Balgowlah News

Retail Renaissance: Stockland Balgowlah’s $155 Million Transformation

Stockland Balgowlah, a beloved shopping destination that has graced the Northern Beaches since 1959, recently changed hands in a significant deal worth $155 million.

The bustling hub, known for its array of specialty stores and eateries, now belongs to REVELOP, a private property development firm headed by cousins Charbel Hazzouri and Anthony El-Hazouri. With this transaction, Balgowlah’s loyal shoppers are left pondering what lies ahead for their beloved retail haunt.

A Familiar Face: Balgowlah’s Transformation

Since its inception, Balgowlah Shopping Centre has been a fixture in the local community. Despite recent ownership changes and the introduction of residential apartments in 2009, the essence of this retail landmark has remained intact.

Mr Hazzouri, one of the new co-owners, is quick to allay fears of its redevelopment, affirming their commitment to preserving Balgowlah’s status as a village shopping hub. He emphasises the importance of community input in shaping the future of Balgowlah Shopping Centre.

With plans to introduce fresh food options and revamp the interior, REVELOP seeks to align the mall with evolving consumer preferences.

As discussions around potential name changes surface, memories of the centre’s past iterations, including its original moniker, “The Totem,” resurface, underscoring the deep-rooted connection between Balgowlah and its patrons.

The Totem, inaugurated in 1959, stood out as the premier “American-style” mall on the northern beaches, featuring replicas of Native American totem poles adorning its entrances. Within its walls, patrons enjoyed amenities such as a Franklins supermarket, a 10-pin bowling alley, squash courts, and a childcare centre.

The Totem in 1960 — *Photo Credit: Northern Beaches Library*

In 2002, the property, originally named the Totem Shopping Centre, was acquired by Stockland.

in 2007, Stockland undertook a redevelopment project, demolishing the existing structure to make way for the construction of Stockland Balgowlah Village. This revamped complex, which also incorporated 240 residential apartments, debuted to the public in mid-2009, ushering in a new era for the iconic Balgowlah locale.

Strategic Expansion: REVELOP’s Vision

For REVELOP, the acquisition of Stockland Balgowlah represents more than just a business transaction—it’s a strategic move to bolster its diverse portfolio. With an eye on enhancing the retail landscape, the firm is no stranger to such endeavours, having undertaken similar ventures across New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia.

Their commitment to community engagement and tenant satisfaction underscores their dedication to ensuring Balgowlah Shopping Centre thrives in the ever-evolving retail landscape.

Published 12-March-2024

Celebrating Community Champions: Westfield’s Local Heroes Program Returns

Every community harbours unsung heroes—individuals who selflessly dedicate themselves to fostering positive change in the lives of those around them. In Brookvale, Balgowlah and beyond, Westfield is amplifying the spotlight on such local champions through its annual Local Heroes program.

With a staggering $1.26 million in grants up for grabs, this initiative not only honours these individuals but also provides essential support to community organisations. Since its inception, the program has injected $7.395 million into over 700 community organisations, illustrating the profound impact of recognising and nurturing local heroes.

Nominations Open: Recognising Extraordinary Contributions

Westfield’s Local Heroes program for 2024 is now accepting nominations, inviting Australians to shine a light on those who go above and beyond in making a positive impact on their communities. For the first time, New Zealanders may also nominate a hero in their community.

The Local Heroes program aims to celebrate the positive role models within communities, offering grants of $20,000 and $5,000 to support their causes. These grants serve as vital support for community organisations and their ongoing efforts to make a difference.

Pam Wilson, Scentre Group National Community Manager, emphasised the importance of recognising and supporting local heroes, encouraging participation from communities across Australia and New Zealand. The program’s impact extends beyond individual recipients, empowering community organisations to continue their valuable work.

“We’re a small and growing startup charity focused on men’s mental health, and the awareness Westfield Local Heroes has brought to us is an important part of our growth. This grant is helping us to not only continue our work in the men’s mental health space but also develop more mental health programs and grow our presence in the community,” Westfield Local Heroes alumni, Tim Hewson from Mongrels Men of Balgowlah said.

How to Nominate and Support Local Heroes

Nominating a local hero is a simple yet impactful gesture, requiring community members to submit their nominations by 18 March 2024. Following the nomination period, a panel of Westfield team members and local community partners will select three finalists for each Westfield centre. The community will then vote for their local hero, with successful recipients announced on 15 October 2024.

NOMINATE YOUR LOCAL HEROes

As the Local Heroes program enters its seventh consecutive year, Westfield remains committed to recognising and honouring individuals who make a tangible difference in their communities.

Published 16-Feb-2024

A Canine Carnival: The Street Paws Festival Balgowlah

Photo Credit: Facebook / Street paws festival

EDITOR’S NOTE: This event has been postponed until further notice. (as of 16-Feb-2024)

Heads up, fur pawrents! The Street Paws Festival is coming to Balgowlah! A collaboration with the Manly Dog Training Club, the event is where pet owners can join the FREE ‘Strut Your Mutt’ or ‘Cutest Pooch’ competition; or see which furball has the waggiest tail; watch flyball demos; or chow down some Cheeky Chicken treats.

Photo Credit: Facebook / Street paws festival

Generously sponsored by The Pet Specialists (formerly NVS) and Puppi Lovers, the February 17 festival will be held at at 215 Condamine Street and promises to be a day filled with activities and competitions. Vetafarm and Lovebites For Pets have also come on board as prize sponsors, ensuring that the winners of the day’s events will go home with some fantastic goodies.

Attendees will have the opportunity to discover unique products and services from Barkly Treats, Pip Pets, Peppers Crew, and Dd And Bear Dogs, all guaranteed to delight both pets and their owners.

Pip Pets cannot contain their excitement for the event.

“We can’t wait to see our Balgowlah customers and pals… Pop by for some Cheeky Chicken or Brilliant Beef patties – wholefood and delish!,” they said. Pip, their CEO and mini sausage, will also be making an appearance.

**Pip Pets’ CEO and mini sausage, Pip**
Photo Credit: Facebook / Pip Pets

The day’s schedule is packed with fun activities for both dogs and their owners:

9.30am: An agility demo by Manly and District Kennel and Dog Training Club Inc.
10.30am: The Cutest Pooch competition (free to enter)
11.30am: Fly ball demos with Manly and District Kennel and Dog Training Club Inc.
12.30pm: Competitions for the Best Trickster, the Waggiest Tail, and Strut Your Mutt (free to enter)

Whether you’re a dog owner or simply a dog lover, the Street Paws Festival Balgowlah is the place to be. Don’t miss out on this day of canine capers. It’s sure to be a barking good time!

Check out the official Facebook Event page for more information.

Published 7-February-2024

Planned Balgowlah Showroom May Shake Up Local Luxury Furniture Scene

Photo credit: Northern Beaches Council / eservices.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

Expectations are high that a proposed showroom on Condamine Street in Balgowlah may shake up the local luxury furniture scene.

The proposed two-storey showroom, a King Living project, would be built at 200-204 Condamine Street on the border of Balgowlah and Manly Vale with a central atrium between storeys. and would include car parking areas.

Lodged Plans by King Living to Shake Up Luxury Furniture Scene on Balgowlah/Manly Vale Border — Photo credit: Northern Beaches Council / eservices.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

The proposed building has an open plan, with two escalators serving the first-floor level which is a split level with small stairs connecting the two levels. Also included in the proposal is a driveway located at the southern end of the building linked to the rear side car parking.

“The proposed materials and finishes include precast concrete panel walls, cemintel barestone concrete walls, concrete slabs, glass shopfront façade, fixed aluminium louvres in timber look finish, glass awning above entrance, vertical garden over glass wall and metal roof sheeting.” – DM Planning

However, in order to make way for the new development, King Living would need to demolish three existing empty buildings on the site. This includes the old Barbeques Galore shop, as well as a former outdoor furniture retailer and an indoor plant outlet.

The existing ground floor slabs, western boundary retaining walls and the suspended concrete ramps between the buildings at 202 and 204 Condamine Street will be retained.

King Living’s proposed development will be situated just metres away from another luxury furniture and homewares outlet, Coco Republic, as well as a short walk from Smith Made on Roseberry St. Additionally, there is already a Freedom furniture and homewares store operating on the opposite side of Condamine St to the proposed King Living site.

The proposal at a glance:

Address: 200-204 Condamine Street
Level 1: (GFA: 894m2)

• Open-plan furniture showroom

• Entry with escalators and atrium

• Lift, bathroom, kitchen, waste room

Level 2: (GFA: 1,104m2)

• Open- plan, split-level furniture showroom

• Metal roof with solar photovoltaic panels

Undercroft below the building: For flood storage

Traffic and car parking:

• Two-lane vehicle access driveway from the southern end of the site.

• Twenty-six (26) car spaces located at the rear of the site

• Reinstate the kerb to redundant driveway

Landscaping:

• Landscaping in the 4.5m front setback area located above the proposed suspended slab and around

• A vertical garden wall on the eastern facade

Signage:

• 1 x illuminated business identification sign containing the lettering “KING” on the street-facing elevation of the building.

• 1 x illuminated business identification sign containing the lettering “KING” on the north-facing elevation of the building.

Published 7-April-2023

New Parking Sensors To Be Installed In Clontarf, Other Popular Beachfront Locations

NSW has rolled out new parking sensors to make parking at popular beachfront locations, including at Clontarf, easier and more accessible than before.

Read: Fish Face: Fresh Ocean Flavours in the Heart of Balgowlah

The parking sensors are currently being installed at Shelly Beach and will also be rolled out over the coming months at Little Manly, North Steyne, South Steyne, Clontarf and Sandy Bay Road.

Northern Beaches Council expects the parking sensors at all locations to be operational by mid-2023, ready to make parking a breeze in the peak summer months.

Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan said the new sensors will help make parking easier and more accessible, while alleviating traffic and congestion on local roads.

“With some truly spectacular beach days this summer, we have all seen just how popular our beaches have become,” Mayor Regan said.

“A family trip to the beach shouldn’t be a hassle so we are doing what we can to make it easier for both residents and visitors to access parking at our popular beachfront locations.

How it Works

Once a parking sensor is installed beneath the surface of the road, it will be able to sense when a vehicle enters or leaves each spot.

The information is then sent to the NSW Government Park’nPay App, allowing drivers to use the app to check how many spots are available before setting off to the beach.

Through the Park’nPay App, drivers could pay for and manage parking within 14 additional council areas across the state.

Meanwhile, the Park’nPay Accessibility Portal has also been launched to help people with a disability find accessible parking in Council carparks.

Read: New Northern Beaches Parking Finder App has Launched

The Park’nPay app can be downloaded on iOS and Android devices for free.

Published 5-March-2023

Fish Face: Fresh Ocean Flavours in the Heart of Balgowlah

Photo credit: Facebook / Fish Face

Set in the heart of Balgowlah, this eatery serves fresh seafood dishes. From oysters and grilled half-shell scallops to snapper and prawn pie and tuna crudo, Fish Face has got your seafood cravings covered.

Fish Face was owners Shahid Rahman and Anna Walker’s answer to the locals’ desire to have a restaurant in the area that is dedicated to fresh seafood dishes. And thanks to head chef Adam Rust, formerly of Harbord Hotel and 12-Micron, Fish Face is able to deliver the kind of seafood-centred menu that captures the fresh ocean flavours inside its equally fresh venue.

Lunch and Dinner offerings that the family can enjoy include freshly shucked oysters with lemon or Kilpatrick and Worcestershire sauce and bacon bits. Their prawn hot pot with mild chilli, garlic and lemon butter served with sourdough baguette is also a definite must try along with grilled half-shell scallops with parsley and lemon butter; and kingfish sashimi made with jalapeno, cucumber and lemon infused olive oil.

Still, you can go for larger plate favourites which include Asian-style fish curry served with jasmine rice; roasted Moreton Bay bugs with chipotle butter, jasmine rice, lime and coriander; and snapper and prawn pie made with snapper fillet and tiger prawns with potato, cream and dill.

Kingfish sashimi / Huon Tasmania Salmon caviar, crème fraiche | Photo credit: Facebook / Fish Face

For the little ones, there’s a special menu too which includes fish (grilled or fried) and chips, crispy fried chicken tenders with chips, and mini hotdogs with chips – all served with tomato ketchup. And there’s angel hair pasta with tomato to go along with these scrumptious eats.

Need something sweet to balance all that goodness? Options include banoffee cheesecake, cookies and cream sundae with crushed Oreo cookies, and churros.

The drinks menu, meanwhile, consists of a list of non-alcoholic drinks, cocktails, beer and cider, wine by the glass, wine by the bottle, and spirits.

BYO is only accepted for Lunch and Dinner every Monday, except Public Holidays. A $7.50 corkage per person applies.

Google Reviews:

“Great service, food was delicious, my favourite dishes would be Tuna Crudo, Clarence River Octopus, Crab & Prawn Pasta, grilled fish, and Banofee Cheesecake for dessert 😋. If you’re a fan of seafood, don’t miss out this place. Especially, they have gluten-free fish & chips and many other options if you’ve having dietary requirements. Highly recommended 👍” – J. Tran

“Such a great first experience at Fish Face! Lachie the Manager was incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable on the menu and wine list. Food exquisite – kudos to head chef Adam and kitchen team. Wait staff efficient and lovely. We had a big group so were able to try lots on the menu. Everything was delicious with special mention to the prawn pasta and fish pie. We will be back :)” – G. Bennett

“We had dinner for two which was very enjoyable and reasonably priced. Service and food were both exceptional. I had the prawn and crab pasta which was delicious and more than I could eat. My partner had the prawn and snapper pie which was very nice but he would have liked it to be bigger. Churros and strawberry tart for dessert were both yummy. Definitely plan to go back soon.” – S. P.

Fish Face is located at 70/215 Condamine Street, Plaza Level Stockland Mall, Balgowlah.
To book a reservation, click here.

How Balgowlah Boys Campus Makes Big Strides In English And Literacy

Balgowlah Boys Campus has been recognised by the Department of Education for its effective teaching practices, which resulted in substantial improvement in student results in English in the National Assessment Program, Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) and Higher School Certificate.

Read: Effie’s: Former Corner Store in Balgowlah Now a Gorgeous New Cafe and Wine Bar

A case study by the Centre for Education Statistics and Evaluation (CESE) showed Balgowlah Boys Campus has seen improvement in HSC English. HSC refers to the credential awarded to secondary school students who successfully complete senior high school level studies.

In English standard in 2011, Balgowlah Boys Campus students had an average score 7 points lower than the school’s statistically similar schools group, whilst in 2021, it was 9 points higher.

According to CESE, these are the things that worked best to improve student achievement in English at the school:

Strong school leadership with a well-defined vision, and strong instructional leadership to implement change.
An explicit approach to teaching writing that is introduced early, and practised and refined regularly as students progress through their schooling.
A strong focus on teacher professional learning and collaboration – especially in faculty groups – to ensure that all teachers are skilled in the approach and consistent in their practice.
Providing students with regular feedback on their work that is timely, specific and actionable.

Literacy has become a whole-school priority since Mr Paul Sheather took up the role of Principal at the campus in 2009. At the time, he identified that many students were underperforming academically and he wanted to turn the school around.

Mr Sheather’s vision was to create a strong learning culture that would lead to improved outcomes for all students and produce confident and articulate young men.

In 2011, 32 percent of students in Year 7 and Year 9 at the school achieved a result in the top 2 bands for NAPLAN reading and numeracy, whilst in 2021, 53 percent of students achieved a result in these bands.

Balgowlah Boys Campus is now one of the state’s most consistently top‑performing schools in HSC English, having placed in the top 10 since 2016.

About Balgowlah Boys Campus

Photo credit: Balgowlah Boys Campus – Northern Beaches Secondary College/Facebook

The school is a government comprehensive secondary school for boys in Years 7 to 12, located at 27 Maretimo St, Balgowlah. It is one of 5 schools that constitute the multi‑campus Northern Beaches Secondary College.

Read: Parents Worry Over Proposed 5G Upgrades At Balgowlah Boys Campus

The school has an average Family Occupation and Education Index 1 of 24, indicating that it serves a relatively advantaged population, and a current enrolment of 1,176 students.

Beaches Link Project Paused Due Rising Cost and Labour Shortage

Photo Credit: NSW Government /caportal.com.au

The Northern Beaches Tunnel or the Beaches Link has been paused due to rising costs and labour shortages. It remains uncertain, however, whether or not the acquisition of properties will be paused as well.

“The NSW Government remains committed to Beaches Link. Following independent advice, the NSW Government is restaging major infrastructure projects such as Beaches Link so they can be delivered in a sustainable and affordable way for taxpayers,” the Transport for NSW advisory reads.

Announced in 2017, the Beaches Link was planned to commence in 2023 with project completion expected by 2028. The link has been designed to provide new direct connections from the Northern Beaches to Warringah Freeway North Sydney, Inner West (via the Western Harbour Tunnel) and St Leonards and Macquarie Park (via the Gore Hill Freeway Connection).

Independent advisers Infrastructure NSW, however, recommended the “re-sequencing” of major projects, which includes the Beaches Link, due to complexity and increasing construction cost and declining supply of skilled labour.

Residents around Dudley Street in Balgowlah, however, cannot breathe a sigh of relief still despite the project being put on hold as no announcement has been made regarding the acquisition of homes.

So far, 21 homes of a total of 35 have been acquired as part of construction works around Dudley Street. In all, 54 properties are planned to be acquired for the Beaches Link and Gore Hill Freeway Connection projects which include Balgowlah, Artarmon, Seaforth, Killarney Heights and Frenchs Forest.

The Beaches Link and Gore Hill Freeway Connection project has so far received more than 1,500 submissions a majority of which are objecting to the project.

“I am against this proposal as it does not contain adequate rapid public transport considerations nor support the need for cycling. In fact, it significantly damages some existing infrastructure around Gore hill freeway for cyclists with no commitment to make right this infrastructure. The workarounds are a major impact on routes I frequently take. – Name withheld

“For many reasons, too many to list. Here are a few; Cost, damage to the environment, the destruction of bush land, parts of the harbour and dams etc where wildlife currently reside. Unfiltered smoke stacks. No public transport alternatives were submitted. Potential damage to homes. Longevity of project. Toll mania (Gladys agrees). No attempt to make improvements that will lower the impact of our carbon footprint. Local residents have been ignored and big companies are being rewarded. There are less destructive ways to create jobs and help people to travel with ease. Another car toll tunnel is last [sic] century.” – Carol M.

“I am concerned about : Environmental impact the project will have on Northbridge local area; the potential hazards to the health of locals due to the chemcial/asbestos exposure if FernTree Gully is used as a dumping ground during the project; reduction in property values; excessive costs of the project that many locals are not happy about.” – Name withheld

Mosman Council expressed “strong objection to the cessation” of the project, adding that written representations will be made to the Premier suggesting that there should be “no further increase in housing targets” whilst a long-term solution for the Spit Bridge route is still being sought.

Back in March when the probable pausing of the Beaches Link project was announced, Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan urged the government not to delay the project but instead find alternatives to fund the project.

About $6 billion has already been allocated over the next four years for the Beaches Link (planning approval pending) and Warringah Freeway Upgrade and the Western Harbour Tunnel (approved in January 2021) projects under the NSW 2021-22 Budget. The total cost for these projects is estimated to be about $14 billion.

Effie’s: Former Corner Store in Balgowlah Now a Gorgeous New Cafe and Wine Bar

Photo Credit: Effie’s - @effies__ / Instagram

Meet Effie’s. What was once a corner store in Balgowlah has been transformed into a beautiful cafe and wine bar with an inviting array of natural wines and a Calacatta viola marble window that’s definitely an eye-catcher.

Effie’s Balgowlah — Photo Credit: Effie’s – @effies__ / Instagram

When Sam Batten opened Aggy’s Corner in 2018 together with brother-in-law Thom Lane, it was meant to be more than just a cafe but a community hub as well that supports local producers and businesses. And this is the same concept that they have carried over to Aggy’s sister venue, Effie’s, which opened in early 2022 (both venues were named after their two daughters).

Effie’s retail shelf | Photo Credit: Effie’s – @effies__ / Instagram

Sam and his wife and co-owner Aniella restored the former site of Myung Dong Asian Grocery on Sydney Road, Balgowlah exposing its original plaster ceilings and adding a floating bench seat, handcrafted by Sam himself, and a beautiful marble coffee window. There are also retail shelves to showcase their collection of for-sale items by Maison Balzac, Leif, and Cultiver as well as handmade ceramics by Tanika Jellis and Gretel Corrie.

The focus would still be on coffee offerings in collaboration with Skittle Lane. Whilst the snack offerings will include Aggy’s signature toasties (such as the ham and cheese toastie with two cheese, leg ham and beetroot, and gin relish) with bread and pastries courtesy of Staple Bread & Necessities plus cookies by Butter Boy Bake.

Cafe by day, wine bar by night | Photo Credit: Effie’s – @effies__ / Instagram

By night, Effie’s transforms into a wine bar and dining venue with an array of natural wines by Manly’s Winona Wine on offer. Their food offering includes Toast (sourdough, anchovies, mozzarella, green tomatoes and fermented chilli) and Sando (Brioche, smoked shoyu mayo, dry-aged beef, pickled cucumber, shiso).

Effie’s is located at 281 Sydney Rd, Balgowlah. Trading hours are Monday – Wednesday, 6 am to 2 pm; Thursday – Saturday, 6 am to 2 pm and 4 pm to 9.30 pm; Sunday, 6 am to 11 am, 1 pm to 8 pm.

Effie’s | 281 Sydney Rd, Balgowlah NSW 2093, Australia

Here’s The Best Place To Buy Your Cheese In Balgowlah

Photo credit: La Boite a Fromages - Cheese On Wheels/Facebook

For La Boite A Fromages (also known as Cheese on Wheels), cheese is not just an ingredient, it’s the main event. This boutique cafe in Balgowlah that doubles as a cheese shop offers an eclectic selection for all of your cheese essentials.

Read: Cheers To Profit! Goon Bags From Sydney-based Startup Are Selling Like Crazy

Every Friday and Saturday, the Balgowlah cafe welcomes guests with coffee and all-day cheese snacks such as toasties and sandwiches. Some of the popular items on the menu include mushroom melt, ham & cheese croissant, and charcuterie board.

Photo credit: La Boite a Fromages – Cheese On Wheels/Facebook

La Boite A Fromages’ charcuterie board features a selection of three cheeses, cured meats, crackers and bread, jam, onion relish, muscatels, cornichons, and olives.

When not in their brick and mortar store, you can find them at farmers markets across Sydney. But you don’t need to wait for the next market visit because they already have an online store where you can buy all their cheeses, including the bestsellers such as Brillat Savarin (soft-ripened triple cream cow’s milk cheese) and Holy Goat La Luna Ring (French-style soft goat’s cheese).

Just recently, they launched a new picnic box ($79 for two) consisting of sandwiches and cheeses of your choice, salad, sweets, Pellegrino drinks, Prosciutto, olives, jam, fruits and crackers, all in a yellow carry bag with wooden plates, cutlery and napkins.

“All our cheeses are freshly cut to order and wrapped in cheese paper with a label stating name, origin and milk type. Our display fridges with Cedar shelves are designed to keep the cheese in peak conditions and our cloches help mature the goats cheeses to their best,” said La Boite A Fromages on the website.

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For more information about La Boite A Fromages, visit their website and follow them on Facebook or on Instagram @laboiteafromages.

Please note that due to the Covid-19 restrictions in place, only one person per four square metres will be allowed for dine-in. At La Boite A Fromages, that’s 4 customers seating at once and one retail customer at the cheese fridge.