Balgowlah News

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

Famous Furniture Brand Coco Republic to Open New Balgowlah Outlet

Did you know that Coco Republic will soon be in the Northern Beaches? The high-end Australian furniture brand is about to open an all-new outlet on Hayes St in Balgowlah.

The site, which costs $2.2 million, will consist of two buildings being joined together to make one significantly larger building which will serve as the new Coco Republic showroom. Also present at the store will be a licensed eatery, L’Americano Cafe, which will allow customers and visitors to sit down and relax with a hot cup of coffee and indulge themselves with a meal.

With plans already approved by the Northern Beaches Local Planning Panel, the building is set to be two storeys tall and is expected to feature a slew of the brand’s products such as couches and rugs, as well as outdoor furniture for porches, balconies, and backyards.

It is estimated that the upcoming outlet will create up to 28 new jobs. Parking will be available in the basement area for up to 38 vehicles, and though there has been no official and final date concerning the store’s opening, it will be open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Coco Republic is one of the most prominent and well-respected luxury furniture brands in Australia. Having been in the business for almost 40 years, the company offers high-end, innovative and sophisticated furniture created by the country’s finest craftsmen that possesses a sensible and discreetly-elegant aesthetic.

The site of the upcoming Coco Republic furniture store can be found at 2 Hayes St, Balgowlah. For more information, visit their website here. Follow their social media pages on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates and announcements concerning the store’s launch.

Forty Beans Cafe Brings Charming Neighborhood Vibe to Balgowlah

If you’re talking a walk from the Spit to Manly, there’s a perfect pit stop where you can feel the best neighborhood vibe in Balgowlah. At Lower Beach Street stands the burgeoning Forty Beans Cafe, where the locals love to hang out.

You won’t miss this restaurant because there’s a clearly visible mural of kids, people and a dog on the outside. The charming work of art is actually the perfect representation of what Forty Beans Cafe is really like.

This place is not just the favourite spot of the regulars because it conveniently serves sandwiches, pastries, cakes, and espresso for dining in or for take-away. Forty Beans is also a dog-friendly cafe and a specialty grocery store.

People seem to come to Forty Beans for a quick bite before heading to Manly, Mosman or Clontarf.

However, some prefer to hang around the cafe for a lazy lounge while drinking a cup of Toby’s Estate Coffee or Somage tea and it’s easy to see why. Forty Beans Cafe actually has an impressive view of the North Harbour Reserve.

The cafe is open Monday to Sunday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

“Love coming to this healthy, wholesome Balgowlah cafe when out walking the dogs at North Harbour Reserve. So many tasty breakfast and lunch options here but of utmost importance is their delicious coffee! Toasties, salads, baked goods and ploughman’s platters are all great! They also sell the best home baked doggie treats which our little guys salivate for and have now come to expect!”
~ Eatdrinkbe_merry, via Zomato

“Stumbled on this little gem halfway along the Spit to Manly coastal walk when I was in desperate need of sustenance! Delicious haloumi toasted sandwich with kale and sweet potato. Decaf coffee was a decent tasting one although pretty strong! Would definitely recommend.”
~ Karen Speight, via Google Reviews

“Recently did the Spit to Manly walk around the Sydney Harbour foreshore and was very pleased to stumble upon this excellent little local cafe, a bit over halfway through our hike. It was a great find; the cafe is quite small and when we visited busy with locals enjoying a coffee, a late breakfast or an early lunch. Managed to get a table outside, catching a nice breeze and with a relaxing view of the park across the road. Coffee excellent, as were the gourmet rolls we had for lunch,”
~ JE Elliot, via Trip Advisor

High Turnout at Bally Bolt Fun Run 2019 in Balgowlah

Scores of people participated in the Bally Bolt Fun Run last Sunday, the 17th of March in Balgowlah. The roads around Tania Park were temporarily closed off as a high turnout of runners of all ages and competitive ability completed either a 2.7 kilometre or a 5-kilometre run.

Trained athletes or casual runners came with their friends and families. Some had young kids tagging along as they walked, sprinted, jogged and ran the designated course.

Those who completed the long run were eligible to compete with other teams to win prizes from the event’s various sponsors. On the other hand, the shorter distance was designed for participants who simply wanted to be part of the event and make their contribution.

*Photo Credit:* *SquareOne Physiotherapy/Facebook*

*Photo Credit:* *Vision Personal Training (Balgowlah)/Facebook*

The Bally Bolt Fun Run is organized by the Balgowlah Heights Public School parents and citizens organization to help raise funds for its school operations and programs. This year, however, the fun run had an objective to collect enough money to donate for the planned construction and operation of the Young Adults Hospice in Manly.

“This will be a purpose-built, first-of-its-kind facility, which will provide 24/7 support to young people and their families,” NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said in a press statement.

“The NSW Government will provide $2 million each year to contribute to the operating costs of this revolutionary facility to cater for older teens and young adults from across NSW who suffer a life-limiting illness.”

After the race, participants of the Bally Bolt Fun Run were invited to enjoy a relaxing massage and partake in the food and drinks prepared at the Balgowlah Heights Public School school grounds.

Dogs Can Go Off-Leash at Balgowlah North Harbour Reserve

Photo Credit: Sherv's K9 Fitness/Facebook

Are you aware that there’s an area at the North Harbour Reserve in Balgowlah where dogs can run and play freely? Located on the edge of Condamine Street, this off-leash dog park is also a coastal path for joggers, runners and bikers who want to do their regular exercises with their four-legged best friends.

Dog owners and their pets can take advantage of the wide and open space from North Harbour Walk near Forty Beans to the edge of the picnic area. This off-leash dog park overlooks the reef beach and its calm current is perfect for dog swimming.

*Photo Credit:* *Dogs Love Walking/Facebook*

On some days, however, the beach lays flat and muddy. So, it’s best to go to the North Harbour Reserve when it’s mid-tide and there’s enough water for the dogs to splash around. The tide is safe even for puppies who are still learning to be acquainted with what’s around them.

Pet owners, however, should take note that beyond the North Harbour Walk is the actual nature reserve. Dogs should be leashed and properly guided in this area so as not to disturb the protected flora and fauna.

The other side of the park, meanwhile, has a kid’s playground, barbecue, and picnic spot. Here, families may enjoy their time outdoors with their pets but this is also a leashed area.

The North Harbour Reserve is part of the three-hour Manly Scenic Walkway coming from The Spit to Clontarf to Balgowlah. The off-leash dog park is open at any time.