Sea Dragon Deaths Alarming Collaroy Residents

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

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

A new beachfront bar has recently opened in Collaroy sitting next to The Collaroy, offering seafood-laden snacks, tropical cocktails and a sweeping view of Collaroy Beach.



Just in time for summer, Merivale opened its latest venue by the beach, The Surf Deck. The beachfront venue offers a perfect spot to swing by for some brunch or catch up with friends over tiki-style cocktails and tasty food whilst soft breezes and waves roll in the background. 

Beachfront Eatery Opens in Collaroy
Photo credit: The Surfdeck / merivale.com/venues/the-surf-deck

And at the helm of the kitchen is Merivale executive chef Jordan Toft whose Mexican and Mediterranean-inspired menu has been tailor-fit for snacking and for sharing. Looking at the breakfast menu, you’d find the classics including House Granola made with seasonal fruits, coconut yoghurt and almond milk; and Bacon and Egg Roll with aioli, American cheese, lettuce and a soft roll. 

Beachfront Eatery Opens in Collaroy
Granola Bowl – granola clusters, coconut yogurt, chia, banana, strawberries, kiwi fruit, raw honey, almond milk | Photo credit: The Collaroy / Instagram

The Food Menu, meanwhile, offers an array of seafood dishes, tacos and burgers. Think Sydney Rock Oysters with pineapple and pepper mignonette; Swordfish Carpaccio with lemon, pink peppercorn and chives; and Diner Bacon Burger with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, b&b pickles and burger sauce.

Beachfront Eatery Opens in Collaroy
Diner Bacon Burger – American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles and burger sauce | Photo credit: The Collaroy / Instagram
Beachfront Eatery Opens in Collaroy
Gamberi – san marzano, fior di latte, prawns, fresh chilli | Photo credit: The Collaroy / Instagram

Vinnies Pizzas are plenty too. On offer are Gamberi (San Marzano, fior di latte, prawns and fresh chilli), Margherita (San Marzano, buffalo mozzarella and basil) and Vegetariana (Fior di latte, basil pesto, tomatoes, zucchini, grilled peppers, Spanish onion, olives), and more.

Beachfront Eatery Opens in Collaroy
San Marzano, buffalo mozzarella, basil | Photo credit: The Collaroy / Instagram

The drinks list includes signature cocktails such as Mai Tai, Peachy Monkey and Sundaze. There’s also wine by the glass featuring sparkling, white, red and rose options.

Beachfront Eatery Opens in Collaroy
Photo credit: Facebook / Merivale 

The Surfdeck is located at 1064 Pittwater Road, Collaroy. Operating hours are from 12 pm to 10 pm, Monday-Wednesday; 12 pm to 12 am, Thursday-Friday; 8.30 am to 12 am, Saturday; and Sunday 8.30 am to 10 pm.

 



The Surf Deck | 1064 Pittwater Rd, Collaroy NSW 2097, Australia