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Manly Dam Boardwalk Highlights Access vs Conservation Tensions

A new $1.7-million raised boardwalk at Manly Dam has opened, improving accessibility to Sydney’s largest freshwater lake but drawing criticism from environmental advocates concerned about its impact on local bushland.

Improved Accessibility and Design

The 400-metre-long elevated trail, known as the Manly Dam Link Trail, connects two major picnic areas along the southern shore of Manly Dam in the Manly Warringah War Memorial Park. Completed in late November 2024, the Northern Beaches Council highlighted its inclusive design, accommodating wheelchairs, prams, and people with walking difficulties. The path also includes viewing platforms and seating areas, offering scenic lake views.

The council stated that the boardwalk aims to protect sensitive vegetation by redirecting foot traffic away from the ground-level flora and providing a safe alternative to walking along nearby roads. It also allows small animals to pass underneath, reducing human-wildlife conflict.

Environmental Concerns and Opposition

Environmentalists, however, have voiced strong opposition. The Save Manly Dam Catchment Committee led a three-year campaign to scrap the project, arguing that it disrupts “undisturbed” bushland and poses risks to threatened species, including the pygmy possum. The group expressed concerns over the loss of vegetation and habitat along the 1.8-metre-wide corridor created for the boardwalk.

A committee representative stated that the construction affects the unique natural environment that makes Manly Dam special and urged the council to prioritise the preservation of its untouched areas.

Community Reception and Future Developments

While some residents welcomed the enhanced access and safety measures, the debate has underscored the challenge of balancing environmental conservation with public infrastructure needs. Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins emphasised that the boardwalk supports recreational use while protecting the park’s biodiversity. She pointed to the area’s rich Indigenous heritage, diverse plant life, and local wildlife, calling the park a key asset for residents and visitors.

Further improvements are also planned. Construction is set to begin on a water access platform at one of the picnic areas, which will make it easier for people with reduced mobility to enjoy the lake’s amenities.

Ongoing Debate

The boardwalk’s opening has sparked important conversations about the future of Manly Dam and similar natural reserves. While the project improves access and safety, questions remain about its long-term environmental impact. Local groups and council representatives continue to discuss the best way forward for managing the balance between public use and conservation.

Published 26-Nov-2024

Manly Community Mourns Loss of Iconic Publican Ross Ryan

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Ross Ryan, a prominent figure in Sydney’s hospitality industry, has passed away, leaving behind a significant legacy of community support at the iconic Hotel Steyne.

Ryan’s connection to the Manly beachfront pub ran deep, with the venue being in his family’s hands since 1972 when his parents, Harry and Shirley, purchased it. He took over management in 1986 after his father’s death and bought the freehold from Tooth’s brewery in 1990.

Community Support and Recognition

Ryan was particularly known for his generous support of local community groups and sporting organisations. His annual sponsorships reached up to $200,000, benefiting Manly’s three surf lifesaving clubs and rugby teams. In 2004, this commitment was recognised when the Hotel Steyne won the outstanding community service award at the Australian Hotels Association Awards for Excellence.

The Manly Savers Rugby Club highlighted Ryan’s long-standing support, noting his role in sponsoring the club and hosting celebrations at the hotel.

Industry and Legal Involvement

In 2005, Ryan was part of a group of Manly publicans who legally challenged the local council over pub closing hours. Previously, the Steyne had secured Land and Environment Court approval to operate rooftop bars 24 hours a day and was the first venue in the state to receive a 24-hour license for ground floor bars.

Sale and Reflection

Ryan sold the Hotel Steyne in 2006 to former bookmaker Bruce McHugh, reportedly for over $50 million. At the time, he described the decision to sell as “gut-wrenching” while expressing his intention to remain connected to the venue.

The current owners of the Steyne have paid tribute to Ryan, describing him as an “icon of the industry” whose legacy of community support continues to influence the hotel.

Published 20-November-2024

Manly Sea Eagles and Des Hasler Settle Legal Dispute

Manly Sea Eagles and former coach Des Hasler have reached an out-of-court settlement, avoiding a potentially damaging legal battle.

Manly Sea Eagles vs Des Hasler — *Photo Credit:* *Manly Sea Eagles*

The dispute arose after the Sea Eagles terminated Des Hasler’s contract early last year. The coach sought a significant payout, while the club offered a smaller settlement.

The two parties were scheduled to face off in the NSW Supreme Court, but the hearing was cancelled due to the settlement.

The exact terms of the agreement remain undisclosed, but it is understood that both parties will bear their legal costs.

The controversy surrounding the club’s LGBTQI jersey in 2022 had strained the relationship between Hasler and the Sea Eagles’ board. Hasler had publicly criticised the club’s handling of the situation, which led to a decline in the team’s performance.

Despite guiding the Sea Eagles to a premiership in 2011, Hasler’s tenure ended sourly. He is currently the head coach of the Gold Coast Titans.

Published Date 13-November-2024

Photo Credit: Manly Sea Eagles

Manly Cafe Calls for Change in $21,000 Outdoor Dining Charges

A Manly cafe has criticised the hefty $21,000 yearly fee for outdoor dining, arguing that it stifles local business while other councils waive fees to support small businesses.

Local Cafe Questions Fee Structure

Market Lane Cafe, a popular spot in Manly, displayed a sign revealing the large fee required by the Northern Beaches Council for its outdoor seating, stirring community discussion about the fairness of the charge. The cafe noted that, in contrast, the City of Sydney has waived all outdoor dining fees until June 2025 to support local businesses.

According to Market Lane Cafe, a lower or waived fee structure in Manly could better encourage alfresco dining and benefit local businesses and patrons alike.

Northern Beaches local business owner Mandeep Singh echoed these sentiments, sharing the cafe’s post on social media. Mr Singh suggested that fees as high as $21,000 per year make it increasingly difficult for small businesses to recover from pandemic-era losses. He urged council to consider a more sustainable and supportive fee model, particularly as these local establishments are central to the community and economy.

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A post shared by Market Lane Cafe 📍Manly (@marketlanemanly)

Response to Criticism

Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins responded to the concerns, explaining that the outdoor dining fees are set based on valuations from an independent appraiser and are in line with similar fees charged by other metropolitan councils. She added that fees were waived during the height of COVID-19 to help struggling businesses but believes that a fee for outdoor commercial use of public land is now fair.

The fees include application costs, rental charges, and a security bond, which vary depending on the location’s size and proximity to high-traffic areas like Manly Beach.

Ms. Heins also expressed the necessity to find a balance between public access, the interests of ratepayers, and commercial activities, noting that fees can help achieve this. She emphasised that officials are receptive to proposals that bolster a thriving local economy.

Community Concerns and Café’s Struggles

Market Lane Cafe’s post shared that running a hospitality business in Manly comes with significant financial challenges beyond council fees, such as high rents and general overheads. Despite these hurdles, the café expressed appreciation for its loyal customers, saying that the “genuine connections” with the community make it worthwhile to continue operating in the area. This sentiment resonates with many local businesses in Manly, who feel that the rising costs of operation risk overshadowing their contributions to the neighbourhood’s charm and economy.

Published 6-Nov-2024

Manly Welcomes Felons Brewing Co. in Waterfront Transformation

Photo Credit: Felons Brewing Co/ Facebook

Queensland craft brewery Felons Brewing Co is expanding south and bringing its unique brews to the iconic Manly waterfront, taking over the Manly Wharf Bar.

The move, which will happen on 18 October, follows Artemus Group’s April acquisition of Manly Wharf, the powerhouse behind Brisbane’s Howard Smith Wharves. This signals a significant revitalisation of the Manly waterfront, with Felons at its heart.

Artemus Group co-founder and director Adam Flaskas expressed enthusiasm for this new chapter, highlighting the group’s commitment to creating a vibrant and community-oriented destination. The group envisions Manly Wharf as a hub where dining, entertainment, and top-tier hospitality converge.

The project holds special significance for fellow co-founder and director Paul Henry. Growing up in Sydney, he fondly remembers the Northern Beaches and sees Manly as a symbolic meeting point of the harbour and the ocean. He believes Felons, emphasising camaraderie and good times, perfectly fits this iconic location.

Flaskas and Henry established Felons Brewing Co. alongside CEO Luke Fraser, brand director Dean Romeo, and brewery director Tom Champion. With over 75 years of combined brewing experience, the team is dedicated to producing high-quality, accessible beers. Champion emphasised its brewing philosophy, which centres on using fresh, local ingredients to craft balanced and sessionable beers that enhance social experiences.

Felons Manly will offer diverse brews, including their flagship Crisp Lager, Galaxy Haze, and Australian Pale Ale. Beer enthusiasts can also look forward to barrel-aged, seasonal, and limited-edition offerings.

Renowned chef Corey Costelloe, formerly of Rockpool Bar and Grill, created a menu to accompany the impressive beer selection. Costelloe’s culinary approach focuses on simple cooking techniques that showcase premium produce. Highlights include a 600g dry-aged ribeye, baby octopus with lemon, chilli, and oregano, pizzas made with Felons Pale Ale-infused dough, and locally sourced whole butterflied whiting.

Beyond food and drinks, Felons Manly will pulse with a vibrant music program. Live jazz, soul, and funk bands grace the stage most nights while DJs spin disco, 80s boogie, and Afrocentric tunes. The brewery will also launch its Lifestyle Club, aiming to build community through events like beer and yoga sessions, charity initiatives, sustainability workshops, and collaborations with local Manly artists.

Felons Brand Director Dean Romeo believes Manly is an ideal location for the brewery. He anticipates the venue becoming an inclusive space where locals and visitors alike can unwind, connect, and appreciate the simple pleasures of good beer in a beautiful setting.

This expansion marks a significant milestone for Felons Brewing Co., which will bring its unique hospitality and community spirit to the shores of Manly. With its focus on quality beer, delicious food, engaging entertainment, and community building, Felons Manly is expected to become a beloved destination for Sydneysiders and visitors alike.

Published Date 09-October-2024

Community Voices Concerns Over Proposed Manly Surf Club Redevelopment

The proposed redevelopment of the Manly Life Saving Club has sparked controversy among local residents, with many expressing concerns about the $15 million project.

Read: Manly Family Wins Battle to Demolish Historic Whistler Street Home

According to recent community feedback, the primary concern is “overdevelopment.” Residents fear the new structure could restrict access to the popular path leading to Shelly Beach and obstruct ocean views for properties at the southern end of Manly Beach.

Concept design (Photo credit: northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au)

Some community members advocate for renovating the existing building, instead of constructing a new one. However, authorities argue that refurbishing the current structure “would be more costly and less effective” due to its proximity to a large sewer easement.

Photo credit: northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

Council recently released updated concept plans for the new clubhouse and public amenities. They claim the new design would improve “public thoroughfare” along the Marine Parade path to Shelly Beach.

Some of the key features of the proposed development include:

Five additional toilet facilities (three unisex, one family, and one accessible)
Additional showers
Improved facilities for Council professional lifeguards, including direct line of sight to the beach and access to drone facilities
Watercraft and lifesaving equipment storage, allowing removal of equipment from the promenade
Enhanced volunteer lifesaver training facilities to meet emergency services requirements
Improved options for Bold & Beautiful Swim Squad
Improved amenities and facilities for female volunteers

Despite these improvements, concerns persist about the scale of the Manly Life Saving Club redevelopment. Local resident Laura Dodds-Hebron, addressing a recent council meeting, highlighted community questions about the project’s size. She reported that many residents were questioning the need for such a large facility, suggesting that a more modest upgrade focusing on essential services would suffice.

Locals also provided a comparison of the current and proposed building sizes. The existing club’s footprint, including outdoor storage, is 611 square metres. Reports suggest the proposed structure would expand to 667 sqm, despite eliminating outdoor storage, though official plans are yet to be published on the Council’s website.

Council plans to submit a Development Application in late 2024. The design will be open for public submissions, and if approved, the Council will proceed with contractor procurement before beginning construction.

Read: Manly Beach to Welcome New Family-Friendly Clubhouse

As the debate continues, the community remains divided between those who see the need for modernisation and those who fear losing the charm and accessibility of this iconic beachfront location.

Published 30-September-2024

Former Manly Wharf Aldi Site Could Become New Hospitality Hotspot

A new proposal has been announced to transform the former Aldi supermarket site at Manly Wharf into a vibrant hospitality destination, more than two years after the store’s closure. The plan aims to convert the vacant retail space into a pub and microbrewery, complete with dining facilities and live performance areas.

Read: Manly Wharf: A New Chapter for an Iconic Sydney Landmark

The development application, lodged by Artemus Group, Manly Wharf’s new owner, outlines a $13.5 million project to revitalise the popular Sydney tourist hub. The proposed venue would span a total area of 1,429 square metres, with the pub area (old Aldi site), including toilet amenities, occupying 699 sqm.

The establishment would feature two bars, an ancillary kitchen, staff facilities, and microbrewing equipment. With a maximum capacity of 700 patrons, the venue is expected to employ up to 20 staff members.

Artemus Group’s chief executive expressed the company’s commitment to transforming the wharf into a lively community precinct. He noted the widespread support for renovating the area and highlighted recent improvements, including enhanced security and cleaning services.

Proposed plan (Photo credit: ACME Architects)

The proposal, designed by ACME Architects, includes various modifications to the existing structure, such as remodelling the main entrance, upgrading disabled access, relocating basement public toilets to the main ferry concourse, and implementing acoustic treatments. While the plan does not involve changes to the Manly Wharf Hotel, the new venue is intended to operate under the same management team.

Photo credit: Terezinha Polaca/Google Maps

Proposed trading hours for the new establishment align with those of the Manly Wharf Hotel, with extended hours on weekends. The planners emphasised that the new ownership would implement round-the-clock security and cleaning services across the entire Manly Wharf precinct under their management.

Read: Manly Community Secures Future for Iconic Freshwater-Class Ferries

The development application marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to rejuvenate the Manly Wharf area, promising to breathe new life into the long-vacant former Aldi site and enhance the overall appeal of this iconic Sydney location.

Published 27-September-2024

Manly Wharf: A New Chapter for an Iconic Sydney Landmark

In a bold move that’s set to reshape one of Sydney’s most beloved waterfront destinations, the owners of Brisbane’s Howard Smith Wharves (HSW) have acquired Manly Wharf in a landmark $110 million deal.

Read: Manly Wharf Set for Community-Led Revamp Under New Owners

The Artemus Group, known for transforming HSW into a thriving entertainment and hospitality precinct, is now poised to bring its magic touch to this iconic northern Sydney location.

A Tale of Two Wharves

While the acquisition marks an exciting new venture for the Artemus Group, CEO Luke Fraser assures that the company remains deeply committed to both HSW and Manly Wharf for the long term. This dual focus promises to create a unique synergy between two of Australia’s premier waterfront destinations.

Early Changes and Future Vision

Despite being in the early stages of ownership, the Artemus Group has already begun to make its mark on Manly Wharf:

– Introduction of 24-hour security

– Revamped menu at the Wharf Bar

– Addition of beers from HSW’s Felon’s brewpub

These initial changes are just the beginning. The group is crafting a comprehensive vision for Manly Wharf’s future, with more significant transformations expected in the coming months and years.

For Artemus Group co-founder and partner Paul Henry, the Wharf project is more than just a business venture – it’s a homecoming of sorts. As a longtime resident of Sydney’s North Shore who grew up visiting Manly Wharf, Henry sees this acquisition as a “no-brainer.”

The success of Howard Smith Wharves has not gone unnoticed in Sydney. As Brisbane’s appeal as a destination continues to grow, many Sydney locals have already experienced HSW firsthand. This familiarity has instilled confidence that Manly Wharf’s future is in capable hands.

Looking Ahead

As the Artemus Group embarks on this new chapter, the transformation of the Wharf promises to be an exciting journey. With their track record of success and deep understanding of both the Brisbane and Sydney markets, the group is well-positioned to create something truly special at this iconic Sydney location.

Read: Manly Community Secures Future for Iconic Freshwater-Class Ferries

The revitalisation of the iconic Sydney wharf stands to benefit locals and visitors alike, potentially ushering in a new golden era for this beloved waterfront precinct.

Published 27-September-2024

Manly Community Secures Future for Iconic Freshwater-Class Ferries

Manly locals have successfully saved the iconic Freshwater-class ferries, ensuring three of the vessels will stay in service with plans for electric replacements by 2030.

After years of community efforts, the much-loved Freshwater-class ferries — Narrabeen, Queenscliff, and Freshwater — will continue to serve passengers on the Manly to Circular Quay route.

The decision comes as part of a wider plan to maintain these ferries for several more years, while introducing electric “lookalike” ferries by 2030 to modernise the fleet and reduce emissions.

However, one ferry, the Collaroy, will not return to service due to high maintenance costs and technical design issues. Instead, it will be retired, with discussions underway about its future use.

Freshwater-class ferries — *Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons*

The local Manly community, including the Save The Manly Ferries Committee, played a central role in advocating for the retention of the ferries. The group rallied for four years, gathering public support and pushing for the preservation of the larger Freshwater vessels, which have been an integral part of Manly’s transport heritage.

Cr Cindy Bingham stated that the decision to keep the ferries operating, followed by their eventual replacement with electric versions, reflects the community’s strong attachment to these vessels. She noted that the committee even proposed their own design for an electric ferry replacement, aimed at maintaining the same size and capacity as the existing Freshwater-class boats while transitioning to cleaner technology.

Despite the success in saving the ferries for the immediate future, some community members still need to be more concerned about retiring the ferries by 2030. Residents need to stay engaged in the process and make sure their voices are heard as details about the new electric ferries emerge.

The community remains keen to ensure that the replacement vessels retain the essence of the current Freshwater ferries, which are known for their size and ability to accommodate large numbers of commuters and tourists. The proposed electric ferries will be slightly shorter to fit in the local dry dock but will feature modern upgrades, including a sun deck for passengers to enjoy during their trip.

Published 26-Sept-2024

Manly Magic: Sydney’s ‘Santorini’ Stuns Locals

Hidden in plain sight, a picturesque corner of Manly is captivating Sydneysiders with its striking resemblance to the iconic Greek island, Santorini.

*Photo Credit:* *Bower Lane Manly/ Instagram*

Located between the bustling Manly Beach and the serene Shelly Beach, Bower Lane has long been a favourite for its snorkelling, surfing, and laid-back charm. But the unassuming, white-washed building with its peeling walls, blue window frames, and vibrant flowers is stealing the spotlight.

Tucked away in an alley just metres from the walkway, this hidden gem evokes the quintessential Greek aesthetic.

Social media is abuzz with comparisons to Santorini and Mykonos, with users expressing their disbelief that such a treasure has remained under the radar for so long.

Beyond the photogenic building, the area boasts a sun-drenched swimming spot that exudes European summer vibes. Protected from southerly winds, it’s a haven for snorkelers and divers, teeming with marine life.

The Bower Cafe offers a welcome respite for those seeking refreshment, while the sea pool and secluded nooks provide ample opportunities for relaxation.

With its growing popularity, this ‘Santorini alternative’ is a testament to Manly’s enduring allure.

Whether you’re a local seeking a vacation escape or a visitor yearning for a taste of the Mediterranean, Bower Lane promises an unforgettable experience.

Hop on a ferry or bus to Manly and follow the walkway from Manly Beach to Shelly Beach—your slice of Santorini awaits.

Published Date 20-September-2024

Photo Credit: Bower Lane Manly/ Instagram