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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Photo credit: Liz Clout/Google Maps
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.
Photo credit: Good for Manly/Facebook
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
Photo credit: Northern Beaches Council/Facebook
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Photo Credit: Google Maps
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
We’ve combed Manly and Manly Beach for the best reviewed restaurants in the area where people waxed lyrical about their dining experience and what they love most about it. Here’s our list!
Aaron Wilkes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We visited the Pantry this evening, the food was amazing and definitely worth 5 stars; however Killian and Augustine made it a 10star experience. A must visit when in Manly. Also despite the negative reviews around the prawn spaghetti… the waiters explained the dish well and it was as explained and delicious! If you are looking for a cheap prawn linguine then go elsewherez! If you are looking for a sophisticated dish then the Pantry is for you
T. C. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The view cannot be beat so I didn’t have high expectations for the food but I was wrong. The grilled fish was outstanding, as were the vegetable sides and the cheese plate. Everyone working there was nice and attentive. Everything about my meal here was fantastic and I highly recommend it.
Ema Hribovšek ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you’re looking for an unforgettable culinary experience on Manly Beach, Pantry restaurant is the place to be. During our visit, we enjoyed delightful seafood appetizers, prepared with the utmost care and freshness. The steaks were perfectly cooked, juicy, and full of flavor—each bite was a real treat. The highlight of the afternoon was the dessert, which left us all wonderfully impressed and perfectly concluded this excellent indulgence of flavors. The chefs demonstrated their mastery and dedication to the culinary arts, and the entire team ensured an exceptionally pleasant experience. Kudos to the chefs and the entire team at Pantry restaurant for providing us with an afternoon we won’t soon forget. Ema
Belinda Han ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Came here due to the good reviews and the love for seafood. Definitely did not disappoint. All the waitresses and the bartender were super attentive and provided excellent service. Their genuineness impressed my partner and I, and we always felt taken care of. But not as much as the quality and flavours of the food we were provided. I loved the all the entrees, especially the crumpets, Bao’s and the spanner crab. The red snapper and squid ink pasta were to die for. The hojicha basque cheesecake was especially delicious being a huge fan for Japanese tea. This local business is a wonderful institution to Manly for their food and service. Would highly recommend and thank you for taking good care of us!
Stephanie ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If I could give six stars I would! This was my first time dining at The Herring room and it certainly won’t be the last. This gorgeous intimate restaurant has an inviting and warm atmosphere. Every single meal we ordered was delectable and cleverly presented. I highly recommend the slow cooked TAS octopus, smoked fish mousse and the black mussels accompanied with a Shiraz. The staff were attentive and accommodating. I certainly look forward to returning and having another remarkable dining experience.
Jarell Siek ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The food was spectacular, the staff really provided great service! And the lady boss was just so lovely to talk! She treated my family really warmly while we were having our dinner at The Herring Room! Would love to be back again 🙂
S K ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had a great time with family dining at Manly Grill on a sunny summer afternoon. We enjoyed their seafood and steaks. My favorite dishes are the seafood chowder and pork ribs. The seafood chowder is rich, creamy, plentiful with chunks of seafood, it’s delicious and comforting. The pork ribs are flavorful and tender. The staff are helpful and attentive. Will come back again!
Tom Law ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ My meal, 3:30pm on Saturday , started with seeing a waiter and waitress whom looked young, and the service was cold. I was going to rate down this restaurant- but- Vaneska saved the day, much stronger performance, totally attentive, able to reassure me, the customer. Full marks for service. Food included appetiser grilled eggplant, a “ wagyu cube roll” medium rare- excellent- the perfect steak. No sauce necessary, marbling was very appropriate. Only improvements required is the wash room. Leaking tap , bit small for the number of tables. I thoroughly recommend this restaurant, Manly Grill, please tip Vaneska is she is your waitress.
Ellen Schwartz ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Fantastic meal! The ribs were deliciously tender, the carrots were perfect, and the eggplant was delicious. The pork belly was amazing. The mocktails were on point and our server Saroj was prompt, clarified our order and allowed us to change up our lamb choice without issue. The patio view of the beach topped off this lunch for us. We will be back!!
Mark Downey ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely great night, super food, steak tartare to die for, Boulibaisse seafood finished of with an Irish Ballerina cocktail (baileys and stuff) Served with elegance By Sonja and Julie. Dad, Manu, busy in the backgroud!!
Victor Northhead ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I stumbled upon Hemingway’s Manly while out for a walk, and I’m so glad I did! We’ve always walked past it but never went in until now. The staff were incredibly kind, friendly, and accommodating from the moment we sat down. The food was absolutely fantastic—my croque madame and the bad boy hot pot were both delicious and so filling! We also enjoyed some mimosas and coffee, which were spot on. What made the experience even better was how welcoming they were to my dog, Oreo. He even got some special treats, which was a lovely touch. Highly recommend this place and will definitely be coming back!
Julie Sol Lee ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I found this incredible restaurant in Manly last minute, and it turned out to be a fantastic choice. The owner/manager was exceptionally empathetic and accommodating, making our experience truly special. The food was outstanding—my partner raved about the rainbow trout, saying it was the best he’s ever had, and I loved the duck dish, wagyu burger and the crème brûlée dessert. The ambiance was delightful, with a French chic vibe and a quaint, vintage feel. The colour palette, mainly black and white with earthy tones, was beautifully accented by striking pops of red. The staff were all friendly and welcoming. Plus, the location is perfect, right near the beach, providing lovely views whether you’re seated outside or by the window. I highly recommend this restaurant—it’s a true gem!
Jenna ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Had lunch here at the weekend and the food was incredible. Nicest meal I’ve had out in a long time. We were a group of 10, so we got a wide variety of dishes to share and every item was DELICIOUS! Two faves of mine were the cauliflower and the pumpkin curry. Highly recommend.
Emily Ryan ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Went with a girlfriend for happy hour then transitioned into dinner and it was incredible. Happy hour $12 plates were great size and a great price for the quantity and quality. Highly recommend the crispy chicken and the lychee spritz for only $10 each, which was perfect. Lucy was an amazing server and always coming to check in and see how things were as well as taking our drink orders quickly during happy hour to make sure we have as many as possible. Highly recommend for a great feed and a great time with a view of manly beach.
Clair Davies ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This venue is an absolute gem – stunning beachside views 🌊☀️ and such a great vibe overall. Went for the Boggie Brunch with boggie 🎶🍾 and it was such a cool time! The food was amazing 🍽️😋 – fresh and full of flavour – and the team were super attentive with the drinks 🥂💃🏼. Glasses were never empty for long! Highly recommend for a fun, laid-back day out 🙌✨. Can’t wait to go back again!
