaches’ residential property market, they also thrive in the commercial property sector. Here the team gives us the lowdown on 2023 and unpack future trends.

Upstate Commercial stats 2023

4,390

Number of enquiries

636

Number of inspections

478,698

Visitors to our website

UPSTATE: WHAT WE’VE SEEN IN 2023 A tumultuous market. We experienced a tumultuous commercial property market in 2023 with varying real estate conditions. This uncertainty is largely due to the 13 interest-rate rises since May 2022, rising inﬂation, and an underlying sentiment of economic uncertainty. Despite the inconsistency, Upstate has continued to see record commercial property vacancy rates and all-time rent rises in a number of commercial sectors. Increased time on the market. Across Australia, commercial property enquiries were down 18% in 2023. With subdued demand, this means properties are spending a longer time on the market on average than during

COVERED. PAGE 18 | BEACHES PROPERTY.

the pre-pandemic booms. Despite this, we’ve noticed well-priced, professionally marketed commercial properties continue to outperform. Growing commercial interest from the big end of town. We’ve also noticed large institutional investors and organisations are increasingly interested in commercial real estate investments. Often fed up with short-term, highmaintenance tenants in the residential sector, many institutional groups are shifting their focus to commercial properties that offer long-term, stable tenants and incomes in case of subdued economic growth in 2024 and beyond.

REASONS TO SELL IN THE CURRENT MARKET After over a year of post-pandemic adjustment, the Australian commercial real-estate market has experienced the lowest level for a third quarter seen in more than a decade. Fortunately, The Beaches are witnessing a much different story, showing signs of great improvement despite ongoing economic headwinds.

The recent uptick is a sign that the region’s resilience during a tumultuous few years is beginning to bear fruit, as reflected by a relatively strong economy since the initial slumps around COVID-19. Australia’s commercial property market is expected to bounce back with a projected population growth of 10% over the next five years, making the region an increasingly attractive prospect for local and overseas commercial investors alike. This is particularly the case on the highly sought-after Northern Beaches with an unmatched balance of work and lifestyle, a fast-growing industrial sector, and significant proposed developments in and around the Brookvale area. As office assets, retail spaces and industrial properties experience increasing demand and the build-to-rent (BTR) sector in Australia continues to gain momentum, we expect an exciting few months ahead. Now may just be the perfect time to capitalise on the favourable market conditions and the growing demand among commercial real estate investors.

Words & Photography: Upstate Real Estate

he commercial team at Upstate Real Estate has navigated a challenging property market to achieve considerable success in 2023. Led by Vince West, they have plenty of insights to share on future trends and factors that will be shaping commercial real estate investing on The Beaches.

THE YEAR AHEAD Here’s what Upstate is predicting for 2024 and beyond. A shift to recession-proof assets. The Australian government has forecasted economic growth for the 2023-24 financial year to just 1.5% and has predicted inflation to hit 7.75% by year-end. With growing uncertainty, we predict commercial owners to act quickly when selling as they shift to recession-proof assets and cash. Despite this increase in stock coming into the market, we expect strategically located commercial buildings to continue to perform. Rental pricing to hold strong on The Beaches. The Northern Beaches market still has a relatively finite supply of commercial properties. As such, we forecast property price growth to remain relatively strong and perhaps even outpace the national average rate of 6.5% per annum over the next five years. With a dampened economy ahead, now is the perfect time to buy in the relatively stable Beaches market. Investors buying in anticipation of the Brookvale masterplan. Initially drafted in 2017, the recently revised Brookvale masterplan is set to improve transport connectivity, increase community spaces and support around 1,000 new jobs with new, quality office spaces in the area. As they have already begun doing so, we predict that many investors will look to buy commercial real estate on The Beaches in anticipation of these major developments.

COMMERCIAL REVIEW WITH VINCENT WEST Warehouses. The Beaches’ warehouse market is still the most desired and strongest commercial asset class. Although yields remain fairly tight, the industrial

685 Pittwater Road, Dee Why

sector boasts the most demand with the lowest vacancy rates of all sectors and the lowest incoming supply. In recent months, we’ve found both rents and sale prices are stabilising and quality buildings, with easy access and higher clearance, in good locations are still outperforming the secondary stock by far. Offices. On The Beaches, we’ve noticed ‘a flight to quality’, meaning tenants and buyers are desperate for the highest quality of office space with warm shell fitouts. This means the presentation of your office space is key to strong enquiry levels, as employers look to entice their staff back into the workplace with appealing spaces. This trend is largely attributable to the success of our more boutique suburban office markets, in particular Dee Why and Manly, which boasted the lowest vacancy rates on record. Retail. It has been a volatile year for the Australian retail-industry sector with consumer discretionary spending reducing due to higher interest rates and a rising cost of living. Fortunately, the Northern Beaches holds a strong position due to its demographic and tourism trends and so, despite a slight softening in yields, we’ve seen investors still have an appetite for blue chip tenanted assets. On the tenants' side, we’ve seen they are looking for more turnkey properties to reduce their initial fit-out costs, leading many landlords to hold out for quality tenants in search of a longer lease period. With retail sales continuing to tighten, it will be interesting to see how the retail sector responds in 2024.

Beaches, A-grade tenants in these properties are thriving but there remains a lot of demand backlogged for well-located showroom opportunities. While gyms and health facilities were the flavour of the last few years for this asset type, we are now seeing furniture goods, trade supply and bulky-goods retail options push gyms to the industrial sector. Developments. Over the past financial year, we have seen a lot more commercial stock coming on to the market right across the Northern Beaches primarily due to the increase in recent construction costs. The rapid rise in prices is making it difficult to price certain large projects; however, the more experienced developers are actively seeking opportunities in more premium locations. With a short supply of affordable housing on the beaches, many developers (local and out of area) continue to demand development in the region. Upstate is the largest commercial property team on The Beaches and the only commercial agent that services every corner of the region. From Manly to Palm Beach, and everywhere in-between, they are constantly adapting their technologies and approach to the changing market to support client success. Having fostered results for over 40 years, their experienced team have a finger on the commercial pulse and a true love and understanding of The Beaches.

Showrooms. With commercial vacancy rates being at all-time lows on The

For all of your commercial property and leasing needs, contact Upstate. •

1/1 Minna Close, Belrose

61-63 Kenneth Road, Balgowlah

Vincent West Commercial Licensee/Director in Charge 0403 444 000 | vincent@upstate.com.au

Upstate - Beaches The Future COVERED. of Real Estate Home +| Property PAGE 19

U P STAT E : L E A D I N G T H E WAY

THE power OF PROPERTY True to their style, Upstate is defying traditional norms and taking an innovative new approach to residential sales. Read on to discover why their Residential Sales team is a powerhouse on The Beaches.

One standout achievement for the team was their recent inaugural September Sellout Auction Campaign. The numbers tell a great story – 50 properties were brought to auction for the month of September, 13 sold prior to the event, and the rest sold on the night or shortly after. “All the buyers were very keen to make a purchase so there was high demand on the night,” says Upstate General Manager, Meschell Howarth. “Some buyers missed out so they were ready to buy any new properties that came on the market.”

PAGE 20 | BEACHES COVERED.

The success of the night not only elevated clients but positioned Upstate, once again, as a dominant presence in the industry. And the exciting news is, the September event is set to repeat itself over summer with two big auction nights planned for 8 and 13 February, which means homeowners have the opportunity to launch their property just after Boxing Day. “The timing for this is backed by convincing statistics,” adds Meschell. “There’s a 27.5% increase in property listing views during the holiday season, as buyers have more free time and spend more time scrolling and researching properties.” There are also fewer properties on the market – in fact, 54.3% fewer, compared to March/April. So the chances of attracting serious buyers are signiﬁcantly higher, with a 28.2% increase in enquiries per listing (stats provided by REA).

Words: Donna Armstrong | Photography: Upstate Real Estate

ar from a cookie-cutter strategy, Upstate Residential Sales prides itself on utilising out-of-the-box sales initiatives and strategies that not only set them apart but also drive exceptional results for their clients.

THE WINNING COMBO Upstate understands that selling a property can be a stressful journey, especially over the holidays, so the Residential Sales team go above and beyond to support each of their clients. Their complimentary in-house concierge team also takes care of every aspect of property presentation, from decluttering and painting, to renovations and styling, which means less stress for you. “Our concierge service is one-of-a-kind,” says Meschell. “The team are extremely experienced and ensure a hassle-free selling process. If you list your property soon, all the hard work can be done before Christmas, so the pain and worry is taken away.” Choosing Upstate Residential Sales means you partner with a team who love what they do, and have an impressive track record. Here are just some of the advantages of collaborating with Upstate: Extensive prospective buyer database. With a database exceeding 242,000, Upstate connects sellers with a huge pool of potential buyers. Digital-ﬁrst approach. With an in-house team of marketing experts, Upstate uses a digital-ﬁrst strategy to leverage the power of online platforms. This not only maximises visibility but also attracts the right audience. Speedy sales. Upstate Residential Sales takes pride in selling properties 22% faster than the competition, with an average of just 20 days on the market. Auction excellence. Upstate’s auction clearance rate is 19% higher than the Northern Beaches average. Passionate and credentialled team. With a crew of over 70 passionate professionals, from Manly to Palm Beach and up to the Forest, they are committed to providing the best service and expertise. •

Scan to ﬁnd out the value of your property.

Choosing Upstate Residential Sales means you partner with a team who love what they do, and have an impressive track record. Here are just some of the advantages of collaborating with Upstate

242,000+

Extensive prospective buyer database

With a database exceeding 242,000, Upstate connects sellers with a huge pool of potential buyers, no matter where they are.

Top Tech

Digital ﬁrst approach

Upstate’s team use a digital first strategy to leverage the power of online platforms. This not only maximises visibility but also attracts the right audience.

22% Faster Speedy sales Upstate Residential Sales takes pride in selling properties 22% faster than the competition, with an average of just 20 days on the market.

19% Higher Auction excellence Upstate’s auction clearance rate is 19% higher than the Northern Beaches Average. Our purpose built auction HQ elevates the experience for both sellers and buyers.

70+ Crew

Credentialled and passionate professionals

From Manly to Palm Beach, to the Forest and beyond, the Upstate team are committed to providing the best service and expertise possible.

Thinking of selling? If selling your property with ease and getting a great result is your goal, the Upstate Residential Sales team is the strategic partner you need. Contact one of the agents, who specialise in your area, and make selling your property in the new year your greatest goal for 2024.

Residential Upstate - The Future of Real Estate | PAGE 21

T H E P E R F E C T S PAC E

Building Better

ON THE BEACHES Mark Romeo is the Director and Builder at The Perfect Space, an award-winning design and build specialist in Manly. Since 2006, he has been helping families build their dream homes. We caught up with Mark to talk about his deep love for The Beaches and explore why his winning formula is the key to building exceptional homes. What’s the best thing about working on residential projects? My favourite thing is the relationships we build on-site and the banter. I love that what we’re doing is important and I feel privileged to be trusted to build family homes.

i Mark, you’ve been building homes on The Beaches for over 15 years. What do you love about the area? I walk from Queenscliff to Shelly Beach at least four nights a week with my family, and I always tell my daughters how lucky they are to be living here. I head to the beach in the morning and the evening and it seems to ground me and give me energy. I love the community and the lifestyle. Most weekends you’ll ﬁnd us hanging out in Manly at the bars and restaurants. When did you realise you wanted to be a builder? I think I was destined to be a builder as I grew up on building sites with my father, working Saturdays and school holidays. When I left school, I started a carpentry apprenticeship with my uncle who was a master craftsman which gave me my attention to detail. When I ﬁnished my apprenticeship, I gained experience in supervising before starting my own building company in 2006.

PAGE 22 | BEACHES COVERED.

Can you share a memorable project you have worked on? Anyone who knows me has heard about my Palm Beach project. This project was particularly challenging due to the steep nature of the site. The first part of the project was to build an extension to a driveway bridge suspended in the air that wrapped around Barrenjoey Road. I remember standing at the edge of the driveway before we started and Harley, my apprentice, basically said, “How the heck are we going to do this?” At that point, I wondered what I had got myself into. But like any hard job, I put together an A-team and we rolled into the site with machinery and made the first level pad to stand on. It was a momentous accomplishment, but that was just to start! If you buy me a beer someday, I’ll tell you the rest of the story. We finished that project in 18 months and to say it was challenging is an understatement. Harley, who is now my supervisor, looks at the jobs we do now and if any of the young guys complain he laughs and pulls out a story from the vault about the Palm Beach job. What challenges are you seeing in the construction industry at the moment? The biggest challenge is the skills shortage. The other challenge is the increased compliance and new NCC rules that are being implemented. We are combatting this by doing extra training to stay up to date with the changes.

“I feel privileged to be trusted to build family homes.” MARK ROMEO, THE PERFECT SPACE

How do you approach the design and construction process at The Perfect Space? Very early in my career I found out that the biggest problem is managing expectations. Unless you have a process around this, there will always be a gap. What we discovered is that following four specific and critical steps will always lead to a successful outcome. We’ve refined these steps over the years and they consistently produce positive results for our clients, building homes that tick all the boxes and the budget. What sets The Perfect Space apart from other builders in Sydney? The first and most important thing is our tight-knit team who are at the top of their game – assembling a great team is the one thing I’m most proud of. Our firstyear apprentices are just as important as our senior supervisors, and we all understand we have a key role to play in the success of the company. Our clients benefit from having people working in their homes that are happy and genuinely care and love what they do.

and, let’s face it, building tricky and complicated extensions, you need to produce solutions. What should we look for when choosing a builder? That is simple. Look for a team who has a proven track record in delivering the type of project you are trying to achieve. Most people think they should start with an architect, which seems logical, but if budget is important then start with a builder as they’re the ones who have ﬁrsthand knowledge of construction costs. We recently got approached by a client who had approvals for a $1 million budget project. They assumed it might creep up to $1.3 or $1.5 million max, but when the quote came in it was $2.5 million. They had already spent thousands on plans and approvals and had to go back to the drawing board. What’s more devastating is they lost over 12 months of time, then you have to add cost increases. We hear this a lot.

The second thing is our CDCA (Concept Design and Cost Analysis) process, which we’ve reﬁned to where it is today. Our customers can be taken through the building process with transparency and honest advice. Our clients choose to work with us because they understand that to reach their project goals, they need to ﬁnd a team that has their best interests at heart, and have the processes, experience and record of accomplishment to back this up.

If you genuinely want peace of mind, an understanding of what’s achievable, and how much it costs early on, then look for an integrated design and build company.

We’ve completed 33 projects since 2020, so we have a wide and varied range of projects to draw from. We’ve also won many awards which benchmark us against the best in the business.

How important is The Beaches community to you? Being socially responsible is part of our DNA and we’ve made it our mission to support families who are less fortunate than us. Every year, we donate our time and resources to embark on a working bee, which our team loves. Our team is really proud of our work we do with Bear Cottage. We receive letters of gratitude, which we read out at our strategy team-building days. •

What do the most satisfying and successful projects have in common? The most satisfying ones are when the clients are on board as part of the team. Things don’t always go to plan

What trends are going to spike our interest in 2024? We’re moving towards efﬁcient homes. I’m noticing smaller swimming pools, solar panels, double-glazing windows, and some homeowners are excluding gas appliances.

Words: Donna Armstrong | Photography: The Perfect Space

3/23-24 Belgrave Street Manly, NSW 2095 | (02) 99074568 | hello@perfectspace.com.au INSTA @the_perfectspace | Builders Lic: 266190C | perfectspace.com.au

Beaches COVERED. Home + Property

M I L L E R ST O N E & C O. & F O C U S P O O L S

Crafting

OUTDOOR BLISS Creating a harmonious blend of elegant outdoor spaces requires the expertise of those who understand the artistry of both paving and swimming pool design. In the collaborative efforts of Miller Stone & Co. and Focus Pools, a dynamic duo emerges, dedicated to turning mundane backyards into luxurious retreats.

"I love guiding people through their project. The main outcome we often get, from the initial meeting, is a plan of attack and how to spend money in the right areas." NATHAN MILLER, OWNER, MILLER STONE & CO.

"We gain insights into the client's design expectations and identify the speciﬁc trades required to provide the best outcome."

Paving a Path TO O U TDO O R LI VI N G Nathan Miller, the visionary behind Miller Stone & Co., brings over two decades of expertise to the table. Specialising in high-end tiles and paving, Nathan's mission is to transform outdoor spaces into works of art. The initial process begins with a personal touch. "We initiate the process by arranging a meeting, either in the showroom or on-site, to engage with the client and the process," says Nathan. "A site visit is invaluable for everyone involved, providing a tangible connection to the project. It helps me understand the intricacies of the work required, facilitating thoughtful design decisions and reﬁned ﬁnishes.

Once the vision is agreed upon, Nathan thoroughly assembles a concept of ﬂooring and walling sample options, along with pricing for a proposal. The uniqueness of Miller Stone & Co. lies not just in tiling and paving but in Nathan's ability to guide clients through the entire process. "I have all the necessary trades at my ﬁngertips and the patience to work through any hurdles with my clients that may arise," says Nathan. Clients appreciate the holistic approach offered by Miller Stone & Co., where a well-thought-out plan is developed within budget. Nathan's role extends beyond paving, often involving additional trades like landscapers, pool builders, electricians and plumbers to ensure a comprehensive outdoor living experience.

Continue over page > PAGE 24 | BEACHES COVERED.

PREMIER TILING AND PAVING Revamp your living spaces with Miller Stone & Co., the leading tiling and paving supplier on the Northern Beaches. Under the guidance of Nathan Miller, we've earned trust through 20+ years of steadfast commitment to quality. Enhance your surroundings with enduring natural stone, skilled craftsmanship and a diverse array of premium tiles and paving solutions. Breathe new life into your interiors, backyards, swimming pools and commercial projects. From stunning natural stone tiles to durable pavers in an array of captivating colours, textures and sizes, our inventory boasts an elegant selection sourced from trusted suppliers worldwide.

Explore excellence in tiling and paving. Visit our Collaroy Showroom or call for a personal appointment today. Elevate your spaces with Miller Stone & Co.

1/1010 PITTWATER ROAD • COLLAROY NSW 2097

WWW.MILLERSTONE.COM.AU Beaches COVERED. Home + Property

DIVING INTO

EXTRAORDINARY OUTDOOR LIVING

Complementing Miller Stone & Co.'s mastery of paving is Focus Pools, led by Founder and Builder Jason May, alongside General Manager Dean. Specialising in the design and construction of bespoke pools and spas for over 60 years, Focus Pools is the go-to team for turning ordinary backyards into extraordinary outdoor havens. "When we begin working with a new client, we usually start with a site meeting to establish a feel for the site and inspect access for excavation," says Dean.

"Our draughtsman also seeks all approvals, dealing with Council, certiﬁers, Sydney Water and others so it’s a very easy process for the client," explains Dean. The comprehensive services provided by Focus Pools extend from the initial design and approval to the creation of a stunning, certiﬁed pool and spa. The team manages every aspect of the job, from purchasing structural engineering and home warranty, to coordinating trades for excavation, form and steel, pre-plumb, and shotcrete, ensuring a seamless progression through each stage.

OUTDOOR LIVING The collaboration between Miller Stone & Co. and Focus Pools creates a seamless integration of paving and swimming pool design, providing clients with a one-stop solution for their outdoor living dreams. Backed by decades of combined experience, this dynamic duo ensures an enjoyable and efﬁcient process for families seeking to elevate their outdoor spaces. As Summer arrives the collaboration between Miller Stone & Co. and Focus Pools promises an opportunity for outdoor enjoyment. Working in tandem, they craft a blend of upscale aesthetics and practical design, turning any backyard into a luxurious retreat suitable for year-round pleasure. • Photography: @Miller Stone & Co and Focus Pools

"We discuss their dream pool and conﬁrm potential locations for ﬁltration and services such as electricity, plumbing and gas."

From there, Focus Pools engages their draughtsman to collaborate with clients on designing the pool and landscaping.

Cohesive

"We explore the realms of colours, tiles, and water chemistry, covering chlorine, salt and mineral/magnesium pools. Our solutions, including automation, in-ﬂoor cleaning, swim jets and automated covers, offer a holistic approach to pool design and maintenance." DEAN, GENERAL MANAGER, FOCUS POOLS

1/1010 Pittwater Rd, Collaroy 2097 (02) 9170 3699 | or 0424 506 110 Insta: @millerstone_co millerstone.com.au PAGE 26 | BEACHES COVERED.

1/1010 Pittwater Rd, Collaroy 2097 (02) 9168 8010 Insta: @focuspools focuspools.com.au

We transform Sydney backyards into year-round outdoor havens. Harnessing "smart" innovation and technology, we incorporate capturing, ﬁltration, lighting, and heating solutions—all backed by our comprehensive warranty. NORTHERN BEACHES NORTH SHORE | EASTERN SUBURBS

www.focuspools.com.au 1/1010 PITTWATER RD, COLLAROY 2097

(02) 9168 8010

Our Property Team

Kathy Foster & Meredith Christie from our property team will assist you from start to finish. CONTACT kfoster@wmw.com.au | mchristie@wmw.com.au

Wood Marshall Williams has been the trusted choice for legal services for more than 40 years on Sydney's Northern Beaches.

www.wmw.com.au

Meriton Lighthouse, 888 Pittwater Rd, Dee Why NSW 2099

(02) 9938 2444 Beaches COVERED. Home + Property

SWAY H O M E S | 5 0 Y E A R S O F S U STA I NA B L E L U X U RY

IF IT’S GOOD ENOUGH FOR

resh from opening its doors in November, Sway Homes on Avalon Parade is home to a stunning collection of chic furniture from Paciﬁc Green. The unique, designer brand was born in Sydney in 1973 thanks to local Avalon resident Bruce Dowse. Bruce teamed up with fellow entrepreneur and designer, Peter Ryan, and the two launched Post & Rail, which they later rebranded as Paciﬁc Green.

Back then, in the mid-1970s, Bruce and Peter knew the planet was in trouble and wanted to find sustainable alternatives to traditional hardwoods. Their mission led them to the South Pacific, where they discovered vast abandoned coconut palm plantations, and established the world’s first coconut palm-focused factory. The men worked closely and respectfully with the local Indigenous communities and started producing stunning pieces of art disguised as furniture.

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James Bond...

Paciﬁc Green is one of those brands that immaculately blends old worlds and new ways. Their pieces are made from superior natural materials, including Palmwood®, and full-grain Italian leather that only gets better with time. Three decades ago, Paciﬁc Green gained global popularity when James Bond star Pierce Brosnan became their Environmental Spokesperson.

FAST-FORWARD TO 2023… Thanks to Bond, Paciﬁc Green found a name for itself in Hollywood and now, 50 years later, they have three popular stores in America. In Sydney, however, it’s local businesswoman and Sway Homes Owner, Diana Taylor, that has launched Paciﬁc Green’s only Australian showroom, in Avalon. “I’m thrilled and proud to bring this unique, iconic range of design furniture, a perfect match for our coastal lifestyle, to The Beaches,” says Diana.

As a proud ambassador of the brand Diana says it’s her vision to bring breathtaking designs and sustainable luxury into homes on The Beaches. She believes every piece of furniture is not just a functional item but a bona ﬁde work of art and the two businesses share the same values when it comes to sustainability. “No compromises are made on comfort, with each handmade piece of furniture being a unique artwork and heirloom.” Diana also operates Sway Curtains at Home Co. Belrose and has an impressive portfolio that includes the Opera House, The Australian Museum, and countless Northern Beaches residential projects. The new store in Avalon features curtains, blinds and shutters, along with a full measure, quote and install service. If you do nothing else this weekend, head to Avalon, explore the showroom, and pop in and say hi to Diana. •

Words: Donna Armstrong | Photography: Sway Homes

If lush, iconic, eco-friendly furniture is your jam, Sway Homes in Avalon is the place to be. As the exclusive Australian retailer of Paciﬁc Green, local businesswoman Diana Taylor is bringing sustainable luxury back to The Beaches. Read on to discover how it all began…

“No compromises are made on comfort, with each handmade piece of furniture being a unique artwork and heirloom.” DIANA TAYLOR, SWAY HOME

Avalon Showroom |24/11-13 Avalon Parade, Avalon Beach 2107 Insta: @Sway_curtains | 1800 722 853 | swayhome.com.au

Beaches COVERED. Home + Property

M O N EY M AT T E R S W I T H A ST U T E M A N LY

TAKING CARE OF YOUR FINANCIAL WELLBEING Sam Ayliffe from Astute Manly is a hero when it comes to organising money matters and keeping you on track to hit your ﬁnancial goals. Kick back and learn more as he shares four simple tips to support your ﬁnancial wellbeing and get you ready for 2024.

s the end of the year approaches, it’s a good idea to evaluate your ﬁnancial situation, determine how well you’ve progressed toward your goals, and decide whether you need to make any tweaks for the new year. Here are four top tips to get you started!

1. ORGANISE YOUR FINANCES There’s no better feeling than understanding how you’ve spent, saved and invested over the past year. Now is a great time to gather all the information about your bank and credit card accounts, your savings and superannuation account, loan balances, insurance coverages and other aspects of your ﬁnancial plan. Getting organised will help you get calm.

Look over your past year’s budget and see how you’ve spent your money. Assess your income and expenses, look for places where you can save, and revise your budget to reﬂect any changes you need to make to your income or expenses in the new year.

3. CHECK YOUR LOANS Are you utilising offsets accounts, if they’re available? Have you reviewed your loan in the last few years? If you’ve got multiple loans or debts, you could consolidate some of your debts into a single loan to give you more certainty and control. You might look to refinance for a better interest rate or consider looking at a fixed rate. Fixed-rate loans offer you the certainty of monthly repayments for the term of the fixed-rate period. There are drawbacks to these loans which we can explain to you so you can make an informed decision. We have access to dozens of lenders, including the big banks and smaller lenders. If you’re unsure of how well you’re tracking, or if there’s a better offer out there for you, speak to us.

4. AUDIT YOUR INSURANCE COVERAGE While it’s vital to minimise your insurance premiums, it’s just as important to ensure you’re covered for what

you need. Being caught without the cover you thought you had could be devastating. When it comes to insuring your most prized personal and business assets, it’s important to understand the difference between using an insurance broker and going direct. One of the most important differences is during the time you need help most – in the event of a claim. Insurance Brokers should represent you during the claims cycle and have the experience and knowledge to ensure the claim is handled as it should be by the insurer. They know your rights and work to protect them, as well as knowing key contacts and escalation points within the insurer group to get results.

Got some questions about your financial wellbeing? Don’t hesitate to reach out to Sam and the team at Astute Manly. With only a short time left in 2023, now’s a great time to find a financial partner who cares about you, your family, and your future. •

Sam Ayliffe – Astute Manly | 0414 976 865 | Sam.Ayliffe@astutefinancial.com.au 02 9984 1911 | manly@astutefinancial.com.au | astutefinancial.com.au/manly Astute Financial Management Pty Ltd | ACN 093 587 010 | Australian Credit Licence 364253 | Wealth and Personal Insurance services provided by an authorised representative of Alliance Wealth Pty Ltd | ABN 93 161 647 007 | AFSL 499221 | centrepointalliance.com.au/AW. General Insurance provided by Astute Insurance Pty Ltd | ABN 59 622 582 236 | Authorised Representative of Ausure Pty Ltd ABN 94 096 971 854 AFSL 238433. Health Insurance products are underwritten by St Luke’s Medical and Hospital BeneƓts Association ACN 009 479 618 (St.LukesHealth), a registered private health insurer, [trading as Astute Simplicity Health] and members are introduced by Astute Financial Management Pty Ltd or related entities (collectively known as Astute) for which Astute receives a commission.

PAGE 30 | BEACHES COVERED.

Words & Photography: Astute Manly

2. REVIEW YOUR BUDGET

FLOORS BY

DE SIGN

Beautiful homes start here. Elevate your home's style with Choices Flooring's Summer ﬂooring options. Find the ﬂoor you've been looking for and let your style shine.

Explore Choices Flooring’s ‘Summer Choices’ with the durable Plantino timber range. Ideal for ensuring a cosy home throughout the year. Visit us in-store or go to choicesﬂooring.com PAGE 31 | BEACHES PROPERTY.

Choices Flooring Balgowlah 192 Condamine St, BalgowlahBeaches T: 02Home 9907 9077 + Property

E N S U R I N G A SA F E S U M M E R F O R O U R NAT I V E W I L D L I F E

AN AUSTRALIAN

wild summer

With all signs suggesting that this Summer will be exceptionally hot, we spoke to the Animal Justice Party and Sydney Wildlife Rescue about ways to assist our vulnerable wildlife during the season.

t’s easy to see that the best things about life on the Northern Beaches are the beautiful and abundant natural surroundings. We are so fortunate to live in a part of the world so rich with fauna and ﬂora. However, it’s also easy to see that these habitats are under threat, not only from weather extremes but from human impact like development and urban sprawl, road collisions, 1080 baiting, round-up and other chemicals. So how can we mitigate this impact and support our beautiful wildlife?

WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE! Water is life. Leave out a dish of clean water in your garden, even on apartment balconies, and watch the birds, bees and other critters ﬂock to it. But ensure to incorporate a water escape route to prevent drowning. Not only will animals drink but they will also bathe.

A dehydrated bird will display droopy wings and beak wide open. This is a sign that they are experiencing heat stress and need water.

BUSHLAND, GARDENS AND GREEN SPACES Get behind efforts to preserve natural habitats. Contact your local Members of Parliament and the Northern Beaches Council to emphasise the need for wildlife-friendly roads. With the Wakehurst Parkway upgrade eroding wildlife corridors, let's make preserving nature a priority. Reduce the poisons and chemicals you use around your garden as we need the insect world to ﬂourish. Local Animal Justice Party member, Susan Sorensen, is concerned about the future viability of our native bushland. "The increasing disappearance of the bushland and wildlife corridors, has made it imperative that we live in co-existence with native animals to make it easier for them to survive in the urbanised environments they have been pushed into," says Susan.

FEEDING WILDLIFE With changing weather patterns and native food sources diminishing,

Handy Contacts > IN CASE YOU COME ACROSS AN INJURED, DEAD OR DISTRESSED ANIMAL, CALL:

PAGE 32 | BEACHES COVERED.

let’s allow the sharing of home-grown produce with wildlife. Plant native bush tucker shrubs, trees and ﬂowers. Leave out seeds, nuts, apples or carrots in times of drought and when food is scarce. However, do contact Sydney Wildlife for advice before feeding wildlife. You’ll love to watch the animals going about their daily habits in a space created for their safety.

MANAGING WILDLIFE VISITORS According to Sydney Wildlife local volunteer, Helen Pearce, hefty penalties, surpassing $2,500, can be incurred for trapping and relocating protected wildlife. She recommends reaching out to Sydney Wildlife for possum or wildlife-related concerns. Additionally, safeguard your living space by covering doors and windows with screens, placing mesh over entry points and enclose all roof spaces to your home. Create a habitat in your garden, like a possum drey. Ensure food secure storage and never leave food out on counter tops. Lastly, supervise your companion animals or pets around wildlife, especially at night. •

H A RV E ST S E E D S & NAT I V E P L A N T S N U R S E RY

THE SECRETS TO

Bush Food Plants Harvest Seeds & Native Plants nursery in Terrey Hills is a haven for top-quality plants and grasses, seeds and tube stock. But did you know they also offer native bush foods? Managing Director, Marina Grassecker, encourages you to spice up your garden with three of the best.

ative bush foods refer to edible plants and fruits that are Indigenous to a specific region, often associated with the native flora of Australia. These foods have been traditionally consumed by Indigenous communities for thousands of years and are known for their unique flavours, nutritional value and adaptability to local environments. HERE ARE THREE SPECIES BUSH FOOD ENTHUSIASTS WILL LOVE:

Words: Marina Grassecker | Photography: Harvest Nursery

ANGOPHORA HISPIDA: DWARF APPLE GUM A tall shrub or small tree 5m to 7m with the most aromatic of flower clusters. It's like sticking your nose in a honey pot! This shrub copes with a wide range of soil types and coastal areas. She is frost resistant when older and drought tolerant, and enjoys a sunny to lightly shaded position. She attracts all the insects and bees! The flowers can be used to make a honey tea. The fruits are edible and have a sweet flavour.

AUSTROMYRTUS DULCIS: MIDGEM BERRY

PROSTANTHERA INCISA: MINT BUSH

This lovely small shrub, from 0.5 to 1m, produces a profusion of sweettasting edible fruits. It will grow in most soil types including coastal gardens and is great for a low-growing hedge. Once you’ve collected the fruits, give the bush a light trim to encourage the next year’s harvest. Loves a sunny to half-shaded position and can cope with a light frost. They’ll also attract seedeating birds, butterﬂies and bees.

As the name suggests, she is a shrub that can reach up to 1.5m, featuring highly aromatic minty foliage. She enjoys a sunny to a light-shaded position, will cope with heavy frost, and attracts butterﬂies and small insect-eating birds. In Spring and early Summer she’ll produce a gorgeous display of violet ﬂowers and you can use the leaves in cooking and salads.

TALKING ABOUT HABITATS This year, after a few years' hiatus, we’ve seen some gorgeous butterﬂies around the nursery and, yes, the ﬂies are bothering us again too! While they are annoying, it’s so good to have them as last year there were none to bat away.

every year. They do bump into us in the ofﬁce, but they are harmless and just want to get out of our way. Their paper nests are a marvel to behold and we have lots of walls in the ofﬁce for their homes. They also keep the spiders and mosquitoes under control.

Flies are one of the biggest pollinators on the planet, so welcome back, we missed you! The hornets are also back after about three years of no-show, and a few are coming into the ofﬁce to build their nests as they once did

Discover our two-acre nursery brimming with everything from local species of tube stock to advanced plants. Watch out for the big Harvest Native Nursery sign and big red arrow to guide you up the laneway. •

281 Mona Vale Rd, Terrey Hills 2084 | 02 9450 2699 | sales@harvestseeds-nativeplants.com.au Insta: @harvestseedsandnativeplants | harvestseeds-nativeplants.com.au Beaches COVERED. Home + Property

Beaches COVERED. Issue 35: Summer Chillin'

Articles inside

Celebrating 30 YEARS OF ART

BEACHES ON SHOW FOR COASTREK

THE GoodBar

YOUR PASSPORT TO ENTERTAINMENT

Hot Summer Finds: PART 2.0

Hot Summer Finds at Long Reef Surf Co

The Spirits of Summer