Avalon Beach Archives

Tree Crashes Into Avalon Family Home

A large gum tree crashed into a home at Avalon Beach last Thursday evening, forcing a family to flee their residence during stormy weather.

Emergency services were called to Buyuma Place, Avalon Beach, off Catalpa Avenue, just after 7:15 PM on May 1. NSW Police, NSW Ambulance, Fire and Rescue NSW Avalon Station, and NSW State Emergency Service (SES) Warringah/Pittwater Unit responded to the incident, navigating wet conditions to reach the property located at the end of the cul-de-sac backing onto Stapleton Reserve.

Upon arrival, emergency responders discovered significant structural damage to the house caused by the fallen tree. Six people were inside the home when the incident occurred, including two elderly and infirm residents.

Firefighters assisted all occupants from the damaged structure to the street, where paramedics assessed them. Despite the severity of the incident, the residents sustained only minor scrapes, with none requiring hospitalisation or further medical treatment.

Authorities deemed the badly damaged house too dangerous for the residents to return. The displaced family was collected by relatives and taken to stay in a nearby home.

SES volunteers were unable to remove the large fallen tree in the dark and stormy conditions but secured the area to ensure the tree posed no additional threat to neighbouring properties.

The incident occurred during a period of wet weather in the Northern Beaches area, with more rain expected in the coming days according to weather forecasts.

Published 2-May-2025

Avalon Beach Beekeeper Handles 20,000 Bees Barehanded Without Stings

Photo Credit: Avalon Honey/ Facebook

An experienced Avalon Beach beekeeper astonished onlookers by calmly handling a massive swarm of 20,000 bees barehanded while dressed in shorts and thongs, successfully relocating them without receiving a single sting.

Barehanded Swarm Relocation

Giles Stoddard, who keeps several beehives at his home, recently faced a large swarm that had departed one of his hives due to overcrowding. The bees had settled on a nearby flowering crepe myrtle tree.

A remarkable video showed the beekeeper, without wearing his usual full protective gear, carefully reaching into the dense cluster of insects. He aimed to find the queen bee. By locating and moving the queen into a new, empty hive, he knew the thousands of loyal worker bees would follow her into their new home, allowing them to restart the honey-making process.

Before searching for the queen, Mr Stoddard broke off the branch holding the swarm and carefully shook the bees onto a blanket placed beside the new hive.

Understanding Swarming Bees

Mr Stoddard used the incident to educate people about bee behaviour. He reassured viewers of the video on his Avalon Honey Facebook page that the bees were not acting aggressively. He explained that most bees and wasps are generally not aggressive insects.

Their nature, he stated, is purely defensive, meaning they only become aggressive if their colony, their young (brood), or they are threatened. Mr Stoddard emphasised that bees do not actively want to sting people. He noted that bees are particularly calm during the swarming process because they are not defending a home or their young.

Local Beekeeper’s Message

Beyond managing his hives – four at Avalon Beach, four at North Avalon, and two at the War Vets home at Collaroy Plateau – Mr Stoddard is passionate about teaching the community about honey bees and their vital role in the natural world. He sells honey collected from his hives directly to locals from his front door.

The beekeeper strongly encourages people to respect their insect neighbours and aims to correct common misunderstandings, particularly the idea that swarming bees are likely to attack.

For residents who find a bee swarm and feel worried, Mr Stoddard advises contacting Amateur Beekeepers Australia for assistance. He also pointed interested locals towards the “Honey Map” resource to find backyard honey producers in their area.

Published Date 21-April-2025

Avalon Beach Woman Publishes First Book at 90

Photo Credit: cottonbro studio/pexels

A forgotten trunk, a family secret, and a quiet writer from Avalon Beach—Judith Friezer’s first novel at 90 years young blends fiction and life in unexpected ways.

Avalon Beach Local Publishes Her First Book at 90

Judith Friezer, a long-time Avalon Beach resident, has published her first children’s book at age 90. After decades of private writing, she’s released Wilma’s Secret, a novel for young readers about family, magic, and self-discovery.

The book launch will take place on 6 April at Bookoccino in Avalon Beach, more than 20 years after Friezer first started writing the manuscript.

A Quiet Life of Writing

Friezer has worn many hats—nurse, flight attendant, marriage celebrant—but writing has always been part of her life. Living in Avalon Beach for over 30 years, she’s filled notebooks with poems and stories inspired by nature and her personal reflections. While she never pursued publishing until recently, writing has helped her work through thoughts she found hard to express aloud.

The Story Behind Wilma’s Secret

The novel tells the story of a teenager named Wilma who stumbles upon a trunk belonging to her great-grandmother. She learns that her ancestor was a witch, and keeping the secret brings unexpected challenges. The story blends mystery with lessons about using power wisely and staying true to oneself.

Friezer sees the book as suitable for young readers and adults alike, especially those still curious about life’s possibilities.

A Dream Realised Later in Life

It took over two decades for Wilma’s Secret to make it to print. Friezer says she’s proud to finally share it with others. The book is now available through Shawline Publishing and is listed with sellers like Readings, Indigo Books, and Mighty Ape.

Published 2-April-2025

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

Photo Credit: Rod Willis/Facebook

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

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

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 Water Quality Stays ‘Very Good’ While Mona Vale Beach Downgraded

A new report on the water quality of beaches around NSW showed that Avalon Beach has maintained its “Very Good” standing. The report also indicated some fluctuations, notably the downgrading of Mona Vale Beach and ongoing issues with Narrabeen Lagoon.

Per the NSW State of the Beaches 2022-2023 report, released by the Minister for the Environment, Avalon Beach, along with Palm Beach and Whale Beach, sustained its water quality rating. This achievement is particularly impressive given the adverse weather conditions during the reporting period.

Mona Vale Beach, a popular coastal destination, has been downgraded from “Very Good” to “Good” due to an increase in faecal contamination. This drop in water quality can be attributed to heavy rainfall and potential pollution sources. The latest data shows elevated Enterococci levels, occasionally exceeding safe swimming limits, especially after light rain events.

The report also highlighted that almost all monitored beaches in NSW had excellent water quality, which represents an increase from 94 per cent in the previous year, despite the region experiencing record rainfall and flooding during the reporting period.

Several other beaches have been upgraded in the report, with Coledale, Fingal Bay, South Stockton Beach, and Malua Bay achieving higher water quality grades. Two other beaches, Toowoon Bay and Caseys Beach, have been upgraded to “Good”.

Estuarine Swimming Sites and Their Challenges

Meanwhile, estuarine swimming sites, including Narrabeen Lagoon (Birdwood Park) Lagoon and Bilarong Reserve Lagoon, continue to face water quality challenges. Both lagoons were rated as “Poor” in water quality, as in the previous year’s report.

Birdwood Park, located at the entrance of Narrabeen Lagoon, is influenced by wet weather events and whether the lagoon is open to the ocean, making it susceptible to faecal contamination from lagoon discharge. Bilarong Reserve, on the other hand, retains pollution inputs due to its distance from the lagoon entrance and limited flushing by clean ocean water.

The report underscores that water quality at these lagoon sites is generally suitable for swimming during dry weather, with a high percentage of samples within safe swimming limits. However, after rainfall, Enterococci levels consistently exceeded safe limits.

Animal and Human Faecal Contamination

Contamination of recreational waters with faecal material from both animal and human sources can pose significant health risks to beachgoers. Common pathogens found in these waters include bacteria, protozoans, and viruses, which can lead to gastroenteritis and other infections.

Vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, individuals with compromised immune systems, tourists, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds are at greater risk of microbial infections when exposed to contaminated water.

Impact of Wastewater Treatment Plants

Wastewater treatment plants, such as the Warriewood Wastewater Treatment Plant, have been identified as potential sources of faecal contamination at some beaches. Enterococci levels at Warriewood Beach have steadily risen, despite the report indicating that the plant’s capacity is not constrained.

The ongoing impact of these treatment plants and other pollution sources remains a concern, with the report highlighting the need for continuous monitoring and measures to address pollution and maintain water quality standards.

Actions Taken and Future Plans

Efforts to address water quality issues at certain beaches include sand clearance operations at the Narrabeen Lagoon entrance. A change in strategy, with more frequent but smaller sand clearance operations, aims to maintain water quality and prevent prolonged closures of the lagoon entrance. This approach, recently adopted by the council, reflects a commitment to resolving ongoing water quality challenges in the area.

Despite some challenges, the majority of beaches in NSW continue to offer safe and excellent water quality for swimmers, and the State of the Beaches report serves as a valuable resource for beachgoers, providing real-time information and guidance on beach conditions, especially after rainfall events.

For more detailed information on beach water quality and specific ratings, you can refer to the full report.

The Evolution of Avalon’s Iconic Rock Pool: From Blown-Up Rocks to Baywatch

Photo Credit: Northern Beaches Council / northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

Did you know that in the late 90s, a few episodes of the popular American action drama television series, Baywatch, were filmed at the Avalon rock pool? Get to know more about the history of one of the most popular swimming spots in Northern Beaches.

Avalon Beach is one of the most popular and picturesque beaches on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, and at the southern end of the beach lies the Avalon Rock Pool. The rock pool has become an icon of the Northern Beaches and a popular spot for photographers, with its stunning location where waves crash over the walls. The pool is surrounded by rocky cliffs, and the area has undergone many changes since the rock pool was first built.

Avalon Rock Pool: From inception to expansion

The rock pool is 25 meters long and was built in 1917, thanks to the efforts of the residents and developer Arthur J. Small. Small was responsible for many early subdivisions in Avalon and pushed for the construction of the pool. The council agreed to build the pool upon receiving a donation of £30 from local residents. The pool was excavated into the rock shelf, which was a roughly rectangular shape, measuring about 12 m × 5.5 m.

Throughout its history, the Avalon rock pool has undergone multiple transformations and expansions. In 1922, the pool was extended by 5.5 meters, accompanied by the addition of a timber dressing shed for ladies.

Barbara Ratte (nee Sworder) at Avalon Rock pool c1920 | Photo credit: Northern Beaches Council Library Local Studies, Record Number: AV-129 / northernbeaches.recollect.net.au

Subsequent developments in the late 1920s involved deepening the pool by demolishing rocks to create a larger swimming area, complemented by the construction of protective walls. In 1937, further expansion took place, resulting in a pool that now spans approximately 30 meters in length and is enclosed by sturdy, high concrete walls.

In May 1938, the council estimated the cost of a children’s pool at £75, but lack of funds delayed the project. The following year, the council committed to building the 8 m × 5 m children’s pool, which was completed by August. Subsequent improvements took place in 1967 and the late 1970s, including repairs to the northeastern side and the concreting of the pool’s floor.

The Baywatch backlash

In 1998, Avalon boasted a population of over 9,000 residents and caught the attention of the producers of the popular American soap opera Baywatch. Several episodes of the show were filmed at the Avalon rock pool, adding a touch of glamour to the serene location.

However, controversy arose when the Baywatch crew unexpectedly detonated a yacht near the pool, causing alarm among the community. Swimmers were hurriedly asked to vacate the pool to accommodate a rescue scene being filmed. Unfortunately, in the commotion, a woman in her eighties sustained an arm injury, promptly attended to by the TV crew.

The proposal to turn Avalon into the primary filming location for the entire Baywatch series, spanning seven months a year for six years, triggered concerns among local residents. Worried about increased weekend visitors and restricted access to the beach and pool, an Anti-Baywatch Action group rallied support, collecting petition signatures.

Strong negative sentiments expressed at a council meeting led to the abandonment of further filming plans in Avalon, with the production relocating to Hawaii.

Avalon Rock Pool today

The Evolution of Avalon's Iconic Rock Pool: From Blown-Up Rocks to Baywatch — Photo Credit: Northern Beaches Council / northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

Today, the rock pool is a popular destination for swimmers, surfers, and photographers, and it continues to be maintained and updated by the local council. The area around the pool has also been improved over the years, with a wire fence installed at the base of the cliff to trap falling rocks and protect bathers from potential hazards.

It features a shallow toddler pool for little ones to enjoy. After a refreshing swim, treat yourself to a nourishing snack at one of the nearby local cafes. To access the rockpool, make your way from the carpark off Barrenjoey Road, where pay-and-display parking is available.

Published 13-May-2023

Avalon Beach Named As One Of The Safest Northern Beaches Suburbs

Avalon Beach has been named as one of the safest northern beaches suburbs, based on the latest data from the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR).

Read: Demand Surges in Avalon Property Market as Buyers Discover ‘Paradise’

According to BOCSAR’s latest crime report, which was recorded between January 2022 and December 2022, Avalon Beach only had a total of 100 serious offences, which included incidents of home theft, car theft and assault.

In the entire Northern Beaches area, violent offences have reduced by 6.2 per cent whilst property offences have diminished by 12. 5 per cent on a five-year trend.

Old Barrenjoey Rd, Avalon Beach (Photo credit: Google Street View)

In the last 12 months, however, the two crime categories with the large increases were car thefts, which grew to 17 per cent in 2021 and retail theft with a 23.7 per cent increase in the same year.

In an official statement, BOCSAR said the rate of offending for many crimes was interrupted by the pandemic but the number of crimes for car theft and retail theft are now starting to return to pre-pandemic levels.

Berowra Heights, considered as one the safest northern beaches suburbs, recorded the lowest number of serious crimes, with only 24 in the previous year, with a population of 5,458 people. The three leading types of serious crimes recorded in Berowra Heights were malicious damage, assault, and stealing from dwelling.

Read: Keeping Cats Safe at Home Program Launches in Avalon, 10 NSW LGAs

Other suburbs with the lowest serious crime rates include Beecroft (57 serious offences), Cherrybrook (98 serious offences), and West Pennant Hills (95), Fairlight (38), Wahroonga (160), and St Ives (137).

Meanwhile, the areas with the highest rates of serious crime in 2022 included the Sydney CBD which consists of the suburbs of Haymarket, The Rocks, Barangaroo, Millers Point, Dawes Point, with 1559 assaults, 260 sexual assaults, and 608 incidents of malicious damage to property.

Published 8-April-2023