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

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

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

Photo Credit: Avalon Beach SLSC/Facebook

Celebrating a century of volunteer life saving, community service, and commitment to keep Avalon Beach safe, Avalon Beach Surf Life Saving Club (Avalon Beach SLSC) will mark its centennial in 2025.

Established in 1925 by A.J. Small, frequently referred to as the “Father of Avalon Beach,” the Avalon Beach SLSC sprang from the increasing popularity of ocean bathing. Active surf patrols on the beach began on 31 January 1926 when the first Bronze Medallion squad, comprising Geoff Small and others, passed their exam.

Initially, the club operated without a dedicated clubhouse, with equipment stored in a basic shed. By 1929, only a deteriorating rescue reel remained on the beach. The local community intervened, and a small storage shed was built, with locals ensuring its upkeep.

Avalon Beach centenary commemorative event highlights. — *Photo Credit: Avalon Beach SLSC*

In the 1930s, efforts by Dick Wilson and his brother Barry helped revive membership, leading to a new Bronze Medallion squad in 1935. During World War II, boys from Woolloomooloo and Leichhardt Police Boys’ Clubs stepped in to keep Avalon Beach patrolled.

Innovation and Life Saving Milestones

In the 1960s, Avalon Beach SLSC member Warren Mitchell revolutionised surf rescue with the introduction of the Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB). After experimenting with inflatable craft and motors, Mr Warren successfully demonstrated the IRB’s capabilities in 1969, despite initial skepticism. Today, the IRB is a global standard in surf rescue operations.

Community and Legacy

Surf lifesavers training on Avalon Beach. — *Photo Credit: Avalon Beach SLSC/Instagram*

With a strong Nipper programme and a past of producing State, National, and World Champions in surf competition events, Avalon Beach SLSC has evolved into a family-oriented business. The club is currently a home to more than 1,100 members.

Centenary Celebrations Planned

The centenary year will feature a series of events, including:

Avalon Beach Surf Lifesaving Club centenary event poster. — *Photo Credit: Avalon Beach SLSC*

19 January 2025: A commemorative video screening honouring the 20th anniversary of the club’s Pittwater Community Event of the Year for tsunami victims.
1 February 2025: A special screening of the iconic surf film Highway One at United Cinemas Avalon, followed by a community gathering at the club.
1 March 2025: A public dance and live music event celebrating Avalon’s surf culture.

For event details, booking and updates, visit the club’s official website or send them an email at 100years@avalonbeachslsc.com.au.

Avalon Beach Surf Lifesaving Club celebrates 100 years of service. — *Photo Credit: Avalon Beach SLSC/Instagram*

Staying Connected

The centennial of Avalon Beach SLSC honours a legacy of invention, exceptional lifesaver performance, and close community ties. The milestone invites members past and present as well as guests to help honour 100 years of surf safety at Avalon Beach.

Published 4-Jan-2025

Historic Home with Spy Past Hits Market for $9 Million in Avalon Beach

A historic property in Avalon Beach, once a safe house for Soviet spies during the 1950s Cold War, is now on the market for $9 million, offering a rare blend of rich history, coastal luxury, and absolute privacy.

A Spy Tale in Avalon

The home at 137 George Street, Avalon Beach, played a pivotal role in Australia’s most infamous spy scandal, the Petrov Affair. In 1954, Vladimir Petrov, a Soviet diplomat seeking asylum in Australia, revealed the existence of a Soviet spy ring. His wife, Evdokia, was almost forced back to Moscow by KGB agents but was famously rescued in Darwin by government intervention.

During their time in hiding, the Petrovs were relocated between four Sydney safe houses, with this Avalon property among them. The house, built in the 1920s, was favoured for its secluded location and waterfront access, ideal for a quick escape if needed. Adding to the intrigue, the home features a secret trapdoor in the library that leads to a hidden bunker, still intact today.

A Timeless Coastal Retreat

Spanning 2,400 square metres and perched above Careel Bay, the five-bedroom property is a haven of tranquillity and architectural charm. Original stone fireplaces, a vaulted conservatory, and sweeping decks that overlook Pittwater reflect its blend of historical character and modern design.

137 George Street, Avalon Beach — *Photo Credit: realestate.com.au*

The main bedroom offers water views and private deck access, while a self-contained guest wing on the lower floor features sandstone walls, a kitchenette, and a private patio. Stone pathways wind through the property’s lush gardens, creating a peaceful retreat with space for outdoor entertaining on a stone BBQ terrace.

A Piece of Local History

Property records reveal the house was acquired by the Australian government in 1954 to protect the Petrovs during their defection. It was sold two years later and has remained privately owned since. The current owners purchased the property in 1994 for $850,000, and while it was listed for sale in 2016, it did not find a buyer.

Stephen Fitzmaurice, whose family has owned the home for nearly 30 years, recalled a long-time Avalon resident sharing how a police officer was stationed at a nearby boatshed to ensure the Petrovs’ safety. Located just 50 metres from the water, the home’s setting emphasises both its historical significance and its appeal for privacy.

A Rare Opportunity

Now a deceased estate, the home is being marketed as a unique opportunity to own a slice of Australian history. Agents describe it as ideal for those seeking privacy without sacrificing scenic beauty, suggesting it could suit high-profile individuals looking for a secluded retreat. Expressions of interest close on 30 January 2025.

Published 2-Dec-2024

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

Photo Credit: Beaches Youth Hub/ Facebook

Young people and families on the Barrenjoey Peninsula have cause for celebration with the significant expansion of the Avalon Youth Hub, now rebranded as the “Beaches Youth Hub“.

This expansion comes after an endorsed proposal to relocate the Hub to the former Avalon Customer Contact Centre. This would allow for a broader range of services and support for young people facing challenges.

This initiative has been years in the making, originating in 2017 when then-Barranjoey High School Principal Ian Bowsher recognised the need for a dedicated youth support service in the area. He partnered with The Burdekin Association, and they launched the Avalon Youth Hub in 2018 May.

At the time, Mr Bowsher stressed the importance of having a central location where young people could access help with various issues, from mental health to substance abuse, in an open and supportive environment.

He envisioned the Hub as a place to normalise conversations around youth wellbeing and bring together different community sectors—schools, health services, and government—to collaborate on this crucial mission.

The Northern Beaches Council’s decision to grant the former Customer Contact Centre to the Youth Hub followed a thorough viability review and an Expressions of Interest process.

The Burdekin Association, as the lead agency of the Avalon Youth Hub, was selected from several applicants. This move underscores the Council’s dedication to youth wellbeing and its proactive approach to addressing mental health concerns within the community.

A celebratory event marked this new chapter. The new “Beaches Youth Hub” identity was unveiled on Wednesday, 18 September. This rebranding reflects the Hub’s expanded reach and commitment to serving the broader community.

It is located at 59 Old Barrenjoey Road, Pittwater, and welcomes drop-in visitors on Mondays from 10:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Wednesdays from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. You can also reach them by phone at 0487 936 875.

Published Date 01-October-2024

First Artificial Nesting Platform for Eastern Ospreys Launches at Avalon Beach

Northern Beaches is set to pilot the region’s first artificial nesting platform in Avalon Beach and it’s specifically designed for the Eastern Osprey, a threatened native bird species impacted by urban development.

Known for its rich biodiversity, Northern Beaches is taking a significant step towards conservation by installing a 23-metre-high artificial nesting platform at Hitchcock Park.

The installation is timed to coincide with the breeding season, following community feedback and environmental assessments in compliance with the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979.

This initiative, supported by the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment & Water (DCCEEW), aims to counteract the loss of natural habitats and promote the breeding of the Eastern Osprey.

Osprey nesting platform Avalon Beach — *Photo Credit: NorthernBeachesCouncil*

Benefits and Goals

The project’s primary goal is to establish a secure nesting area for Ospreys, fostering population growth and breeding success. Benefits of the platform include the construction of a sustainable habitat and alignment with community conservation goals. Successful breeding could lead to educational campaigns, enhanced community engagement, and further research opportunities in partnership with universities. Additionally, the installation of a live-feed camera is anticipated, allowing the public to observe osprey activity in real-time.

The location of the nesting platform at Avalon Beach was influenced by the need to replace an existing Osprey nest on a private crane. The selected site offers natural protection and minimises visual impact for local residents and field users, ensuring a harmonious integration with the surrounding environment.

Concerns regarding the safety of existing makeshift nesting sites, such as light poles and cranes, have been addressed. The new platform will provide a safer alternative for Ospreys, preventing potential wildlife and conservation issues. The proximity of the nesting pole to parking areas has been carefully planned to avoid disturbances to both wildlife and park visitors.

Future Prospects and Environmental Impact

The initiative is viewed as a pilot project, with outcomes expected to guide future conservation efforts within the Local Government Area (LGA). Continuous monitoring will assess the platform’s effectiveness in attracting and supporting Osprey populations. Environmental approvals have been secured, ensuring that the project adheres to all regulatory requirements and minimises ecological impact.

Construction is scheduled to begin at the end of June and conclude by August 2024, with operations confined to standard working hours to minimise disruption. The project is co-funded by the NSW DCCEEW and the local council, demonstrating a collaborative approach to environmental stewardship and species protection.

The Northern Beaches Council invites community input on the Osprey Nesting Platform project. Residents can view the plans and provide feedback by:

Completing the comment form below,
Emailing council@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au, or
Writing to Northern Beaches Council, PO Box 82 Manly NSW 1655.

Please include ‘Osprey Nesting Platform’ in the subject line of all email or written feedback. Comments are open until Wednesday, 26 June.

Published 21-June-2024

Avalon Beach Residents Oppose Senior Living Complex Development on Kevin Avenue

Concerned locals at Avalon Beach stand united against a controversial proposal that seeks to transform two cherished family homes on Kevin Avenue into a senior living complex, sparking fears of lost character, increased congestion, and the erosion of the area’s natural beauty.

The project (DA2024/0044), which is estimated to cost $8.6 million, aims to establish a 10-unit senior living facility at 25-27 Kevin Avenue. This development plan has caught the attention of Avalon Beach residents and stirred significant community opposition, highlighting concerns over the potential loss of the suburb’s unique “character and beauty.”

Kevin Ave Avalon — *Photo Credit: DA2024/0044*

Over 100 submissions from locals have been flooding the Northern Beaches Council, most of which express strong opposition to the development. The public notification period ran from 13 to 27 February 2024.

Critics have expressed their resistance to the development for several reasons. These include fears of increased traffic on already busy roads, loss of green spaces and tree canopies, and concerns over the adequacy of public transport options for seniors. The opposition is rooted in the belief that the development would significantly depart from the area’s current aesthetic and scale.

“I wish to object to this development taking place in Kevin Avenue. It is a difficult road to navigate at the best of times,” Brenda Haig said in her submission to Council. “Quite often it is highly congested with parked cars and traffic as it’s the only safe thoroughfare with lights to Barrenjoey road. The building of these units will be totally inappropriate by impacting the green corridor, water run off and privacy. The scale and density is an over development for this street.”

“The proposed development in Kevin Avenue, Avalon Beach will be a quick money-making venture for the developer,” says Jennifer Hall. “The proposal exceeds height limits & is high density in a low density residential area. The traffic is already like a dodgem race as the limited parking on both sides of Kevin Avenue restricts traffic visibility. The morning & afternoon is a traffic jam as people use the only lights allowing a safe right hand turn into BarrenjoeyRd! This is a disastrous proposal for Avalon!!”

“It’s too much and not needed here it will not alleviate the lack affordable housing in the in the area it will only compound it, the only people who will benefit are the developers,” wrote Les Manning, another resident.

In response to the proposed development, locals have launched a social media campaign, spreading an “urgent appeal — protect our community” message across various platforms. The campaign reflects a broader apprehension regarding the “relentless pursuit of profit by developers” and the precedent such a project could set for future developments in Avalon Beach.

“Your support in objecting to this proposal will defend the very essence of Avalon and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come,” the campaign stated.

The owners of the properties have not made any comments regarding the community’s response as the DA is still under assessment.

Published 27-March-2024

Avalon Lifesaver in ‘Freak’ Surf Accident Becomes Advocate for Beach Safety Campaign

Photo Credit: Surf Life Saving Australia

Mark Head, a seasoned Avalon lifesaver with the Avalon Surf Life Saving Club, has become a prominent advocate for the latest summer beach safety campaign in the Northern Beaches.

In September 2023, Mr Head, a veteran with 39 years of experience as a lifesaver, was struck by a rescue board during a training exercise at Avalon Beach. The board caught the lip of a wave, flipped backward, and struck him in the forehead, leading to a life-altering spinal cord injury.

Mr Head’s life took an unexpected turn when he was discovered underwater after eight minutes and required nearly 90 minutes of CPR to be revived. It was, by all accounts, a “freak accident” but it left the Avalon lifesaver paralysed due to severe spinal cord injuries.

Advocating for Safety

Despite his experience, Mr Head has chosen to advocate for beach safety as part of the Northern Beaches Council’s campaign. He has observed that even children, unfamiliar with the potential dangers of the ocean, often run into the surf without fully comprehending the risks. His message resonates, particularly on days when the ocean appears calm but can still pose hidden dangers.

At the campaign launch, Mr Head emphasised the need for greater awareness among beachgoers, particularly parents and children, about the potential hazards of the ocean. In the previous year, six people tragically drowned in the unpatrolled beaches.

The statistics revealed that approximately 10.8 million people visited the region’s 24 beaches, with 1,427 rescues performed. Additionally, council lifeguards and volunteer lifesavers conducted 425,000 “preventative actions,” such as guiding swimmers to stay within flagged areas, avoiding rip currents, and cautioning board riders to steer clear of the flags.

Avalon Beach — Photo Credit: Google Maps

Clinton Rose, Beach Safety Manager at Northern Beaches Council, stressed that the campaign’s ultimate goal is to eliminate drownings on local beaches during the summer season. The council has allocated resources and personnel to ensure beach safety, but community cooperation is essential. The educational program aims to equip individuals with the knowledge to navigate rip currents, swim within designated areas, avoid swimming alone, and provide safety guidelines in case of emergencies.

The Responsibility of All Beachgoers

Tracey Hare-Boyd, CEO of Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches, acknowledged the region’s commendable track record of no lives lost between the red and yellow flags. However, she emphasised that drownings can occur on unpatrolled beaches or when lifesavers are off-duty, especially in the warm evenings.

As the summer season approaches, Northern Beaches Council’s beach safety campaign provides invaluable guidance. The top four beach safety tips include swimming at patrolled beaches between the flags, reading safety signs for crucial information, always swimming with a companion for mutual safety, and remaining calm while seeking help in the water by raising one arm to attract attention.

Published 8-Jan-2024

Mystery Surrounds Avalon’s Marara Estate Sell-Off

Photo Credit: Marara Estate

The sale of part of Marara estate in Avalon Beach has left locals intrigued. After 13 years on and off the market, the property, owned by Mortgage Choice co-founder Peter Higgins, was finally sold in April.

However, the identity of the new owner remains a mystery, adding an air of curiosity to this long-awaited transaction. Higgins retained the original homestead and boat shed on a 4,260-square-meter block. Another 8,339-square-meter portion, complete with its boat shed, fetched around $40 million. Yet, the buyer’s identity remains undisclosed, sparking speculations within the community.

Rumours link the mysterious buyer to engineer-turned-property developer Sammy Soliman, known for his work on the Verona cinema in Paddington. Though unconfirmed, this association adds to the intrigue surrounding the sale.

Plans for a new house with an office pavilion overlooking Pittwater, designed by local architect Mark Hurcum, have been submitted under Higgins’ name due to delayed settlement terms. The Northern Beaches Council holds the pending development application.

Marara’s history dates back to Higgins’ 2004 purchase from the estate of gynaecologist Meg Mulvey, widow of the late gynaecologist Sir Herbert Schlink. The property, acquired by Schlink in 1930, bears a rich historical legacy.

The estate’s name, Marara, originates from Dr. James Elliott, who commissioned a cottage in 1917. Elliott named it after the flying fish, ‘Marara,’ which fascinated him in Careel Bay’s waters.

Among Sydney’s top 10 luxury sales, Marara stands out. While other waterfront properties dominated the list, with sales in Bellevue Hill, Point Piper, Vaucluse, and Tamarama, Marara’s sale remains a topic of local interest.

Residents eagerly anticipate the reveal of the estate’s new owner. The historical significance and allure of Marara continue to captivate Avalon, making it a focal point of intrigue within the community.

Published 29-December-2023