Dee Why Archives - Page 5 of 7

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

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

Surfing World Mourns Dee Why Surf Legend Shane Herring

Photo Credit: Dee Why Surfing Fraternity/ Facebook

Shane Herring, the Dee Why surfer who once defeated Kelly Slater at the peak of his career in the Coke Classic finals in Sydney in 1992, has died at home, leaving the Australian surfing community in mourning.

The local Dee Why community and the wider surfing world are remembering Shane Herring, a man whose talent shone brightly but briefly. Herring, aged 53, passed away in his West Tweed apartment after a fall down stairs in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Reports indicate he suffered a head injury, ate something from his fridge, and then went to sleep, never to wake up. Herring was a figure of immense talent, known for his explosive surfing style and influence on modern surfboard design.

Early Career and Rise to Fame

Surfing World Mourns Dee Why Surf Legend Shane Herring — *Photo Credit: Sean Davey/ Facebook*

Born and raised in the heart of Dee Why, Herring began surfing at a young age, quickly developing a reputation for his exceptional skill. By the early 1990s, he had become a leading figure in the “banana board” movement, riding highly rockered surfboards with deep concaves designed by Greg Webber.

His unique style, characterised by powerful turns and high-speed manoeuvres, set him apart from his peers. In 1992, Herring achieved his most famous victory, defeating Kelly Slater in the final of the Coke Classic at Narrabeen. This win propelled him to the top of surfing, with many predicting a long and successful career.

Challenges and Decline

Despite his early success, Herring’s career was short-lived. He struggled with the pressures of fame and the professional surfing lifestyle, and his form began to decline. He faced challenges with the big waves of Pipeline in Hawaii, which hindered his chances of a world title. By 1994, he had retired from the World Championship Tour.

Off the waves, Herring battled with alcohol and drug addiction for many years, leading to a period of isolation and health problems. He struggled with the transition from surfing success to a regular life. Friends and fellow surfers noted he struggled to cope with the spotlight.

Legacy and Remembrance

Despite his challenges, Herring’s impact on surfing remains significant. His innovative surfing style and influence on surfboard design have left a lasting mark on the sport. Kelly Slater, among others, acknowledged Herring’s talent and his contribution to surfing.

In recent years, Herring has been working on a new line of surfboards with shaper Jimmy Young-Whitforde, collaborating with Greg Webber, and aiming to produce custom designs. Friends described Herring as a “classic little leprechaun” with a kind and gentle nature. His legacy is remembered by those who saw him surf at Dee Why Point and those who saw him ride the waves with a connection to the water itself.

Herring’s passing is a sad loss to the Dee Why community and the wider surfing world.

Published Date 19-March-2025

Dee Why Development Fast-Tracked Under New Planning Rules

Photo Credit: Real Estate

Construction is underway on a major residential development in Dee Why, “Casa Delmar. ” It is one of the first projects approved under new NSW Government planning rules that fast-track developments.

This development and another in Caringbah have been approved under the Housing State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP).

New Planning Pathway

Dee Why Development Fast-Tracked Under New Planning Rules — *Photo Credit:* *Real Estate*

The new state government scheme allows a streamlined assessment process for major projects deemed “state significant development” (SSD). This pathway allows developers to bypass local councils, which have often been accused of delaying or rejecting projects, and gain approval directly from the state government.

Affordable Housing Focus

Landmark Group’s two projects, Casa Delmar in Dee Why and Live Caringbah in the Sutherland Shire, represent a combined investment of $600 million. Both developments include 15 per cent affordable housing designated for essential service workers, such as nurses and police officers. A representative for Landmark Group noted their commitment to raising the standard for affordable living in Australia.

Addressing the Housing Crisis

The Dee Why and Caringbah projects will deliver nearly 500 apartments combined. Landmark Group plans to deliver 1,450 apartments across Sydney by 2026, with a total development pipeline exceeding $5 billion.

Landmark Group’s CEO emphasised the company’s dedication to addressing the housing crisis. He stated that housing affordability is a significant challenge, and they aim to be part of the solution. He added that the company is committed to delivering quality, affordable homes that allow essential workers to live closer to their jobs.

Published Date 11-Feb-2025

$11-Million Development to Transform Dee Why Eateries

A proposal to redevelop a prime location near Dee Why Beach into a luxury apartment complex has been unveiled, potentially changing the face of the popular beachfront area.

The $11 million project aims to replace two well-known restaurants with a four-storey building comprising high-end apartments and commercial space.

The site, located on the corner of Pacific Pde and Griffin Rd, currently houses the JB & Sons burger restaurant and the Beach Burrito Co. If approved, these eateries would be demolished to make way for a new structure designed by Platform Architects. The proposed building would feature nine residential units, two ground-floor commercial spaces, and a two-level basement car park.

The developer, Harrington Property, purchased the property in 2014 for $2.75 million. One of Harrington’s executive directors, Matt Davison, suggested that the existing restaurants could lease space in the new development. He envisions the commercial spaces being occupied by cafes or restaurants, contributing to the area’s vibrant atmosphere.

The project also addresses the need for more downsizing options in the Northern Beaches. The apartments, boasting views of Dee Why and Long Reef beaches, are intended to appeal to residents looking to scale down without compromising on quality or location. The development includes a mix of 3-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 1-bedroom units, catering to various needs.

In addition, the development will incorporate three affordable housing units designed for low to moderate-income earners.

Davison emphasised the project’s potential to enhance the area. He highlighted the high-quality design and finishes, stating that the development would set a new standard for Dee Why. As a resident, he expressed his investment in creating a development that would be a source of pride for the community.

The development application is open for public feedback, allowing residents to have their say on the proposed project.

Published Date 29-Jan-2025