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Cold Chisel Manager Rod Willis Selling His Avalon Beach Home for $3.25M

For nearly four decades, Rod Willis’ Avalon Beach home was his retreat from the world of rock and roll. Now, the former Cold Chisel manager is saying goodbye as the property hits the market.

Cold Chisel Manager’s Avalon Home Hits the Market

A home with ties to rock history in Australia is on the market in Avalon, where Rod Willis, long-time manager of Cold Chisel, is set to sell his beachfront holiday house. With only a short 300 metres from Avalon Beach and village, the 1,391sqm property has been his escape since 1987, providing a relief from the manic music lifestyle.

Now 78, Willis and wife Gay are retiring, listing the four-bedroom, two-bathroom home for sale on March 18, with a $3.25 million guide price. The home has expansive living spaces, multiple decks, a saltwater pool, and tropical gardens, epitomizing the easy Avalon lifestyle.

A Quiet Retreat from a Loud Career

As the manager of Cold Chisel, Willis played a crucial role in the band’s success, guiding them from pub gigs to legendary stadium performances. Years spent on tour and travelling on the road took its toll, so he and his wife chose Avalon as their haven, drawn by the relaxed coastal way of life.

The single-storey home has served as an isolated refuge from the demands of the music industry. Now that the couple embarks on a new chapter in their lives, they are more than happy to leave it behind for new proprietors who would appreciate its uniqueness and its address.

A Highly Sought-After Location

The property enjoys seclusion with ease of access in Sydney’s premier Northern Beaches suburb. It is a short walk from Avalon Beach and village, and therefore close proximity to local cafes, shopping, and community amenities.

With the heavy demand for Avalon properties, the March 18 auction will probably be in hot demand. To buyers, it’s not just a house—it’s the chance to own a piece of Australian music history in a sought-after beachside location.

Published 19-March-2025

Dramatic Rescue Reveals Hidden Dangers of Whale Beach

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons / Sardaka

On the evening of Thursday, 27 February 2025, Whale Beach became the scene of a complex rescue operation that highlighted the challenging and unpredictable nature of this secluded Northern Beaches location.

Incident Location

The rescue took place on a remote rock platform approximately 700 meters south of Whale Beach’s rock pool, an area known for its rugged and potentially hazardous terrain. Situated near Rayner Road, this stretch of coastline presents unique challenges for emergency responders due to its rocky landscape and difficult access points.

Rescue Challenges

The incident underscored the specific geographical complexities of Whale Beach:

Steep cliff faces
Treacherous rock platforms
Limited access routes
Rapidly changing tide conditions

The incoming tide, expected to peak at 9:11 PM, added significant urgency to the rescue operation, demonstrating the unforgiving nature of Whale Beach’s coastal environment.

Emergency Response

Local emergency services mounted an extensive response:

Northern Beaches Police Area Command deployed four units
NSW Ambulance sent five crews, including Intensive Care and Special Operations Paramedics
Fire and Rescue NSW Avalon Station provided critical rescue equipment
Toll NSW Ambulance Rescue Helicopter was dispatched from Bankstown

Rescue Details

The operation involved two teenage boys:

A 15-year-old with an ankle injury was carried to the rock pool and transported by road to Westmead Hospital
A 14-year-old with a head and lower back injury required helicopter extraction due to the difficult terrain

The rescue was complicated by darkness and strong winds gusting up to 30 km/h, typical of Whale Beach’s exposed coastal location.

Ongoing Considerations

The incident raises important questions about safety along Whale Beach’s challenging coastline, particularly for young people navigating its rocky and potentially treacherous terrain.

Local authorities continue to investigate the precise circumstances of the boys’ injuries, with particular attention to the unique geographical features of this specific Whale Beach location.

Published 28-February-2025

Avalon Beach Surf Lifesavers Honoured with National Medal for Dedication to Service

Avalon Beach Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) is celebrating the outstanding achievements of its members who have been recognised with the prestigious National Medal, First Clasps, and Second Clasps for their unwavering commitment to surf lifesaving.

Read: Avalon Beach Surf Life Saving Club Marks 100 Years of Community Service

The National Medal, awarded on behalf of the Governor-General of Australia, acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated long and diligent service in organisations dedicated to protecting life and property. Originally established as a military recognition in 1975, it has since become one of Australia’s highest civilian honours.

Photo credit: Avalon Beach SLSC/Facebook

Leading the honours for Avalon Beach SLSC is Warren Young OAM, who has been awarded the National Medal – First Clasp in recognition of 25 years of service. Several other dedicated club members have received the National Medal for 15 years of service, highlighting their commitment to keeping beachgoers safe. These recipients include:

Robert Hopton
Richard Cole
Geoffrey Ward
Peter Brennan
Jeffrey Nesbitt
William Elliott
Colin Campbell
Nicholas Wood
Michael Stanley-Jones
Roland Luke
Tim Hixson
Mark Heffernan
Jason Brown

Bilgola SLSC Awardees Recognised

Several members of Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club have also been honoured with the National Medal for their dedication to surf lifesaving. The following individuals have been recognised for 15 years of service:

Romilly Madew
Peter Fenley
Levi Broughton-Rouse
Robert Farr
Andrea Whittet
Bruce Scheffers
Geoff Raper
Craig Poppleton
John Lawson
David Gillard
Greg Franks
Louise Edgley
David Edgley
Nigel Penn

Read: Avalon Youth Hub Rebrands and Expands as “Beaches Youth Hub”

The honours received by Avalon Beach and Bilgola SLSC members highlight their dedication, selflessness, and years of service in protecting the lives of beachgoers. Their commitment plays a crucial role in maintaining surf lifesaving as an essential part of the Australian coastal community.

Published 28-February-2025

Avalon Residents Invited to Have Their Say on Draft Tree Management Policy

Photo Credit: Just Two Trees/YouTube

An open public consultation on the new Draft Tree Management Policy seeks to unify existing policies and enhance tree protection across the region, including in Avalon. The community is encouraged to input as part of efforts to manage the area’s extensive tree canopy.

A Move Towards Consistency in Tree Management

The proposed Draft Tree Management Policy replaces five separate policies from the former authorities, aiming to create a consistent and strategic approach to tree preservation. According to the city officials, the policy aligns with the Northern Beaches Tree Canopy Plan (2023) and prioritises sustainable management, public safety, and biodiversity.

The outlined key objectives of the draft policy include:

Strengthening tree assessment and protection requirements.
Expanding green links between natural areas.
Managing public trees through succession planting and maintenance programs.
Prioritising alternative solutions before tree removal.
Preferring locally occurring native species for new plantings.

Once adopted, the policies of the three former city authorities will be revoked in favour of a single streamlined policy.

Just Two Trees: The Ruskin Rowe Dispute in Avalon

The announcement comes amid ongoing tensions in Avalon, where removing historic Flooded Gums on Ruskin Rowe has sparked community backlash. In May 2024, NBC informed Ruskin Rowe residents of its plan to remove four trees following a fallen branch incident that damaged a parked vehicle.

While two trees were removed, the final two were protected through a month-long blockade by local residents and community groups. The dispute highlights the broader debate over risk versus environmental benefits, with many locals arguing that Avalon’s tree canopy is an irreplaceable asset.

Award-winning filmmaker Bruce Walters has documented the Ruskin Rowe fight in his latest work, “Just Two Trees”, showcasing the passion of Pittwater residents defending their local landscape.

How and When to Participate

Community members are encouraged to review the Draft Tree Management Policy and submit their feedback.

Submissions opened: Monday, 24 February 2025
Submissions close: Sunday, 30 March 2025

HAVE YOUR SAY

The feedback will be reviewed in April-May 2025, after which a final report will be presented to the NBC for a decision in mid-2025.

For more information or to provide feedback, visit Your Say Northern Beaches.

Published 25-Feb-2025

190X Bus Service Reductions Leave Avalon Residents Stranded

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

Avalon residents are struggling to get to work. Significant reductions to the 190X bus service, with some services cut by a quarter, have left commuters stranded and late.

Changes to the 190X bus route directly linking Avalon Beach and Sydney’s central business district have sparked widespread anger among locals. Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby has voiced strong concerns about the impact of these cuts, highlighting the frustration of commuters who rely on the service. The issues have come to light as the NSW Auditor-General pointed out problems with managing bus contracts.

Commuters’ Daily Struggles

190X Bus Service Reductions Leave Avalon Residents Stranded — *Photo Credit:* *Avalon What’s On/ Facebook group*

People who use the 190X service report that the buses are often cancelled or delayed, making it difficult to get to work on time. One commuter, Adam Radcliffe, who has used the service for 16 years, said that the reliability of the buses has worsened since Keolis Downer took over operations. Another commuter, Stephanie Lamacchia, expressed concern that the unreliability of the service is putting her job at risk. A regular commuter, Shell Morgan, explained that even the B-Line service, a fast and reliable option, has experienced problems, including drivers stopping unexpectedly and leaving passengers stranded.

The problems are not limited to cancellations. One resident, Margaret Perusich, believes the bus service is being sabotaged to reduce the number of passengers and, therefore, the route needs. Another resident, Eamonn Murray, has pointed out that even with the new timetable, multiple buses are being cancelled and the queues at bus stops are longer than ever.

Political Response and Service Changes

Ms Scruby is actively collecting feedback from the community to present to the Minister for Transport and the bus operator. She stated that the cuts to the 190X service are unacceptable, especially given the existing challenges faced by commuters in the area. She also noted that the problem is not isolated to Avalon but is a symptom of wider issues within the privatised bus network.

Transport for NSW Coordinator-General Howard Collins attributed the service reductions to the removal of articulated buses due to chassis failures and a shortage of bus drivers. He explained that efforts are being made to minimise the impact on passengers. However, some timetable adjustments were necessary to ensure that the busiest services and school buses operate normally. An industry insider stated that repairs to the articulated buses are proving more difficult than expected and may require significant re-engineering.

Ms Scruby acknowledged that the B-Line service has improved but maintained that the cuts to the 190X service are unjustified. She urges commuters to share their experiences to help her push for action. The 190X service, which ran 12 buses Monday to Thursday mornings, is now reduced to nine. Monday, 3 March saw 3 of the 9 inbound 190x services cancelled.

Community Concerns and Historical Context

Frank Locallad, a long-time resident, expressed concern about losing other local express bus services. He stated that the current problems are part of a long-term decline in public transport in the area and highlighted that travel times have increased significantly over the years.

Published Date 23-Feb-2025

Avalon Trees: Local Community Fights to Save Flooded Gums

Photo Credit: Canopy Keepers

In a significant display of environmental activism in Avalon, northern beaches residents have mounted an extraordinary campaign to save two 60-year-old flooded gums (Eucalyptus grandis) from removal by Northern Beaches Council.

The dispute began in May last year when council ordered the removal of two trees in the tree-lined Ruskin Rowe following a risk assessment. Two additional trees were marked for removal after a branch damaged a Mercedes, but determined Avalon locals quickly organised to prevent further cutting.

Deb Collins, convener of local group Canopy Keepers, noted that the “owner of the damaged car to our knowledge didn’t take umbrage with council” or seek to have the trees removed. She emphasised that while “quite possibly those [first two] trees did have issues,” the community was “not convinced the next two trees had to come down.”

The response from Avalon residents was unprecedented, with a peaceful blockade halting the planned felling, followed by a month-long community vigil throughout June. “I’ve lived in Avalon about 12 years, and I’ve never seen… that level of interest,” Collins said, noting that over 50 people from various environmental groups and local residents participated in the action.

The community’s commitment extended to crowdfunding an independent arborist assessment by Mark Hartley, who found “nothing that suggests that the risk associated with either of these trees is outside the broadly acceptable range.”

Award-winning Avalon filmmaker Bruce Walters, who has called the northern beaches home for 20 years, documented the controversy in “Just Two Trees,” released Monday. Walters, now living in nearby Bilgola Plateau, said he has become accustomed to “the sound of chainsaws” in the area.

Greens councillor Miranda Korzy, who represents the Pittwater ward including Avalon, said the campaign “wasn’t just about” those two “magnificent” trees but represented “the community putting a stake in the ground” for stronger tree protections.

The Northern Beaches Council is expected to make a final decision following another independent arborist assessment due next month, while a new tree management policy was set for public comment release.

Published 19-February-2025

Avalon Car Theft Ends with Heartwarming Dog Rescue

Photo Credit: Freerangestock

An Avalon woman’s routine trip to the local shops turned into a community-wide search when her car was stolen with her beloved dog, Amico, still inside. The incident, which unfolded across several Northern Beaches suburbs, left residents both shocked and captivated by the strange sequence of events that followed.

The unsettling discovery occurred on Sunday, 19 January, when Virginia, an Avalon local, left her Hilux Dual Cab briefly unattended outside Palm Beach Wine Co., with her keys in the ignition and Amico, a Kelpie crossed Border Collie, in the backseat. Within ten minutes, her car was gone, sparking an emotional ordeal that stretched over two tense days.

A Strange Phone Call and a Car Left Behind

Despite immediate police involvement, no trace of the vehicle or Amico was found that day. But the mystery deepened the next morning when Virginia received an unexpected call on her landline—a number known only to those with access to her missing phone, which had been inside the stolen vehicle.

The man on the line claimed to have seen a black dog jumping in and out of a car at Nolan Reserve, Manly, before abruptly hanging up. Although his identity remains unknown, Virginia suspects he may have been the car thief himself. Acting on the tip, she located her Hilux thoughtfully parked under a tree near the reserve. However, Amico was nowhere to be seen.

Amico the rescued dog from Avalon — *Photo Credit: What’s On Avalon/Facebooka*

A Community Comes Together

The search for Amico took a hopeful turn the next day when Annie Johnson, a local social worker, spotted a distressed black dog darting around Oliver Street in Freshwater. Exhausted and visibly shaken, the dog willingly jumped into Annie’s car. Realising the dog was far from home, she brought him to Harbord Vet and posted a photo in the popular Facebook group, ‘Avalon What’s On.’

By the time Annie arrived at work, her post had exploded with comments from concerned community members. It wasn’t long before the connection was made to Virginia’s earlier plea for help, leading to a heartwarming reunion between Virginia and her beloved Amico. Despite being shaken, Amico was safe, ending the ordeal with relief and gratitude.

Unanswered Questions Linger

While Amico’s return brought joy, the case remains unsolved. Police examined Virginia’s vehicle for fingerprints and reviewed CCTV footage from Palm Beach Wine Co., but no solid leads have emerged. The identity of the mysterious caller—whether a good Samaritan or the thief with a guilty conscience—remains unknown.

Virginia has since reflected on the incident with a simple but stern message to her community: never leave your keys in the car, even in familiar places.

Published 5-February-2025

Randy’s Wine Bar in Avalon Offers Happy Hour Deals to Beat Summer Heat

Photo Credit: Randy’s Wine/ Instagram

Avalon Beach residents can enjoy discounted drinks and oysters at Randy’s Wine Bar throughout the summer.

This small but stylish wine bar, nestled in the heart of Avalon Beach, offers locals a way to socialise without breaking the bank this summer. Formerly known as Sandy’s, the venue has been transformed by the team behind the popular Bar Elvina.

Aperitivo Hour: Oysters and Drinks on the Cheap

*Photo Credit:* *Randy’s Wine/ Instagram*

Randy’s Wine offers a special aperitivo hour from Wednesday to Friday, between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.. During this time, patrons can indulge in $3 oysters, $10 glasses of wine, $7 schooners of Estrella, and $12 margaritas. This provides a perfect opportunity to relax and unwind after a long day or catch up with friends while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Beyond the Bottle: Exploring the Drinks Menu

Randy's Wine Bar — *Photo Credit:* *Randy’s Wine/ Instagram*

While the name suggests a focus on wine, Randy’s offers a diverse menu with something for everyone. They have a curated selection of wines from around the world, including reds, whites, and even skin-contact varieties (also known as orange wines). For those who prefer cocktails, Randy’s has unique options like the oyster shell martini and a special zero-alcohol cocktail.

A Taste of the Sea (and Land!): Randy’s Food Offerings

The food menu at Randy’s is just as impressive. Seafood lovers can enjoy fresh Sydney rock oysters, Clarence River octopus, and fried calamari with tarragon mayo. If seafood isn’t your preference, there are other delicious options like chicken liver parfait and burrata with peach vinegar. Randy’s also offers a “let us feed you” menu for $50 per person, allowing diners to sample their best dishes.

Local Raves: Randy’s Wins Over Avalon

Randy’s Wine has quickly become a favourite among locals with its cosy atmosphere, delicious food, and extensive drinks menu. Reviewers praised the bar for its outstanding food, wine recommendations, and service. One customer even declared it has the “best food in Avalon,” highlighting the fantastic service and wine recommendations.

Published Date 22-Jan-2025

Cleaner Convicted Over Jewellery Theft in Avalon Beach

Photo Credit: Pexels

At Pittwater Palms in Avalon Beach, a retirement village home to elderly residents, including a 94-year-old woman, a cleaner used a master key to enter private homes. Over several months, 20 pieces of jewellery valued at nearly $120,000 were stolen.

The stolen items, many holding significant sentimental value, were pawned for a total of just $6,510. Some were later recovered, but others had already been sold or melted down, leaving victims without hope of retrieving their cherished belongings.

Jewellery theft Avalon Beach — *Photo Credit: Pittwater Palms Retirement Village/Google Maps*

A Serious Breach of Trust

For many residents, the thefts were not just a financial loss but an emotional one. Irreplaceable family heirlooms, some passed down through generations, were among the stolen pieces.

In court, the cleaner pleaded guilty to 20 charges, including making false statements and dealing with the proceeds of crime. The magistrate described the actions as a “disgraceful” breach of trust, particularly given the vulnerability of the victims.

Sentencing and Consequences

The cleaner was sentenced to seven months of community-supervised jail time and ordered to complete 50 hours of community service. Fines totalling $4,000 were also imposed, with $200 for each offence.

The case has highlighted concerns about the level of trust placed in staff at aged care facilities and the potential risks to residents’ safety and security.

Cleaner pleaded guilty to 20 charges. — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Community Impact

Residents and their families expressed deep sadness and anger over the thefts. Many described the stolen items as more than valuables—they were symbols of personal history and family connections.

While some pieces of jewellery were recovered, the loss of other items left a lasting emotional toll on the victims. Families have since called for improved security measures and stricter controls over access to residents’ homes.

A Call for Better Protections

This incident has sparked discussions about how to better protect vulnerable communities in aged care settings. Families are urging retirement villages to review security policies and ensure access to residents’ homes is strictly controlled.

While the conviction of the cleaner offers some resolution, the emotional scars for residents and their families remain. The loss of treasured possessions has underscored the need for vigilance and stronger safeguards in retirement facilities.

Published 16-Jan-2025

Community Concerns Over Proposed Development in Avalon

Photo Credit: DA2024/1091

A proposal to build a Dan Murphy’s liquor store with a childcare centre above it in Avalon has drawn widespread opposition from local residents, citing concerns about traffic, safety, and the impact on small businesses.

The development application DA2024/1091 seeks to construct a $7.2 million facility on Careel Head Road, Avalon Beach. The plan includes a Dan Murphy’s liquor store on the ground floor and a 60-place childcare centre directly above it.

The proposal also features additional retail outlets as part of the site redevelopment. Submissions about the proposal have been reviewed by NBC, with the Northern Beaches Local Planning Panel responsible for determining its future.

Avalon development concerns — *Photo Credit: DA2024/1091*

The project has triggered strong community resistance, with more than 130 objections lodged, including formal submissions from local residents and health authorities. Concerns range from traffic congestion and parking issues to the perceived incompatibility of placing a liquor store and childcare facility in such close proximity.

Avalon childcare and liquor store site. — *Photo Credit: DA2024/1091*

Key Issues Raised by Residents

Traffic and Parking Challenges

Residents have pointed to existing traffic congestion on Careel Head Road and Barrenjoey Road as a significant concern. The location already experiences heavy congestion, particularly during weekends and summer, with cars frequently parked in “No Stopping” zones near the proposed site. Locals worry that the addition of a major retail outlet will exacerbate these issues.

Lee de Gail, a long-time resident of Careel Head Road, noted that the intersection is already hazardous due to poor visibility and the high volume of vehicles. “This proposal will clearly exacerbate this issue, not to mention it is a dangerous intersection,” they wrote, further describing the area as unsuitable for a large-scale retail development.

Traffic congestion concerns near Careel Head Road in Avalon. — *Photo Credit: DA2024/1091*

Impact on Local Businesses

Opponents of the plan argue that Avalon is already well-serviced by existing bottle shops, with four liquor stores in the immediate vicinity. Kathryn Walsh, a nearby resident, expressed concern that introducing a Dan Murphy’s could lead to the closure of smaller, locally-owned businesses that have served the community for years.

Child Safety Concerns

Many submissions have criticised the decision to co-locate a childcare centre with a liquor store, describing it as inappropriate and potentially harmful. Robert Hills, a resident of Coral Close, called the combination “completely unacceptable,” adding, “Who thought it was appropriate to mix alcohol with children?” Health authorities, including the Northern Sydney Local Health District, have also formally objected, citing the Northern Beaches’ higher-than-average rates of alcohol-related harm.

Proposed Avalon development with Dan Murphy’s and childcare centre. — *Photo Credit: DA2024/1091*

Broader Implications for Avalon

Residents fear that the proposed development’s design and scale are incompatible with Avalon’s character and streetscape. Ms De Gail described the project as a “monstrosity” and an “eyesore,” arguing that it does not reflect the community’s identity. There is also concern about the impact on property values and the potential strain on existing infrastructure.

Next Steps

Dan Murphy’s store plan. — *Photo Credit: DA2024/1091*

The Northern Beaches Local Planning Panel will review the city authority’s report on the proposal, which incorporates feedback from community submissions. The timeline for a decision remains unclear, but the high level of opposition indicates that the plan faces significant hurdles.

Residents and health organisations alike are urging the council to reject the proposal, emphasising the importance of prioritising community needs, safety, and local business sustainability.

Published 16-Jan-2025