Balgowlah News

Echoes of Aotearoa: Māori Village Spectacle in Clontarf

In the twilight of the 19th and dawn of the 20th centuries, Sydney’s Clontarf pleasure grounds were a hub of festivity, drawing crowds with their music, dancing, and merriment. Yet, in 1909 and 1910, a unique spectacle graced its shores—a Māori village alive with the rhythms and traditions of Aotearoa.

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Maggie Papakura’s Vision

This cultural marvel was the brainchild of Makereti Papakura, affectionately known as Maggie. Born of Māori and English heritage, Papakura was a celebrated guide at the geothermal wonderland of Whakarewarewa, near Rotorua. Her fluency in English and grace as a hostess had charmed even royalty, including the Duke and Duchess of York and Cornwall during their 1901 visit.

Harnessing her cultural roots, Papakura assembled the Te Arawa troupe, a vibrant ensemble of dancers and singers from her native Whakarewarewa. The troupe’s 1909 debut in Sydney, complete with an intricately carved Māori village, was groundbreaking, marking the first cultural exchange on Australian soil.

A Village Takes Shape

The Clontarf picnic ground transformed into a living tableau of Māori life. Runanga, a grand meeting house, stood in the centre of the area, with huts, storehouses, and imposing war canoes on either side.

This microcosm of Aotearoa, enclosed by a traditional picket fence, captivated Sydney’s residents, whose fascination with Māori culture had been piqued by the All-Māori rugby league team’s recent tour.

Performances and Pageantry

Clontarf — *Photo Credit:* *National Library New Zealand*

Under the astute management of Charles Westmacott, a luminary of the Australian theatre scene, the Te Arawa troupe enthralled audiences with their dynamic performances. Haka dances, poi dances, and a blend of English and Māori songs resonated through the grounds. Electric lights, a novelty for the era, illuminated their night-time shows.

The Māori war canoes, a sight to behold, were not mere static displays. On one memorable occasion, the largest canoe embarked on a majestic journey from Clontarf to Cremorne Point, its paddlers navigating the harbour with remarkable skill.

The village wasn’t solely a stage for performances. It served as a poignant reminder of cultural practices. A traditional Māori funeral, or tangi, held for a deceased Māori footballer, moved onlookers with raw emotion and ritualistic beauty. The mournful cries echoing across the harbour underscored the depth and richness of Māori traditions.

Beyond the Village

The Te Arawa troupe’s influence extended beyond Clontarf. They graced stages across Sydney, captivating audiences with “The Legend of Hinemoa,” a Māori love story as timeless as any Shakespearean tragedy.

A Lasting Legacy

The Māori village at Clontarf was more than just an exotic spectacle. It was a testament to the enduring power of culture, a bridge between two worlds. Though the troupe’s final performance in Australia was on March 19, 1911, their impact reverberated long after. Their journey to London for the coronation of King George V solidified their place as ambassadors of Māori culture on the global stage.

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Today, Clontarf is a silent witness to this remarkable chapter in history. Though the village is long gone, the echoes of its songs and dances linger, a reminder of the vibrant cultural exchange that once unfolded on its shores.

Published Date 09-August-2024

Balgowlah Boys High School Could Go Co-ed in Northern Beaches Education Shake-up

Sweeping changes to high schools in the northern beaches, including potentially transforming Balgowlah Boys and Mackellar Girls into co-educational campuses, have been proposed as part of a broader initiative to provide all students access to mixed-gender public education by 2027.

Community feedback on four proposals for reshaping Northern Beaches’ secondary education was released in early August. Aside from the co-ed plans, pne proposal seeks to expand Freshwater Senior Campus to accommodate Years 7-12, adjusting intake areas for Cromer Campus and The Forest High School, and introducing non-selective enrolment options at Manly Campus.

Proposal	Description
A	NBSC Freshwater Senior Campus would move from a Year 11-12 Senior campus to a Year 7-12 Campus.
B	NBSC Manly Campus would offer non-selective enrolment in Years 7-9 for students from a new local intake area, with the current arrangement that adds additional selective students in older grades to cease. Non-selective students would move to NBSC Freshwater Senior Campus for Years 10-12.
C	Intake area adjustments for NBSC Cromer Campus and The Forest High School, to expand their intake areas to all homes without a guaranteed co-educational option.
D	NBSC Mackellar Girls Campus and NBSC Balgowlah Boys Campus would become co-educational Year 7-12 campuses.

The proposed changes have sparked intense debate among parents and educators in the Northern Beaches community. While some welcome the prospect of increased co-educational options, others express concern about potential impacts on existing school specialisations and infrastructure.

Optimism for Change

Many parents, particularly those in single-sex school catchment areas, support the move towards more co-educational options. They argue that families should have the choice to send their children to mixed-gender schools, especially in areas like Curl Curl and Freshwater where such options are currently limited.

However, the proposals have also met with scepticism from some community members. Sarah Grattan, a Manly high school parent, points out that the current system of specialised schools within the Northern Beaches Secondary College (NBSC) works well for different student cohorts.

Ms Grattan said that each school in the NBSC network has developed strengths in specific areas, such as boys’ education at Balgowlah Boys, girls’ education at Mackellar Girls, and gifted education at Manly Selective. She expresses concern that altering this structure could disrupt successful educational models.

Mackellar Girls — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Infrastructure and Transport Challenges

A recurring theme in community feedback is the need for improved school infrastructure and transport options. Many parents highlight overcrowding in existing schools and difficulties with student commutes as more pressing issues than co-educational access.

James Griffin (Manly) urges caution in the consultation process, referencing past education reforms that led to school closures and unfulfilled promises. He emphasises the importance of community-driven decision-making in shaping the future of local education.

The Department of Education is conducting a series of consultation workshops throughout August and September to gather feedback from parents, staff, and the general public. Community members are encouraged to participate in these sessions to ensure their voices are heard in the decision-making process.

Upcoming Consultation Workshops

Date	Time	Audience	Location
Aug 14	6:00 pm	Feeder Primary Parents and Carers	138 Abbott Rd
Aug 19	6:00 pm	Secondary College Parents and Carers	Online
Aug 20	10:30 am	General Public	Online
Aug 21	6:45 pm	Secondary College Parents and Carers	NBSC Manly Campus
Aug 26	3:30 pm	Feeder Primary School staff	Online
Aug 26	6:00 pm	Secondary College Parents and Carers	138 Abbott Rd
Aug 27	5:00 pm	Feeder Primary Parents and Carers	Online
Aug 27	6:45 pm	Secondary College Parents and Carers	Online
Sept 2	3:30 pm	Freshwater Senior Campus Staff	Freshwater Senior Campus
Sept 3	3:30 pm	Mackellar Girls Campus Staff	Mackellar Girls Campus
Sept 4	3:30 pm	The Forest High School Staff	109 Frenchs Forest Rd W
Sept 9	3:30 pm	Balgowlah Boys Campus Staff	Balgowlah Boys Campus
Sept 10	3:30 pm	Cromer Campus Staff	NBSC Cromer Campus
Sept 16	3:30 pm	Manly Campus Staff	NBSC Manly Campus
Sept 16	5:30 pm	Feeder Primary Parents and Carers	NBSC Manly Campus

For the most up-to-date information and to book a spot, visit the Eventbrite page or contact northernbeachesconsultation@det.edu.au.

Published 13-Aug-2024

Balgowlah Bowling & Community Club Faces Closure, Appeals for Public Support

Photo Credit: Barefoot Bowling Club

The Balgowlah Bowling & Community Club, affectionately known as “The Bally Bowlo,” is in dire financial straits and has launched an urgent fundraising campaign to avoid closure.

The 68-year-old club, located in Balgowlah Heights, urgently needs a minimum of $20,000 in the coming week to remain operational.

Secretary manager Tony Wagener initiated the “Save the Bally Bowlo” campaign on Saturday, emphasising the club’s critical need for funds. The club’s financial woes have been attributed to several factors, including a delayed outdoor liquor licence, a prolonged noise dispute with nearby residents, and the impact of the Covid pandemic.

Balgowlah Bowling Club appeals for public support — *Photo Credit:* *Barefoot Bowling Club*

Barefoot bowling — *Photo Credit:* *Barefoot Bowling Club*

Despite these challenges, the club has been actively diversifying its offerings to generate revenue. It has hosted various events such as weddings, parties, corporate gatherings, and even tai-chi and yoga classes. The club also introduced barefoot bowls and live music to attract a wider audience.

Mr Wagener stressed that the club’s financial situation was not due to mismanagement but rather a series of unfortunate events largely beyond their control. The funds raised will primarily be used to cover operational costs, retain staff, and extend the club’s opening hours.

The Bally Bowlo in Balgowlah — *Photo Credit:* *Barefoot Bowling Club*

As of Tuesday morning, the campaign had raised $15,500 through the Australian Sporting Foundation, with all donations being tax-deductible. The Board of Directors is scheduled to meet with members to discuss the club’s future and the outcome of the fundraising effort.

Balgowlah Bowling & Community Club — *Photo Credit:* *Barefoot Bowling Club*

The club plays a vital role in the community, providing a space for social interaction and physical activity, particularly for older residents. Its closure would undoubtedly leave a void in the Balgowlah community. The public is encouraged to donate to the “Save the Bally Bowlo” campaign to ensure the survival of this cherished local institution.

Published Date 29-May-2024

Balgowlah Local Champions Elderly Care with Over 5 Years of Volunteering

Paola Matthews, a Balgowlah local with a heart of gold, has devoted over five years to volunteering in aged care within the Northern Beaches community, significantly enriching the lives of many individuals by providing companionship and support.

Her advocacy as a volunteer began with her desire to connect with and support the elderly, a group she feels deeply compassionate toward. Working with Proveda, a leading community care provider in Northern Sydney, Paola has been crucial to initiatives to enhance the quality of life for older adults facing common age-related challenges.

Her work includes engaging in personal interactions. She listens to and cherishes the stories told by the elderly, filling a crucial gap left by absent family members.

Proveda’s Community Initiatives

Proveda’s commitment to building a stronger, more supportive community is evident in its various programs, notably the Belong Club and its comprehensive Volunteer Program. These initiatives foster a sense of belonging and provide practical support to those navigating life’s challenging times, ensuring every community member feels valued and connected.

The Belong Club offers many activities, from book clubs and walking groups to online exercise classes and educational workshops. The group invites individuals from all walks of life to engage in meaningful interactions.

Membership is free, promoting inclusivity and easy access to anyone seeking companionship or new interests. The club enhances social engagement and allows members to develop new skills and rediscover old passions through various scheduled events.

Artistic Outreach: Beyond Traditional Volunteerism

Aside from her regular volunteering duties, the Balgowlah local also manages monthly live online painting classes designed for individuals battling cancer or undergoing treatment. These sessions serve as mindful therapy, providing a creative outlet for participants confined to their homes.

This initiative reflects Paola’s broader vision of volunteerism as a means to touch lives beyond conventional boundaries, leveraging art to heal and unite.

The success of Proveda’s programs heavily relies on its network of enthusiastic volunteers, all committed to the organization’s mission of nurturing a connected and caring community. These volunteers are instrumental in implementing the variety of services offered, proving that community strength truly lies in the collective efforts of its members.

National Volunteers Week Recognition

As National Volunteers Week runs from the 20th to the 26th of May 2024, the dedication of volunteers like Paola Matthews is especially highlighted, showing community service’s powerful impact on individuals and the broader society.

Published 8-May-2024

Mysteries Unveiled on Disney+: Balgowlah Producer Unlocks ‘Secrets of the Octopus’

Colette Beaudry of SeaLight Productions in Balgowlah has expanded National Geographic’s captivating nature documentary portfolio with the exciting new addition, “Secrets of the Octopus,” now streaming on Disney+.

Ms Beaudry, the force behind the film, is a seasoned figure in the documentary field, having produced numerous significant works for major broadcasters globally. With a foundation in environmental science and a profound history in media, Ms Beaudry’s leadership at the Balgowlah-based SeaLight Pictures has been commendable.

The company is renowned for its high-quality productions, such as “Life in Colour with David Attenborough” and “Can We Save the Reef?”

Secrets of the Octopus from Colette Beaudry of SeaLight Productions in Balgowlah — *Photo Credit: SeaLight Productions/Facebook*

Production and Insights

Following the successful launches of the James Cameron-produced “Secrets of the Whales” in 2021 and “Secrets of the Elephants” in 2023, National Geographic and Disney+ introduced the third instalment of the acclaimed series, “Secrets of the Octopus,” on 21 April 2024.

Narrated by actor Paul Rudd, the series delves into the extraordinary abilities of octopuses, presenting them as almost alien beings with features such as three hearts, blue blood, and the capacity to pass through tiny spaces as small as their eyeballs. The documentary accentuates their intelligence, showcasing their use of tools, body transformation capabilities, and interspecies communication.

The filming of “Secrets of the Octopus” lasted 200 days and took place in various natural habitats of octopuses, capturing unique behaviours and social interactions. The series comprises three episodes: “Shapeshifters,” “Masterminds,” and “Social Networks,” each focusing on distinctive aspects of octopus life.

Dr. Alex Schnell, a noted Australian marine biologist featured in the series, provides expert commentary, enriching the series with insights gleaned from her extensive research on marine intelligence.

Broader Reception and Impact

Upon its release, the series was immediately available on Disney+ and Hulu, coinciding with Earth Day celebrations to emphasise the importance of understanding and preserving marine life.

“Secrets of the Octopus” continues Mr Cameron’s legacy of blending science with cinema and stands as a testament to the innovative storytelling and filmmaking that Australian producers like Ms Beaudry bring to the global stage.

Watch “Secrets of the Octopus”

Published 24-April-2024

The Community Votes: What Should Be the New Name of Balgowlah Shopping Centre?

Property development firm Revelop. the new owner of the Balgowlah Shopping Centre, is seeking community input in helping rename the iconic retail hub of the area.

At present, four potential names have been put forward for consideration: Balgowlah Village, North Harbour Village, Totem Village, and Totem Centre.

The historical significance behind “Totem” dates back to the 1960s when the shopping centre was originally named Totem Shopping Centre. Back then, the trend of totem-style constructions for retail centres in the United States inspired the interesting name.

The name with the highest votes will be in the newly crafted logo made by the Revelop’s design team. Alongside this, the official renaming of the centre is scheduled to be public in May 2024.

Exciting things are waiting for those who want to participate in the naming process of the beloved retail landmark, as Revelop offers a chance to win a $1,000 shopping centre gift card.

Community members are encouraged to visit the voting website and select their preferred name before the entry deadline at midnight on Sunday, 21 April 2024.

Community members who want to exercise their creative minds also have the freedom to suggest alternative names if none of the provided options resonate with their liking through the website’s ‘Other’ option.

Attracting a massive number of 3.5 million customers annually, Balgowlah Shopping Centre houses retail stores like Coles, Harbord Growers Market, Fitness First Platinum Gym, and over 70 speciality shops.

Revelop was founded by cousins Anthony El-Hazouri and Charbel Hazzouri, who acquired the centre for $155 million in March 2024.

Published 19-April-2024

Balgowlah RSL Memorial Club Proposes $7.4M Upgrade to Modernise Facilities

The Balgowlah RSL Memorial Club is embarking on an ambitious $7.4 million redevelopment that will radically transform the longstanding community hub.

Read: Guganagina Lookout in Balgowlah: Cultural Tribute with a Bird’s-Eye View

The details of the extensive refurbishment plans were recently submitted to the Northern Beaches Council in a development application.

If approved, the project will see the demolition of parts of the existing clubhouse to make way for a host of new and upgraded facilities.

Artist’s impression of the new Balgowlah RSL Memorial Club (Photo credit: DACCA Architecture)

Key elements of the proposed $7.4 million makeover include:

Demolition of the existing ground floor general lounge, cafe, TAB, and smoking areas
Construction of a new lounge, cafe, TAB, and smoking zones with the addition of an “operable” glass roof and landscaping
An 86 square metre increase in the club’s overall gross floor area

The plans, designed by DACCA Architecture also call for a minor height increase, though the building would still remain below the local 12.5 metre maximum height limit.

Notably, the club is also seeking to extend its bar trading hours to 1 a.m, seven days a week – a significant expansion from the current hours of 10:00 a.m. to midnight Sunday to Tuesday, and 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. for the rest of the week.

To help mitigate potential noise impacts from the extended trading, the proposed outdoor area will feature louvres and retractable panels that will be closed from 10:00 p.m.

“The bar area will operate from 10am to 1am daily, providing patrons with ample opportunity to enjoy our facilities. These hours have been chosen to cater to the diverse schedules of our members and guests while respecting the local community’s lifestyle and noise considerations,” the club wrote in planning documents.

Club officials indicated that the multi-million dollar facelift is essential to modernise the ageing facilities and meet the evolving needs of their large and loyal membership base.

The development application is currently under review by Council, with a decision expected in the coming months.

About Balgowlah RSL Memorial Club

Established in 1956, Balgowlah RSL Memorial Club is a local entertainment and dining complex located in Seaforth. The Balgowlah RSL Memorial Club offers its members and guests a wide array of dining choices, entertainment options including live performances, comfortable gaming facilities, and engaging promotions.

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

Published 6-April-2024

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