Collaroy Archives - Page 2 of 3

Swift Rescue Saves Injured Surfer At Popular Long Reef Break

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons / Poyt448, Peter Woodard

A 64-year-old surfer is recovering in hospital after a complex rescue operation from the rocky shoreline at Long Reef on Friday afternoon.

The drama unfolded just after 1pm when a bystander at Long Reef headland spotted the injured man on the rock platform below the popular Collaroy surfing spot and called Triple Zero.

The surfer had fallen from his board while in the water and suffered what appeared to be a hip injury. Despite his pain, he managed to pull himself from the surf onto the rocks, but was unable to move any further in the challenging conditions.

Multiple emergency services responded to the call via Anzac Avenue, Collaroy, including Northern Beaches Police, specialist vertical rescue firefighters from Narrabeen Fire Station, and three NSW Ambulance crews. Among the paramedics was Special Operations Paramedic and NSW Ambulance Supervisor Jo Brigden-Jones.

The rescue teams were guided down the headland by the helpful bystander who had first spotted the injured surfer and made the emergency call.

When paramedics reached the man at the base of the cliff, they found him suffering from both his injuries and mild hypothermia due to the exposed location, cold temperature, and strong winds battering the coastline that afternoon.

Emergency crews developed an innovative solution to transport the patient from the difficult rocky terrain. Firefighters deployed a Fire and Rescue NSW all-terrain wheeled litter known as a ‘mule’ – equipment designed with a large, lightweight wheel and securing system for transporting patients across challenging surfaces.

After paramedics assessed and treated the man for his suspected pelvic injury, they wrapped him in multiple blankets and used a tarpaulin to shield him from the harsh winds. The patient was carefully secured in the specialised litter.

The rescue operation required patience and precision. With regular stops to administer pain relief, firefighters and paramedics wheeled the injured surfer around the base of the headland to the old fishing hut at Fishermans Beach, where conditions were more suitable for transferring him to a waiting ambulance.

The man was transported to Northern Beaches Hospital in a stable condition shortly after 2:30pm, bringing the hour-and-a-half rescue operation to a successful conclusion.

Long Reef is a well-known surfing location among Northern Beaches locals, with Long Reef Surf Life Saving Club describing the area as “partly protected by an offshore reef to the north”. However, the rocky shoreline can present challenges for surfers, particularly during rougher conditions.

The incident highlights both the risks inherent in ocean activities and the excellent coordination between emergency services in the Northern Beaches area. Fire and Rescue NSW Station 068 Narrabeen provides specialised fire and rescue services to the Northern Beaches, while the area is also supported by experienced surf life saving clubs and paramedic teams.

The injured surfer’s condition following his admission to Northern Beaches Hospital has not been disclosed, but emergency responders reported he was stable and conscious throughout the rescue operation.

Published 12-July-2025

Australia Post Scam and E-Scooter Offence Reported in Collaroy

Photo Credit: Australia Post

A woman in Collaroy and a teenage e-scooter rider have been caught up in separate incidents involving a delivery scam and a traffic offence, raising safety concerns in the area.

Delivery scam impacts Collaroy resident

A resident of Collaroy Plateau lost nearly $500 after falling victim to an Australia Post delivery scam. The woman received a text message that falsely claimed her parcel could not be delivered due to an incorrect postcode. The message provided a link and requested a small payment to redirect the parcel. After she entered her bank details as instructed, scammers accessed her account and withdrew funds.

Authorities have reiterated that scammers often use deceptive tactics to convince victims to provide personal and financial information. Clicking on links in fraudulent messages can result in identity theft, unauthorised withdrawals, or the installation of malware on digital devices.

Scam warnings for residents

Australia Post has issued repeated warnings about fraudulent messages claiming to be related to failed deliveries or incorrect address details. These scams typically aim to collect sensitive information or steal funds through fake payment requests. The organisation confirms it does not ask for personal or financial information via calls, texts, or emails, and it does not request payment through these channels.

Customers are encouraged to report suspicious messages to Australia Post and to use the official app for delivery tracking. The app provides secure notifications that help reduce exposure to scam attempts.

E-scooter offence recorded in Collaroy

Police fined a 16-year-old boy after spotting him riding a private e-scooter on Pittwater Road in Collaroy. The scooter was travelling at an estimated speed of 40km/h and did not have any lights fitted, despite it being night. The rider was unlicensed, and the scooter was unregistered, resulting in combined fines of $1,500. In New South Wales, private e-scooters are not allowed on public roads, footpaths, or shared paths.

Authorities urge vigilance

Authorities continue to remind the community to exercise caution with unsolicited messages involving deliveries or payments. They also advise that only shared e-scooters approved for trial use may be operated legally on public roads and paths.

Published 28-June-2025

Man Charged After Knifepoint Robbery in Collaroy

Photo Credit: NSW Police Force / Facebook

A swift police operation in Collaroy has resulted in the arrest of a 21-year-old man who is accused of robbing a local tobacconist at knifepoint and was later found at a nearby residence.

The incident began just after 7:00 pm on Saturday, 14 June, when police were called to a tobacconist on Pittwater Road. Officers from the Northern Beaches Police Area Command arrived at the store, located next to the B-Line bus stop, to respond to the report.

Police were informed that a man had entered the shop and allegedly threatened a male employee with a knife. It is alleged the man demanded cash and cigarettes from the attendant and then fled on foot. The staff member was not physically harmed during the encounter. A crime scene was established as police began their investigation, which included reviewing the store’s CCTV footage.

The focus of the investigation quickly moved to a home on Jamieson Parade, less than 500 metres from the tobacconist. Police, including the Dog Unit, attended the address where they located the 21-year-old man. Officers also found a shopping bag that contained cash and cigarettes, which they believe were stolen from the store.

The man was arrested and transported to Manly Police Station for questioning. He was later charged in connection with the robbery.

While police were at the Jamieson Parade home, a female companion of the man became highly distressed. Reports from the scene indicate she appeared to reach for an officer’s weapon while yelling, which led police to restrain her.

NSW Ambulance paramedics were called to the location to conduct a mental health assessment. The woman was then taken into police custody and transported to Northern Beaches Hospital for further observation. NSW Police have stated that the investigation into the entire incident is still active.

Published Date 01-July-2025

Collaroy Man Charged After Elderly Woman Injured in Laundry Room Dispute

A Collaroy man is facing serious charges after allegedly injuring two elderly neighbours during a heated argument over a shirt in a shared laundry room of their apartment complex.

Police Response and Timeline

The incident happened on the morning of June 5 at a unit block in Collaroy on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Police say 36-year-old Andrew Jason Cunliff accused a neighbour of stealing his shirt, sparking a heated argument.

*Photo Credit: Canva / For Illustration Purpose Only*

The dispute turned physical, leaving a 79-year-old woman in hospital and a 74-year-old man with an elbow injury. Cunliff was arrested and charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and two counts of common assault.

Allegations of Aggressive Behaviour

Police say Cunliff first shouted abuse at a 57-year-old neighbour in the laundry room. When the man tried to leave, Cunliff allegedly shoved the door into him, causing him to fall into a 79-year-old woman. She hit her head in the fall, and a second elderly neighbour who tried to help was also pushed, landing on her.

Paramedics treated the woman for a head injury before taking both elderly residents to hospital. In court, police described Cunliff’s actions as aggressive and erratic, which the magistrate called deeply disturbing.

Bail Refused Due to Past Behaviour

Cunliff was refused bail after the court heard about his past breaches and a history of violent and intimidating behaviour. His legal team said he suffers from PTSD and a personality disorder, which may have influenced his actions.

Magistrate Daniel Reiss said the risk was too great to grant release. He called the incident “very disturbing” and pointed to Cunliff’s ongoing issues with conflict in shared living areas. The case will return to court on June 11.

Community Reaction

The incident has raised concern among Collaroy residents, especially due to the victims’ ages. It has sparked discussion about safety and shared living arrangements for older people in the area.

Some neighbours are now reconsidering how spaces like communal laundries are managed. Authorities have urged locals to report disputes early and assured them that support services are available.

Published 6-June-2025

Seniors Housing Plan Approved After Legal Dispute in Collaroy

Photo Credit: DA2023/0868

A developer has secured court approval to proceed with a modified over-55s apartment complex in Hay Street, Collaroy, following sustained community opposition and a rejected application.

Background and Planning History

A proposed over-55s apartment development at 37–43 Hay Street, Collaroy, has been the subject of community backlash and multiple planning reviews. Originally submitted by Collaroy Living Pty Ltd in 2023, the development aimed to replace four existing dwellings with a 10-unit seniors housing complex.

The $13.1 million project was initially refused by the Northern Beaches Local Planning Panel in December 2023, citing incompatibility with the low-density residential character of the area and excessive floor space. However, this decision was overturned in June 2024 by the NSW Land and Environment Court following an appeal.

Seniors Housing Plan — *Photo Credit: DA2023/0868*

Project Details and Modifications

The development comprises 10 three-bedroom units arranged in a two-storey, pavilion-style structure. Each unit includes basement parking and features open-plan living areas with access to balconies or terraces. Some dwellings incorporate flexible spaces to meet varying resident needs.

A subsequent application to modify the approved development was lodged in August 2024. The key change involved increasing unit floor areas to enhance resident amenities without altering the building’s impact on surrounding properties. This modification was also approved by the court.

Collaroy development — *Photo Credit: DA2023/0868*

Community Response to the Development

More than 170 submissions were made against the original proposal during public exhibition in mid-2023. Key concerns included increased traffic, loss of privacy, and the scale of the building being out of character with the streetscape.

Opposition to the modified plans also remained strong, with over 40 public submissions objecting to the updated design. Residents argued the building would disrupt the existing suburban environment and reduce their quality of life.

Local concerns referenced traffic impacts on Hay Street, particularly due to construction vehicles and underground parking access near the Anzac Avenue corner. Several submissions highlighted safety risks to children using nearby bus stops and pedestrian routes. Others raised privacy issues, particularly for adjacent backyard and pool areas.

Collaroy plans — *Photo Credit: DA2023/0868*

Developer’s Position and Planning Considerations

Planning documents submitted by the developer stated the project addresses the housing needs of the region’s ageing population. Materials and design elements were selected to align with the local coastal character, including rich earthy tones and articulated facades.

The developer also stated the project would not generate significant additional traffic and that separation distances and screening measures would maintain privacy for both future residents and existing neighbours.

Conclusion and Next Steps

With court approval secured, Collaroy Living Pty Ltd is now able to move forward with the revised seniors housing project at 37–43 Hay Street. Construction timelines and commencement details have not yet been disclosed.

Published 14-Apr-2025

Collaroy Seawall Sparks Fears Over Beach Loss and Surf Impact

Photo Credit: Tim Doubleday/Facebook

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

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