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Queen Chow Manly to Close as Wharf Revamp Pushes Ahead

Queen Chow Manly, known for its Cantonese-inspired menu and waterfront views, will close permanently on 5 August after seven years of service. The closure comes amid major changes at Manly Wharf under new ownership, marking the end of a beloved local dining spot.

A Sudden Goodbye

Queen Chow Manly is closing as part of a broader shake-up at Manly Wharf, where several venues, including El Camino Cantina and Betty’s Burgers, have already shut this winter. The changes follow Brisbane-based Artemus Group’s $80 million acquisition of the precinct’s long-term lease in mid-2023.

Operated by Merivale and led by Justin Hemmes, Queen Chow had become a local favourite, with the group thanking the community for its support. Staff will be offered roles at nearby Merivale venues like The Newport and The Collaroy.

What’s Changing at the Wharf

Artemus has begun reshaping Manly Wharf, with Felons Seafood now occupying The Bavarian’s former site and the historic Wharf Bar rebranded as Felons Brewing Co. The old Aldi space is being transformed into a microbrewery and diner, while the upstairs area once home to El Camino and Sake is set to become an events venue.

The new owners aim to create a more family-friendly destination at the wharf. In a statement, Artemus thanked outgoing tenants like Merivale and outlined plans to reflect their fresh vision for the precinct.

Locals React to the News

News of Queen Chow’s closure sparked strong reactions online, with locals flooding the restaurant’s Facebook page to share their disappointment. Many called it a loss for the local dining scene and urged Merivale to reopen the venue elsewhere on the Northern Beaches.

One even suggested a new location in Brisbane, highlighting the restaurant’s loyal following. Long-time patrons reflected fondly on the memories made at Queen Chow, calling it their “fave place.”

Looking Ahead

Although the closure marks the end of Queen Chow’s run at the wharf, the future of the brand remains open. With strong public support and loyal customers across the Northern Beaches and beyond, there is speculation that Merivale may revive the concept in another nearby location.

For now, fans of the restaurant have just a few more days to enjoy its signature dishes and waterfront charm before it makes way for the next phase of the wharf’s redevelopment.

Published 30-July-2025

Rubbish Collection Contest Returns to Manly for World Cup Qualifier

Photo Credit: SPOGOMI

Manly will host the Australian qualifying round of a global rubbish collection competition, with participants competing for the chance to represent the country in Japan.

Beach Clean-Up Event Set for Late August

Manly Beach will again serve as the venue for the SPOGOMI 2025 Australia Tournament, taking place on Saturday, 30 August. The event invites teams to collect litter competitively, aiming to win a place at the SPOGOMI World Cup in Tokyo later this year. Thirty teams of three will compete for points based on the quantity and type of rubbish collected within a designated time and area.

SPOGOMI World Cup — *Photo Credit: SPOGOMI*

Origin and Purpose of SPOGOMI

SPOGOMI, short for “Sport Gomihiroi,” originated in Japan in 2008 and translates to “sport of rubbish picking.” The concept turns litter collection into a structured competition, with referees monitoring teams during a timed clean-up session. Points are awarded based on specific criteria, and the top-scoring team will qualify for the international finals.

rubbish clean-up sport — *Photo Credit: SPOGOMI*

Environmental Focus

The tournament aims to raise awareness of marine plastic pollution. Around 80 percent of marine litter is reported to come from cities, with Australian waterways receiving over a tonne of plastic waste every five minutes. Statistics show that Australia generates 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, with only 12 percent recycled. A significant portion—up to 130,000 tonnes—reaches oceans and waterways each year.

Manly’s Role in Global Qualifying

The 2025 event follows a previous tournament held at Manly in 2023. This year’s contest is part of a broader international qualifying series, with winning teams from each country travelling to Japan for the SPOGOMI World Cup. Australia’s 2023 team finished sixth out of 21 competing nations.

Manly rubbish competition — *Photo Credit: SPOGOMI*

Eligibility and Community Participation

Participation is free and open to all ages. Teams must consist of three Australian citizens or residents holding a valid passport expiring after May 2026. For minors, adult supervision and consent forms are required. Community groups, families, schools, and local businesses are encouraged to register or volunteer.

What’s Next

Registrations are now open, and with only 30 team slots available, organisers have indicated spots are filling quickly. The Manly tournament runs from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with the winning team securing a fully funded trip to Tokyo to compete on the global stage.

Published 28-July-2025

Manly Fast Ferry Temporarily Moves to Wharf 3 for Maintenance

Photo Credit: Manly Fast Ferry

Manly Fast Ferry services will temporarily relocate to Wharf 3 while essential maintenance is carried out at Wharf 2 across three weekends.

Wharf 2 Closed Across Three Weekends

Essential maintenance works at Manly Wharf 2 will result in temporary changes to ferry operations starting 23 August 2025. The works are scheduled to take place over three consecutive weekends: 23–24 August, 30–31 August, and 6–7 September.

During these periods, all Manly Fast Ferry services will operate from Wharf 3 instead of their usual location at Wharf 2.

Weekend Operations Shift to Wharf 3

Wharf 3, located at the public jetty in front of the Wharf Bar, will serve as the temporary departure point for Fast Ferry services on the affected dates. Passengers are advised to enter via the main wharf. They are advised to follow signage directing them to the alternative platform.

Customers departing from Manly on these weekends will not be required to tap on or off with their Opal cards. However, tapping on remains necessary for all services leaving from Circular Quay and for weekday ferry services from Wharf 2.

Accessibility Limitations and Alternative Services

Wharf 3 is not equipped for accessible transport. Stairs limit entry. Passengers requiring accessible services are encouraged to use the F1 Manly to Circular Quay ferry from Wharf 1, which remains operational and accessible throughout the maintenance period.

Manly Fast Ferry maintenance — *Photo Credit: Manly Fast Ferry*

Potential Schedule Adjustments

The maintenance schedule is subject to weather conditions. It may be extended if necessary. Passengers are advised to check the Opal Travel App. They can also check relevant transport websites for real-time updates.

Continuation of Weekday Services

Manly Fast Ferry weekday services will continue to operate from Wharf 2 as usual when maintenance is not underway. Only weekend operations are affected by the temporary shift.

Published 28-July-2025

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

Brush turkeys are allegedly wreaking havoc at a well-known seaside cafe in Manly, with staff and customers reporting increasingly aggressive behaviour from the protected native birds.

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

The Boathouse at Shelly Beach has seen a rise in incidents involving the birds, which have been stealing food, smashing plates and glasses, and even reportedly biting customers in their hunt for scraps. Staff said the issue has worsened over the past year as the brush turkey population around the area has grown significantly.

Although the birds have long roamed the nearby Bower Street Reserve and Shelly Beach Headland, recent changes in their behaviour, such as jumping onto tables and confronting diners, have made them a serious concern for both safety and business operations. Some patrons have reportedly stopped visiting the venue due to the persistent bird presence.

In response, The Boathouse has launched an online survey to gather feedback and document the extent of the problem. The aim is to use this information to engage further with the Northern Beaches Council and the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service to find a humane solution.

Local community group Good for Manly has acknowledged the growing issue, noting that “brush turkeys are becoming a real problem and continue to multiply.” The group said The Boathouse is actively searching for answers, adding that “these birds are starting to prove a real menace in the restaurant. They are protected, although many people are asking why.”

Brush turkeys are listed as a protected species under the Biodiversity Conservation Act, and any action to control them, such as relocation or deterrence—requires a government-issued licence. The NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water oversees these regulations.

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

Authorities are aware of the situation, with the council encouraging collaboration between The Boathouse and the relevant state department to ensure a solution that balances community concerns with native wildlife protection.

Published 25-July-2025

Manly CEO Ben Thompson Named Finalist in National Entrepreneur Awards

A Manly entrepreneur is earning national recognition for transforming how small businesses manage their workforce, after being named a finalist in the EY Entrepreneur of the Year awards.

Local Innovation Making Global Impact

Ben Thompson, CEO and co-founder of Employment Hero, has built one of the country’s fastest-growing tech companies from Sydney’s Northern Beaches. His company, which began in 2014, now supports more than 300,000 businesses and millions of employees across Australia, New Zealand, the UK and Canada.

Under Thompson’s leadership, Employment Hero has grown into a global player in the HR technology space. The company’s platform helps small and medium-sized businesses manage everything from recruitment to payroll, compliance and employee engagement — streamlining tasks that can otherwise take up hours of a business owner’s time.

While the company’s reach is global, its roots remain firmly in Manly, where Thompson lives and leads a growing team that continues to shape the future of work. His early career as an employment lawyer helped him see firsthand how much time small businesses lose managing paperwork and processes. That experience shaped his drive to make employment simpler and more valuable for both employers and jobseekers.

A Milestone Year for Australian Entrepreneurs

Thompson’s recognition comes during the 25th year of the EY Entrepreneur of the Year awards in Australia. The program celebrates entrepreneurs whose ideas are not only commercially successful but also contribute to broader social and economic progress.

Finalists are evaluated by an independent panel of judges on key qualities including growth, purpose, and impact. The national winners will be announced at a gala event in Sydney on 15 October 2025.

The awards program is run in more than 60 countries and includes a global stage where national winners compete for the EY World Entrepreneur of the Year title. Past participants have credited the program with opening new doors for their businesses and connecting them with like-minded founders around the world.

Tech for Small Business, Built on the Beaches

Employment Hero’s latest innovation is a two-way talent marketplace that aims to make it easier for people to find jobs and for employers to hire the right talent faster. The system is built into their platform and is designed to help businesses fill roles more efficiently, especially during times of economic uncertainty or skills shortages.

Thompson believes that giving small business owners access to digital tools previously available only to large corporations can help level the playing field. His team’s work has become especially valuable as businesses across Australia adapt to hybrid work, staff shortages, and rising admin demands.

While Employment Hero continues to expand overseas, Thompson said the company remains focused on serving Australian businesses and jobseekers — and proud to be doing it from Manly.

Published 14-July-2025

Manly Corso to Be Revamped as Special Entertainment Precinct

A key part of Manly is set for a cultural and economic revival, with NSW backing a plan to transform the iconic Manly Corso into a Special Entertainment Precinct.

Read: Coles Manly Corso Goes On Market After Nearly 40 Years

The proposal is part of a broader effort to breathe new life into Sydney’s nightlife by encouraging live music, extended trading hours, and a more vibrant after-dark culture.

Photo credit: Northern Beaches Council/Facebook

To support the transformation, Northern Beaches Council has secured $173,760 in funding through the 24-Hour Economy NSW SEP Kickstart Grant program. The money will fund a trial in the Manly Corso, aimed at preserving the area’s unique identity, improving visitor infrastructure, and reinforcing its status as a night-time destination.

The funding will also help support cultural events, like the recent winter festival, and ensure the Corso continues to serve as a hub for both locals and visitors well into the evening.

Once a celebrated part of Sydney’s golden era of live music, Manly’s pubs and surf clubs hosted some of Australia’s most legendary rock acts. Now, decades later, the area is poised for a revival that blends that legacy with today’s lifestyle and expectations. The plan would reduce red tape and give venues the chance to operate later into the evening, aiming to make Manly a standout destination for both locals and tourists.

With its mix of coastal charm and vibrant daytime trade, The Corso already draws crowds, now the goal is to keep them coming after dark. This move mirrors the success of Enmore Road in Sydney’s Inner West, where the Special Entertainment Precinct model helped revitalise local business and cultural activity.

What Is a Special Entertainment Precinct?

NSW’s Special Entertainment Precinct initiative allows councils to extend trading hours and tailor noise rules within specific zones. Businesses operating in these precincts can take advantage of the new conditions without having to amend their individual development consents, a process that is typically expensive and time-consuming.

The model also helps future-proof entertainment hubs by notifying residents and prospective home buyers that they are in an area where later trading hours and higher sound levels are officially supported. This proactive approach reduces potential conflicts while fostering more confident investment in local nightlife.

Read: Taller Buildings Coming to Manly as Council Adjusts Planning Controls

Local business owners in Manly have welcomed the changes, with some already exploring ways to expand their offerings and adapt to the extended hours. For many, the precinct model represents a long-awaited chance to bring vibrancy back to the beaches—without compromising the area’s unique character.

As Sydney continues to shift away from years of restrictive regulation, Manly’s transformation could be a leading example of how beachside culture and nightlife can thrive side by side.

Published 9-July-2025

Manly Lawyer Pushes for New Justice Brewing Co.

Photo Credit: DA2025/0725

A Manly lawyer is leading plans to establish a microbrewery and bar in North Manly, proposing a venue called Justice Brewing Co. within his legal premises.

Microbrewery Plans in Manly

A proposal (DA2025/0725) to open a small-scale microbrewery and bar in North Manly has been lodged with NBC. The business, named Justice Brewing Co., is the initiative of David Mitchell, a local lawyer and home brewing enthusiast.

Legal Office Shares Space with Brewery

Mr Mitchell, who runs Mitchell & Shorten Lawyers, intends to continue operating his legal practice from a mezzanine level at the back of the site. The brewery and bar would occupy the ground floor of the same commercial building on Girard Street, which also houses a web design firm, Juuce Creative. Other tenants in the vicinity include a bike shop and a glass studio.

Manly microbrewery plan — *Photo Credit: DA2025/0725*

Brewery Capacity and Offerings

The proposal outlines a brewhouse with a target production of 26,000 litres of beer annually. The bar will offer a modest food selection such as pies, chips, cheeses, and cold meats, with no kitchen on-site. Beer will also be available for takeaway. The concept focuses on traditional, straightforward brews, catering primarily to local patrons.

Planned Operating Hours and Venue Layout

If approved, the bar would seat 30 customers and include an outdoor deck. Trading hours would be from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Thursday, noon to midnight on Saturdays, and noon to 8 p.m. on Sundays and public holidays. The outdoor deck would close by 10 p.m. daily.

Justice Brewing Co — *Photo Credit: DA2025/0725*

Minimal Impact Expected on Surroundings

The development application describes the site as part of a light industrial estate, distanced from residential areas. The planned hours are expected to limit traffic and noise impacts on neighbouring businesses. The business would not interfere with daytime industrial operations, as most customer activity is scheduled for late afternoon and evening.

brewery development — *Photo Credit: DA2025/0725*

Public Consultation Period Open

The application is currently open for public submissions until 15 July. Feedback can be submitted directly to NBC.

Published 8-July-2025

Hospitality Changes at Manly Wharf as Two Major Restaurants Shut

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Two restaurants at Manly Wharf have closed as Hunter St. Hospitality moves to reshape its business focus toward more unique venues.

Manly Wharf Restaurant Closures

Sake and El Camino Cantina at Manly Wharf have ceased operations following a commercial agreement between Hunter St. Hospitality and Artemus Group, the owner of the wharf precinct.

The closures were not the result of underperformance but were described by the operator as a commercial decision, influenced by a favourable offer from Artemus. Both restaurants had significant time remaining on their leases before the agreement was reached. The move allows Artemus to expand its footprint at the wharf, where it has already introduced other hospitality ventures and plans further upgrades.

Manly restaurant closures — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Business Shift by Hunter St. Hospitality

Hunter St. Hospitality, one of Australia’s major hospitality operators, has adjusted its strategy under current leadership. The group, which manages a broad portfolio including Rockpool Bar & Grill, Spice Temple, and Fratelli Fresh, is scaling back on chain expansion.

Instead, it plans to develop venues with distinct and individual concepts. The Bavarian chain, once operating 28 outlets, has been reduced to five locations. While the group will continue to operate the Sake flagship in The Rocks, future Japanese restaurants planned by the company are expected to adopt different branding. This shift aligns with changing consumer demand for new and unique dining experiences.

Background on Manly Wharf Redevelopment

Artemus Group acquired Manly Wharf in 2023 as part of a broader investment in hospitality and retail precincts. The group has been actively redeveloping the site, securing new tenants and transforming existing spaces.

The agreement with Hunter St. Hospitality to take over the Sake and El Camino sites adds to Artemus Group’s plans to reshape the dining and entertainment offerings at the wharf. Although specific future uses for these spaces have not been announced, further hospitality developments are anticipated. The group has already delivered new venues at the location and intends to continue modernising the precinct.

Published 6-July-2025

Manly Library Begins 24-Hour Weekday Access in Community Trial

In a move to accommodate the flexible schedules of its residents, Manly Library has launched a community trial offering members 24/7 access to its collections, computers, and facilities on weekdays.

A New Chapter for Community Access

The six-month trial invites bookworms, students, and night owls to use the library at any hour that suits their lifestyle. This extended access began in June and will run until November 2025.

During this period, the library will be open continuously from 6:00 a.m. on Sundays through to 5:00 p.m. on Fridays. Regular staffed operating hours will remain unchanged. The initiative follows positive feedback from ratepayers who expressed a desire for increased access to library services.

How After-Hours Entry Works

To use the library during unstaffed hours, full library members aged 16 years and over must first complete a compulsory safety induction. Once completed, they can gain entry through the Market Place entrance using their library barcode and a personal PIN.

Both the ground and first floors are available, with lift access. Members can borrow books, DVDs, and magazines using self-service kiosks, use the library’s desktop computers, connect to free Wi-Fi, and operate printers, copiers, and scanners. Additionally, two Quiet Study Pods are available and can be booked during staffed hours or by using a sign-up sheet on-site.

Focus on Safety and Comfort

Library over the past year to ensure the safety and comfort of members during unstaffed hours. While no staff are present, the premises are monitored by a CCTV security system connected to a security guard service. Under the membership terms, sleeping in the library is not permitted, though members are welcome to bring hot and cold non-alcoholic drinks.

Following a Successful Model

The decision to trial the new hours in Manly was influenced by the success of a similar 24/7 model at the Forestville library, which has been operating since mid-2022. Mayor Sue Heins indicated that the great success at Forestville gives Council confidence that the Manly community will experience similar benefits. This modern approach to library services is part of a wider trend in Australia, with Parkes Shire Council having opened the nation’s first 24/7 public library in 2016.

Published Date 03-July-2025

Manly Wharf Hospitality Shake-Up Sees Three Closures, New Launch

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Three well-known restaurants at Manly Wharf have ceased operations, while a new hospitality venue has commenced trading as part of a redevelopment by its new owners.

Major Changes at Manly Wharf

Manly Wharf has undergone significant changes as three prominent eateries—Betty’s Burgers, El Camino Cantina and Sake Restaurant & Bar—have closed.

Betty’s Burgers served its final customers on Saturday, 28 June 2025. El Camino Cantina and Sake Restaurant & Bar ceased trading on Sunday night, 29 June 2025. The closures followed commercial agreements between the outgoing operators and Artemus Group, which acquired the long-term leasehold of the wharf in 2023.

Background to the Redevelopment

Brisbane-based Artemus Group purchased the leasehold of Manly Wharf in mid-2023 for $80 million. Since then, the company has made several changes to the precinct. These have included the rebranding of Manly Wharf Bar to Felons Brewing Co., following its $30 million acquisition of that venue.

In addition, the site of a former supermarket is being redeveloped into a microbrewery bar and diner. Artemus also purchased the Hugos Manly eatery for $20 million in December 2023.

Betty’s Burgers — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

New Dining Venue at the Wharf

In line with its revitalisation plans, Artemus has opened Felons Seafood. This new 300-seat indoor and outdoor waterfront restaurant and bar began operating in the space previously occupied by The Bavarian bar. The menu features seafood dishes such as ceviche tostada and fish and chips with house-made tartare and malt vinegar.

Reason for Closures

The closures of the three restaurants stemmed from commercial decisions rather than trading challenges. The operators of El Camino and Sake indicated that the decision was influenced by a favourable offer from Artemus, despite having 15 years remaining on their lease. Betty’s Burgers cited the redevelopment of the wharf as the reason it could not continue operating at that location.

Future Plans for Manly Wharf

Artemus Group has indicated that further works will proceed from July, with hoardings to appear around key areas of the wharf. There is speculation that the first-floor space formerly occupied by El Camino and Sake may be converted into a function centre. The company has stated that these developments aim to enhance safety, access, and hospitality options at Manly Wharf.

Published 4-July-2025