Dee Why Archives - Page 4 of 7

Community Food Hamper Distribution Held in Dee Why

A volunteer outreach group distributed food hampers to residents in Dee Why during a community support initiative held at Walter Gors Park.

Community Support in Action at Dee Why

A recent food hamper distribution on 24 May, by Unisocial Australia, brought practical assistance to residents in Dee Why, as volunteers gathered at Walter Gors Park to provide support to individuals and families facing financial stress. Approximately 35 to 40 hampers were handed out, containing fresh produce, bread, and chocolates.

Background on the Organising Group

Unisocial Australia operates as the community outreach arm of the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God (UCKG). The group comprises various internal initiatives including the Victory Youth Group, Caleb Group for seniors, Patient Care, Night Angels, and Rescue of Dignity. These branches work together to deliver assistance to vulnerable members of the community across Sydney.

UCKG began in Brazil in 1977 and opened in Australia in July 2006. Since then, it has expanded its outreach programs to several suburbs and now delivers support through both on-site services and mobile delivery operations.

Dee Why food distribution — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Broader Outreach and Volunteer Funding

The Dee Why event is part of a wider food security effort that spans Liverpool, Chatswood, Blacktown, and surrounding areas. All Unisocial distributions are conducted without government funding, relying instead on volunteer fundraising such as charity events at Bunnings and surplus food collection from donors including Aldi Chatswood.

Volunteers manage the sorting and distribution of goods and also offer emotional support by engaging in conversations with recipients who wish to speak.

Universal Church of the Kingdom of God — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Ongoing Support Services

In addition to public park distributions, Unisocial invites individuals in need to collect food from its church locations. Home delivery options are also available for those unable to travel. The next scheduled distribution is set to take place at the Unisocial branch in Chatswood on Saturday, 14 June, located at 121 Victoria Avenue.

Future Implications

With outreach continuing across multiple locations, Unisocial encourages residents of other suburbs to reach out if similar support is needed in their area. The Dee Why initiative reinforces the role of volunteer-driven action in addressing ongoing food insecurity challenges.

Published 30-May-2025

Calls Mount for State Control of Northern Beaches Hospital

Photo Credit: Pexels

A public forum in Dee Why has intensified calls for the State to take control of Northern Beaches Hospital after its operator’s parent company entered receivership.

Background and Ownership Issues

The parent company of Healthscope, the private operator of Northern Beaches Hospital, has entered receivership following the withdrawal of support from lenders. Healthscope, which operates 37 hospitals across Australia, remains functional, with management confirming that operations, staff, and patient care continue without disruption.

Healthscope’s parent company, formerly controlled by Brookfield, failed to manage its $1.4 to $1.6 billion debt load, leading to receivership under McGrathNicol. A $100 million funding facility has been secured from the Commonwealth Bank to support ongoing operations.

Dee Why hospital issue — *Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only*
*Photo Credit: Pexels*

Dee Why Forum Highlights Community Pressure

At a recent community forum held at Dee Why RSL, attended by NSW Health Minister Ryan Park and Treasurer Daniel Mookhey, the issue of hospital ownership took centre stage. The forum, organised by local officials Jacqui Scruby and Michael Regan, followed growing concern over the hospital’s performance under the public-private partnership.

The forum also featured families impacted by incidents at Northern Beaches Hospital, including those of a toddler who died following an emergency department visit in 2023. The case was among several prompting an independent audit and a government taskforce to review the hospital’s management model.

Operational and Financial Clarity

Healthscope clarified that the receivership applies only to its parent company, not the hospital-operating entities. All 37 facilities, including Northern Beaches Hospital in Frenchs Forest, are continuing normal services, with no changes to staffing or patient care.

The NSW Government confirmed it has contingency plans in place, including deploying a NSW Health executive team if required. Healthscope holds $110 million in cash and the additional Commonwealth Bank credit line to ensure continued hospital operations.

Northern Beaches Hospital — *Photo Credit: Stephen Wong/Google Maps*

Public Ownership Proposal

State and federal representatives have voiced support for public ownership. Healthscope has already offered to hand back the public portion of Northern Beaches Hospital, which it operates under contract until 2038. The private portion remains under contract until 2058.

While Mr Park acknowledged the complexity of such a takeover, local officials continue to urge the government to acquire both components. A voluntary contract termination bill has been proposed to bypass compensation payments, which have been cited as a barrier.

Community Sentiment in Dee Why

Residents and health professionals attending the Dee Why forum expressed frustration over ongoing uncertainty. Concerns were raised about understaffing, resource limitations, and the risks of relying on private equity to manage essential public services.

Speakers called for full public acquisition, increased investment, and improved hospital management to restore public confidence.

Next Steps

McGrathNicol has confirmed it intends to sell the hospital operations as a going concern and will engage with stakeholders to ensure continuity. The NSW Government has not yet committed to purchasing the entire hospital.

Public discussion, particularly in Dee Why, remains focused on the future of hospital services and whether the current ownership model is sustainable.

Published 28-May-2025

Excessive Alcohol Consumption Remains High in Dee Why

Photo Credit: Pexels

Excessive alcohol consumption continues to affect residents in Dee Why and surrounding Northern Beaches suburbs, with data showing high levels of risky drinking and related harm.

Background on Alcohol Use Trends

The Northern Beaches have not seen updated research into alcohol consumption patterns since 2017. Despite this, current health data indicates that around 20 per cent of the local population consumes more than two standard drinks per day, exceeding recommended limits.

Dee Why drinking statistics — *Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only*
*Photo Credit: Pexels*

High-Risk Suburbs and Demographics

Bayview, Warriewood, Mona Vale, and Elanora Heights record the highest levels of excessive drinking, with 25 per cent of residents aged over 15 identified as high-risk drinkers. This figure stands nine per cent above the state average. The most affected age groups are teenagers aged 15 to 19 and adults aged 35 to 54, according to Northern Sydney Local Health District data from 2014–15.

Contributing Factors and Local Insights

In Dee Why, community representatives and venue operators point to a mix of cultural norms, peer influence, and the decline of non-alcohol-based social activities. Reduced access to cinemas and live music venues has left fewer alternatives for evening recreation, particularly in Manly and its surrounds.

Social and Health Impacts

The Northern Beaches ranks second in Sydney for the proportion of alcohol-related domestic violence cases, with alcohol involved in 42 per cent of reported incidents over the past decade. Local police data shows a rising trend in drink-driving incidents, increasing from 341 cases in 2021 to 455 in 2022. Manly also records hospitalisation rates due to alcohol that are 60.5 per cent above the state average of 1,134 per 100,000 people.

Dee Why alcohol use — Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pexels

Attitudes and Awareness

Many women within identified high-risk groups are aware of their excessive consumption but continue to drink due to social settings and perceived pressure. Survey findings show that 59 per cent acknowledged drinking more than they should, while 62 per cent struggled to abstain when in group settings. Alcohol was reported to be present at 81 per cent of social gatherings.

Looking Ahead

Dee Why and the surrounding suburbs continue to face elevated levels of alcohol misuse. Community concerns centre on social influence, limited entertainment options, and the need for updated research and intervention strategies.

Published 22-May-2025

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

Photo Credit: The Beach Shed/Facebook

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

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

Truck Torched in Alleged Insurance Scam in Dee Why

Photo Credit: Pexels

A man has admitted to deliberately setting fire to a truck in the car park of a club in Dee Why as part of an alleged $50,000 insurance fraud scheme.

Background and Context

A 21-year-old man, Bailey Chapman, has pleaded guilty to intentionally setting fire to a tipper truck in the car park of Dee Why Bowling Club. The fire occurred on the night of 2 April 2023. The truck, a Mitsubishi Fuso Canter, was jointly owned by a couple and used for a rubbish collection business operating on Sydney’s northern beaches.

Following the incident, police launched an investigation which included the release of CCTV footage in September 2024. The footage showed a man, later identified as Mr Chapman, fleeing the scene shortly after the vehicle caught fire.

Dee Why truck fire — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Insurance Fraud Allegation

According to court documents presented at Manly Local Court, Mr Chapman set the fire after reaching an agreement with one of the truck’s owners, a 38-year-old woman. Police allege the motive was financial gain. The woman lodged an insurance claim for $48,830 the day after the incident. No payout has been issued.

Mr Chapman, now in custody and residing in Mortons Creek, has admitted to the charge of intentionally damaging property by fire. He is scheduled to be sentenced on 23 April.

*Caption: A photo of* *a Mitsubishi Fuso Canter* *similar to the torched truck.*
*Photo Credit:* *Mitsubishi Fuso*

Events Leading to the Fire

On the day of the incident, Mr Chapman spent over five hours at Dee Why Bowling Club with the truck’s owners. After leaving the club, police allege he retrieved a jerry can from the owners’ garage and filled it with petrol at a nearby Shell service station at 8:39 p.m. Surveillance footage shows him wearing a face covering during the purchase.

At 8:45 p.m., he was dropped off near the bowling club. Phone records indicate he made calls to a mobile phone linked to the female owner before and after the fire. At 9:52 p.m., CCTV captured Mr Chapman igniting an object and throwing it under the vehicle, which immediately caught alight. He then ran south along Fisher Road North.

Additional Legal Proceedings

The female co-owner of the truck has been charged with dishonesty for gain and damage to property by fire. Her matter remains before the courts. The male co-owner is not facing any charges.

Police confirmed both arrests were made following a public appeal in September 2024, which included the release of CCTV footage.

The case remains ongoing with Mr Chapman awaiting sentencing and the female owner’s matter yet to be finalised. Investigations by NSW Police continue as the court process unfolds.

Published 22-Mar-2025

Dee Why Divided Over Plans for Outdoor Gym at James Meehan Reserve

Photo Credit: Northern Beaches Peoples Voice/Facebook

A planned outdoor gym at James Meehan Reserve in Dee Why has divided locals, with some supporting the free fitness facility while others fear it could overcrowd the area.

Fitness Plan Sparks Community Debate

A plan to install outdoor exercise equipment in James Meehan Reserve in Dee Why has been met with both support and criticism from residents. Some are favourable towards the free gym equipment, while others are concerned about overcrowding and the loss of green areas.

The Northern Beaches Council wants to establish a fitness hub to promote outdoor exercise, utilizing money from developer contributions.

Proposed Equipment and Locations

The plan includes calisthenic and strength training stations, such as parallel bars, roman rings, sit-up benches, and gorilla bars.

*Photo Credit: Cr Joeline Hackman/Facebook*

Two locations within James Meehan Reserve are under consideration: one near the existing playground, and another behind the carpark. The Council says the design considers accessibility and minimal visual impact.

Support and Concerns from Residents

Some locals welcome the project, citing that it will encourage community health and be a free option compared to gyms.

Others state that James Meehan Reserve is already utilized extensively by sporting teams, families, and casual users, and the introduction of fitness equipment would lead to overcrowding and safety concerns.

Community Consultation and Next Steps

The period for the community consultation of the Council expired on March 16, 2025, when feedback was obtained through its “Have Your Say” portal. The next thing is to study public feedback before a decision can be made.

If approved, construction will begin in winter 2025 and be completed in spring 2025. Will this new gym add to Dee Why’s outdoor lifestyle, or will it pose more problems for an already congested public area?

Published 19-March-2025