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The Beach Shed at Dee Why Shuts After Storm and Lease Delays

The Beach Shed, a much-loved café on the edge of Dee Why Beach, has shut down after storm damage and delays from council left the owner with no clear future.

Rough Weather and Rising Costs

The trouble started on April 2 when a powerful storm hit Sydney’s Northern Beaches. High tides and strong winds caused major damage to The Beach Shed. Furniture, stock and equipment were swept out to sea. The owner, who had only been running the café for just over 18 months, said the cost of repairs was too high to risk without a secure lease in place.

He waited for a response from Northern Beaches Council on whether his lease would be renewed. With no firm answer and facing a long clean-up, he made the decision to end the lease himself. He said without clear support, it didn’t make sense to rebuild.

Council Says Rules Were Followed

Northern Beaches Council said it was up to the tenant to carry out repairs to the café under the lease agreement. A councillor explained that someone from the public had submitted a formal objection to the café’s lease being extended, which then required state government involvement. This slowed things down.

Another councillor said he had concerns about the café’s location because it sits on a flood-prone area. He also pointed out that other businesses nearby had to compete with The Beach Shed for customers.

Loved by the Community

Many locals are sad to see The Beach Shed go. The small beachside café had become a regular stop for morning coffee and weekend brunches. Its relaxed vibe and view of the surf made it a favourite among walkers, swimmers and families.

Some community members have expressed disappointment at how the closure was handled. They say there was little communication from the council and not enough support for a small business trying to recover after a storm.

What’s Next for the Site

At this stage, it’s unclear what will happen to the space where The Beach Shed once stood. The council said that future decisions will need to go through proper channels, including possible approvals from the state.

For now, the beach remains, but the familiar sound of coffee being poured and food served at that corner of Dee Why is gone, leaving regulars with one less spot to enjoy.

Published 16-May-2025

Dee Why Pre-school Halves Waitlist for Local Families

Photo Credit: Northern Beaches Council

A new pre-school service at the Dee Why Children’s Centre has provided major relief for local families, cutting the waiting list for four-year-olds by almost 50 per cent.

Easing Pressure on Families

The pre-school began operating from the established Dee Why Children’s Centre site at the start of the school year. Increasing the number of places available specifically for four-year-olds directly addressed the high demand for early childhood education spots in the Dee Why area.

Reports indicate that families have responded well to the new service. Working parents reportedly appreciated the support for transitioning children from long-daycare into preschool. Families with other younger children have also welcomed the convenience of dropping off siblings at the same location.

Supporting Educators

The initiative also benefits the educators working at the centre. It offers them opportunities for professional development and career growth. The structure includes shorter working days designed to give staff more flexible schedules. These measures aim to reduce employee burnout and encourage experienced educators to remain in their vital roles longer.

Government Funding

The state government funded the new Dee Why pre-school places through its Flexible Initiatives Trial, a program aimed at strengthening and empowering early childhood education and care services across the state.

Joining the Waitlist

Families interested in securing a place for their child can join the preschool waitlist. Residents seeking details on local options can also obtain further information about Council Children’s Services.

Published Date 06-May-2025

Renovation Brings New Sports Bar and Bistro to Dee Why Hotel

Photo Credit: Dee Why Hotel

Dee Why Hotel is undergoing a major multi-million-dollar renovation, introducing new hospitality spaces designed to reflect local history and modern tastes.

Legacy Pub Transformation Underway

Dee Why Hotel, a well-known Northern Beaches establishment, is undergoing a major upgrade designed to cater to the next wave of local visitors. Owned by the Bayfield family since 1977, the venue will retain operations during the transformation, with works scheduled to conclude by winter.

Honouring Family Heritage

Two new venues will emerge within the revamped site. Mr B’s, a retro-themed sports bar, will feature a 10-metre LED sports wall — the largest of its kind on the Northern Beaches — and is named after the late Neville Bayfield. A second space, Jade’s, draws on greenhouse-inspired design and pays tribute to Neville Bayfield’s first grandchild.

These additions are part of a broader redesign that highlights the hotel’s family legacy while incorporating modern design features.

Design by Richards Stanisich

The redesign, guided by Surry Hills-based firm Richards Stanisich, will replace the dark interior with lighter shades including turmeric, eucalyptus, and soft pink tones. Natural timber, art deco finishes, and soft textures are also being introduced to balance vintage charm with contemporary style.

Enhancing Dining Options

The bistro will debut a new seasonal menu, offering updated versions of pub staples alongside the hotel’s well-known burger specials. The refresh also includes the addition of new flavours and bigger stacks of burgers, aimed at providing improved value for guests.

Bayfield Hotel Group Portfolio

The Bayfield Hotel Group currently operates The Belrose Hotel, Bayfield’s Liquor Superstore at both Dee Why and Belrose, and an associated online platform. Past holdings include The Newport Arms and The Narrabeen Sands.

Continued Operations During Works

The hotel remains open to the public during renovations, with minimal disruptions expected. Works are set for completion in the coming winter months.

Published 2-May-2025

Beach Walk Turns Into Rare Find at Dee Why Beach

Photo Credit: alifitfantastic/Instagram

A beach walk along Dee Why Beach quickly turned unforgettable when a local spotted a rarely seen creature known as a blue dragon washed up on the sand. The striking sea slug, famous for its bright blue colour and unusual shape, is not only beautiful but can deliver a nasty sting if touched.

Sightings Spark Local Fascination

On Thursday, April 24, Ali Cavill, owner of Fit Fantastic, encountered a vibrant blue dragon (Glaucus atlanticus) lying motionless on the sand at Dee Why Beach. The sighting captivated locals, and quickly shared the photo online, while marine experts urged the public to admire the creature from a safe distance.

Though only about three centimetres long, the blue dragon feeds on bluebottle jellyfish and stores their venom, allowing it to deliver a painful sting if touched.

What Makes Blue Dragons Special?

Blue dragons float upside down on the ocean’s surface, using their vibrant blue topside to blend with the water and their silver-grey underside to hide from predators. They feed on venomous prey like bluebottle jellyfish, storing the captured venom for their own defence.

Although rare, experts said blue dragons can wash ashore after storms or strong onshore winds, with sightings reported last year at Lake Macquarie and Coolangatta Beach.

Experts Urge Caution

Despite their small size and delicate appearance, blue dragons can cause serious discomfort. Marine specialists advise rinsing stings with seawater, immersing the area in hot water for 20 minutes, and seeking medical help if needed.

Authorities have urged residents and visitors to admire the creatures from a distance, with awareness campaigns reminding families to prioritise safety at the beach.

Nature’s Surprises on Sydney Beaches

Dee Why Beach often sees natural wonders, but the blue dragon’s arrival gave locals a rare glimpse of the marine life beyond the waves.

The sighting sparked excitement across the northern beaches, and with summer approaching, experts encourage beachgoers to watch for more unusual visitors while respecting the local environment.

Published 29-April-2025

Man Falls from Third-Floor Balcony in Dee Why

Photo Credit: CareFlight

A young man is recovering in hospital following a serious fall from a third-floor balcony in Dee Why earlier this week.

The incident occurred around 9:10am on Monday at a residential building on Holborn Avenue, when the man in his 20s plunged from the balcony and landed on his truck parked below.

NSW Ambulance paramedics responded quickly to the scene, where they were joined by the Mounties CareFlight Helicopter team. A CareFlight critical care doctor assisted paramedics in providing immediate medical attention before the injured man was transported to Royal North Shore Hospital by road ambulance.

The patient sustained multiple fractures, including significant chest and leg injuries. He remains in a serious but stable condition, according to hospital sources.

The circumstances of the fall have not been disclosed, and it’s unclear whether the incident was accidental or if other factors were involved.

This marks the second serious fall in the Northern Beaches area this year, following a similar incident in Manly in February.

Dee Why has seen increased development of multi-story residential buildings in recent years, raising concerns about balcony safety standards.

Local authorities remind residents in apartment buildings to ensure balcony doors and railings are secure, particularly in homes with young children or when entertaining guests.

Published 28-April-2025

Dee Why Commuters See Relief as Bendy Buses Return

Photo Credit: davdaven/Flickr

Dee Why locals who’ve been stuck waiting for crowded, delayed buses are finally catching a break—those long bendy buses are making a comeback.

Bendy Buses Back in Dee Why After Long Absence

Commuters in Dee Why are finally seeing signs of relief as bendy buses begin returning to Northern Beaches routes after a six-month absence that caused widespread delays, overcrowding and frustration.

Bendy buses were pulled from service in October 2024 after cracks were found in the chassis of the 83-vehicle fleet, forcing key routes like the 190X to run fewer services and leaving areas like Dee Why feeling the impact.

Repairs Underway, Services Slowly Restoring

Transport for NSW launched a major rebuild of the buses, involving structural reinforcements and moving the rear doors to improve stability. As of April 2025, the first six repaired buses are back on the roads. The rest are expected to follow progressively over the coming months.

State officials say the return of bendy buses is key to easing pressure on busy routes like the 190X, which is slowly being restored. In Dee Why, where many rely on regular service to the city and nearby suburbs, it signals the start of a more stable commute.

Community Disruption in Dee Why

When the bendy buses were pulled, the 190X lost nearly a quarter of its trips, leading to longer waits and packed buses. In Dee Why, some commuters were left stranded by delays and cancellations.

Residents reported longer travel times and difficulty securing seats during peak hours. Bus operators scrambled to fill the gap with alternative vehicles, but without the same passenger capacity, these replacements struggled to meet demand.

New Buses Coming by Year’s End

To prevent future disruptions, the NSW Government is investing in 60 new buses, including 50 articulated models like the current bendy fleet and 10 double-deckers. Some of the new buses will be cleaner, low-emission or fully electric.

The first of these new buses are expected to roll out by the end of 2025. Transport for NSW has confirmed that the Northern Beaches will be a key focus area for these upgrades, ensuring that suburbs like Dee Why receive continued attention as one of the region’s busiest corridors.

Published 21-April-2025

86-Room Boarding House Approved in Dee Why

Photo Credit: Google Maps

An 86-room boarding house complex has been approved in Dee Why after a seven-year planning process and community objections.

Seven-Year Battle Ends in Approval

A long-delayed development application for a boarding house in Dee Why has received approval, clearing the way for an 86-room complex to be built on three consolidated lots between Pittwater and May roads. The approval comes after a court ruling allowed modifications to a previously approved $11.5 million application.

From Rejection to Revision

The original proposal by Supertramp Pty Ltd, lodged in 2018, sought to build 122 rooms. NBC rejected the plan, citing concerns over excessive bulk and scale, deeming it inconsistent with the surrounding area of single-family homes and townhouses.

In 2020, the NSW Land and Environment Court approved a revised version of the project with 80 rooms. A subsequent modification was later granted, allowing an additional six units and bringing the total to 86 rooms.

Dee Why development — *Photo Credit: DA2018/1166*

Project Scope and Developer Background

The complex will consist of five separate buildings ranging from two to four storeys, accommodating approximately 170 lodgers. Each room will include a kitchenette and ensuite bathroom, and lived-in manager units will be included in each block.

The site has already been cleared, and 39 parking spaces are planned along with common areas. Supertramp Pty Ltd, also responsible for the nearby Kallista apartment building, lists local developer Brett Sandvoss as a director.

Dee Why development application — *Photo Credit: DA2018/1166*

Community Concerns Remain

Residents have expressed ongoing concerns about traffic congestion, privacy, and noise. Locals noted the site’s position on May Road, a popular shortcut between Pittwater and Warringah roads, as a pressure point for traffic flow.

Submissions to NBC warned of increased parking difficulties and overshadowing of neighbouring homes. Some residents questioned the development’s suitability in a residential setting and the limited supporting infrastructure in the area.

Dee Why housing plans — *Photo Credit: DA2018/1166*

Public Commentary Online

Reactions online were divided. Some users saw the boarding house as a needed response to homelessness and housing affordability, especially for older Australians and people with disabilities. Others criticised the project’s design and location, calling it profit-driven and lacking in community benefit. Concerns about traffic and urban density were also commonly raised.

Next Steps

With approvals finalised, construction is expected to proceed in line with court rulings. The developer has not publicly responded to recent inquiries.

Published 13-Apr-2025

Dee Why Man Fined $5,000 After Dog Found Covered in Tumours

Photo Credit: Australians Against Animal Abuse/Facebook

Patipan Tiangbangloung, 65, has been convicted of animal cruelty after his 18-year-old poodle was found in distressing condition, covered in bleeding tumours and untreated ulcers.

Timeline of Neglect

The case surfaced in December when the RSPCA received a report about a wounded dog near a Dee Why restaurant. Investigators later found Giffy, a miniature poodle, at the home of 65-year-old Patipan Tiangbangloung, a local restaurateur. Giffy had bandages on his eye and body, with visible tumours and ulcers.

*Photo Credit: Australians Against Animal Abuse/Facebook*

Veterinarians determined that Giffy was suffering from multiple infected and ulcerated masses, some of which were cancerous. The court heard these growths had been present for approximately three months, leaving the dog in prolonged pain and discomfort.

Owner’s Explanation and Court Response

Tiangbangloung admitted to RSPCA he hadn’t taken Giffy to a vet since 2016, citing financial struggles and Buddhist beliefs against euthanasia. While the magistrate acknowledged he cared for the dog, they ruled the lack of treatment was serious neglect.

Magistrate Reiss stated the condition of the dog would have been obviously painful and distressing, and that it should have been clear to the owner that medical care was urgently needed.

Outcome and Penalty

Giffy was humanely euthanised after being seized by the RSPCA due to the extent of his suffering. Tiangbangloung was fined $5,000 and ordered to pay $495 in veterinary costs. The court did not record a conviction.

Animal welfare groups expressed frustration over the leniency of the sentence, with some members of the public calling for stricter penalties in cases involving prolonged animal suffering.

Local Reaction

Dee Why residents voiced concern, stressing the need for responsible pet ownership and affordable vet care. Many online expressed sadness over Giffy’s condition and questioned how it was allowed to go on so long.

While Tiangbangloung remains active in the area, some locals are calling for more public awareness around animal welfare responsibilities, especially for elderly or chronically ill pets.

Published 7-April-2025

Asbestos Discovery Halts Michaela Howie Playground Upgrade in Dee Why

Photo Credit: Manly Observer/Facebook

Asbestos was found at Dee Why’s Michaela Howie Playground during renovation works, leading to a short-term closure and safety clean-up.

Dee Why Playground Shut After Asbestos Found Mid-Renovation

A significant upgrade to Michaela Howie Playground near Dee Why Beach has hit a troubling delay after asbestos was discovered on-site. The popular playground, which has been undergoing renovations since February 2025, has been closed off while the hazardous material is safely removed.

The Northern Beaches Council is leading the project, which features new play equipment, synthetic soft-fall surfacing, better fencing, accessible pathways, and more seating with shade. However, progress was briefly disrupted in late March when bonded asbestos was found during excavation for a retaining wall.

Construction and Safety Measures

Council confirmed the material was non-friable, meaning it posed a lower risk as the fibres were contained and not easily airborne. The area was quickly secured with fencing and signage, and a licensed asbestos removal contractor was brought in to handle the clean-up following SafeWork NSW guidelines.

Remediation work was carried out over two days, and nearby residents were notified in advance.

Community Input Shapes Playground Design

In 2023, the Council sought community feedback for the playground upgrade, receiving over 50 responses. Locals wanted more engaging play equipment and extra seating. While some pushed for a larger overhaul, the final design was limited by space, height restrictions, and budget.

The playground is dedicated to the memory of Michaela Howie, a local toddler who died in a car crash with her parents in 2004. A commemorative plaque remains a key feature in the new layout, ensuring the space remains connected to the community’s history.

Alternative Play Areas During Closure

During the ongoing works, the playground remains closed to the public. Parents and carers are encouraged to visit nearby parks such as James Meehan Reserve, Walter Gors Park, and The Crescent Reserve.

Despite the asbestos incident, Council expects the Dee Why playground to reopen as planned by May 2025, barring weather delays. All safety and environmental regulations are being followed to ensure the site is safe for children and families once completed.

Published 7-April-2025

Conrad Sewell Brings Firestone 10th Anniversary Tour to Dee Why in Acoustic Celebration

Photo Credit: Conrad Sewell/Facebook

Dee Why will get a front-row seat to one of Australia’s most recognisable voices as Conrad Sewell brings his 10th anniversary Firestone tour to town in an intimate, acoustic show.

The Brisbane-born singer-songwriter will perform at Dee Why RSL on Saturday, 12 April, as part of a national tour celebrating a decade since his global hit Firestone with Kygo first took off.

The tour begins 4 April in Coffs Harbour and continues through regional towns and coastal centres, wrapping up in Kings Beach on 31 May.

A National Tour with Local Heart

Sewell’s upcoming regional tour is being billed as his biggest yet, not in scale but in connection. The acoustic shows will strip back the production and focus on the songwriting and stories behind his most popular songs. For fans in Dee Why and beyond, it’s a rare chance to experience his music in a more personal setting.

He said touring regional Australia has always held a special place in his heart, offering the chance to explore the country while performing for long-time supporters. He’s also using the tour to test out new music ahead of future releases, aiming to see how it lands with live audiences.

Joining him on the road will be René Le Feuvre, an emerging talent also based in Queensland, who is set to open each night across the tour.

A Decade Since Firestone

Originally released in 2014, Firestone shot Sewell into international recognition after teaming up with Norwegian DJ Kygo. The track has since clocked over 1 billion streams on Spotify, making it one of the most enduring electronic pop songs of the decade.

But Sewell’s career runs deeper than that one hit. He won an ARIA Award for Song of the Year with Start Again in 2015, and that same year, he and his sister Grace became the first Australian-born siblings to separately top the ARIA charts. In 2018, his single Healing Hands went triple platinum and also earned a nomination for Song of the Year.

In 2019, he released his debut album LIFE to strong reviews, reinforcing his place in Australia’s music landscape.

conrad sewell — *Photo Credit: Conrad Sewell/Facebook*

Back to the Roots

Sewell said many of his songs were written in quiet, acoustic moments—on a piano or guitar—and he wants the tour to reflect that. While his music has reached massive streaming numbers and global audiences, the aim of this tour is to return to the raw emotion and storytelling where it all started.

Fans can purchase tickets for the Dee Why show and all other dates via conradsewellmusic.com or ticket outlets like Oztix.

GET TICKETs

Published 28-March-2025