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Manly’s Secret Whisky Bar The Cumberland Officially Listed For Sale

The Cumberland, Manly’s secret basement speakeasy, is officially for sale after six years of drawing locals and tourists into its hidden whisky bar beneath Central Avenue.

A Hidden Local Favourite

Opened in 2019, the concealed venue sits behind a vintage deli fridge inside Cove Deli in the heart of Manly, accessible only via a spiral staircase leading to its underground lounge.

The Cumberland is known locally for its entry, a disguised fridge door that conceals a staircase into a fully fitted underground bar styled after 1920s Prohibition-era drinking spots.

With seating for about 75 people, the bar offers more than 250 varieties of whisky, along with natural wines, craft beers and classic cocktails. Its charcuterie boards are lifted from the street-level Cove Deli through a restored dumbwaiter, adding to its old-world approach.

Nationally Recognised Venue

Its owners confirmed they are exiting hospitality and seeking offers above $2.2 million, after the passing of Norfolk Property Group co-founder and Manly architect Bob Blackmore in August.

The venue earned national attention after being named Small Bar of the Year at the 2021 Australian Bartender Bar Awards. It has also received international and Sydney design honours for its marble, leather and antique brass interiors. Its fit-out is estimated at over $1.2 million, according to its commercial listing.

Owners Step Back After Leadership Loss

The bar is owned by the Norfolk Property Group, who installed a management team to run operations. With Mr Blackmore’s passing earlier this year, the group has opted to retire from hospitality and refocus on family.

Representatives said they originally created The Cumberland to offer Manly something unique that reflected the area’s character beyond beachfront venues.

Investment Opportunity Amid High Demand

Belle Property Commercial is marketing the venue as a fully operational hospitality asset with strong buyer interest already expressed. The listing notes a potential rental return of $150,000 to $175,000 per year, with one leasing offer currently on hold.

The bar sits within a mixed-use complex off Central Avenue, less than five minutes from the Manly Wharf ferry to the Sydney CBD, a location that consistently benefits from both local and visitor foot traffic.

Published 22-October-2025

End of an Era as Manly Waterworks Demolished After 45 Years

Photo Credit: Google Maps

After 45 years in operation, the well-known Manly Waterworks—formerly known as Surf n Slide—has been permanently closed, with demolition works now underway along West Esplanade.

Closure Follows Safety Concerns

The Boathouse Group confirmed the harbourfront attraction’s closure after engineers deemed the slide structure unsafe. The group, which took over the lease in 2021 along with Manly Pavilion, said reopening would have required a complete rebuild.

Manly Waterworks demolition — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Historical Background

Opening in 1981, Manly Waterworks became one of the area’s most popular attractions and gained fame in the 1980s film BMX Bandits starring Nicole Kidman. The site, sitting on Crown land beside the now-demolished Manly Sea Life Sanctuary, was briefly closed in 2015 before being purchased a year later.

The park’s lease appeared on Facebook Marketplace in 2021 with a $950,000 asking price, later acquired by The Boathouse Group.

Surf n Slide Manly — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

The End of a Local Landmark

The Boathouse Group stated the decision was based on safety findings and the park’s lack of alignment with its hospitality business focus. Demolition began in late September 2025, marking the end of one of Manly’s last remaining amusement-era venues.

Future of the Site

The site remains under the Manly Pavilion Precinct lease, and The Boathouse Group has not confirmed specific redevelopment plans. Concepts under consideration include a garden-themed sister venue to The Espy or cultural activations in collaboration with the nearby Manly Art Gallery.

Local Reaction

Community members shared nostalgia and disappointment over the closure, recalling decades of memories from school holidays and local celebrations. Some expressed frustration at the limited notice before shutdown, while others called for preservation of Manly’s recreational heritage.

What Happens Next

Demolition is expected to conclude within weeks, and The Boathouse Group has indicated a desire to activate the foreshore precinct before the end of summer.

Published 22-Oct-2025

Saigon Supper Inn brings Saigon flavours to Manly Wharf

Photo Credit: saigonsupperinn/instagram

Saigon Supper Inn has arrived at Manly Wharf, offering commuters and locals an authentic taste of Vietnamese street food crafted by chef Bao La.

Transformation of Manly Wharf

Saigon Supper Inn opened on 12 September 2025 at Manly Wharf, taking over the former Chat Thai site. The venue is part of a wider redevelopment of the precinct by Brisbane-based Artemus Group, which bought the leasehold for $80 million in 2023.

*Photo Credit: saigonsupperinn/instagram*

Since the purchase, the group has rebranded Wharf Bar into Felons Brewing Co, launched Felons Seafood, and acquired Hugos Italian. It is also building a microbrewery and diner where Aldi once operated. Co-founder Adam Flaskas said their goal is to revitalise Manly Wharf while keeping it inclusive for locals and visitors.

Chef Bao La’s Story

Head chef Bao La grew up in his family’s restaurant in Australia before training with chefs Dan Hong and Jowett Yu. He later worked in Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Paris, opening acclaimed venues including Le Garçon Saigon and Le Petit Saigon.

In Vietnam, he partnered with social enterprise KOTO to launch ST25 by KOTO at Sofitel Saigon Plaza, which earned a Michelin Selected Award. After returning home, he settled in the Northern Beaches to share authentic Vietnamese flavours with the community. His cooking focuses on fresh produce, sustainability, and simple, accessible dishes.

Flavours of Saigon

The menu captures the street food flavours of Ho Chi Minh City. It features five types of Banh Mi made with baguettes baked daily using sustainable New South Wales flour and traditional fillings.

Another highlight is the Saigon-style beef pho, made with a sweet broth and beef from local regenerative farmers at CopperTree Farms. Saigon Supper Inn also serves Vietnamese iced coffee, kombucha, and coconut juice, open Wednesday to Sunday for dine-in and takeaway.

A Local Connection

Saigon Supper Inn’s philosophy goes beyond food. Bao aims to foster a sense of community among locals and travellers through shared meals and approachable service. His team acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land, the Gayemagal people of the Eora Nation, and expresses respect for their elders.

The focus on community, local produce, and cultural respect makes Saigon Supper Inn a fitting addition to the evolving Manly Wharf precinct.

Published 8-October-2025

Late-Night Trading Plans Raise Concerns in Manly

Photo Credit: Pexels

Plans to establish a Special Entertainment Precinct in Manly have raised debate, with police concerned about safety and local businesses questioning extra costs.

Expanding The Precinct Model

Special Entertainment Precincts are part of wider reforms designed to reduce red tape, extend trading hours and support live music. Enmore Road became Sydney’s first permanent precinct in 2023, where alcohol-related assaults fell and 84 per cent of locals supported the change.

In June 2024, the state confirmed five new precincts across Sydney, with Manly and Cronulla added in September 2025. Manly’s precinct will be supported by a $173,760 Kickstart Grant, with a one-year trial beginning in mid-2026 under council monitoring.

Manly nightlife — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Extra Patrols On The Corso Raise Questions

The Northern Beaches Police Area Command has expressed concern that extended hours could increase late-night incidents around The Corso and East Esplanade. Police suggested a user-pays model, similar to large music festivals where organisers cover policing costs.

Between March 2024 and March 2025, there were 25 assaults recorded in licensed venues in Manly, along with 12 disorderly conduct incidents and three drug offences. In January 2025, about 40 people were involved in a brawl at Manly Wharf.

Venue Closures Highlight Industry Pressures

Venue operators argue that any extra costs for policing would undermine the benefits of the reforms. Businesses have pointed to financial pressures in the sector, citing closures such as the Manly Boatshed and Sake Restaurant & Bar at Manly Wharf. Industry representatives note that venues already pay licence fees, levies and taxes, and say additional costs would be difficult to absorb.

Shifting Nightlife Trends

New data highlights broader changes in Sydney’s nightlife. In June 2025, hours worked in Manly’s restaurants rose by 314.8 per cent compared with June 2024, while bar hours fell by 27.5 per cent. Bondi and Parramatta also recorded significant increases, reflecting a shift towards suburban hubs as CBD activity continues to decline.

Locals See Opportunities Amid Concerns

Some local restaurateurs believe a precinct in Manly could improve safety by offering more late-night venues and reducing public drinking in outdoor areas. Others support the reforms for their potential to strengthen Manly’s cultural calendar and attract more visitors.

Trial Will Test Manly’s Nightlife Balance

Manly’s Special Entertainment Precinct will be trialled from mid-2026, aiming to balance extended nightlife with community safety and business viability. The outcome will determine whether the reforms deliver lasting benefits while addressing concerns over policing and operational costs.

Published 28-Sep-2025

Work Begins on Gymnastics Centre in North Manly

Photo Credit: DA2023/1708

Demolition has begun at the former North Manly Bowling Club to make way for a $10.3 million gymnastics and trampoline facility.

From Bowling Green to Gymnastics Arena

The project is taking place at the old North Manly Bowling Club, which closed in 2018. The land is part of District Park, an area that hosts various community and sporting activities.

The Manly Warringah Gymnastics Club, with more than 2,800 members, secured approval in August 2024 to develop a 3,000 square metre Centre of Excellence for gymnastics and trampoline.

Funding the $10.3 Million Project

The project is being delivered through a public–private partnership with Northern Beaches Council. The gymnastics club is responsible for funding and managing the facility.

Funding has come from both the federal and NSW governments, as well as the club’s own fundraising efforts. Additional contributions were made through government programs to ensure the project reached its full budget.

Manly Warringah Gymnastics Club — *Photo Credit: DA2023/1708*

Demolition, Construction and Deadlines

Site fencing was installed in late August 2025 to prepare the area and ensure safety. Demolition began in September 2025, with construction expected to commence in December 2025, weather permitting.

The facility is anticipated to be completed by late 2026. Work hours are set for 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, though some out-of-hours work may be required. Nolan Reserve sporting fields will remain open throughout the project.

Traffic and parking impacts are expected during the week, with traffic control measures in place to minimise disruption.

What the New Centre Will Offer

The new centre will be recognised as a Centre of Excellence by Gymnastics Australia and Gymnastics NSW. It is expected to attract around 300,000 visitors each year.

Programs will include recreational sport, elite training clinics, competitions and coach education. The centre will also provide sports medicine and rehabilitation services.

Beyond gymnastics and trampoline, the design accommodates sports that involve aerial movement such as snow sports, diving, surfing, skating and acrobatics.

gymnastics centre — *Photo Credit: DA2023/1708*

How the Site Was Chosen

The project followed a detailed evaluation process. Proposals for the future of the site were narrowed to five options before a final decision was made. A targeted expression of interest process and a panel, which included community representation, confirmed the gymnastics centre as the preferred option.

Next Steps for North Manly

Construction of the facility is scheduled to begin in December 2025. Completion is expected by late 2026, providing North Manly with a new high-performance sporting hub for the community.

Published 28-Sep-2025

Rollers Bakehouse Forced to Pull Outdoor Dining in Manly Laneway

A well-loved Manly bakery has lost its outdoor seating in Rialto Lane after safety concerns were raised about the narrow laneway, leaving thousands of locals frustrated by the decision.

From laneway charm to safety concerns

Since opening in 2018, Rollers Bakehouse has built a reputation for its croissants and colourful pastries, with many customers enjoying their coffee and food on stools and benches lining Rialto Lane. The café’s laneway setting became part of its identity, attracting as many as 600 people on weekends.

That setting came under scrutiny in December 2023, when a complaint raised safety concerns about trucks and trade vehicles navigating the narrow strip. Council staff later reported that 11 bollards separating pedestrians and vehicles in the lane had been struck by vehicles.

By July 2024, Rollers was allowed a nine-month trial to reinstate its outdoor furniture, but just a month later, the arrangement was revoked.

A split council and a failed motion

At the September 2025 meeting, Cr Vincent De Luca tried to overturn the earlier ruling, arguing no safety issues had been logged during the trial. He suggested a compromise that included a shared pedestrian-vehicle zone with traffic calming features such as speed humps and a strict 10km/h speed limit.

His motion failed, leaving the eatery without outdoor seating. Cr Candy Bingham stood by her opposition, saying the lane was designed as a service road and not as a dining space.

Roller Bakehouse laneway — *Photo Caredit: Roller Bakehouse/Facebook*

Community support and business frustration

Owner James Sideris said the claims of damaged bollards were misleading, noting the three in front of Rollers Bakehouse had not been affected. He argued the bakery’s success had contributed to the gentrification of the laneways, bringing investment and foot traffic into the area.

More than 3,700 people signed an online petition supporting Rollers’ right to maintain its outdoor dining, highlighting the role the café plays in Manly’s social life.

Outdoor seating in Rialto Lane had also been mentioned in the council’s My Place: Manly plan to boost visitor numbers. Despite that, officials voted against its continuation, leaving many residents disappointed at the loss of what they considered a community meeting spot.

What’s next for Rialto Lane?

The decision has raised broader questions about how Manly’s laneways are used and whether balancing safety and vibrancy is possible. The owner has said he remains open to negotiating a middle ground that would address liability concerns while allowing customers to continue using the outdoor space.

Published 19-Sept-2025

Manly Resident Jailed for Triple Break-in at Palm Beach Restaurant

Photo Credit: Dunes Palm Beach

A Manly resident has been sentenced to 12 months imprisonment after conducting an unusual crime spree that saw him break into the same Palm Beach restaurant three times within a fortnight to steal premium seafood and alcohol.

Luke Gavin Cook, 32, appeared before Manly Local Court on Wednesday where he pleaded guilty to three counts of break and enter relating to incidents at Dunes restaurant in Palm Beach during July.

The unemployed local man’s criminal behaviour followed a distinctive pattern across his three visits to the popular northern beaches dining establishment. Court documents revealed that Cook would force open the restaurant’s bi-fold doors before helping himself to high-quality ingredients including oysters, Morton Bay bugs, flathead fillets, octopus, and lamb.

What set Cook’s crimes apart was his method of consumption. Rather than simply stealing the food, he would take his pilfered produce to nearby Governor Phillip Park where he cooked elaborate meals on the public barbecue facilities. He even took salt grinders and pepper mills from the restaurant to properly season his illicit feasts, washing everything down with premium Chivas Regal scotch whisky also stolen from the premises.

The first incident occurred on 6 July around 8pm, when Cook spent nearly four hours inside the restaurant before departing with flathead and Morton Bay bugs. His second visit on 14 July saw him take oysters, lamb pieces, and octopus along with the expensive whisky. The final break-in on 22 July proved the most costly, causing $4,000 in damage to the premises as he forced entry and made off with additional food items and kitchen utensils.

Dunes describes itself as offering “a white-washed, laid-back, beach-friendly take on informal all-day dining with concertina windows opening onto a decked terrace” and serves as a popular venue for weekend dining and wedding receptions.

Photo Credit: Facebook / Dunes Palm Beach

When arrested by local police, Cook admitted to officers that he had also stolen 12 bottles of alcohol during his restaurant raids.

Magistrate Daniel Reiss noted during sentencing that while Cook possessed an extensive 14-year criminal history that included violent offences, he had no prior convictions specifically for breaking and entering charges.

The magistrate imposed a 12-month jail term with a non-parole period of nine months. Taking into account time already served in custody, Cook will become eligible for parole on 28 April next year.

The case highlights ongoing security challenges faced by hospitality venues in the area, particularly those in isolated locations near public facilities that can provide cover for criminal activity.

Local business operators have been advised to review their premises security arrangements and consider additional protective measures, especially for establishments located adjacent to public parks and recreational areas.

Published 3-September-2025

Spogomi World Cup Qualifier Held in Manly

Photo Credit: Spogomi Australia/Facebook

The Spogomi World Cup 2025 Australian qualifier was held in Manly, where teams competed by collecting and sorting rubbish for points.

Spogomi Competition in Manly

Manly hosted the Australian qualifier for the Spogomi World Cup 2025 on Saturday, 30 August 2025. The winning team, Crystal Clean, secured a place in the global finals in Tokyo after scoring 2,119.3 points.

Background and Origins

Spogomi, created in Japan in 2008 by Kenichi Mamitsuka, combines the word “sport” with the Japanese word “gomi”, meaning rubbish. The activity transforms litter collection into a structured competition, raising awareness of waste issues. The first Spogomi World Cup was held in 2023 in Japan, drawing significant national attention.

Spogomi World Cup — *Photo Credit: Spogomi Australia/Facebook*

Rules and Format

At the Manly event, 30 teams of three were given one hour to collect rubbish within a designated area. Points were awarded according to type and weight of items collected. Participants were required to walk, not run, and stay within 10 metres of team members. Breaches attracted penalties or elimination. Teams then had 20 minutes to sort their collections into correct disposal categories before final scoring.

*Photo Credit: Spogomi Australia/Facebook*

Participation and Results

Eighty-seven participants collected 141.6 kilograms of rubbish within the competition time.

1st Place: Crystal Clean – 2,119.3 points
2nd Place: Ride & Seek – 1,563.9 points
3rd Place: Rot & Roll – 1,536.8 points

Crystal Clean will represent Australia at the Spogomi World Cup in Tokyo in October 2025.

Community and Environmental Impact

The event highlighted the issue of land-based litter entering waterways, with about 80% of marine litter originating on land. The initiative aims to encourage proactive waste collection while engaging communities in a competitive format.

Looking Ahead

Following the success of the 2025 qualifier, organisers have confirmed Spogomi will return to Australia in 2027. The global event in Tokyo later this year will see Australia compete against teams from around 20 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom and China.

Published 2-Sep-2025

Dog Riley Seeks New Home After Owner’s Passing at Manly Dam

A well-loved dog is searching for a new family after his owner sadly died while walking him near Manly Dam last month.

Read: Calls for Action as Brush Turkeys Invade The Boathouse at Shelly Beach

Riley, a five-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross Australian Cattle Dog, was the faithful companion of the man whose death prompted a search operation by the PolAir helicopter. Since then, Riley has been moved between temporary carers and is now waiting at Collaroy Veterinary Hospital pound for adoption.

Manly Dam — Photo credit: Andrew Penman/Google Maps

The Animal Welfare League Northern Beaches (AWLNB), which is overseeing his rehoming, has launched an urgent appeal to find him a safe and loving environment—either foster care or, ideally, a permanent home.

Sweet-Natured and Playful

Photo credit: Beaches Rehoming Centre/Instagram

Volunteers describe Riley as affectionate, gentle with children and good with other dogs. He enjoys tug-of-war, long walks and cheekily stealing beanies when no one is looking.

AWLNB volunteer Susanna Inkinen said Riley and his owner had been inseparable, and she explained that he now needed a calm and loving environment where someone could be present most of the time to provide him with stability.

Staff believe that with patience, routine and affection, Riley will thrive as a loyal and playful companion.

How the Rehoming Process Works

The AWLNB operates as a virtual shelter, relying on Collaroy Vet to hold animals temporarily before they are placed in foster care or adopted.

Practice manager and veterinary nurse Lilly Taylor noted that Collaroy Vet was designed as a short-term holding facility, not for long-term housing. She added that more foster carers were needed, as not every animal could move straight into a new home.

The clinic also runs an adoption program that allows the public to meet cats and dogs in person. Adoption fees, $300 for cats and $450 for dogs, will help cover veterinary care. Prospective foster carers can register through AWL and provide temporary homes at no cost.

Call for Support

Photo credit: Christopher Seller/Google Maps

With kitten season approaching, the organisation often cares for up to 60 cats at a time, adding to the demand for volunteers, foster families and donations.

Taylor explained that fostering could be a way for people to see if an animal fitted into their lives, with many carers eventually deciding to adopt permanently.

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

Riley, once inseparable from his late owner, is now hoping for someone new to give him the stability he craves. Anyone who can offer him a safe and caring home is urged to contact the AWLNB or reach out directly to Collaroy Vet at 9971 8487. The clinic is located at 1185 Pittwater Rd, Collaroy.

Published 1-September-2025

Farewell to The Old Manly Boatshed: 38 Years of Music and Comedy Ends

One of northern Sydney’s most beloved cultural institutions is preparing to close its doors after nearly four decades. The Old Manly Boatshed, known affectionately as “The Boaty,” will serve its final drinks and host its last shows in mid-September, marking the end of a venue that has become synonymous with Manly’s nightlife.

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

Owners Goff Burgess and Grant McMinn opened the Boatshed in 1987, transforming a Darley Road space into a restaurant, bar and live music hub. Over time, the venue expanded, literally, with the digging of a tunnel that created the layout familiar to generations of locals.

What began as a humble venture grew into Manly’s longest-running live music stage and Australia’s longest-running comedy venue, cementing its place in the nation’s entertainment history.

Announcing the closure, Burgess said it was “with deep sadness and regret” that the Boatshed would shut down “due to circumstances beyond our control.” He described the news as a shock but emphasised the legacy of live entertainment, community and creativity that the venue leaves behind.

In a farewell message posted on the venue’s social media page, the owners invited patrons to celebrate together before the final curtain falls:
“Please come down and join us before the final curtain is drawn in mid-September, to celebrate together. Let’s mark the end of an era with unforgettable nights of music, laughter, and friendship that made The Boaty what it has always been. We will… carry The Boaty’s spirit into the next chapter of Manly’s story.”

For many, the closure represents more than the loss of a venue—it is the end of a cultural landmark. Patrons have flooded social media with tributes, reflecting on the Boatshed’s role as a gathering place for all walks of life.

Photo credit: The Old Manly Boatshed/Facebook

“The Boatshed is such a Manly institution, it’s so sad to see it go, one of the only remaining venues that had a soul and has not been gentrified. That’s why we all loved it. Such a leveller and patrons from all ages,” one commented.

Another wrote: “Thank you Goff for what you gave so many people over so many years. Plenty of memories, and nights we can’t remember, but they were all great. A huge loss for live music and good vibes.”

Read: Queen Chow Manly to Close as Wharf Revamp Pushes Ahead

As Manly prepares to bid farewell, the Boatshed’s legacy will endure in the memories of countless performances, late-night laughs, and friendships forged under its roof. For many, the “Boaty” was never just a venue—it was part of the soul of Manly itself.

Published 29-August-2025