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Rose Bay RSL Saved by Merivale Takeover

Members of the Rose Bay RSL club have voted overwhelmingly in favour of Merivale taking over the operation of their beloved club after its sudden closure last year.

RSL club have voted overwhelmingly in favour of Merivale taking over the operation of their beloved club after its sudden closure last year. The club, a vital part of the Rose Bay community, closed its doors in August 2024 and left staff without jobs after going into receivership with significant debt.

A Community Rallies

The Rose Bay RSL’s closure shocked many, especially after the recent launch of its new bistro, Villagio. However, the community has shown strong support for the club’s revival. An extraordinary general meeting on Saturday, 18 January, saw a massive turnout of members eager to secure the club’s future. The vote to bring in Merivale, the hospitality group led by Justin Hemmes, passed with 147 votes in favour and only one against. Club Rose Bay president John Bax said the high attendance demonstrated the importance of the club to the local community.

Merivale Steps In

The club’s board, administrators, and creditors carefully considered partnering with Merivale. Merivale will become a service provider, managing the food and beverage operations, but it will not own any of the club’s assets or have control over its governance. Memberships, discounts, and the role of the board will remain unchanged.

Mr Bax stated that Merivale’s success in providing affordable, high-quality food and beverages at venues like the SCG and Allianz Stadium made it a top choice to revitalise the Rose Bay club. He expressed his excitement about reopening the club in the coming months and strengthening its ties with the community and sporting clubs.

Honouring the Past, Securing the Future

Justin Hemmes emphasised Merivale’s commitment to supporting the Rose Bay RSL sub-branch and its members. He stated that Merivale would preserve and enhance the club’s rich history and war memorial, ensuring it remains a vital part of the community for future generations. The plan includes refurbishing the RSL and improving its war legacy displays.

The final hurdle is regulatory approval, which is expected in the coming weeks. If granted, this will be the first RSL club in Merivale’s portfolio of over 70 venues. Importantly for members, prices at the club are expected to remain in line with those of other RSLs in the area.

Published Date 20-Jan-2025

Stormwater Pollution Sparks Warnings for Rose Bay

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

Heavy rain has left waterways at Rose Bay at risk, prompting warnings to swimmers that runoff from storms may have carried contaminants into the water.

Runoff from the storms has carried contaminants into the water, raising safety issues for locals and visitors.

Recent Concerns

The storms have caused significant stormwater runoff in Rose Bay, bringing sewage, chemicals, and debris into the bay. This pollution has led to increased health risks, making swimming unsafe. Beachwatch NSW has flagged the area as high-risk, advising people to avoid the water until conditions improve.

Dr Jasmin Martino, an aquatic ecology expert from the University of New South Wales, has noted that stormwater runoff can carry harmful pollutants as it flows through urban areas. These contaminants often include faecal matter from human and animal sources, which can introduce bacteria like E. coli into waterways. These bacteria can cause illnesses such as gastrointestinal issues, skin infections, and respiratory problems.

Dr Martino emphasises that vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, are particularly at risk.

Rose Bay pollution risks — *Photo Credit: Beachwatch NSW*

Current Risks

Swimming in polluted water poses serious health hazards. Experts recommend avoiding open ocean beaches for at least one day after heavy rain, and up to three days for lakes and rivers, which often lack the natural flushing effects of tidal movements.

Recent updates from Beachwatch NSW highlight ongoing risks in Rose Bay. The latest forecast shows a moderate chance of pollution, with water conditions marked as “Fair”.

Weather reports show possible showers, light rainfall, and moderate winds, while tide levels suggest potential for limited water circulation. Swimmers are urged to be cautious, particularly those in higher-risk health categories.

Shark warning in Rose Bay. — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Shark Activity Adds to Warnings

Stormy weather has also triggered increased shark activity in Sydney Harbour. Bull sharks, often attracted to murky waters, are more active in warmer months and after heavy rainfall. Dr Martino has also observed that January and February are peak periods for bull shark activity in the area. Swimmers are encouraged to exercise extra caution, especially at dawn and dusk when sharks are most active.

Staying Safe

Authorities recommend avoiding swimming during and immediately after rainfall. If heading out, using designated enclosures and checking updated water quality reports is advised. Beachwatch NSW provides real-time updates on conditions, helping the public make informed decisions.

What’s Next?

Long-term solutions to reduce stormwater pollution in Rose Bay are being explored. In the meantime, staying alert and informed remains key.

Checking updates and understanding the risks can help the community enjoy the bay safely, even during challenging conditions.

Published 14-Jan-2025

COBLI Launches at Rose Bay Marina, Bringing Luxury Boating Closer to Home

COBLI, a company specialising in boat syndication, has announced the launch of its operations at the Rose Bay Marina. This move brings a new opportunity for locals and visitors to experience luxury boating in one of Sydney’s most picturesque locations.

Read: Rose Bay Schools Launch Ferry Service

Rose Bay Marina offers a range of modern amenities designed to enhance the boating experience. Visitors will find well-maintained berths, on-site dining options, and convenient parking facilities.

Photo credit: Rose Bay Marina/Google Maps

Its location provides easy access to iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, as well as scenic routes to nearby destinations such as Manly and Pittwater. This makes the marina an ideal base for both day trips and longer boating adventures.

rose bay marina — Prestige 420 (Photo credit: cobli.net)

As part of its launch, COBLI is introducing two flagship vessels at the marina. The PRESTIGE 420, now available, features a spacious flybridge, two double beds, two bathrooms, and a cruising speed of 22 knots. With a capacity for 12 passengers, it is designed for comfort and socializing. Meanwhile, the Axopar 45, set to launch in early 2025, offers a sleek day-boat design, combining advanced engineering with speeds exceeding 46 knots.

Axopar 45 Sun Top (Photo credit: cobli.net)

COBLI’s approach to boating centres on a syndication model, which allows multiple owners to share the costs and responsibilities of luxury boat ownership. This structure provides access to premium vessels without the financial and logistical burdens of sole ownership. Syndicate members enjoy regular access to their boats, with maintenance and management handled by COBLI.

For Rose Bay locals, the addition of COBLI at the marina represents a new way to explore Sydney’s waterways. Whether for leisurely outings or extended holiday trips, the opportunity to experience luxury boating is now more accessible than ever.

Read: Pram Steps App from Rose Bay Mum Combines Fitness and Community for Parents

How Does Boat Syndication Work?

Boat syndication offers a modern, cost-effective way to enjoy high-quality boat ownership without the full financial commitment or responsibilities of sole ownership. This model allows a group of co-owners to collectively invest in the purchase and maintenance of a vessel, making luxury boating accessible and affordable. Each owner enjoys the benefits of boat ownership—regular access, high-quality vessels, and the freedom of life on the water—at a fraction of the usual cost.

Published 10-January-2025

Outrage in Rose Bay as Elderly Man Allegedly Vandalises Tesla

Photo Credit: Deon Tsang/X

An elderly man has been caught on video allegedly keying a Tesla Model Y in Rose Bay, leading to a police investigation and frustration among locals.

The incident occurred just outside the Hotel Rose Bay close to the junction of South Head Road and Dover Road.

Tesla’s Sentry Mode Records the Incident

Tesla Keying Incident — *Photo Credit: Deon Tsang/X*

The act of vandalism reportedly occurred around 9:40 AM last Sunday morning, 22 December 2024. The car owner’s daughter, Deon Tsang, said Tesla’s Sentry Mode alerted her to the damage. The feature, which uses cameras to monitor the car’s surroundings, captured clear footage of a man walking by the car and scratching its side with what appears to be an object, leaving visible damage to the paintwork.

Tesla’s Sentry Mode has proven helpful in catching similar incidents across the state. The built-in system records activity around the vehicle, providing crucial evidence for owners and authorities to investigate.

Social Media Reaction

This guy keyed my dad’s Tesla model y today while we are working at rosebay he is always bullying me every time I wear Rabbitohs clothing and joking and teasing about it and he said why you support aboriginal team??

police will find him soon pic.twitter.com/I0elbd9N5H
— Deon Tsang❤️💚 (@deon_tsang12) December 22, 2024

Ms Tsang explained in the video caption that the man had keyed her father’s Tesla Model Y while they were working in Rose Bay. She also described how he frequently bullies her whenever she wears Rabbitohs clothing, making disparaging comments and questioning her support for the team, which he referred to as an “Aboriginal team.” Ms Tsang has reportedly passed on the alleged offender’s details to New South Wales Police, who have confirmed they are investigating.

This case is one of several recent incidents involving Teslas being targeted, raising questions about why electric cars often seem to attract this kind of vandalism. Some speculate it could be related to misunderstandings or even resentment towards electric vehicles, but no specific motive has been confirmed.

Police Investigation Underway

Officers from the Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command are looking into the matter and are expected to rely heavily on the Sentry Mode footage for their investigation. The video evidence will likely play a key role in identifying and potentially prosecuting the suspect.

As Teslas and other electric vehicles become more common, incidents like this highlight the value of advanced security features in modern cars. The footage captured by Sentry Mode has not only helped in individual cases but also raised awareness about the need for respect and responsibility within the community.

While police continue their inquiries, this incident serves as a timely reminder for everyone to stay vigilant and to report suspicious behaviour promptly.

Published 26-Dec-2024

Pram Steps App from Rose Bay Mum Combines Fitness and Community for Parents

A mother of two from Rose Bay has created the Pram Steps fitness app, which tracks pram-based activities and connects local parents during maternity leave. This app offers an innovative solution for staying active while caring for young children.

Fitness Meets Parenthood in Rose Bay

Felicity Rankin created the Pram Steps app after recognising a gap in fitness options for parents pushing prams. Her daily exercise routine primarily consisted of pram walks, which inspired her to design an app that tracks steps and connects local parents for a shared fitness journey.

The app, set to launch soon, empowers parents to balance fitness with family life, specifically targeting mothers on maternity leave. By combining step tracking, goal-setting, and social engagement, the app offers a practical way for parents to stay fit and build connections within their community.

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A post shared by Pram Steps (@pramsteps)

Key Features of the App

The app’s standout feature is its pram-friendly functionality, which ensures accurate step tracking whether the phone is placed in a pram or on a person. The integrated GPS feature helps users discover and share pram-friendly routes around Rose Bay and other local areas. Users can even drop pins to highlight parks and family-friendly amenities, encouraging collaboration and shared experiences among local parents.

Pram Steps also includes a mobile app that syncs with fitness goals, progress tracking, and community features. It operates seamlessly in the background, allowing users to multitask while staying connected. According to the app’s description, its compatibility with most phone holders and prams ensures convenience for busy parents.

Building a Local Support Network

Ms Rankin designed Pram Steps with a strong focus on fostering community among parents. The app encourages users to connect through challenges, events, and shared fitness milestones. Future possibilities include local meetups and competitions along pram-friendly routes, helping parents make meaningful connections while achieving their fitness goals.

The app’s community features are particularly valuable to mothers, who often face isolation during maternity leave. Pram Steps aims to bring Rose Bay parents together in a supportive environment by providing a platform for shared activities and social interaction.

Looking Ahead

With its user-friendly design and focus on inclusivity, the app is poised to make a meaningful impact on the lives of parents in Rose Bay and beyond. As it prepares for its official launch, local parents eagerly anticipate its role in making daily routines more enjoyable and productive.

Published 4-Dec-2024

Rose Bay Residents Fear Woolworths Overhaul

A local grocer has raised concerns about a proposed $58.6 million Woolworths development in the heart of the affluent Sydney suburb.

*Photo Credit: Website/* *PBD Architects*

Peter Morelli, owner of Parisi’s Food Hall, fears the new supermarket would stifle smaller businesses and disrupt the local community.

Woolworths’ development arm, Fabcot, has lodged plans with Woollahra Council for a four-storey building, including a ground-floor supermarket, 13 apartments, and basement parking. The company argues that the development would address a shortage of supermarkets in the eastern suburbs.

However, Morelli contends that the area already has sufficient supermarket options, including a Woolworths Metro, an IGA, and a Harris Farm. He worries that the new supermarket would draw customers away from smaller businesses, potentially forcing them to close.

Morelli expressed concern that the proposed Woolworths development would negatively impact smaller businesses. He argued that there was no need for another supermarket in Rose Bay and that it would likely harm existing local businesses.

Conversely, Woolworths maintains that the new supermarket would better serve the local community’s needs, which currently relies on a limited number of full-line supermarkets in nearby suburbs.

The proposed development has sparked debate among local residents. Some support the idea of a larger supermarket, while others share Morelli’s concerns about the impact on smaller businesses and the overall character of the suburb.

The Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel is expected to decide on the proposal.

Published Date 07-November-2024

Rose Bay Students Launch “Kristmas Koalas” to Save Iconic Species

Photo Credit: Australian Koala Foundation

Who knew Christmas ornaments could help save a species? Students at McAuley Catholic Primary School in Rose Bay are proving it’s possible with their “Kristmas Koalas” venture, selling recycled plastic ornaments to aid koala conservation.

Krismas Koalas — *Photo Credit:* *Australian Koala Foundation*

Driven by the alarming prediction that koalas in New South Wales could disappear by 2050, these young entrepreneurs are determined to make a difference.

The students have designed and produced a limited-edition collection of Christmas ornaments crafted entirely from recycled plastic. This initiative promotes sustainability and funds WIRES, Australia’s largest wildlife rescue organisation.

Customers directly contribute to protecting and rehabilitating needy koalas by purchasing these unique ornaments.

This project is more than just a fundraising effort; it’s a hands-on learning experience. Through “Kristmas Koalas,” the students gain valuable insights into business and entrepreneurship.

They are developing essential skills in design, production, marketing, and finance, all while contributing to a cause they are passionate about.

The “Kristmas Koalas” initiative highlights the power of youth to inspire change and positively impact the world.

It reminds us that everyone can play a role in conserving Australia’s unique wildlife and ensuring the future of these iconic creatures.

Published Date 30-October-2024

Hemmes to the Rescue: Hospitality Heavyweight Steps in at Rose Bay RSL Club

Rose Bay’s beloved Club Rose Bay appears to have a lifeline, with hospitality magnate Justin Hemmes poised to take over the struggling venue.

The waterfront establishment shocked locals when it abruptly closed its doors last month, just a day after the launch of its new Italian bistro, Villaggio.

The sudden closure came after the club was placed into voluntary administration on 15 August. Despite initial hopes from administrators that the club could continue to operate, a secured creditor appointed receivers, leading to the club’s shutdown and staff terminations.

Now, documents obtained by this publication reveal that Hemmes Finance Pty Ltd, the registered business of Merivale CEO Justin Hemmes, has assumed the club’s debt. This move strongly suggests that Hemmes, known for successfully revitalising numerous hospitality venues across Sydney, is planning to take the reins at Club Rose Bay.

The club has faced financial challenges recently, reporting losses exceeding $350,000 in 2022 and over $40,000 in 2023. While the future direction under Hemmes’ leadership remains unclear, his involvement brings hope for the club’s revival and the preservation of a cherished community asset.

This development follows weeks of speculation that another entity would step in to save the iconic Rose Bay institution. Hemmes’s potential acquisition marks a significant turn of events for the club, promising a new chapter in its history.

Locals and patrons alike will eagerly watch to see what transformations Hemmes has in store for this prominent Rose Bay landmark.

Published Date 28-October-2024

Sydney’s Third-Highest Sale of 2024: Rose Bay Property Snapped Up for $38M

As Sydney’s luxury real estate market experiences a slowdown in trophy sales, a standout transaction has emerged in Rose Bay. A harbourfront property has changed hands for approximately $38 million, marking the city’s third-highest house price sale of the year.

Read: Orosi Unveils Plans for Landmark Mixed-Use Development in Rose Bay

The five-bedroom residence at Fernleigh Gardens, perched on the Rose Bay hillside, boasts uninterrupted views of Sydney Harbour. The property is a testament to luxury living, featuring a home theatre, lift, spa, sauna, pool, and gymnasium. These amenities, coupled with its prime location, justify its hefty price tag.

This sale represents a significant appreciation in value since its last transaction in 2017, when it sold for $19.18 million. The nearly twofold increase in just six years underscores the enduring appeal of Sydney’s premium waterfront properties.

In the context of Sydney’s high-end real estate market, this sale is particularly noteworthy. While the market has seen a decrease in trophy sales compared to previous years, this transaction stands out. It’s surpassed only by two other sales this year: the Rockleigh mansion in Point Piper at close to $82 million, and a Point Piper home that sold for over $50 million.

The Rose Bay sale contributes to a select group of ultra-high-end transactions in 2024. To date, there have been eight sales exceeding $30 million this year, a stark contrast to the same period last year when that number was reached in May alone.

Read: Club Rose Bay Shuts Down Day After Italian Bistro Grand Opening

This sale not only highlights the enduring appeal of Sydney’s harbour views but also demonstrates the resilience of the top end of the market, even in a period of overall market cooling. As the year progresses, it will be interesting to see if this sale catalyses further activity in Sydney’s luxury property sector.

Published 26-September-2024

Rose Bay Buzzes with McAuley Catholic Primary School Walkathon

Photo Credit: Facebook / McAuley Catholic Primary School

Rose Bay came alive today as McAuley Catholic Primary School held its annual Walkathon, the school’s largest fundraising event of the year. The vibrant procession of 250 students, accompanied by teachers and supporters, wound its way through the neighbourhood, drawing attention and smiles from local residents and passersby.

**The Walkathon aims to raise funds for playground upgrades.**
Photo Credit: McAuley Catholic Primary School – Rose Bay

The event, aimed at raising funds for playground upgrades and new learning resources, transformed Rose Bay into a carnival-like atmosphere. Students, ranging from the youngest to the oldest, participated with enthusiasm, walking, dancing, and cheering their way along the route.

**New learning resources are also the priority for the raised funds from the Walkathon.**
Photo Credit: McAuley Catholic Primary School – Rose Bay

One of the most striking features of this year’s Walkathon was the unexpected sight of “cockroaches” parading through Rose Bay’s streets. Several students and teachers donned giant cockroach costumes, courtesy of the event’s major sponsor, Pest2Kill, a local pest control company. This unusual spectacle added a touch of whimsy to the proceedings, eliciting laughter and amusement from onlookers.

Local businesses played a crucial role in the event’s success. These Rose Bay area companies, along with others, demonstrated their commitment to community engagement and educational support through their sponsorship.

The Walkathon concluded with each student receiving a certificate of achievement and a refreshing Zooper Dooper, a fitting reward for their efforts in the September warmth. While the event has ended, the school continues to welcome donations to help reach its fundraising goal, with an online donation link available for those wishing to contribute.

This successful community event not only raised funds for McAuley Catholic Primary School but also brought a sense of joy and unity to Rose Bay, showcasing the strong ties between the school and its local community.

Published 6-September-2024