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Dolphin Found Stranded at Manly Beach Dies Despite Community’s Rescue Effort

A young Risso’s dolphin found stranded at Manly Beach has died after being taken to Taronga Zoo, with rescue teams and locals unable to reverse its decline.

Locals Rally to Help

The Risso’s dolphin calf was found struggling on the rocks near the Manly Surf Life Saving Club around 8:30 p.m. on Monday, May 5. Measuring about 1.5 metres, it had visible bite wounds and laboured breathing.

Locals rushed to help, using wet towels, seawater, and shallow trenches to support the calf. ORRCA later identified it as a young Risso’s dolphin with minor shark bite wounds.

Working alongside NSW National Parks staff and local volunteers, the team helped stabilise the calf, whose rapid breathing eventually slowed. It was then moved from the rocks to the sand and later transported to Taronga Zoo for assessment.

Transported for Care, But Outcome Was Grim

Despite efforts from volunteers, officers and zoo staff, the dolphin’s condition worsened, and experts at Taronga Zoo chose humane euthanasia.

A necropsy is underway to determine the cause of the stranding, with shark bites noted but not seen as the only factor. ORRCA thanked all involved, including their team, NSW National Parks, Taronga Zoo and the public.

Unusual Sighting Raises Questions

Risso’s dolphins typically live in deep waters and are rarely seen near shore. Experts say disorientation, illness, or chasing prey may have led the calf into Manly’s shallows. Their strong social bonds can also leave lone individuals vulnerable if separated from their group.

This rare appearance near a busy beach has added to calls for more research into marine health and behaviour off the New South Wales coast.

What to Do if You Spot a Marine Mammal in Trouble

Rescue groups like ORRCA urge the public to stay calm and take proper steps if they encounter a stranded or distressed marine animal.

If you see a distressed whale, dolphin or seal, call ORRCA’s 24/7 Rescue Hotline on (02) 9415 3333. Stay quiet, keep clear of the water’s edge, and ask others to do the same.

ORRCA is a registered charity run entirely by volunteers. Donations support the purchase of rescue equipment and help make emergency responses, like this one at Manly Beach, possible.

Published 8-May-2025

Hotel Steyne in Manly to Undergo $8-Million Upgrade After Legal Battle

Photo Credit: ArchiPro

An $8-million renovation of the historic Hotel Steyne in Manly has been approved following a dispute over noise concerns.

Refurbishment Clears Legal Hurdle

The NSW Land and Environment Court has given the green light for Hotel Steyne’s planned $8-million redevelopment (DA2023/1750) in Manly. The approval follows a challenge over noise impacts raised by residents living near the pub’s outdoor areas.

The proposal, originally approved by the Northern Beaches Local Planning Panel in June 2024, had drawn 17 public submissions. Concerns focused on potential disturbances from patrons and live music events, particularly from the beer garden and other outdoor spaces.

Noise Measures Agreed Through Conciliation

In response to these objections, conditions were placed on the development application to control noise levels. These included restrictions to ensure no amplified sound or patron noise could be heard within any neighbouring residence at any time.

Pub owner Sam Arnaout appealed the conditions, leading to a conciliation conference with NBC. As part of the resolution presented to the court in February 2025, new noise mitigation measures were introduced. These include installing noise limiters in all outdoor spaces, placing acoustic panels on the northern wall of the beer garden, and treating doors, windows, and roofing materials to reduce sound transfer.

Earlier in April 2025, Commissioner Nicola Targett upheld the agreement, allowing the redevelopment to proceed.

Hotel Steyne Manly — *Photo Credit: ArchiPro*

Scope of Renovation

The renovation will update several parts of the Art Deco hotel, which was built in 1936 and stands at the beach end of The Corso. The approved works include:

Restoration of the heritage Round Bar as a traditional saloon bar
A new bar and new entry area on the ground floor
Facade improvements with new windows, awnings, and doors
Level 2 will see the existing bar removed and replaced with a new bar and bistro
Addition of eight more visitor accommodation rooms upstairs

Planning documents stated the works would enhance the internal amenity and provide a modernised environment for patrons, while promoting Manly’s tourism economy.

Hotel Steyne development — *Photo Credit: ArchiPro*

Background and Ownership

Hotel Steyne has served the Manly community for more than a century. The original structure was built in 1859 by Henry Gilbert Smith and has undergone multiple rebuilds. The current version dates to the 1920s, with the Round Bar preserved as a central feature.

The property was acquired by Iris Capital, led by Sam Arnaout, for $65 million in 2019. A $3 million refurbishment was completed in 2020, which included new bars and hotel room upgrades.

In 2022, the site also received approval for a $16.2 million, four-storey apartment block attached to the pub’s northern side.

Community Concerns and Outcome

While the refurbishment plan attracted objections, no formal alternatives were presented. The court-approved resolution focused on balancing neighbourhood amenity with commercial operations.

The introduction of physical noise controls and monitoring systems addresses core concerns raised by residents, especially those in nearby apartments.

Next Steps

With court approval secured, construction work is expected to begin under the conditions agreed upon during the conciliation. The redevelopment will be monitored to ensure compliance with the new noise mitigation measures.

Published 3-May-2025

Acai.Syd Closes Popular Fairy Bower Cafe in Manly

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A well-known outdoor cafe in Manly has closed permanently after more than three years of trading at its popular waterfront location between Manly and Shelly beaches.

Manly cafe closure — *Photo Credit: Nick Theodorou/Instagram*

From Food Truck to Fairy Bower

The Acai.Syd cafe in Manly officially ceased operations on Easter Sunday, ending a business journey that began as a food truck venture in 2019. Owner Nick Theodorou first launched the fixed outlet in October 2021, operating from a leased space inside the historic “Unicorn” building on Marine Parade.

The location, positioned along the busy boardwalk at Fairy Bower, quickly became popular with both locals and tourists. Known for its scenic views and strong social media presence, the cafe extended its initial 18-month plan into a seven-day operation lasting more than three years.

Acai.Syd cafe closure — *Photo Credit: Nick Theodorou/Instagram*

High Rent and Weather Challenges

Despite strong public interest, the business faced mounting financial pressures. Weekly rent costs reached $2100, while the council’s outdoor seating levy increased by 400 per cent over three years. Variable conditions also made profitability difficult, with trading heavily impacted by weather fluctuations and off-peak tourism periods.

The unpredictable nature of daily revenue became a major operational concern. Days of poor weather could lead to zero income, while favourable conditions could generate thousands.

Acai.Syd cafe — *Photo Credit: Nick Theodorou/Instagram*

Community and Reflection

Mr Theodorou reflected on the highs and challenges of the venture in a closing statement, expressing appreciation for staff, supporters, and the Manly community. He cited the area’s unique energy and the relationships built with international travellers and locals as key highlights.

While the closure marked the end of a significant chapter, he indicated a desire for more balance and consistency moving forward.

What’s Next

The outlet’s departure leaves a visible gap along the Manly beachfront retail strip. It is not yet known what will replace the former Acai.Syd site on Marine Parade. Meanwhile, Mr Theodorou said he was looking forward to returning to Manly — this time as a visitor rather than a business owner.

Published 2-May-2025

Coles Manly Corso Goes On Market After Nearly 40 Years

Photo Credit: Manly Observer/Facebook

The Coles Manly Corso, one of Manly’s most recognisable retail sites, is up for sale for the first time in nearly 40 years. Sitting right on the pedestrian strip that thousands of locals and visitors walk every day, the supermarket and adjoining shops have been a quiet fixture in the community, and now, its future could be shaped by new ownership.

A Property With Long-standing Ties To Manly

Located at 8–28 The Corso and just 200 metres from Manly Wharf, the site includes a Coles supermarket, NAB branch and a Commonwealth tenancy, which together bring in about 95 per cent of its rental income.

Coles is locked into a 10-year lease with options through to 2042, and a rent review is scheduled for July 2025. The fully leased site spans 2,464 square metres and includes basement parking for eight cars.

Sale Opens Up Rare Opportunity In Tightly Held Strip

Stonebridge Property Group is managing the sale via an expressions of interest campaign, closing 4pm on Thursday, 29 May. The site hasn’t changed hands in nearly 40 years, and ownership along this stretch of The Corso has stayed mostly the same.

Coles Manly Corso has become a familiar stop for locals running errands, thanks to its central location near the ferry and steady weekend foot traffic along the pedestrian strip.

Part Of A High-traffic, High-spend Area

Manly remains one of Sydney’s busiest beachside centres, drawing more than 1.8 million visitors each year. According to retail market data used in the sale, the local area sees spending levels more than 50 per cent higher than the wider Sydney average.

Even so, the commercial strip keeps a distinctly local feel. Shops along The Corso cater to everyday needs just as much as tourists. From morning coffee queues to supermarket runs, it’s the kind of place where routine meets tourism. That makes this sale both a business event and a change in the backdrop of daily life for many locals.

Locals Keep Watch As Campaign Begins

Though it’s a commercial sale, many locals are paying attention, not just to who buys the site, but whether its use might shift. With Coles locked into a long-term lease, major changes aren’t expected right away, but the idea of new ownership has stirred interest.

After decades of steady service to workers, families and retirees, the sale marks a subtle but significant moment in a part of Manly that rarely changes.

Published 30-April-2025

Manly Poised for Cultural Revival Under Proposed Night-Time Entertainment Precinct Trial

Manly is on track to become a vibrant night-time destination, with local officials in the Northern Beaches working to launch an 18-month trial of a Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP). The initiative aims to support a thriving local economy while protecting the area’s unique community character.

Read: Manly Skiff Season Concludes with Modern Concept Constructions Victory

If funding is secured through NSW’s Special Entertainment Precinct Kickstart Grant Program—offering grants between $50,000 and $200,000—the trial would begin in mid-2026. It would introduce extended trading hours and tailored noise controls to enhance Manly’s cultural and economic vitality.

The precinct would allow both licensed and unlicensed businesses—such as cafés, bookshops, and galleries—to open later without the need for separate planning approvals. It would also encourage more live performances and cultural events, catering to a broad mix of visitors and residents, including families.

Old Manly Boatshed (Photo credit: Steve Herrick/Google Maps)

To maintain residential amenity, the trial will implement sound management measures informed by acoustic testing. These controls will be designed specifically for Manly’s local context, ensuring entertainment activity does not result in excessive noise. Businesses will gain certainty around their operating conditions, while residents can be assured that sound levels will be carefully managed.

As part of the broader My Place: Manly plan, the SEP would contribute to long-term business sustainability and create a more diverse, inclusive night-time economy. Live music venues could receive up to an 80% reduction in liquor licence fees and additional trading hours, supporting growth across a range of sectors.

Read: Australian-Made Revamp Gives Manly Fast Ferry a Stylish Upgrade

The new trading and sound conditions would override existing planning controls and licensing approvals, without reducing any business’s current approved trading hours.

If implemented, the Manly SEP could set a model for balanced, culturally rich night-time precincts across the state.

Published 26-April-2025

EPA Confirms Manly Beach Tar Balls Linked to Sydney Sewage System

Photo Credit: Essa Eldhose/X

Manly beaches were among several Sydney shorelines affected by black tar-like balls traced back to the city’s sewage network, environmental authorities confirmed.

Mystery Debris Prompts Widespread Beach Closures

In late 2024 and early 2025, thousands of dark, sticky balls washed up on Sydney beaches. The material forced closures at 17 sites, including Coogee, Bondi, Bronte, and eventually Manly, while authorities investigated its source.

Manly beach — *Photo Credit: Jugdeep Saini/Google Maps*

The black and grey balls, many marble-sized, led to widespread concern and speculation that a passing oil tanker or cruise ship might be responsible. However, results from ongoing investigations have pointed to domestic sources.

Investigation Links Tar Balls to Local Sewage

The NSW Environment Protection Authority confirmed that the debris’s composition matched samples taken from multiple Sydney Water wastewater treatment plants. This finding aligned with testing earlier conducted by NBC.

The EPA determined that the balls most likely originated from over 10 separate discharge events, with contributing factors including high levels of fats, oils, and grease in the sewer system. Weather and ocean conditions are believed to have further influenced the formation and movement of the material.

Sydney Water stated that its coastal treatment plants were functioning within regulatory standards and that no specific system failure had been found. An independent expert engaged by Sydney Water supported the conclusion that its facilities were the probable source.

Public Health Risk Identified Through Internal Reports

Freedom of information documents later revealed that the debris contained infectious bacteria typically found in faeces-contaminated water. These included E.coli, thermotolerant E.coli, and Enterococci—all known to cause gastrointestinal, urinary, and neurological infections.

Manly beach contamination — *Photo Credit: Essa Eldhose/X*

Despite identifying the presence of these pathogens in mid-October, the EPA did not inform Randwick Council prior to its decision to reopen local beaches on 19 October. EPA internal discussions questioned why bacterial findings were omitted from a subsequent media release.

Community Action and Advisory

NBC, which conducted its own tests when the balls reappeared on Manly beaches in January, confirmed the presence of faecal contamination and alerted the public accordingly. The council shared these findings with the EPA.

While the EPA has continued to caution the public against touching the debris, officials maintain that the health risk remains low. Sydney Water has committed to sharing cleanup costs and reviewing infrastructure for future upgrades.

Ongoing Investigations and Future Prevention

The EPA has ordered Sydney Water to further inspect treatment facilities and the broader sewerage network to determine specific discharge points and prevent recurrence.

The environmental agency said its team of technical experts continues to explore multiple lines of enquiry. Meanwhile, the public is urged to avoid contact with any similar material and report sightings to local councils or the EPA.

Published 13-Apr-2025

Manly Skiff Season Concludes with Modern Concept Constructions Victory

Photo Credit: Manly 16ft Skiff Sailing Club/Instagram

Modern Concept Constructions has secured the Club Championship title at the Manly Skiff Club following a tightly contested final day of racing.

MCC Clinches Title in Final Day Decider

Modern Concept Constructions (MCC) emerged as the 2025 Club Champion at Manly Skiff Club, outperforming close rivals Moonen Yachts and Imagine Signage during the final two races held on Saturday, 5 April.

MCC took control early by winning the first heat of the day, creating a buffer heading into the final race. A second-place finish in the closing heat secured the championship, with MCC ultimately finishing six points clear of their nearest competitor. Moonen Yachts placed second overall, with Imagine Signage in third.

*Photo Credit: Manly 16ft Skiff Sailing Club/Instagram*

Final Day Showdown Between Three Front-Runners

The final day began with just one point separating each of the three top boats—MCC on 12, Moonen Yachts on 13, and Imagine Signage on 14. Each carried a discard result: a DNC for MCC, a fourth for Moonen Yachts, and an eighth for Imagine Signage.

All three teams had demonstrated consistent performance throughout the season, but with only one discard permitted, minor mistakes had the potential to shift the standings. Imagine Signage entered with strong momentum, having recorded finishes of 1-2-1 in their previous three outings. MCC, however, maintained a simple and disciplined approach to close out the series.

Manly Skiff Club Championship — *Photo Credit: Manly 16ft Skiff Sailing Club/Instagram*

Red Pumps Surges and Claims Handicap Title

Red Pumps delivered two strong finishes in the final races, lifting them to fourth overall. The results were enough to win the handicap division on countback from Red Pumps Red, who had led the standings earlier in the series.

The sibling rivalry between Tyler and Zoe Dransfield added further tension, with only a single point separating their boats before the final day. Variable conditions throughout the day played to both teams’ strengths, but Red Pumps capitalised when it mattered.

2025 Club Champion — *Photo Credit: Manly 16ft Skiff Sailing Club/Instagram*

13ft Skiff Title Secured by Harken

In the 13ft skiff division, Harken—sailed by Heidi Bates and Orlando Sadlik—continued their dominant form. With four wins from six heats, the team secured back-to-back championships.

Further down the main fleet, crews such as IMEI remained mathematically in contention heading into the final weekend. However, given the six-point margin at the top, the championship was ultimately decided between the front-running trio.

Published 12-Apr-2025

Michelle Martin’s Push Wins New Squash Courts for North Manly

Photo Credit: DA2024/1171

Squash legend Michelle Martin’s long-standing campaign has secured the inclusion of new squash courts at the redeveloped Warringah Recreation Centre in North Manly.

Squash Revival for North Manly

The Warringah Recreation Centre in North Manly will feature new squash courts as part of its multi-million dollar redevelopment, marking a significant win for squash enthusiasts and the local community. The decision follows a successful campaign led by Michelle Martin, a three-time world champion, who advocated for the sport’s continued presence amid redevelopment plans.

Background and Context

Caption: Ms Michelle Martin (1998)
Photo Credit: PSA Squash Tour/Facebook

The original squash facility at the Warringah Recreation Centre was demolished in late 2024 as part of a $6-million upgrade. Squash legend Michelle Martin, formerly a coach at the ageing North Manly Squash Club, voiced her concerns as the demolition raised fears that the sport might be excluded from the new centre. Ms Martin had called for at least six courts to accommodate local, social, and competitive squash events, pointing out that the sport’s decline in the area was due to a lack of facilities, not a lack of interest.

Securing Squash in the New Hub

After years of lobbying and community engagement, the NBC lodged a development application for three new squash courts, part of a broader plan to revitalise the Warringah Recreation Centre. The new facility will also include five synthetic tennis courts with lighting, better parking, improved accessibility, and pedestrian connections. The squash court building, designed to be expandable to five courts, will also provide spectator seating, making it suitable for national and international competitions.

Warringah Recreation Centre — *Photo Credit: DA2024/1171*

Community Support and Sentiment

Throughout the planning process, NBC engaged with community members, sporting organisations, and key stakeholders. Feedback gathered during public consultations revealed strong local support for maintaining squash facilities. Of the 32 submissions in favour of the development, 19 specifically requested increasing the number of squash courts from three to five.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite securing the new squash courts, some community members remain hopeful for a more extensive facility. Michelle Martin highlighted the need to cater to younger generations, emphasising that an appealing, modern environment could help attract new players to the sport. NBC officials acknowledged these concerns, indicating that the project’s staged implementation could allow for further expansions if additional funding is secured.

Broader Redevelopment Features

In addition to the squash and tennis facilities, the redevelopment plan includes enhanced safety measures such as a 12.5-metre golf barrier net, upgraded landscaping, and improved stormwater management. Accessibility upgrades feature a new western car park, increased EV charging stations, and a pedestrian bridge over Brookvale Creek, linking the facility to Warringah Golf Club and surrounding recreational areas.

Next Steps

Construction of the new Warringah Recreation Centre began in December 2024 and is ongoing. The new squash and tennis courts are expected to open after redevelopment. NBC remains committed to balancing community needs with funding constraints, and further updates will be provided as the project progresses.

Published 1-Apr-2025

Manly Skiff Club’s Final Showdown: Three Boats, One Crown

Photo Credit: Manly 16ft Skiff Sailing Club/Instagram

The Manly Skiff Club championship is set for a thrilling conclusion as three top contenders battle for the title in the final heats on 5 April. One point separated each of the leading boats, making it one of the closest finishes in the club’s history.

Final Heats to Decide the Champion

The Manly Skiff Club championship has come down to the final day, with three boats competing neck and neck for the title. The standings could not be tighter, with Modern Concept Constructions (MCC) on 12 points, followed closely by Moonen Yachts with 13 points and Imagine Signage with 14 points.

The intense competition resulted from a closely contested sixth heat, where Imagine Signage managed to secure a narrow win over Moonen Yachts, while MCC finished just seconds behind in third place. This result kept all three contenders within striking distance, making the final two heats crucial for deciding the championship.

sailing club — *Photo Credit: Manly 16ft Skiff Sailing Club/Instagram*

Strategies and Expectations

With such a narrow margin separating the top boats, strategy will play a key role on the final day. MCC will be focused on maintaining consistency after previous challenges, while Moonen Yachts aims to leverage its steady performance throughout the series. Imagine Signage, having recovered from a slow start earlier in the championship, will be looking to continue their recent strong form.

The skippers are aware of the high stakes and the need to avoid mistakes. The final day will test their ability to balance caution with the drive to secure a win, as any error could hand the advantage to one of the other contenders.

sailing yachts — *Photo Credit: Manly 16ft Skiff Sailing Club/Instagram*

Other Divisions in Focus

While the main championship remains undecided, the handicap division seems more clear-cut. Red Pumps Red, led by Zoe Dransfield, holds a significant lead over Red Pumps, skippered by Tyler Dransfield. This advantage makes Red Pumps Red the likely winner, barring any major upset.

In the 13-foot skiff division, Harken, sailed by Heidi Bates and Orlando Sadlik, has dominated with four wins from six heats. They are expected to secure their second consecutive title after the final race.

Looking Ahead

The final day at the Manly Skiff Club promises high stakes and intense competition, as the championship title remains within reach for all three top contenders. Spectators are expected to gather at the club or follow the action live via Sail Media’s livestream.

Published 31-Mar-2025

Australian-Made Revamp Gives Manly Fast Ferry a Stylish Upgrade

Photo Credit: My Fast Ferry

Every morning, from 6:10 a.m., locals stream down the gangway at Manly Wharf, coffee in one hand — and sometimes a cold drink in the other — with a short but scenic ride ahead. The Manly Fast Ferry now offers more than just a view. With a new onboard bar serving wine, beer and soft drinks, it’s become a uniquely refreshing part of the daily commute. For many, it’s the best part of the workday — the familiar hum of the engines, the salty air, and the Manly Fast Ferry, a familiar ride that now feels brand new.

A Familiar Journey, Made Better

Manly Fast Ferry passengers are noticing the difference the moment they step onboard. New timber-look floors, sleek navy seats with extra legroom, and the soft lighting that fills the cabin all signal a major change. But it’s not just a visual upgrade — it’s a shift in the whole experience.

The first two ferries to receive the overhaul, Ocean Rider and Ocean Adventurer, are already carrying passengers between Manly and Circular Quay. The remaining vessels in the fleet are scheduled to be completed by June 2025. The 20-minute service, long regarded as one of Sydney’s most picturesque commutes, now offers a smoother, more comfortable ride with features that make the journey easier for everyone on board.

Made in Australia, Made for Locals

While the new interiors look sharp, it’s the story behind them that gives the update a sense of community value. Every seat, panel, and finish has been designed and built in Australia. The NRMA, which operates the service, focused on using local suppliers and manufacturers to keep the work close to home.

Nigel Ellsmore, the NRMA’s Chief Operating Officer Marine, says the upgrades weren’t just about looks. They were about creating a ferry experience that reflected the city and its people. That local focus extends to what’s on tap, too. The ferry’s bar is now stocked with Northern Beaches favourites like Four Pines beer and Manly Spirits, alongside a range of wines, soft drinks and non-alcoholic drinks.

drinks aboard Manly Fast Ferry — *Photo Credit: My Fast Ferry*

For many regulars, the ability to unwind with a local drink on the ride home has added a fresh layer of enjoyment to an already-loved route.

CHECK FULL DRINKS MENU

Small Touches with Big Impact

Beyond aesthetics, the refurbishments were designed with accessibility and comfort in mind. Wider aisles and doorways make it easier for wheelchair users and parents with prams to move through the ferry. Priority seating is clearly marked, and USB and power outlets at select seats mean commuters can charge their devices en route.

Restrooms have also been updated with modern finishes, and new window treatments help control glare while framing the harbour views that have always defined this route.

Though the upgrades may seem subtle at first glance, they’ve already made an impression on locals. As the peak summer crowd heads to the beach and office workers return from the city, the ferry now feels more like a lounge than public transport.

Passengers can also continue to tap on and off using their Opal cards, with standard Opal fares and caps applying to the Manly Fast Ferry service. The convenience of Opal integration means locals and visitors alike can enjoy the upgraded ride without needing separate tickets or payment systems.

A Community Ride, Reimagined

For long-time ferry riders, these changes have been a welcome surprise — a sign that even a daily routine can be improved without losing what makes it special. The decision to keep the design and manufacturing process local has added a layer of pride to the commute, too.

The ferry still leaves on time. Check the schedule:

The view of the Opera House as you glide into Circular Quay is still breathtaking. But now, there’s more space to move, a place to grab a drink, and a sense that the journey matters just as much as the destination.

Published 31-March-2025