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Three Belrose Residents Recognised in 2025 King’s Birthday Honours

Three Belrose residents have been recognised in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours for their long-term service across surf lifesaving, lawn bowls, and charitable work.

Recognition for Service in Belrose

Belrose residents Michael Bate, Robert Connors, and Kim Mukuka have each received national honours in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours List. Their contributions span decades and cover community sport, volunteer leadership, and international development.

Michael Bate: Service to Surf Lifesaving and Business

Michael John Bate was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his contribution to surf lifesaving and business. His involvement began in 1968 and led to formal roles from the 1970s across multiple states.

King’s Birthday Honours — *Photo Credit: Freshwater SLSC/Facebook*

Mr Bate first served at Towradgi and Fairy Meadow Surf Life Saving Clubs before holding executive positions in the Illawarra Branch. He later relocated to Western Australia and served at Scarborough Surf Life Saving Club. After returning to New South Wales, he joined Freshwater SLSC and took on various leadership roles including Club President from 2021.

At state and national levels, Mr Bate has served on the Surf Life Saving NSW Board and as National Director at Colliers International. His officiating and administrative work extended to international events, and he holds Life Memberships in Surf Life Saving Australia and NSW.

Robert Connors: Lifetime Commitment to Lawn Bowls

Robert George Connors received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to lawn bowls. For over 50 years, Mr Connors has been active in competitive play and administrative leadership.

He has held multiple leadership positions at Forestville RSL Bowls Club. This includes the President, the Vice President, and the Secretary. At a broader level, he served as President of Northern Beaches Zone 4 RSL Bowls and State Vice President Metro for the NSW RSL Lawn Bowls Association.

As a player, he earned state-level titles and represented New South Wales in 1999. He is also known for his support roles within the RSL community, including travel coordination and fundraising for Legacy.

Kim Mukuka: Supporting Education in Zambia and Local Communities

Kim Elizabeth Mukuka, also from Belrose, was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her service through charitable organisations. She is a founding member and Vice President of Zambia’s Child. It is an education-focused charity established in 2007.

Belrose King’s Birthday Honours — *Photo Credit: Zambia’s Child/Facebook*

From 2012 to 2020, she led on-ground operations at Ipalo Christian Community School in Chingola, Zambia. After returning to Australia, she continued supporting the initiative through mentoring and operations management.

Ms Mukuka has also taught across multiple educational institutions in New South Wales. She currently serves in administrative and teaching roles at Yanginanook School.

Ongoing Contributions from Belrose

The recognition of Mr Bate, Mr Connors, and Ms Mukuka highlights the long-term community engagement of Belrose residents. All three remain active in their respective fields through leadership, mentoring, or volunteer administration.

Published 19-June-2025

Davidson Community Mobilises to Keep Kambora Public School Open

Photo Credit: Kambora Public School/Facebook

Davidson residents are calling on the authorities to reconsider plans that may place Kambora Public School into recess in 2026, following a steep enrolment decline.

Community Urged to Act Over Kambora’s Future

The Davidson community has launched a strong campaign to protect Kambora Public School after the NSW Department of Education began consultations on its future. Parents, local businesses, former students and supporters are being urged to make submissions before the 20 June deadline.

Kambora’s enrolment has fallen to 41 students in 2025, down from around 280 in 2018. Only two children entered Kindergarten this year. In response, the Department has proposed placing the school into recess in 2026 while future demand is reviewed.

Concerns Over Impacts and Decision Pace

The school’s Parent and Community Committee said the consultation feels like a “fast-tracked” path to closure, despite being labelled as a review process. The flyer circulated by the group outlines potential impacts of recess: school closure, staff redeployment, overcrowded neighbouring schools, and loss of community identity.

With new housing developments underway in the region, campaigners are questioning why potential future student growth is not being accounted for.

Community Campaign Gains Momentum

The P&C Committee is encouraging residents to email submissions directly to the Department, highlighting Kambora’s role in providing a stable, community-focused learning environment. Suggestions include merge options, site repurposing, and zoning changes.

Supporters are being asked to share personal stories, raise questions about the process, and offer local alternatives. The campaign positions recess not as a neutral measure, but as the first step towards permanent closure.

Local official Matt Cross has also expressed support for delaying any final decision to give the school more time to rebuild enrolments, especially for Kindergarten in 2026.

Nearby Schools and Enrolment Trends

Mimosa Public School, located 1.2 kilometres away, currently enrols 517 students. Other schools in the Belrose and Wakehurst areas have also seen enrolment declines, but none as sharp as Kambora’s. The consolidation of classes into multi-year groups has raised further concerns among parents.

*Photo Credit: Kambora Public School/Facebook*

Timeline and Next Steps

Consultations will continue over the coming weeks, with the Department confirming that no final decision has been made. Submissions to the Metro North consultation panel are open until 20 June.

Submissions can be emailed to metronorthdeewhy@det.nsw.edu.au
Attention: Amber Gorrell
CC: Matt.Cross@parliament.nsw.gov.au and kamborapandc@outlook.com

All current students will remain at Kambora throughout the review process.

Published 30-May-2025

Major Upgrade Planned for Wesley Gardens Aged Care Site in Belrose

Photo Credit: DA/SSD-71378958

A $194-million redevelopment proposal has been submitted for Uniting Wesley Gardens in Belrose, aiming to replace outdated aged care buildings with a new seniors housing precinct.

Background and Context

Uniting (NSW.ACT) has lodged a development application to overhaul its aged care facility at 2B Morgan Road. The site spans 4.84 hectares and contains aged care buildings constructed in the 1970s and 1990s, along with an early learning facility, a house, and the Belrose Uniting Church—all of which are set to remain. The project qualifies as a State Significant Development and is publicly exhibited on the NSW Planning Portal between 8 May and 4 June 2025.

Uniting Wesley Gardens — *Photo Credit: DA/SSD-71378958*

Redevelopment Scope

The transformation plans involve constructing six new buildings, ranging from three to five storeys, across the site. The project will deliver 267 new dwellings, including 147 independent living units and 120 residential aged care beds.

Beyond accommodation, the proposed development includes shared facilities like a wellness centre, café, salon, swimming pool, gym, Men’s Shed, and landscaped areas for recreation. The seniors gym will also be accessible to community members aged over 60.

Access to the site will continue from Morgan Road, with parking allocated for 128 residents and 30 visitors within the independent living section. An additional 12 spaces are planned for aged care residents, alongside 65 for staff.

The buildings have been designed to follow the site’s slope and integrate two central communal areas named the Passive Heart and Active Heart. These spaces will support resident interaction and link the housing with care facilities.

Belrose development — *Photo Credit: DA/SSD-71378958*

Planning and Design Compliance

The development complies with a site-wide floor space ratio of 0.58:1. Some building heights exceed the standard 8.5 metres, with a Clause 20 variation requested to allow these changes.

The proposal addresses the Seniors Housing Design Guide 2023 and the Apartment Design Guide, incorporating principles such as ventilation, natural light, accessibility, and deep soil planting. Sustainability features include solar panels, water-sensitive systems, and passive ventilation.

The design has undergone review by the State Design Review Panel, leading to updates in areas such as tree retention, materials, and pedestrian flow.

Construction and Operational Impacts

The project is forecast to generate 238 construction jobs. However, once operational, staffing will reduce to 109 due to the shift towards more independent living units and fewer high-care beds.

During the construction phase, existing residents will be relocated. The application identifies short-term disruptions, including traffic, dust, and noise, and outlines measures to manage these during construction. Engagement with local residents and stakeholders is expected to continue throughout the project.

Uniting Wesley Gardens development public consultation — *Photo Credit: DA/SSD-71378958*

Site Access and Surrounding Area

Located at the corner of Morgan Road and Forest Way, the site connects to nearby suburbs via several bus routes, including services to Chatswood, Warringah Mall, and the Sydney CBD.

Neighbouring the site are low-density residential properties and other senior living facilities, such as Glenaeon Retirement Village and Calvary Corymbia Aged Care.

Next Steps

The application remains on exhibition until 4 June 2025, allowing the public to provide feedback. Feedback on the proposal can be submitted through the NSW Planning Portal by referencing application number SSD-71378958. A final determination will be made by the NSW Minister for Planning.

MAKE A SUBMISSION

Published 24-May-2025

Terrey Hills Crash Leaves Sydney Dad in Long Road to Recovery

Photo Credit: Northern Beaches Advocate/Instagram

A roofer’s early morning drive through Terrey Hills ended in disaster when his ute slammed into a power pole, leaving him critically injured and his young family in sudden crisis.

A Family’s World Turns Upside Down

On Friday, 9 May, Mark Peebles, 32, was driving to work on Mona Vale Road in Terrey Hills when his ute veered off the road and hit a power pole. Emergency crews freed him from the wreckage as live wires hung overhead.

*Photo Credit: Northern Beaches Advocate/Instagram*

Mark was airlifted to Royal North Shore Hospital with a crushed leg, fractured spine and collapsed lung. He underwent five surgeries in intensive care, but with his spinal cord intact, doctors remain hopeful for recovery.

At home, Monika juggled full-time work, hospital visits and caring for their two young children, aged three and one. Their daughter kept asking when her dad would come home, unaware of how serious things were.

Community Steps In To Help

Friends and neighbours rallied around the Peebles family. Close friend Kim Isik launched a GoFundMe campaign to help with daily costs and hospital travel, raising over $10,000 from nearly 100 donors.

The campaign shares how Monika’s world changed overnight, juggling twice the load with half the income. While friends have stepped in with meals and childcare, the emotional strain continues to weigh heavily.

Recovery Ahead Remains Uncertain

Doctors expect Mark to spend two more months in hospital, followed by six months of rehab. He’s speaking and moving again, but memory loss remains a challenge, with conversations fading in minutes.

Before the crash, Mark had complained of dizziness, and it’s suspected he may have blacked out behind the wheel. Investigators are still reviewing the incident. For now, the focus remains on helping the Peebles family adjust to this new chapter and giving Mark the best chance to recover.

A Broader Issue Behind The Numbers

The Peebles family’s story highlights the human cost behind NSW’s road toll, with over 10,000 people hospitalised each year. Experts say the impact goes beyond injuries, leaving families and communities to carry the burden.

Local support has helped, but Monika says juggling hospital visits, work and parenting feels like a blur. She and the kids now face months of emotional and physical recovery.

Published 20-May-2025

New Plus Fitness Belrose: The Largest in Australia

Photo Credit: Plus Fitness Belrose/Instagram

Belrose is set to become home to Australia’s largest Plus Fitness facility. The facility features a state-of-the-art 1,400 square metre gym designed to cater to all fitness levels.

Australia’s Largest Plus Fitness Coming to Belrose

Belrose will soon be home to the largest Plus Fitness gym in Australia. Located at 3 Minna Close, the new flagship facility is expected to open in May 2025. The gym aims to offer a premium fitness experience to locals.

The sprawling 1,400-square-metre gym will feature a wide range of amenities, including a dedicated women’s area, a recovery zone, and ten squat stations. It will be open 24/7 and provide round-the-clock access for members to train, recover, and stay fit.

*Photo Credit: Plus Fitness Belrose/Instagram*

Plus Fitness is an official Hammer Strength Certified Training Centre. The new Belrose gym will have state-of-the-art strength and conditioning equipment and will set a new standard for fitness enthusiasts in the area.

Exclusive Membership Offers Ahead of Opening

Foundation memberships are currently available, offering an opportunity to secure pre-opening rates from just $17.95 per week. Members who sign up now will not be charged any joining or access fees, and payments will only begin once the gym officially opens in May.

This offer marks a rare chance for locals to access premium fitness facilities at reduced rates. Plus Fitness Belrose aims to create a welcoming and dynamic environment for everyone from athletes to beginners.

Australia's Largest Gym — *Photo Credit: Plus Fitness Belrose/Instagram*

Serving the Wider Community

The new facility is strategically positioned to serve surrounding suburbs, including Terrey Hills, St Ives, Ingleside, Duffys Forest, Frenchs Forest, Killarney Heights, Davidson, and Oxford Falls.

Residents from these areas are encouraged to take advantage of the current membership deals before the gym transitions to its flagship rates.

enquire now

Community Excitement Builds

With its size, facilities, and 24/7 accessibility, the Belrose Plus Fitness is set to become a major hub for the local fitness community. Locals are looking forward to exploring the new space and enjoying the variety of training and recovery options available.

The opening of the Belrose location highlights the growing demand for premium fitness facilities in the region, cementing Plus Fitness as a key player in the Australian gym landscape.

Published 5-Apr-2025

Belrose Sanitiser Dumping Sparks ICAC Probe

Photo Credit: ICAC

A corruption investigation into the illegal dumping of hazardous, expired hand sanitiser in Belrose raises serious integrity questions coinciding with resident anger over proposed rate rises.

Hazardous Waste Dumped in Suburb

Large amounts of expired, high-strength alcohol hand sanitiser were illegally dumped at two sites in the northern Sydney suburb of Belrose around the Australia Day weekend last year. The sanitiser, containing over 75 percent ethyl alcohol, is classified as a biohazard, even more so when out of date.

Before council investigators could fully examine the sites, it was reported that public members had disturbed some pallets, causing the high-strength ethanol to leak into local stormwater drains.

Investigation Identifies Dumper

A council waste investigator started investigating the illegal dumping incident. Using information from a neighbouring council and security camera footage from a storage business in Pymble, investigators identified a truck loading the sanitiser pallets.

Cameras also captured the same truck near the dumping locations in Belrose. The investigator tracked down and spoke with the registered owner of the sanitiser brand involved. This person reportedly admitted responsibility verbally and initially agreed to remove the dumped hazardous material.

Interference and Integrity Questions Raised

Following this admission, a superior officer allegedly directed the council investigator not to proceed with prosecution or issue fines for the illegal dumping. It was suggested that the reasoning provided was a lack of significant harm or public benefit to justify pursuing legal action. Instead, the instruction reportedly warned the dumper that such behaviour was unacceptable.

The situation became an internal integrity concern when some sanitiser boxes appeared at Northern Beaches Council offices. These products were originally brought into the country during the Covid pandemic and expired April 2023. A field officer reported this to the council’s integrity unit, expressing concerns that council staff might have taken the sanitiser. However, the integrity unit allegedly did not take further action, considering it an internal staff conduct matter rather than a larger issue.

Corruption Watchdog Takes Over

A whistleblower confidentially reported the situation to the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), providing evidence, including photographs and videos of the dumped sanitiser. ICAC assessed the information and officially listed the matter as a public interest disclosure investigation. This means the state’s anti-corruption body formally investigates the council’s actions and decisions related to the dumping incident and its aftermath.

Council Faces Financial Pressure and Rate Anger

This investigation adds to the pressures facing the Northern Beaches Council, which was established in 2016 through the merger of the former Manly, Warringah, and Pittwater councils. The council states it is experiencing severe financial difficulties and has recently proposed a large rate increase, potentially up to 40 per cent phased over three years.

This increase aims to generate an additional $57 million in revenue annually. Council management has pointed to financial strains caused by the Covid pandemic and recovery costs from storms, flooding, and ongoing bushfire threats as reasons for needing the extra funds. The rate increase proposal has sparked outrage among many residents, who have described it using terms like “disgusting” and “disgraceful,” some even suggest they might refuse to pay.

Community Divided Over $33m Restaurant Complex in Terrey Hills

Photo Credit: DA2024/1362

A proposed $33 million restaurant complex by the Boathouse Group in Terrey Hills has stirred community division, with locals split between supporting the development and raising concerns about noise and traffic impacts.

From Coastal Cafés to Rural Retreats

The Boathouse Group, a Sydney-based hospitality business with 12 outlets from the Central Coast to Wollongong, has submitted plans to develop a three-restaurant complex on a semi-rural property in Terrey Hills. The project, named “The Farmhouse, Terrey Hills”, would consist of three separate dining venues, each offering a unique experience.

The site, acquired by Isaac Property Developments for $9.8 million in 2022, spans 1.6 hectares on Myoora Road. The development is designed to include low-scale, farm-style pavilions with landscaped open spaces. Features would include three licensed restaurants, outdoor dining areas, a children’s play area, a stage, pergolas, and a large lawn, with over 8,300 new plants and 93 trees to enhance the setting.

Terrey Hills restaurant complex — *Photo Credit: DA2024/1362*

The Vision: A Trio of Unique Dining Experiences

The proposed complex (DA2024/1362) would operate from 7 a.m. to 12 a.m. every day, accommodating up to 794 patrons. A basement car park with 156 vehicle spaces is part of the design, addressing parking concerns raised by locals. Each restaurant would provide a distinct dining atmosphere:

Restaurant 1: Casual dining with a rural shed-style design.
Restaurant 2: Family-friendly, featuring both indoor and outdoor dining, a bar, and a small stage for live music between midday and 10 p.m.
Restaurant 3: Fine dining with a covered outdoor seating area.

Belrose restaurant complex — *Photo Credit: DA2024/1362*

Locals Speak Out: Support and Concerns

The proposal has drawn mixed reactions. During a public exhibition period, 43 submissions were received: 22 in favour and 21 opposed. Supporters, including the Duffys Forest Residents Association, highlight the potential for local job creation. However, concerns include increased traffic, noise, and the potential for disruptions from events.

Paul Davenport, president of the Terrey Hills Progress Association, raised concerns about noise pollution from functions and traffic impacts, noting an anticipated increase of 135 vehicles per hour during peak times. While supportive of the economic potential, the association emphasised the need for noise management and improved traffic planning.

Boathouse Group — *Photo Credit: DA2024/1362*

What’s Next for Terrey Hills?

The NBC has presented a briefing to the Sydney North Planning Panel, highlighting the divided community response. The panel will continue to assess the proposal, considering public feedback and potential impacts on local infrastructure.

Published 29-Mar-2025

“Carousel” Celebrates 80 Years with Belrose Performances

Photo Credit: Glen Street

The classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical “Carousel”, a story of love and hardship in 19th-century Maine, will be brought to life in Belrose by the Sydney Musical and Opera Society in a limited concert series.

Production Details

The Sydney Musical and Opera Society will present “Carousel in Concert” at Glen Street Theatre in Belrose on July 2nd and 3rd, 2025, with further performances at the Pavilion Performing Arts Centre in Sutherland on July 5th and 6th.

The performances at Glen Street Theatre will be at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday 2 July, and 2:00 p.m. on Thursday 3 July. The production follows a successful run aboard the Cunard Queen Elizabeth cruise ship.

Musical and Theatrical Elements

The production will feature a 23-piece orchestra performing the musical score, including well-known songs such as “You’ll Never Walk Alone” and “If I Loved You.” Opera Australia provided the costumes for the show. Director Julia Robertson aims to present a new interpretation of the musical, which celebrates its 80th anniversary in 2025.

The story follows the complex relationship between carnival worker Billy Bigalow, played by Simon Militano, and mill worker Julie Jordan, portrayed by NIDA graduate Pippa Luscombe. The show is suitable for all ages and runs for two hours and fifteen minutes, including a 20-minute interval.

Community Involvement

The Sydney Musical and Opera Society is a community organisation. This production is intended to bring a well-loved musical to local audiences. The organisation aims to offer a high-quality theatrical experience, featuring a full orchestra and professional-level costumes.

Published Date 26-March-2025

Belrose Recycling Pop-Up Day: Officeworks Helps Reduce E-Waste

Photo Credit: Officeworks/YouTube

Belrose residents will have the opportunity to recycle their unwanted tech devices and household batteries as Officeworks hosts a Recycling Pop-Up Day at its HomeCo Belrose store. The initiative aims to divert electronic waste from landfill, aligning with Officeworks’ broader commitment to sustainability.

Officeworks Pop Up event — *Caption: Officeworks’ Recycling Pop-Up Day 2024*
*Photo Credit: Supplied*

A Push for a Greener Future in Belrose

Officeworks Belrose is continuing its mission to promote responsible waste management with its latest Recycling Pop-Up Day. The event is part of Officeworks’ ongoing People and Planet Positive initiative, designed to help Australians dispose of electronic waste responsibly. Previous pop-up events have seen significant success, collecting up to 933kg of e-waste and 18kg of batteries in a single day.

Belrose residents are encouraged to participate in the upcoming event by bringing old tech devices for recycling, preventing these materials from ending up in landfill.

Event Details and Accepted Items

The Recycling Pop-Up Day will take place on Saturday, 22 March 2025, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Officeworks HomeCo Belrose Car Park, located at 4/6 Niangala Close.

Residents can drop off various electronic items, including:

Computers
Video equipment
Game consoles
Cameras
Televisions
Printers
Hard drives
Phones
Ink and toner cartridges

Important Notice: Customers are reminded to wipe all personal data from their devices before recycling.

Recycling Pop Up Day — *Caption: Officeworks’ Recycling Pop-Up Day 202*4
*Photo Credit: Supplied*

FULL LIST OF ACCEPTED ITEMS

Officeworks’ Commitment to Sustainability

Since launching its Bring It Back program in 2015, Officeworks has diverted more than 11,000 tonnes of e-waste from landfill. The program focuses on repairing, repurposing, and recycling electronic waste to support a circular economy, reducing environmental impact by extending the life cycle of products.

Although Officeworks no longer accepts batteries in-store, residents can find alternative drop-off locations via the B-cycle website at bcycle.com.au.

Expanding Recycling Options Beyond Electronics

In addition to tech recycling, Officeworks offers a Pen and Marker Recycling Program, allowing schools and individuals to recycle used pens, markers, highlighters, and correction tape. Schools can also register for a recycling box to collect these items and participate in a rewards program.

Other recyclable materials accepted in-store include:

Ink & toner cartridges
USBs and hard drives
CDs and DVDs
Pens and markers

However, Officeworks does not accept mobile phones, consumer electronics such as toasters and hair dryers, or standard household batteries.

Community Engagement and Future Outlook

Belrose residents are increasingly aware of responsible waste management. Events like the Officeworks Recycling Pop-Up Day help encourage sustainable habits. By making e-waste recycling more accessible, Officeworks continues to strengthen its commitment to reducing landfill waste and supporting the circular economy.

Belrose recycling — *Photo Credit: Officeworks/YouTube*

For future Recycling Pop-Up Days across Australia, check the Officeworks event schedule at officeworks.com.au/recycling.

Published 18-Mar-2025

St Ives Bus Collision Leaves Pedestrian in Critical Condition

Photo Credit: Pixabay

A pedestrian crossing collision at a major St Ives intersection has resulted in multiple charges against a bus driver after a woman sustained critical injuries.

The collision occurred at the intersection of Mona Vale Road and Memorial Avenue in St Ives on February 4 at approximately 9:15 PM. The 40-year-old female pedestrian suffered severe head injuries when she was struck by the bus.

**The collision occurred at the intersection of Mona Vale Road and Memorial Avenue in St Ives.**
Photo Credit: Google Maps

The 54-year-old bus driver now faces several charges, including dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm and failing to give way to a pedestrian. Police allegations state the driver proceeded through a red traffic light at the time of the incident.

Following mandatory testing at the hospital, the driver’s license has been suspended. He is scheduled to appear at Hornsby Local Court on April 2.

The woman remains in critical condition at Royal North Shore Hospital.

Published 16-February-2025