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Collaroy Seawall Sparks Fears Over Beach Loss and Surf Impact

The construction of a controversial seawall at Collaroy has reignited debate among residents and environmental experts, with concerns that the structure could accelerate beach erosion and alter local surf conditions.

While proponents argue the wall is necessary to protect multimillion-dollar homes from future storm damage, critics warn it could lead to the beach’s eventual disappearance.

Storms and Seawall Controversy

The Northern Beaches suburb of Collaroy has long been vulnerable to coastal erosion. In 2016, severe storms stripped away 50 metres of sand and threatened to wash away beachfront homes.

In response, local authorities and property owners initiated constructing a seven-metre-high seawall to safeguard properties from future extreme weather events. However, the project has remained divisive, and there are ongoing concerns about its long-term environmental impact.

Collaroy seawall — *Photo Credit: Tim Doubleday/Facebook*

Seawall and Sand: Will Collaroy’s Beach Disappear?

Coastal scientist Professor Andrew Short has warned that Collaroy has historically undergone natural erosion and recovery cycles. A concrete seawall could disrupt this balance. He explained that seawalls prevent sand from replenishing naturally, leading to a scenario where the beach could progressively shrink until it is completely eroded.

New research from the Surfrider Foundation predicts that a 66cm rise in sea levels before the end of the century could exacerbate the problem, potentially submerging key surf spots like North Narrabeen.

Financial Burden and Construction Challenges

The seawall construction has come at a significant cost, with affected homeowners contributing 80 per cent of expenses, amounting to over $300,000 per property. While 1.3 kilometres of seawalls have been planned along Collaroy and Narrabeen, only 750 metres have been completed, with certain sections made from rock revetments instead of concrete. Some residents expressed frustration at being forced to fund the wall, with one anonymous homeowner stating they would have preferred alternative solutions.

Community Reaction: Division Among Residents

Opinions within the Collaroy community remain sharply divided. Some residents believe the seawall has provided security against future coastal threats. Another stated that water has only reached the structure once in four years.

Others, including long-time locals, argue that the erosion has worsened. It reduced the beach’s size and usability. Surfers have reported deteriorating wave quality, while fishers and beachgoers fear the loss of sand will impact recreational use.

Seawall Controversy — *Photo Credit: Soil Conservation Service/YouTube*

The Bigger Picture: Climate Change and Coastal Erosion

Experts warn that the challenges faced at Collaroy are not unique. Rising sea levels threaten coastal communities nationwide. Professor Short has called for federal intervention to address the growing issue. He highlighted that many other beachfront locations could face similar dilemmas in the coming decades.

NBC, however, maintains that seawalls have been used successfully in other areas, such as Manly and Dee Why. They assert that the beach will continue undergoing natural cycles of erosion and recovery.

What Lies Ahead for Collaroy?

With the seawall in place, Collaroy’s future remains uncertain. The structure currently offers protection for homes. However, its long-term impact on the beach and local surf conditions has yet to be fully realised.

Published 20-Mar-2025

Sea Dragon Deaths Alarming Collaroy Residents

Photo Credit: flickr / Bill

Collaroy residents have been startled by an unusual increase in sea dragon deaths washing up on local shores, with multiple sightings reported across Northern Beaches this week.

Collaroy local Piero Aramini discovered two dead male weedy sea dragons on Collaroy Beach, approximately 100 meters from the surf lifesaving club.

“I found a sea dragon washed up on the shoreline,” Mr. Aramini said. “I actually walked 40 metres down further and found another one.”

Mr. Aramini noted the different states of the specimens, with the first appearing relatively intact while the second had begun decomposing. After documenting his find, he shared photos with a local community group, where other Northern Beaches residents confirmed similar discoveries.

The Collaroy sightings are part of a concerning pattern, with additional sea dragons reported at nearby Narrabeen and Curl Curl beaches. This sudden increase represents approximately eight times the normal rate of sea dragon strandings, according to UTS Marine Ecology Professor David Booth.

“I’d say one [is reported] every two months… so here’s four in one month, so that’s like eight times the normal. That’s a bit unusual,” Professor Booth explained.

While the current situation hasn’t reached the crisis levels seen in 2022, when over 200 dead sea dragons washed ashore across Sydney’s coastline, the increased frequency around Collaroy has raised concerns among local environmental observers.

Professor Booth attributes the deaths to barotrauma caused by turbulent ocean conditions and possible food source depletion. Sea dragons feed primarily on mysid shrimp, which can be flushed away from coastal areas during periods of heavy rainfall.

For Collaroy residents who encounter these protected creatures, Professor Booth advises against handling them, even when deceased. Instead, he recommends photographing any findings and contacting him directly to support ongoing research efforts.

The Collaroy community continues to monitor local beaches for additional strandings as marine experts investigate the cause behind this troubling increase.

Published 15-March-2025

Collaroy Tourist Injured in Long Reef Rock Fall

A tourist visiting Collaroy has been rescued from the treacherous rocks at Long Reef after suffering a broken leg in a fall.

The incident occurred on Sunday evening just after 6:30 p.m. when the 24-year-old man, exploring the rock platform with a friend at low tide, lost his footing and fell.

The rock platform at Long Reef is known for its slippery weed cover, posing a hazard even for those wearing appropriate footwear. The man’s friend, who was with him then, immediately called for help.

Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, with four NSW Ambulance crews, including Intensive Care Paramedics, a Special Operations Paramedic, and Inspector Carolyn Parish, attending the incident. Northern Beaches Police and specialist rescue firefighters from Narrabeen Fire Station also assisted.

Recognising the challenging terrain and the incoming tide, firefighters used their all-terrain stretchers to reach the injured man. Guided by the man’s friend, rescuers located the tourist some distance from the rock platform, where the rising tide would soon submerge him.

Despite the language barrier, paramedics were able to assess the man’s injuries and determined he had sustained a broken right leg. With the tide rapidly approaching, the rescuers prioritised moving the man to safety before administering further treatment.

After providing initial pain relief, the man was placed on the all-terrain stretcher and transported back to the beach above the high tide mark. Once safely on the beach, paramedics provided additional medical attention before carrying him up the headland pathway to the lookout, where an ambulance was waiting.

The injured tourist was then taken to Northern Beaches Hospital in a stable condition, accompanied by his friend. The rescue operation concluded just before 8.15 p.m.

Published Date 14-Jan-2025

Cyclist Injured After Medical Episode in Collaroy

Photo Credit: Toll Ambulance Rescue

A cyclist was critically injured in Collaroy after experiencing a medical episode while riding along Pittwater Road, causing a fall and serious head injury.

The incident occurred on 30 December 2024 near Hay Street. Passers-by provided immediate assistance until emergency responders arrived. Intensive Care Paramedics and the Toll NSW Ambulance Rescue Helicopter were dispatched to stabilise the cyclist before transporting him to Royal North Shore Hospital.

Cyclist injury in Collaroy — Photo Credit: Toll Ambulance Rescue Helicopter

Incident Overview

The 54-year-old male cyclist was travelling northbound on Pittwater Road when he reportedly suffered a medical episode. Witnesses observed the cyclist lose control and fall, striking his head on the pavement. Emergency responders, including NSW Ambulance Inspector Christian Holmes, coordinated efforts to stabilise the man on-site.

The Toll NSW Ambulance Rescue Helicopter was dispatched and landed at nearby Griffith Park. The cyclist received urgent medical intervention, including a blood transfusion, before being placed in an induced coma and airlifted to the hospital.

Paramedics assisting an injured cyclist in Collaroy. — Photo Credit: Toll Ambulance Rescue Helicopter

Quick Emergency Response

Paramedics and the rescue team played a key role in stabilising the cyclist. Inspector Christian Holmes from NSW Ambulance noted that quick-thinking bystanders made a real difference before professionals arrived.

This response also shows how vital it is for the community to know basic first aid—it can genuinely save lives in situations like this.

Witnesses described the scene as intense but well-handled by both emergency teams and passers-by. The presence of the helicopter at Griffith Park drew attention from locals, many of whom praised the efficiency of the response.

Looking Ahead

As of 31 December 2024, the cyclist remains in stable condition at Royal North Shore Hospital. While the cause appears medical rather than road-related, the incident still raises questions about road safety and emergency preparedness in busy areas like Pittwater Road.

Locals are reminded to stay aware when sharing the road with cyclists and report any hazards they come across. Authorities continue to encourage the public to remain alert and prepared in case of emergencies.

Published 4-Jan-2025

Community Concern Over Proposed $14M Block of Flats in Collaroy

A proposed four-storey $14-million redevelopment with 21 units on Pittwater Rd in Collaroy has sparked a surge of submissions from worried locals.

Planning authorities have received a significant number of submissions after the details of the proposed apartment block on the Northern Beaches were put on public exhibition from the 6th of May to the 3rd of June 2024.

The development application (DA2023/1395) outlines plans for a four-storey building with three shopfronts at street level, situated at the intersection of Pittwater Rd and Ocean Grove. The current buildings on the site, which include a surf shop and a kitchen business, would be demolished if the plans are approved.

The development includes 29 carparking spaces for residents, five spaces for residential visitors, and 19 spots for the retailers. Additionally, a communal open space is proposed for the roof, featuring lift access and a covered outdoor area concealed behind planter-boxes and screen plantings. The design aims to reduce the bulk and scale of the Pittwater Rd facade by alternating solid and transparent building forms, using weatherboards in contrasting cool grey and blue colours for the solid parts and steel-framed wintergardens with glass louvre infill for the transparent parts.

The proposed development has raised various concerns among local residents.

Roberta Connaghan, a local resident for five years, highlighted the increased difficulty in enjoying the area due to a surge in visitors, especially since the pandemic. She pointed out that local children cannot ride their bikes unsupervised due to safety concerns. The parking situation has worsened, with residents often unable to find parking near their homes, leading to significant inconvenience.

Ms Connaghan noted that the proposal would introduce many new residents into the area, which she deemed untenable given the current low-density buildings. The proposal would also create a cut-through on Anzac Avenue and Cliff Road, impacting local traffic and safety. She questioned the balance between the need for local housing and the impact on existing community members and visitors.

Anthony Haines, another resident, has formally objected to the proposed development on Pittwater Road, citing several concerns. He argues that the proposed height exceeds the allowed limit, impacting solar access and visual enjoyment. Mr Haines also expressed concerns about increased noise levels due to the building’s proximity and highlighted potential environmental impact on a nearby large pine tree. He urged the council to reject the development, citing implications for residential amenity, environmental integrity, and community aesthetics.

The significant responses so far highlights the community’s apprehensions about the potential impact on the local environment and character of Collaroy.

Published 15-May-2024

Boutique Shoptop Development Proposed for Collaroy Amidst Local Concerns

Plans for a transformative boutique residential project in Collaroy have been announced but locals have some concerns.

Collaroy Projects Pty Ltd, a subsidiary of Sydney-based developer Cite Group, has submitted DA2023/1395 to redevelop a strategically located site on 1010-1014 Pittwater Road.

The location is in proximity to the captivating Long Reef beachside area, creating an enticing prospect for future residents. The proposed four-storey mixed-use development aims to blend seamlessly with the local landscape and offers a combination of retail spaces and 22 apartments, featuring two and three bedrooms.

Striking a Balance

Designed by the renowned architectural firm Gartner Trovato, the development promises a contextually responsive building characterised by exceptional quality. It maximises the site’s superior location attributes while prioritising the comfort and convenience of its future occupants.

1010-1014 Pittwater Road Collaroy — *Photo Credit: DA DA2023/1395*

The residential units will each feature an open-plan design encompassing kitchen, living, and dining areas that seamlessly extend to private terraces. Additionally, the project includes a well-thought-out basement car park to address parking needs.

Venturing Beyond the City Limits

Cite Group, primarily known for its developments closer to the heart of Sydney, has shown a growing interest in expanding its reach westward, including areas such as Blacktown, Pendle Hill, and Baulkham Hills.

The move to develop in Collaroy is significant as this charming suburb has seen a surge in median apartment prices during the pandemic. Current property values range from $723,500 for one-bedroom apartments to $1.7 million for spacious three-bedroom units, making it a prime location for real estate development.

While development opportunities in the pristine Northern Beaches, particularly in areas like Collaroy, have historically been scarce, recent years have witnessed an influx of developers drawn to the area’s unique charm and potential. In 2021, HCAP Developments successfully secured approval for a $100 million apartment complex, overcoming legal challenges, and replacing a Collaroy backpacker hostel. This development is a testament to the increasing attractiveness of Collaroy as a real estate investment destination.

Balancing Progress with Community Concerns

However, amidst the excitement surrounding this proposed development, several Collaroy residents have voiced their concerns. They fear that the construction of an open area rooftop terrace, as part of the project, could exacerbate neighbourhood noise levels, disrupting the tranquil atmosphere the area is known for.

Records show that Mr Anthony Tassone has expressed a strong objection, emphasising the need for the proposed height and rear boundary setback to be in alignment with the existing unit building at 1000-1008 Pittwater Road. He also raised concerns about the potential increase in vehicular traffic, which may strain the existing road network’s sustainability.

Roberta Connaghan, another resident, also pointed out that the area has already witnessed a significant surge in traffic over the past few years, and she fears that the new apartments and dwellings could further exacerbate the situation. The safety of children in the area is of paramount concern, given the already dangerous traffic flow.

Katy Jenkins, a Collaroy Basin resident for 15 years, expressed her reservations about the project’s impact on the area’s character and streetscape. She believes that the four-storey structure, particularly due to its upper setback, could mar the charm that defines Collaroy. Additionally, she is concerned that it might set a precedent for similar developments, potentially altering the area’s overall ambiance.

The DA, filed in October 2023, is currently under assessment and various submissions are on file.

Published 12-Jan-2024

Collaroy’s Historic Boat Winches at Fishermans Beach to be Reinstated as Modern Art

Photo Credit: Laurie Wilson/Flickr/CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 DEED

Collaroy’s picturesque Fishermans Beach will soon be home to a unique transformation as the historic boat winches that once graced its shoreline are set to become modern art installations.

These winches, steeped in a rich history dating back over 150 years, had fallen into disrepair, but one dedicated resident, Michell Cudmore, and the late Tony Davis, former President of the Long Reef Fisherman’s Club, are breathing new life into these fading relics.

A Grand Restoration Project

Fishermans Beach, Collaroy, was once a hub of maritime activity, where heavy fishing boats were hauled up the shore using the very winches that have now captured the attention of preservationists. Over the years, these historic winches had rusted and deteriorated, with some even succumbing to coastal erosion, teetering on the edge of oblivion.

Ms Cudmore took it upon herself to safeguard this piece of Collaroy’s heritage. Her inspiration stemmed from a desire to honour the area’s history and her cherished memories of spending time on the beach with her late father, Mr Davis.

Turning History into Art

Recognising that the deteriorating winches needed urgent attention, Ms Cudmore approached Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins with a visionary idea: restoring the winches as sculptures along the coastal walkway. This artistic transformation, she believed, would breathe new life into the historical significance of the area.

With the support of the local community and a grant of $29,500 from the NSW Government’s Department of Primary Industries Recreational Fishing Trusts – Saltwater, the ambitious project took its first steps towards reality.

A Community Effort

Northern Beaches Council embraced the initiative and joined hands with Ms Cudmore to facilitate the project. The concrete blocks that once housed the winches are being replaced with decorative sandstone plinths along the pathway, a stark improvement over their previous placement on the water’s edge. Furthermore, retaining works are underway to prevent further shoreline erosion in the area.

Ms Heins lauded the project for its ability to connect the public with the rich history of the region. She noted that many people had long wondered about the purpose of these enigmatic structures, and the project will bring their story to life.

A New Chapter for Fishermans Beach

As the restoration project progresses, the historic boat winches of Fishermans Beach will soon be returned to their former glory. However, their purpose will shift from utility to artistry, becoming a unique feature of the Northern Beaches Coastal Walkway.

These restored winches, once lifelines to the fishing community, will soon invite both locals and tourists to explore the area’s rich history and appreciate the seamless fusion of art and heritage. A storyboard detailing the area’s fishing history will be installed, providing the public with an educational and engaging experience.

Published 20-Oct-2023

The Origins of Collaroy: A Sydney Suburb Named for a Shipwreck

Did you know that Collaroy got its name from a paddle-steamer that ran aground in the area over a century ago?

Read: Collaroy-Narrabeen Seawall Extension Now Underway Amidst Mounting Opposition

Over 140 years ago, the iron-hulled paddle-steamer SS Collaroy often sailed between Newcastle and Sydney. It was launched in 1853 in Birkenhead, England and named after a sheep station near Cassilis in the Hunter Valley.

Though the SS Collaroy enjoyed many years of service along the NSW coast, it met an ignoble end when it ran aground on the southern end of Narrabeen Beach in 1889. This stranded steamer became so well-known that the area eventually took on the name Collaroy Beach.

Photo credit: Northern Beaches Council Library Local Studies

The paddle-steamer was built by John Laird and Son & Co in Birkenhead. Though originally launched with three masts in 1853, modifications in 1859 reduced the number of masts to two and increased the ship’s gross tonnage from 356 to 419 tons.

For most of its career, the Collaroy sailed without major incident. However, in 1875 it collided with the schooner Ida near Long Reef, causing serious damage.

Throughout its service along the NSW coast, the steamer proved a popular and reliable vessel, despite being slow. It was this lack of speed that led the ship’s master to sail too close to the coast in an attempt to make up for lost time.

On 20 January 1889, the ship left Newcastle bound for Sydney with cargo and passengers. Off Collaroy, it ran aground on the southern end of Narrabeen Beach, where it lay stranded for nearly four years in full view of passing ships.

The stranded paddle-steamer (Photo credit: John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland)

The wreck of the ship became a landmark, drawing significant attention and even a visit from royalty. Although it took several decades for the name to become official, the southern end of Narrabeen Beach eventually became known as Collaroy Beach due to the grounded paddle steamer.

Collaroy Beach in 1907 (Photo credit: National Library of Australia)

Other than Resolute Beach, Collaroy is the only suburb on Sydney’s Northern Beaches peninsula named after a shipwreck along its shores.

Read: A Little Slice of the Summer Holidays: Beachfront Eatery Opens in Collaroy

The SS Collaroy itself faded into history. But its legacy remains in the name of the Sydney northern beaches suburb. So next time you’re in the beach, think of the old paddle-steamer that gave the suburb its name over a century ago.

Published 24-September-2023

Proposed Collaroy Over-55 Apartments Spark Local Outcry

A proposal to establish an over-55 apartment complex in Collaroy has ignited a wave of objections among the locals. Recently submitted, the planned $13 million project comprises 11 x 3-bedroom units with provision for two parking spaces per dwelling.

Proposed by Collaroy Living Pty Ltd, the contentious proposal involves the demolition of four dwellings and the construction of a two-storey apartment building for seniors. The proposed site encompasses four lots located at 37, 39, 41 and 43 Hay Street in Collaroy.

According to the proposed plans, the master bedroom will feature a walk-in robe and ensuite. All units are proposed to include an expansive open-plan kitchen, living and dining area that opens onto a paved terrace or balcony. Whilst a number of the dwellings have been designed will feature a ‘flexi’ space to adapt to the unique requirements of future occupants, offering them the utmost flexibility.

Proposed Collaroy Over-55 Apartments Spark Local Outcry

Landscape plan of proposed over-55 apartment complex | Photo Credit: Northern Beaches Council / eservices.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

Landscape plan 2 of proposed over-55 apartment complex |Photo Credit: Northern Beaches Council / eservices.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

Some of the concerns raised by the locals include the potential impact of the project on the traffic and safety of the locals, the loss of privacy, and the proposed development is out of character within the area.

“The proposed development would increase traffic and congestion and impact on current living standards. The building process would cause undue stress on the narrow road and the residents would be unduly disadvantaged”. – Mr Nick Ruban

“Construction and then the proposed dwellings (with underground parking access and egress) will push these cars waiting for bus passengers further down Hay St, resulting in increased traffic for these residents. Construction will impact our children (and others) using the bus service who currently alight onto Pittwater road and use the Anzac / Hay St footpath. This would be a potentially dangerous mix with young children and increased heavy truck and vehicle movements during a lengthy construction period”. – The Rees – Cowie Family

“The impact on us includes losing privacy within our backyard, pool area, including our external entertainment area. This is an area of our block that is in constant use. The units on the North end and South end of the proposed new dwellings will look into our yard.” – Mr Nathan and Jennifer Priest

“Hay Street consists of predominately detached houses. The development that has been put forward is totally out of character with the area. No matter what the end facade may look like of the building, it will still be out of place and inconsistent with the layout and history of the local area. The building would be seen from Griffith Park further making this development totally out of place.” Michael & Kirsty Hall

Meanwhile, according to documents submitted, the developer projects a minimal additional traffic activity in the area, hence, less likely to lead to heightened congestion and delays. Whilst, the proposed colours and materials, characterised by rich earthy tones and deep hues, combined with substantial building articulation, will effectively guarantee that the proposed development aligns with the coastal character of the locality.

The proposal also states that the proposed over-55 apartment complex is consistent with the goals of safeguarding the privacy of residences within the development and adjacent areas. Any potential privacy impacts are addressed through separation, or incorporation of appropriate screening solutions.

Published 23-August-2023

Council Opens Dialogue on Pittwater Rd Weekend Pop-up Car Mart

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Residents have been parking up to 100 vehicles along Pittwater Rd at Collaroy on weekends, adorning them with handmade “For Sale” signs. This unofficial car yard stretches for hundreds of metres between Anzac Pde and Hadleigh Ave and Council officials have just confirmed that the practice is illegal.

The presence of the impromptu car yard has become a source of growing complaints from nearby business owners and shopkeepers as the influx of vehicles has caused inconvenience for businesses in the area, hampering their customers’ ability to find parking spaces during the weekends.

The kerbside lane of Pittwater Road, situated between Anzac Pde and Hadleigh Avenue, becomes occupied by for-sale vehicles, leaving visitors to nearby Griffith Park struggling to secure parking spots.

Vincent De Luca, an independent councillor on the Northern Beaches Council, has long been an advocate for banning the car market due to safety concerns. Recently, De Luca received advice from Transport for NSW affirming the illegality of advertising vehicles for sale on public roads or in public places without prior approval from the council.

De Luca has been pushing for the implementation of a two-hour parking restriction to dissuade individuals from selling their cars along the roadside.

For years, residents, local businesses, and beachgoers have voiced their grievances regarding the presence of cars for sale along Pittwater Rd, Collaroy, and Long Reef throughout the weekends.

Concerns primarily revolve around the safety risks posed by people walking onto the busy Pittwater Rd to view the vehicles, as well as the loss of parking spaces for local residents and businesses, resulting in a decline in customers.

Acknowledging the significance of these concerns, the council has initiated a period for public submissions, seeking community input on the possibility of eliminating the car market. The aim is to engage with the residents and gain a comprehensive understanding of their apprehensions while exploring potential solutions to address the sale of private cars along Pittwater Rd.

Some business owners complain that the cars for sale along Pittwater Rd often occupy parking spaces that should be available to their customers. The scarcity of parking spots caused by the weekend car market has created a parking predicament throughout the entire neighbourhood.

Cr De Luca, who has been lobbying state governments about this issue since the 1990s, urges individuals to take part in the public submissions process and make their voices heard.

Published 5-July-2023