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Willoughby Mayor Demands Stronger Powers to Combat Tree Vandalism

Willoughby City Council Mayor Tanya Taylor is calling for the NSW State Government to implement stronger enforcement tools following the conclusion of an investigation into one of the area’s largest tree vandalism cases.

The investigation into the deliberate destruction of 256 trees at H.D. Robb Reserve in Castle Cove has ended without sufficient evidence to prosecute those responsible, according to a Council statement. Among the destroyed vegetation was an iconic 21-metre Sydney angophora that had stood for over 80 years.

**Willoughby City Council Mayor Tanya Taylor**
Photo Credit: Willoughby City Council

Mayor Taylor described the destruction as “simply heartless in its disregard for our cherished flora and fauna” and presented her concerns directly to state officials. She met with NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, Minister for Climate Change & Energy Penny Sharpe, Member for Bennelong Jerome Laxale, and mayors from neighbouring councils to discuss three key points and seven recommendations from Willoughby Council.

“This case was unprecedented in its scale and will go down in Willougby’s history as a low point for our community,” Mayor Taylor said. “Council’s officers have worked tirelessly to identify those responsible, however we’ve been unable to unearth the necessary evidence that might lead to the prosecution of those behind this act.”

The Mayor noted this isn’t an isolated incident, with Willoughby experiencing an increasing number of tree vandalism cases in recent years, reflecting a troubling trend across Sydney’s North Shore.

Willoughby Council has already implemented multiple strategies to address tree vandalism, including educational initiatives, hiring additional compliance staff, and participating in a Northern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (NSROC) working group focused on regulatory frameworks and enforcement.

Mayor Taylor emphasised that current resources are inadequate: “We simply need more support in our efforts to investigate tree vandalism to ensure that this doesn’t become an even larger issue.” She added that these incidents undermine Council’s work to balance housing requirements with the NSW Government’s urban tree canopy targets.

Published 20-February-2025

Middle Cove Residence Features Secret ‘James Bond’ Rooms

Photo Credit: Belle Property

A modernist Middle Cove residence with secret rooms at 15 The Quarterdeck has been listed for sale with an $8.25 million guide price. The property, currently owned by advertising businessman Stuart Archibald, was previously purchased from former Facebook chief executive Paul Borrud.

The home is strategically positioned next door to 13 The Quarterdeck, which set a suburb record when it sold for $11.5 million in 2021. That record-breaking property was owned by the late newsreader Brian Henderson and his wife Mardi for 27 years.

Number 15 itself made headlines in 2020 when it sold for $7.25 million, exceeding the previous suburb record by approximately $3 million.

Architectural Heritage and Modern Features

The original home was designed in 1959 by Glynn Nicholls, son of Eric Nicholls who partnered with internationally acclaimed architect Walter Burley Griffin. During Borrud’s ownership, the mid-century residence underwent significant renovation that more than doubled its scale, enhancing the harbour views and natural setting while preserving the original facade.

The property’s most distinctive feature is a secret wine cellar and tasting room concealed behind a bookcase — a sophisticated design element reminiscent of spy films. This 1252-square-meter property now includes high-technology features, large picture windows, and oversized living spaces.

The residence offers six bedrooms, five bathrooms, parking for three cars, a pool, lawn, and extensive decking that creates a resort-like atmosphere.

Sale Details

Mark Jackson of Belle Property Cammeray is handling the auction, scheduled for March 1. At the guided price of $8.25 million, the property would become the second most valuable house in Middle Cove.

Following the sale, Archibald, who has recently left his shared agency Archibald Williams to focus on his independent advertising business CA.5, plans to divide his time between Sydney and London with his family.

Published 4-February-2025

Frankie’s Pizza Celebrates National Pizza Day with Free Pizza

Photo Credit: Facebook / Frankies Pizza Willoughby

Frankie’s Pizza, a new local favourite in North Willoughby, is set to bring early National Pizza Day celebrations to the community with a generous giveaway of 100 free pizzas. Located at 224 Sydney Street, Frankie’s will host the event on Friday 7th February, from 5 PM to 7 PM.

The establishment, which has quickly gained popularity among locals, will be offering their signature Margherita and Pepperoni pizzas during the event. Each pizza features the restaurant’s speciality 48-hour hand-stretched dough, paired with fresh ingredients.

Photo Credit: Facebook / Frankies Pizza Willoughby

Beyond the free pizza offering, the evening promises a lively atmosphere with a retro theme, featuring a live DJ and classic arcade games for attendees to enjoy.

Interested North Willoughby residents can secure their free pizza by registering through Frankie’s Pizza’s website. The registration process will open soon, with announcements to be made on the restaurant’s social media channels. Given the limited nature of the offer – restricted to 100 pizzas – early registration is recommended.

Published 11-January-2025

Willoughby Council Backs Shared Use of Bicentennial Reserve

Photo Credit: Facebook / Cedric Spencer

A dispute over shared use of Bicentennial Reserve has erupted in Willoughby, as North Sydney Junior Baseball Club raises concerns over council-approved football line markings on its home field from March.

North Sydney Junior Baseball Club, which has used the facility as its home ground for over a decade, claims the council’s decision will create safety risks during their finals season. Les Tyrpenou, the baseball club’s president, emphasised that Bicentennial Reserve is the only suitable ground for junior baseball on the lower north shore.

The baseball club’s operations manager, Sean Leonard, has accused Willoughby Council of “kowtowing” to football supporters and expressed concerns about potential field damage from football boots.

Northbridge Football Club, with its 2,000-plus membership, maintains that public sporting facilities should be shared. Club president Brian Norton pointed to his organisation’s 2,200 local players who need pre-season playing space in February and March.

Willoughby Council has stated it will not permit studded footwear use during the summer sports season. The council has approved Northbridge Football Club to partially line mark a football field starting in March for pre-season activities.

This conflict emerges against the backdrop of a broader facilities shortage in the region. A study by the Northern Sydney Regional Organisations of Councils indicates that sporting facilities need to increase by 49 percent by 2036 to meet demand.

Published 9-January-2025

New Personal Training Studio in Willoughby Caters to Over-40s with Guaranteed Results

Vision Personal Training Willoughby is a revolutionary one-on-one personal training studio that has opened its doors to cater specifically to the fitness needs of the over-40 community, promising guaranteed results through personalised programs and expert guidance.

The studio, which celebrated its grand opening on 9 July 2024, is located at Level 2, 555 Willoughby Road.

Tailored Approach for Mature Fitness Enthusiasts

Vision Personal Training Willoughby offers a holistic approach to health and wellness, focusing on personalised training programs and custom nutrition plans for individuals aged 40 and over.

Jeremy Lombardo, Owner of Vision Personal Training Willoughby, explained the studio’s unique approach.

“We understand that starting your own personal fitness journey can be daunting, especially as we age. At Vision Personal Training Willoughby, we absolutely prioritise creating a comfortable and friendly atmosphere where everyone feels empowered to pursue their fitness goals.”

The studio aims to create a supportive environment where clients can achieve their health and fitness goals without feeling intimidated.

“Our studio is not just about exercise; it’s about building confidence, strength, and a sense of community,” Lombardo added. “Our clients become cheerleaders for each other, it’s incredibly supportive and a community like no other.”

“We invite all locals to visit the studio, meet the team, and discover how Vision Personal Training can help them achieve their health and fitness goals.”

About Vision Personal Training

Established in 1999, Vision Personal Training has grown to become the largest Australian-owned franchised network of Personal Training studios. With over 51 studios across Australia, the company focuses on providing a premium, personalised fitness experience outside of traditional gym environments.

For more information or to book a consultation, interested individuals can visit the Vision Personal Training Willoughby website or contact 0410 383 714.

Published 1-Aug-2024

From Giant-Slayer to Olympic Hopeful: Rinky Hijikata’s Wimbledon Moment and Paris Dreams

For Willoughby’s Rinky Hijikata, his Olympic journey begins just days after he closed Andy Murray’s Wimbledon chapter. The 23-year-old who once competed in Paris as a junior at the Future Tennis Aces tournament returns to the French capital as a Grand Slam champion and Wimbledon giant-slayer.

Read: Experience the ‘Galuwa Inyun Bulga’ Trail at Flat Rock Gully Reserve in Willoughby

Wimbledon triumph and Murray farewell

On July 5th, in a match that will be remembered as much for its emotional significance as its result, Hijikata and partner John Peers defeated the Murray brothers 7-6(6), 6-4 on Wimbledon’s hallowed Centre Court. The occasion marked one of Andy Murray’s final appearances at the tournament where he became a national hero.

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“It was a pretty surreal moment,” said world No.77 Hijikata. “He was someone that I loved watching growing up and is one of my tennis idols.”

The significance of the moment wasn’t lost on Hijikata. “I think that’s the most prestigious court in tennis and the one you dream of playing on when you’re a kid.”

Rinky Hijikata, from fan to competitor

Hijikata’s journey from Murray admirer to competitor is a testament to his rapid ascent in the tennis world. His partner, John Peers, summed up the bittersweet nature of their victory. “To be able to step out and share it with Andy was something really special. It was Andy’s night, but unfortunately, we upset it for him.”

Fellow Australian and women’s doubles world No.6 Storm Hunter highlighted the enormity of the occasion. “What an amazing opportunity for Peersy and Rinky to go out and play their first-round doubles on Centre Court at Wimbledon.”

Towards the Olympics

Following their emotional victory over the Murray brothers, Hijikata and Peers faced a formidable challenge in the round of 32 against three-time Grand Slam champion Neal Skupski of Britain and New Zealand’s Michael Venus, who has achieved a career-high doubles ranking of No.6.

Despite their strong start in the tournament, Hijikata and Peers were unable to advance further, falling to the more experienced pair.

Read: What to See at the Flat Rock Gully Walking Track in Willoughby

With his Wimbledon campaign now concluded, Hijikata will now turn his attention towards Paris. The experience gained on Centre Court against both sentimental favourites and top-ranked opponents will prove invaluable for the young star as he prepares for his Olympic debut.

Published 09-July-2024

Locals Encouraged to Review Changes to Community Participation Plan

A newly revised Community Participation Plan seeking to expand notification for tall buildings and improve resident input on Willoughby developments opens for public feedback until December 11.

Read: Mixed Reactions Over Proposed Changes For Gore Hill Oval, Other Sports Facilities In NSW

According to Willoughby City Council, one of the key changes is an extended notification area of 200m for high interest development applications, including State Significant Development and development over 35m in height.

The extended notification would cover major developments like 25-storey towers proposed in the Chatswood central business district, new childcare centres, and remediation projects on contaminated land.

Mayor Tanya Taylor encouraged locals to view the draft and provide feedback. The Community Participation Plan aligns with state legislation and council policy for transparent, responsive, and timely consultation. It covers exhibition timeframes whilst making engagement easier.

The plan forms part of a broader review of Council’s Community Engagement Framework beginning in 2022 to enhance planning procedures. It sets out participation requirements so residents can better understand councils’ processes.

“This document sets out how we will notify and engage with our community on these decisions, including development applications or planning proposals to amend land-use zoning or height or floor-space development controls,” said Mayor Taylor.

“Community participation is an integral part of the planning system and this is your chance to tell us what you think about our existing and proposed future processes.”

Read: Club Willoughby Redevelopment with Senior Living Complex Approved

The revised plan aligns with NSW state laws and the Council’s community engagement policies for accessible and meaningful consultation. It clearly defines participation guidelines and minimum exhibition periods so locals can easily understand how to provide input. The goal is to enable transparent, timely and responsive public feedback within legislative requirements.

Interested community members can learn more about the revised Community Participation Plan and have their say online via www.haveyoursaywilloughby.com.au before the December 11 deadline.

Published 23-November-2023

‘Little Creatures, Big Stories’: Willoughby Celebrates the 2023 Wildlife Storybook Launch

The Willoughby City Council’s commitment to environmental education has once again come to fruition with the launch of the 12th edition of the Wildlife Storybook. Titled “Little Creatures, Big Stories,” this annual initiative is designed to encourage “kids teaching kids” about local wildlife.

This year’s storybook focuses on “Little Species”, with contributions from Year 5 students from Artarmon Public, Castle Cove Public School, Chatswood Public, Glenaeon Rudolf Steiner, Mowbray Public, Northbridge Public, Our Lady of Dolours, St. Philip Neri, St Pius X, and St Thomas.

These talented young authors and illustrators have provided insightful stories, poems, and illustrations, bringing the unique qualities of Willoughby’s wildlife to the forefront.

But the unveiling of “Little Creatures, Big Stories” was more than just a book launch; it was a celebration of the children’s creativity and their first experience of being published authors and artists.

The event was made even more special with plays and readings from the kids, bringing their stories about local wildlife to life. The joy and pride on the children’s faces as they received certificates and saw their works in print were evident.

“Five Year 5 students were acknowledged for their contribution to the book ‘My Home My Habitat’ at the Willoughby Wildlife Storybook Launch,” St Thomas Catholic Primary School, Willoughby proudly shared on Facebook.

“The book is part of an educational project designed to facilitate children learning about a local species chosen for their school.

St Thomas Catholic Primary School, Willoughby Wildlife Storybook

Photo Credit: St Thomas Catholic Primary School, Willoughby

“Students were encouraged to think about the challenges of their chosen animal in an urbanised environment. Our students focussed on the increasingly rare red-belly black snake and shared an insight their world through a story, poem and illustrations.”

The Wildlife Storybook project, led by Council’s Bushland Team in collaboration with local primary schools, goes beyond showcasing artistic talents. It’s a vital part of the Council’s legacy in instilling the importance of protecting and appreciating Willoughby’s bountiful bushland.

Mayor Tanya Taylor, alongside Councillor Robert Samuel, was delighted to launch the book at Chatswood Library. She highlighted the significance of this initiative, which not only educates the youth about their environment but also fosters a sense of responsibility towards preserving it.

In line with the project’s goal to spread environmental awareness, the Wildlife Storybooks are available at local schools and libraries.

For broader access, digital copies are also available for download, ensuring that the message of environmental stewardship reaches as many people as possible in the community.

Published 23-Nov-2023

Mixed Reactions Over Proposed Changes For Gore Hill Oval, Other Sports Facilities In NSW

A plan to allocate at least one Sunday per month exclusively for women’s sports at Gore Hill Oval has received mixed reactions from some sporting clubs across Willoughby, with some supporting it and some questioning the decision in terms of gender equality in sports.

Read: Experience the ‘Galuwa Inyun Bulga’ Trail at Flat Rock Gully Reserve in Willoughby

Under Willoughby City Council’s proposed changes, the oval will be used at least one Sunday each month for women and girls’ sport.

Council’s proposed changes would also impact Northbridge Oval, Thomson Oval and Chatswood High School Oval, which will no longer have a monthly Sunday rest day, and instead recommended using this former rest day for women and girls sport played at a local and district level.

Gore Hill Oval — Photo credit: Russell Clarke/Google Maps

Sydney Swans AFLW co-captain Maddy Collier believes this would encourage more women to play sport at a grassroots level.

However, some sporting clubs including Northbridge Football Club thought the proposal should be reconsidered. AFL club North Shore Bombers also revealed their female players did not agree with female-only days at Gore Hill Oval.

Willoughby City Council came up with the proposed changes after reviewing the Synthetic Sportsgrounds Management Plan, which was adopted in March 2018 and the Community Use of Sports Facilities Policy which was adopted in 2021.

Northbridge Oval (Photo credit: A Os/Google Maps)

Willoughby mayor Tanya Taylor earlier explained that the policy was aimed at ensuring equity in the allocation of sporting facilities.

“It is natural that there is always debate and discussion as to whether the Council has the right policy settings in place to manage current and future usage of these important sporting facilities,” Mayor Taylor said.

“As such, we are keen to get widespread feedback on these proposed changes, which seek to ensure Council is focussing its attention on supporting community sport and that we are setting aside enough space for the rising number of female athletes.

“Sporting clubs and associations, in interviews with a consultant commissioned by the Council, stated they expected a 30 per cent growth in female participation over the next five years.”

Read: Club Willoughby Redevelopment Commences

Meanwhile, Council will review the feedback from the local community, which was sought until 20 February 2023.

Club Willoughby Redevelopment Commences

Photo Credit: HYECORP Property Group / Facebook

Hyecorp property group commences construction of Club Willoughby redevelopment with a groundbreaking ceremony. The $95 million project will see the 52-year-old building turned into a new state-of-the-art Club Willoughby along with a luxury retirement living facility.

Approved in February 2021, the “Heart of Willoughby” project’s groundbreaking ceremony was officiated by Member of Willoughby, Tim James. A modern Club Willoughby will replace the old building along with a 126-apartment luxury retirement community and aged care living facility, called Hyegrove Willoughby. These will be complemented by 2,000 square metres of open space with memorial gardens.

Artist’s impression | Photo Credit: Hyecorp / hyecorp.com.au

The apartment building will comprise one, two and three-bedroom units and will offer concierge services, an on-site building manager as well as a range of daily activities, dining facilities, an indoor swimming pool, a gym/pilates studio and care.

Off-the-plan purchasers will have the option to custom design their apartment with add-ons including heated flooring, wallpaper, pendant lights and smart home automation systems.

Also, 45 luxury care suites will be set up as three small “homes” complete with kitchens, dining rooms and lounge areas.

“As people age and require more services and help, we can provide whatever they need whether it is having the heavy laundry done or meals delivered, that level of care can be dialed up or down. It’s about putting the control into their hands, a characteristic that is too often not available to people living in retirement communities or aged care facilities,” Managing Director of Hyecorp, Stephen Abolakian said.

Stage 1 is already sold out whilst Stage 2 is now selling. The construction of Hyegrove Willoughby is expected to be completed in late 2024.