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Manly Rising Stars Bronte Halligan, Sienna Hearn, and Tilly Kearns Head to Paris Olympics

Three exceptional water polo athletes, Bronte Halligan, Sienna Hearn, and Tilly Kearns, are set to compete in the Paris Olympics, having started their journeys with the Sydney Northern Beaches Breakers and training at the Manly Swim Centre, Warringah Aquatic Centre, and Pymble Ladies College.

Bronte Halligan: A Legacy in the Making

Bronte Halligan, 27, was born in Crows Nest, NSW, and grew up in Manly. The daughter of rugby league legend Daryl Halligan, Bronte’s passion for sports was ignited early.

“I knew I wanted to be an athlete of some sort and represent my country when I watched dad play. It just motivates me even more,” Bronte said.

Bronte attended Stella Maris College in Manly and later furthered her water polo career and education at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She made her debut for the Australian national team in 2014 at just 17 years old, quickly making a name for herself.

She represented Australia at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Currently, Bronte plays professionally for Ekipe Orizzonte in Italy.

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Sienna Hearn: The Power of Friendship

At 21, Sienna Hearn is already making waves in the water polo world. Born and raised on the Northern Beaches, Sienna’s journey began with friendships that led her to join the Sydney Northern Beaches Breakers at the age of seven.

Sienna made her senior national team debut in 2022 and is now part of the Stingers squad heading to the Paris 2024 Olympics. Currently playing for UTS Balmain Tigers, Sienna is also studying to become a school teacher.

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Tilly Kearns: From Reluctance to Excellence

Tilly Kearns, 23, was born in Crows Nest, NSW, and raised in Sydney. Her initial foray into water polo was less than enthusiastic. However, her natural talent soon shone through, and she began to enjoy the sport.

Tilly’s impressive career includes competing in the 2016, 2017, and 2018 FINA World Junior Championships and playing for the University of Southern California (USC). She made her Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games.

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Community Impact and Future Goals

These athletes not only bring pride to their hometown but also inspire the next generation of water polo players.

Out of the pool, Bronte works as a strategy lead at Cerebral Palsy Australia, utilising her psychology and disability studies from UCLA. Meanwhile, Sienna is pursuing a career in teaching, and Tilly continues to be a prominent figure in international water polo competitions.

Paris 2024 Olympics: What You Need to Know

The Olympic Games, held every four years, epitomise global athletic excellence and camaraderie. Water polo, a dynamic and demanding sport that combines swimming, strategy, and teamwork, has been part of the Olympic program since the 1900s. As the Paris 2024 Olympics begin to unfold, here’s what you need to know about Australia’s water polo teams.

Australian Women’s Water Polo Team for 2024 Olympics

Zoe Arancini
Keesja Gofers
Abby Andrews
Elle Armit
Bronte Halligan
Tilly Kearns
Gabi Palm
Alice Williams
Sienna Hearn
Sienna Green
Genevieve Longman
Danijela Jackovich
Charlize Andrew

Australian Men’s Water Polo Team for 2024 Olympics

Nathan Power
Blake Edwards
Lachy Edwards
Nic Porter
Marcus Berehulak
John Hedges
Luke Pavillard
Angus Lambie
Charlie Negus
Chaz Poot
Jacob Mercep
Matthew Byrnes
Milos Maksimovic

The women’s team is nicknamed The Stingers and the men’s team is nicknamed The Sharks.

Australia’s Water Polo Achievements

The Australian women’s water polo team won Gold at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, Bronze at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and Bronze at the 2012 London Olympics. The Australian men’s water polo team has never won an Olympic medal.

Men’s water polo made its Olympic debut at the Paris Games in 1900. However, it took until the 2000 Sydney Olympics for women’s water polo to be officially a part of the games.

Published 9-July-2024

Ultra Manly to Expand Services with New Laundromat

The popular Ultra Manly petrol station is set to add a new service to its offerings. The Northern Beaches Local Planning Panel has approved plans for the installation of a self-service laundromat at the Pittwater Road location.

Read: Tributes Pour in for Beloved Manly Resident, Philanthropist Kay Van Norton Poche

Ultra Manly revised plans gain approval

The approval comes after an initial setback in February when the original development application (DA) was rejected. The initial plans included an automatic drive-through car wash, which faced opposition from local residents due to concerns about noise, increased traffic, and overshadowing of neighbouring homes.

In response, Ultra modified their DA by removing the automatic car wash component. This revised plan successfully gained approval from the planning panel last week.

The approved modifications include:
– Installation of a prefabricated self-service laundromat
– Expansion of the sales area into the current mechanics’ workshop space
– Addition of a new bathroom for people with disabilities

Customers using the laundromat will have access to designated parking spaces along the southern boundary of the property. It will be available during the following hours:
– Monday to Friday: 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
– Weekends and public holidays: 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Read: Tributes Pour in for Beloved Manly Resident, Philanthropist Kay Van Norton Poche

The approval of this modified development application represents a compromise between the petrol station’s expansion plans and the concerns of local residents. By removing the automatic car wash from the proposal, Ultra has addressed some of the primary objections raised by the community.

Published 28-June-2024

Historic Manly Landmark Hotel Steyne Set for $8 Million Makeover

The iconic Hotel Steyne, a cornerstone of Manly’s beachfront for over a century, is poised for an $8 million refurbishment. Northern Beaches Local Planning Panel has given the green light to a comprehensive renovation plan that promises to breathe new life into this historic establishment.

Read: Tributes Pour in for Beloved Manly Resident, Philanthropist Kay Van Norton Poche

The approved alterations encompass several key areas:

Bar: The heritage Round Bar will be reinstated, with plans to restore it to “its former glory as a saloon bar.” A new bar will also be added on the ground floor.

Facade: Changes include new ground floor doors, windows, and awnings, refreshing the hotel’s street presence.

Accommodation: Eight additional rooms will be added to the upstairs visitor accommodation.

Acoustics: The beer garden will receive acoustic treatments to enhance sound management.

Interior: Level 2 will see the existing bar removed and replaced with a new bar and bistro area.

Hotel Steyne, history and development

Hotel Steyne’s history is deeply intertwined with Manly’s development. Originally built in 1859 by Henry Gilbert Smith, the hotel has survived fires and rebuilds, continuously serving as a central fixture in the community. The current structure, dating back to the 1920s, stands as a testament to the area’s resilience and evolving character.

In 2019, Sydney property tycoon Sam Arnaout’s Iris Capital acquired Hotel Steyne for $65 million. This latest renovation follows a $3 million upgrade completed in 2020, which introduced a new cocktail bar, refurbished hotel rooms, and a coffee shop.

This $8 million refurbishment is part of a larger vision for the property. In 2022, Iris Capital received approval to construct a $16.2 million, four-storey apartment block attached to the northern side of the pub, facing the ocean on North Steyne.

Read: 10 Northern Beaches Residents Honoured: Manly Leads in King’s Birthday Awards

About Hotel Steyne

Hotel Steyne occupies a prime location opposite Manly Beach, offering visitors a quintessential Australian beachfront experience. The Art Deco building, constructed in 1936, stands at the intersection of The Corso and North Steyne, making it a focal point of Manly’s bustling tourist district.

Its position at the heart of Manly makes it an ideal base for exploring the area’s beaches, cafes, and shops, embodying the laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere that Manly is known for.

Published 27-June-2024

Tributes Pour in for Beloved Manly Resident, Philanthropist Kay Van Norton Poche

The Manly community is in mourning following the passing of long-time resident and renowned philanthropist, Kay Van Norton Poche AO, who died on June 14 after a prolonged illness.

Read: Independent Support Worker Transforms Lives in Manly Through Personalised Care

Tributes have poured in from all corners of the community, particularly from organisations that benefited from her and her husband’s extraordinary generosity.

Kay Van Norton Poche, alongside her husband Greg Poche, donated over $150 million to various causes after selling Greg’s logistics business, Star Track Express, for $750 million in 2003. Her contributions to healthcare, Indigenous health initiatives, and community support have left an indelible mark in Australia.

The NORTH Foundation, which received significant support from Kay, expressed its deep sorrow in a heartfelt tribute: “It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Kay Van Norton Poche AO, a beloved friend and supporter of the NORTH Foundation. Kay’s legacy of generosity and compassion has left an indelible mark on our community and her unwavering commitment to advancing healthcare will inspire for generations to come.”

Similarly, the Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice (AYAH), which she ardently supported, shared its condolences: “It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Kay Van Norton Poche AO, a cherished friend and supporter of the Manly Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice. Kay’s generosity and compassion have profoundly impacted our community, and her dedication to healthcare will continue to inspire future generations.”

Kay’s philanthropy was especially notable in Manly, where she made a landmark donation of $6 million in 2018 to support the AYAH. This hospice, the first of its kind in Australia, offers vital care and respite to young people with life-limiting illnesses, as well as support for their families and carers.

Born in upstate New York, Kay Van Norton Poche made Manly her home for many years, becoming a passionate supporter of local causes and the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles. Her dedication to the community extended to supporting the club’s Indigenous round jersey and numerous other initiatives.

Her contributions to health facilities across the nation are vast, with the Poches funding over $50 million to establish Poche Centres for Indigenous Health at universities around the country. This work earned her the title of Officer of the Order of Australia in 2019, in recognition of her distinguished service to Indigenous health and medical research initiatives, largely through the Poche Indigenous Health Network.

Kay was also a fervent supporter of the Melanoma Institute Australia, contributing several million dollars to their cause. Her commitment to advancing healthcare and supporting vital health services has left a lasting legacy that will benefit Australians for generations.

The NSW Parliament, represented by Member for Manly James Griffin, also paid tribute to Kay’s profound impact: “Her support of the Manly Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice will never be forgotten. The hospice is also known as Kay Van Norton Place. We are very grateful for her work. I will never forget the moment that she sought me out to make a donation to the hospice.”

Read: 10 Northern Beaches Residents Honoured: Manly Leads in King’s Birthday Awards

Kay Van Norton Poche’s passing is a significant loss for Manly and beyond. Her philanthropic spirit, compassion, and dedication to making the world a better place will continue to inspire and guide those who knew her and the many whose lives she touched.

Published 20-June-2024

10 Northern Beaches Residents Honoured: Manly Leads in King’s Birthday Awards

Two Manly locals have been celebrated for their outstanding contributions to surf lifesaving and publishing among ten Northern Beaches honourees in the 2024 King’s Birthday list.

Honour Roll Highlights

The King’s Birthday honours have recognised a broad spectrum of contributions from the Northern Beaches community. The late Kevin Ernest Weldon AM from Manly has been posthumously awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for his distinguished service in various fields including surf lifesaving and publishing. Alongside him, Mr. William Clifford Gee also from Manly received a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to surf lifesaving.

Mr Kevin Ernest WELDON AM — *Photo Credit: Graeme Inson*

Contributions Across the Northern Beaches

Other notable recipients include Anita Keelan from Fairlight and Lynn Kraus from North Balgowlah, who were both acknowledged as Members of the Order of Australia (AM) for their significant services in sports administration and business, respectively. Pamela Pritchard from Belrose and Michael Smith from Collaroy Plateau also received AMs for their contributions to community service and geological sciences.

AO (Officer of the Order of Australia): This is a higher level of recognition than the AM and is awarded for distinguished service of a high degree to Australia or to humanity at large. The recipients of this award have had a significant impact through their contributions and leadership.

Here are the 10 Northern Beaches awardees from the 2024 King’s Birthday honours list:

Name	Suburb	Award	Contribution
Mrs Lindsay Claire DAVIS	Freshwater	OAM	Service to surf lifesaving with Freshwater Surf Life Saving Club and Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches.
Mr William Clifford GEE	Manly	OAM	Service to surf lifesaving with Dee Why Surf Life Saving Club, and to the community.
Mrs Anita Blanche KEELAN	Fairlight	AM	Significant service to netball as a coach and administrator.
Ms Lynn Smith KRAUS	North Balgowlah	AM	Significant service to business and commerce, and to gender equality.
Mr Ian Kevin MATTHEWSON	Avalon Beach	OAM	Service to the community of Brisbane with Freemasons Queensland.
Ms Pamela Muriel PRITCHARD	Belrose	AM	Significant service to the community with Rotary, and to social welfare and education.
Mrs Maureen Anne RUTLIDGE	Elanora Heights	OAM	Service to the community of the Northern Beaches, including Special Needs education and community sport.
Mr Michael John SMITH	Collaroy Plateau	AM	Significant service to geological and earth sciences.
Dr Laurence John UPFOLD	Narrabeen	OAM	Service to people who are deaf or hard of hearing as an audiologist.
Mr Kevin Ernest WELDON AM	Manly (late)	AO	Distinguished service to surf lifesaving, publishing, animal welfare, and philanthropy.

AM (Member of the Order of Australia): This award is given for service in a particular locality or field of activity or to a particular group. It is lower than the AO but still recognizes significant achievement or meritorious service.

OAM (Medal of the Order of Australia): This is awarded for service worthy of particular recognition. Recipients of the OAM are usually those who have made valuable contributions at a local community level or whose achievements have a significant local impact.

Commemorative Services and Events

As the Commonwealth marks this significant occasion, an extra public holiday has been granted to most states on June 10, with varying dates across regions to ensure a spread of public holidays throughout the year. This weekend aligns with the UK’s annual Trooping the Colour parade, which commemorates the monarch’s official birthday, a tradition maintained for over 260 years.

Why Celebrate in June?

The timing for the King’s Birthday public holiday, widely observed in June despite the King’s actual birthday in November, is historically aligned with the UK due to the favourable weather conditions for public ceremonies. This tradition ensures that the celebrations and the associated honours list can be part of a grander, well-attended event.

Local Impact and Recognition

This year’s honours not only highlight the significant achievements of individuals from the Northern Beaches but also bring attention to the diverse ways in which these citizens have positively impacted their community and beyond. Their recognition serves as a beacon of inspiration and pride for the locals, showcasing the rich tapestry of dedication and service within the community.

Published 13-June-2024

Manly Beach Leads with Australia’s First Safety Code for Electric ‘Fat Bikes’

Australia’s first voluntary safety code for electric “fat bikes” has been launched at Manly Beach due to increasing safety concerns.

New South Wales (NSW) Police have logged hundreds of complaints regarding dangerously ridden electric “fat bikes” on the Northern Beaches since July 2023. The growing use and speed of these bikes have raised serious safety concerns, with reports of pedestrians being struck and injured by riders, some exceeding speeds of 40 km/h on shared paths.

Following a safety audit with local police, the council pushed for a meeting with state government officials to discuss stricter regulations on e-bike use on pedestrian paths. Mayor Sue Heins emphasised the importance of these discussions to prevent potential deaths or serious injuries.

Safety Code Launch

To address these concerns, Northern Beaches Council unveiled a voluntary safety code in May 2024. This initiative, part of a broader community awareness campaign, aims to foster safer interactions between bike riders and pedestrians.

The code advises riders to:

Reduce speed to walking pace when sharing the path with others,
Use their bell and announce their approach by saying “on your right”,
Remain vigilant for sudden movements from people, pets, and prams.

This campaign was kicked off with an instructional video in Manly, aiming to set a precedent for other Councils across Australia.

Community Response and Enforcement

Local enforcement agencies and Bicycle NSW support the council’s efforts. Educational institutions like Stella Maris College Manly have also backed the campaign, which has implemented stringent safety measures for students using e-bikes.

In Australia, e-bikes are treated similarly to bicycles under the law but must not assist pedalling beyond 25 km/h. Children under 16 can ride on footpaths accompanied by an adult. All bike riders must have a functioning bell and wear a helmet.

Whilst local sales comply with Australian standards, concerns remain about e-bikes bought from overseas without quality control. Furthermore, personal e-scooters are still illegal on public roads and paths in NSW, restricted only to private property.

This new initiative by Northern Beaches Council marks a significant step towards improving the safety of both pedestrians and riders in the area, particularly on the busy shared paths of Manly Beach.

Published 10-June-2024

Bourbon Street Band Returns to Aid Children Charity in Manly Beach

Photo Credit: The Community Leader

The iconic Manly Harbour Boat Club is set to host a reunion concert that promises to be a musical extravaganza with a heart at Manly Beach.

After a two-decade hiatus, the legendary Bourbon Street Band will make their much-anticipated return to Brisbane, headlining the “Rockin’ it for the Kids” charity concert in support of Variety, the Children’s Charity.

Fans can expect a high-octane performance filled with beloved hits from the band’s extensive catalogue, along with electrifying covers of rock legends like The Doors, Neil Young, Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and AC/DC.

The talented young musicians of “Clear Vision,” a group of visually impaired kids whose passion for music knows no bounds, will join the band, adding an extra layer of inspiration to the occasion.

buy tickets here

The concert aims to raise crucial funds for Variety, a charity dedicated to improving the lives of sick, disadvantaged, and special needs children across Australia. All proceeds from ticket sales and raffles will directly benefit the organisation’s vital programmes and services.

The event organisers encourage music lovers and supporters of children’s charities to come together for an unforgettable afternoon of entertainment and generosity. With its star-studded lineup and charitable purpose, “Rockin’ it for the Kids” is poised to be a landmark event on the Manly music scene.

Published Date 17-May-2024

Manly Beach Stage Beckons Young Jazz Musicians

Manly Jazz, Australia’s most enduring jazz celebration, is offering school bands a chance to shine at its upcoming 47th festival.

The return of the “Jazz Stars of the Future Stage” provides a platform for bands to showcase their talents in front of enthusiastic crowds.

This opportunity allows students to reach a wider audience and perform alongside acclaimed jazz artists, facilitating inspiration and growth.

Participation in Manly Jazz promises valuable musical development as young musicians explore diverse styles and connect with a passionate audience on a professional stage.

Bands demonstrating skill and a love of jazz are encouraged to apply. The application process is simple, with a webform to be completed by the 20th June 2024. There is no application fee.

Manly Jazz will take place along the Manly Corso from 20th and 22nd of September, 2024. For any queries, please contact events@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au.

Published Date 10-May-2024

Manly Wharf Set for Community-Led Revamp Under New Owners

Photo Credit: Google Map/ Terezinha Polaca

Did you know that Manly Wharf is about to undergo a makeover? The new owners, hospitality gurus from Brisbane, are teaming up with the local community to create something truly special.

*Photo Credit: Google Map/ Justin Fischli*

Artemus, known for revitalising waterfront destinations like Brisbane’s Howard Smith Wharves, secured the keys to the property this week. This acquisition follows their purchase of the nearby Manly Wharf Hotel last year, forming a combined $110-million investment.

Manly Wharf has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. Once a purely functional transport hub, it has blossomed into a vibrant hospitality precinct. TMG Developments, the previous owners, spearheaded a $9 million facelift eight years ago, paving the way for a diverse offering of restaurants and bars, including Queen Chow, Hugos, and the Manly Wharf Hotel itself.

The historic wharf, constructed in 1855, serves as a vital link for the estimated 2.5 million commuters and day-trippers who utilise the adjoining ferry and bus terminals annually. Its prime location and heritage value have solidified its status as a cherished Sydney landmark.

Artemus Group’s leadership team, including Adam Flaskas, Paul Henry, and Luke Fraser, is committed to working hand-in-hand with the Manly community to elevate the wharf’s offerings.

*Photo Credit: Google Map/ Michael McRoberts*

Mr Flaskas stated that their team has a demonstrated history of revitalising waterfront areas, converting them into vibrant community centers. They see the Manly Wharf project as an enticing prospect and are enthusiastic about applying their skills and innovative ideas, with a focus on preserving the local essence and fostering a cohesive community spirit.

Flaskas hinted at some immediate improvements while emphasising continued business operations. Public engagement is a key focus for the new owners.

Mr Henry expressed encouragement for everyone to visit, introduce themselves, and contribute their thoughts. He expressed gratitude for the warm reception and conveyed excitement about joining such a lively community.

The property’s inherent value and growth potential attracted significant domestic and international interest during the sales process, according to CBRE’s Simon Rooney.

Mr Rooney said that Manly Wharf stands out as a rare and coveted asset, characterised by its iconic position, longstanding occupants, and impressive track record, all of which have generated considerable interest among potential buyers.

Robert Magid, the previous owner who once proposed an ultimately rejected six-storey hotel extension, acknowledged the transformation spearheaded by his group.

Mr Magid highlighted the substantial revitalisation effort that transformed Manly Wharf from a dilapidated condition. He expressed curiosity about the future trajectory of this iconic landmark under Artemus’ guidance.

Published Date 28-April-2024

Independent Support Worker Transforms Lives in Manly Through Personalised Care

Livia Nascimento, an independent support worker, has significantly impacted the Manly and Northern Beaches community by integrating her varied education and culinary arts skills into personalised care for people with disabilities and the elderly.

Livia boasts a diverse background as a teacher, chef, Reiki master, and yoga enthusiast, which uniquely positions her within the support worker industry.

Having joined the health-tech platform Mable in 2020, Livia has dedicated over a thousand hours to her role, providing comprehensive support by leveraging her extensive skill set.

Livia Nascimento Manly Mable — *Photo Credit: Mable/YouTube*

Livia’s approach to support work is highly personalised, crafting activities that resonate with her clients’ interests and needs. She has worked extensively with clients like Conor, a young boy with Down syndrome, helping him and his mother establish beneficial routines at home while engaging him in activities such as cooking, attending appointments, and celebrating festive occasions in the community.

Each day brings new challenges for Livia as she works with a variety of clients in both disability and aged care settings across Sydney. From assisting older individuals like Roxy, Wendy, and Bob with daily tasks and recreational activities to adapting to the unique needs of each client, no two days are the same.

Livia emphasises the reciprocal nature of her work, where both she and her clients benefit from their interactions. The job is a continuous learning experience, filled with moments of joy and personal connection, making every day rewarding.

Mable’s platform not only helps Livia connect with clients but also provides her with essential support ranging from technical assistance to psychological support during challenging times. This backing has been crucial in her ability to deliver high-quality, flexible care.

Published 26-April-2024