We investigate the ghosts and haunted locations of Sydney’s Lower North Shore and Northern Beaches. By Alec Smart More on Mosman Several of Sydney’s older suburbs, including The Rocks, Glebe and Parramatta, have a number of haunted hotels and paranormal premises notorious for their ghostly inhabitants. However, Sydney’s Lower North Shore and Northern Beaches also feature a few spooky sites, which are worth visiting on dark nights if you enjoy the feeling of ice running through your veins. Quarantine Station Hospital (upper left) and arrivals wharf below, North Head, Sydney. Photo: Alec Smart The Quarantine Station, North Head, Manly The historic Quarantine Station on North Head, at the entrance to Sydney Harbour, is so spooky with the souls of the departed, that they host after-sunset ghost tours around the wards and grounds. There are also three cemeteries (one no longer marked, the headstones removed) with 572 recorded burials - although likely more, because no records exist for the first nine years of its operation. Between August 1828 and March 1984, the facility was primarily used to isolate an estimated 16,000 people, mainly maritime immigrants and ships’ crews who were afflicted (or suspected of being infected) with dangerous diseases. The latter included smallpox, tuberculosis, influenza, cholera, typhoid and typhus, and the 1900 outbreak of the Black Death (bubonic plague) in Sydney. Several of these contagions were spread to humans through the bites of infected rats and parasitic insects like fleas, lice, and mites. As well as those who succumbed to diseases during isolation at the Quarantine Station, two nurses also died from infection. Both contracted the Spanish Flu in late 1918 while caring for returning soldiers: Sister Annie Egan and Sister Elizabeth McGregor, succumbing on 3 and 5 December respectively. The haunted zones across the site include: a hospital ward with whispered voices; the Gravediggers’ Cottage (which overlooks the unmarked First Quarantine Cemetery) where ‘Sam’ the gravedigger roams the rooms and sometimes shoves people (especially women); the Autopsy Room in the morgue; and the Shower Block for new arrivals in which a uniformed quarantine officer named ‘William’ checks whether new interns are actually washing themselves. Gravediggers Cottage, Quarantine Station, North Head, Sydney. Photo: Alec Smart Wakehurst Parkway, Garigal National Park Wakehurst Parkway is a 14km road that traverses Garigal National Park, running south-west from North Narrabeen through Oxford Falls bushland, then turns due south and ascends to Frenchs Forest. From there it continues south to Seaforth, but it is the forested northern section that follows Middle Creek to Narrabeen Lagoon that has attracted a reputation as one of Australia’s “most haunted roads”. Prone to flooding and dimly lit, the ghost sightings tend to centre on two apparitions who appear late at night: one a young woman named ‘Kelly’ (for unknown reasons), sometimes seen in a white dress or pyjamas; the other an elderly woman wearing a nun’s habit. However, the descriptions overlap and Kelly is sometimes observed wearing the nun’s uniform. Furthermore, some reports state Kelly is a hitch-hiker, or, alarmingly, appears suddenly wandering in the middle of the road, apparently a dazed victim of a car crash. Then, if picked up, she refuses to get out of the car and grabs the steering wheel and turns the vehicle, causing it to run off the road and crash into trees. Others recall Kelly appearing to stand on the roadside near Middle Creek Bridge, then, after they drive past (or sometimes through her!), she reappears in the rear-view mirror as if sitting in the back seat of the driver’s car. It has recently been suggested Kelly and the old woman are the same but confusion lies in the interpretation of her clothing. Instead of a nun, perhaps Kelly was a nurse, wearing a uniform typical of the medical staff working at the Quarantine Station in the early 1900s. A nun’s habit consists of an ankle-length black tunic, a white scapular (square-shaped cloth) covering the neck and shoulders, and a veil covering the head – white veil for novices, black for professed. Whereas an Australian nurse’s uniform from the early 20th century typically consisted of a navy blue ankle-length dress (black for trainees), white collars and a white starched apron, and a white veil for those senior in rank, white caps for juniors. Wakehurst Parkway (closed due to flooding). Photo: Alec Smart Incidentally, there are two movies on the aforementioned locations: The Quarantine Hauntings, a horror drama, and The Parkway Hauntings, a documentary investigation, both created by the same filmmaking duo, Bianca Biasi and Arnold Perez, and released in 2015. Gore Hill Memorial Cemetery, Gore Hill, St Leonards Adjacent to Royal North Shore Hospital, the Heritage-Listed 5.8 hectare graveyard was established in May 1868 and is one of metropolitan Sydney’s oldest surviving cemeteries. It holds remnants and monuments transferred from much older but lost Sydney burial grounds, including the Devonshire Street Cemetery (in which bodies were dug up and relocated to make room for Central Station). The area was originally part of William Gore’s 150-acre colonial property, Artarmon Farm, on which convicts laboured. The cemetery was founded by politician William Tunks, the first Mayor of St Leonards and re-elected 15 times, on a portion of Gore’s original land grant, years after Gore's financial insolvency and death. (Two coffins containing the remains of Gore and one of his daughters were found unburied in a bushy area of the property after his 1845 death. They were later interred.) Tunks wanted a landscaped attractive garden setting for the new cemetery, the first on Sydney’s North Shore, instead of a gloomy graveyard. When Tunks died in 1883, he was the first to be buried in the Church of England section of the grounds. 14,456 burials took place between the first interment in 1877 and its last in 1974 (ashes are now accepted), although most took place in the three decades from 1900 - 1930. Only 8,000 graves feature headstones, the rest, including human remains transferred from the redeveloped Devonshire St Cemetery, are unmarked. Gore Hill Cemetery. Photo: Alec Smart Australia’s first Saint, Mary MacKillop (who is closely associated with the much-haunted Adelaide Gaol), was buried in the Catholic section from 1909 to 1914, when her remains were exhumed and transferred to the Mary MacKillop Memorial Chapel in North Sydney. MacKillop was relocated because her gravesite was deteriorating and devout Catholics were scooping dirt from her grave site as a souvenir to pray on. There was anxiety they’d eventually dig down far enough to expose her coffin. Ghost-watchers claim there are resident spectres in Gore Hill Cemetery, perhaps unfortunate patients from Royal North Shore Hospital alongside. Among these were several victims of the deadly 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic, which caused 3,902 deaths in Sydney of the estimated 20,000 nationwide (and 20 million worldwide). Also among the spectres reported are “a woman in black Victorian garb perhaps dating from the 1870s”, said to be mourning a child, and “the dark silhouette of a walking old man.” Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards According to an Oct 2025 article in the North Shore Lorikeet, “one former receptionist told the Lorikeet she often felt quite ‘spooked’ leaving the premises late at night when she worked there in the 1990s. ‘I worked in an old dark building that is now gone, and I used to have to go into the medical records unit in there. It was so creepy down there because the walls would creak and it would almost feel like the walls were talking to you. My hair would stand up on the back of my neck. You’d just feel a presence. And there were all these underground tunnels that would connect different buildings at RNSH back then too.’” Tarella House, Cammeray Tarella House, situated between Amherst Rd and the Warringah Freeway in Cammeray Village, is a State Heritage-Listed home built in 1886 by Sir Joseph Palmer Abbott (1842-1901), solicitor and politician. Tarella House, 3 Amherst Rd, Cammeray. Now a childcare centre after extensive renovations in 2016, the historic premises are purportedly haunted by two children. According to the North Shore Lorikeet, quoting a now-deleted blog by Sydney ‘ghost hunter’ Daniel Phillips on Sydney Ghost Tours’ website, Phillips “‘claims it is a focal point for eerie phenomena’ such as the apparitions of two children who died of cholera in the 1800s, alarms being activated for no ostensible reason, and the smell of cigars and French cooking emanating from unused rooms at strange times.” However, according to Family Search, all of Sir Abbott’s seven children from two marriages survived well into adulthood. Furthermore, Sydney has never had a sustained, locally transmitted cholera epidemic. During the 19th-century cholera pandemics, ships arriving in Sydney Harbour frequently reported cholera cases and deaths among passengers. However, strict quarantine measures utilising the Quarantine Station at North Head prevented these infections from establishing themselves locally in Sydney. Quinton Road Ghost, North Manly Northern Beaches Council also identify seven haunted sites along the coastal region, including the aforementioned Quarantine Station and Wakehurst Parkway. Among these are The Quinton Road Ghost Story. In the 1970s, residents of a house on Quinton Road claimed they were being terrorized by a ghost in heavy boots that would stomp through their homes at night. The source of the stomping has been attributed to the spirit of a fisherman who drowned in the area. However, a more fanciful version claims it’s the ghost of Pirate Captain Blackjack Vaughan, who allegedly hid in caves on the North Manly seafront. Northern Beaches Council asserts, “Captain Blackjack Vaughan was described as one of the vilest and cruellest pirates ever known. He was captured in England in 1810, sentenced to life imprisonment and transported to Sydney as a convict. He promptly escaped and returned to a life of piracy.” Manly Wormhole through Queenscliff headland - unlikely to be Captain Blackjack's abode. Photo: Alec Smart The nearest seafront caves would be the rocky outcrop of Queenscliff headland, approximately 2km to the north-east. These aren’t caves but alcoves worn into the rock for centuries by pounding seas. There is a tunnel through Queenscliff headland, known as the Manly Wormhole, a narrow 40-metre channel. However, this was dug through the sandstone rock in 1908 by fisher-folk funded by a local property investor, to use as a shortcut between Queenscliff Beach to the south and Freshwater Beach to the north. It was safer than having to clamber up the steep, treacherous cliff face and walk over the headland. There were no pre-existing natural caves through the Queenscliff headland before the Manly Wormhole was created. Gladesville Mental Hospital, Bedlam Point, Gladesville Originally known as Tarban Creek Lunatic Asylum, Australia’s first mental hospital was built on the aptly-named Bedlam Point beside Parramatta River. Opened in 1838 with 60 patients for a new trend of humanely treating the mentally afflicted, by 1844 there were 148 inmates and rumours of cruel punishments including prolonged restraints and sexual abuse of female patients - which persisted for decades. A July 1850 Medical Board of Inquiry convened to investigate the deaths of two patients found that the institution was to blame. In Jan 1869, new methods of treating psychiatric disorders prompted a name change to Hospital for the Insane, to suggest a departure from the previous tactic of isolating mentally ill people from society. However, brutal treatment continued, with patients detained for ludicrous disorders such as ‘sexual intemperance’, ‘overwork’, ‘sun stroke’ and ‘nostalgia’, often treated with repeat electric shocks. Gladesville Insane Asylum at night. Photo: Alec Smart There were many deaths, including a few employees attacked by patients. Records reveal 1,228 patients are buried on the north-eastern corner of the 25.4 hectare site in unmarked graves. Although the names of 923 of the deceased are listed on Health Department records, the identities of those in 305 graves are untraceable. Their ghosts are said to wander the asylum grounds, parts of which are now derelict. In the 2011 Head On Photo Festival, photographer Yvette Worboys held an exhibition of the hospital’s derelict buildings, titled ‘Ghosts’. She claimed psychics detected a spectral presence in her photo of a white brick wall covered in vines, loitering to the left of an empty doorway. Ghost Tours: www.ghosttours.com.au/ www.sydneyghosttour.com/ www.lanternghosttours.com/ www.cockatooisland.gov.au/en/see-and-do/tours/ghost-tour/ www.qstation.com.au/ghost-tours.html

Signs of Resilience Emerge Across The Mosman & The Lower North Shore Property Markets Amid Interest Rate Pressures and Housing Reform Uncertainty More on Mosman The Mosman and Lower North Shore property markets continues to navigate a complex and shifting economic environment, with rising interest rates, government policy changes and broader global uncertainty all influencing buyer behaviour. We caught up with the local agents at Vernon Partners, who say that, while it is still challenging, several positive trends are beginning to emerge across the Mosman market. Over the past four months, escalating geopolitical tensions, rising oil prices and ongoing cost-of-living pressures have added further strain to an already fragile economy. Domestically, interest rate rises, with expectations of further increases, have continued to affect borrowing capacity and consumer confidence. Proposed Federal Government changes to capital gains tax and negative gearing have also contributed to a growing uncertainty among investors and homeowners alike. Despite these headwinds, the Lower North Shore market has remained comparatively resilient, underpinned by the area’s strong lifestyle appeal, limited land supply and proximity to the CBD. Mosman Housing Reforms One of the biggest talking points locally is the NSW Government’s Low and Mid-Rise (LMR) housing reforms. While the reforms were introduced to improve housing affordability and increase housing supply, concerns are growing around how they are being implemented in premium suburbs such as Mosman. According to Vernon Partners, redevelopments have been focused on maximising views, density and site value, rather than delivering genuinely affordable housing outcomes. This has resulted in a noticeable increase in proposals to demolish freestanding homes to make way for larger-scale developments. Interestingly, some developers are reportedly stepping away from sites located along major arterial roads, which were initially viewed as ideal locations for affordable housing due to their proximity to transport and amenities. Rising construction costs and ongoing feasibility challenges are limiting returns, creating outcomes that appear inconsistent with the government’s original vision for the reforms. Interest Rate Impacts Interest rates have also remained a defining factor in market activity. Following recent increases, many buyers adopted a more cautious ‘wait and see’ approach, leading to softer conditions and pricing adjustments across parts of the Lower North Shore market before signs of stabilisation began to emerge more recently. One segment that has remained particularly active is the sub-$1.5 million market, especially among first-home buyers and younger upgraders. Vernon Partners attributes much of this activity to the government’s 5% first home buyer scheme, which has encouraged more buyers back into the market as competition eased and supply levels improved. Existing homeowners looking to upsize have also gradually adapted to the higher interest rate environment, with more realistic pricing expectations helping transactional activity recover steadily. Cost Of Living Pressure At the same time, broader cost-of-living pressures continue to weigh heavily on households, with rising fuel prices and increasing day-to-day expenses contributing to more cautious consumer sentiment overall. However, Vernon Partners notes that periods of uncertainty often create opportunities for decisive buyers prepared to adapt to changing market conditions rather than wait for complete certainty. Historically, buyers who move early during shifting market cycles are often best positioned when confidence returns. Looking ahead, the Lower North Shore market is expected to remain sensitive to interest rate movements, government policy and broader economic conditions. While short-term volatility may continue, the area’s long-term fundamentals are expected to underpin ongoing demand, with informed decision-making, realistic expectations and strategic timing likely to remain key drivers of market activity in the months ahead. To learn more about the Mosman Property Market, contact Adam Vernon: 0430 824 123

Meet the team at Orangetheory Fitness Mosman, who are changing lives one lunge at a time. More on Mosman Orangetheory is an international fitness brand with a scientifically backed program designed to improve strength, endurance, and muscle tone. The Orangetheory Mosman studio is one of three in Australia and hosts highly qualified, friendly coaches. Here are just three. Head Coach Mikie With more than 14 years in the fitness industry, Mikie has built a career around helping people achieve their goals through challenging and supportive training. Mikie started his career as a personal trainer, and over the years gained experience across a variety of training styles and group fitness environments. His expertise spans strength and conditioning, endurance training, and high-energy studio coaching, allowing him to connect with people of all fitness levels. After relocating to Australia, Mikie discovered Orangetheory Fitness and immediately connected with its science-backed training philosophy. He was inspired by the combination of heart rate-based interval training, performance tracking, and motivating group energy. “Fitness has always been more than just exercise for me — it’s about creating an environment where people feel challenged, supported, and empowered to become stronger both physically and mentally, all while having fun and making friendships!” Coach Sam Beginning his fitness career in 1996, Sam has worked in personal training, group fitness, corporate health, gym management, and nutrition coaching, witnessing firsthand the industry’s transformation from traditional gyms to today’s technology-driven training experiences. That evolution continues to fuel his passion for health and performance. Sam has a degree in Applied Science (Sport and Exercise), as well as a diploma and a postgraduate diploma in nutrition. His focus has always been the science behind human performance — understanding how training, recovery, and nutrition work together to improve overall health and fitness outcomes. This passion ultimately led him to Orangetheory, where he believes the brand’s strength lies in its integration of heart rate–based interval training, performance technology, and individualised coaching within a motivating group environment. The use of real-time physiological data allows members to track measurable progress while giving coaches valuable insight into training intensity, recovery, and energy use. “Having spent nearly three decades in the fitness industry, I still see Orangetheory as one of the best examples of where fitness, technology, and coaching successfully come together to create real results.” Coach Demi With more than eight years’ experience in the health and fitness industry, Demi has built a career centred on women’s health, strength, and confidence. Starting off as a fitness instructor before moving into personal training, she quickly discovered a passion for helping women transform the way they view both fitness and their bodies. Demi believes female health and performance are often approached without enough consideration for hormonal changes, lifestyle pressures, stress, pregnancy, or recovery. Having a coach who genuinely understands the female body can make a significant difference to both long-term health and performance outcomes for women. Demi also specialises in pre- and postnatal training, an area once overlooked within the fitness industry. She found great fulfilment in supporting women through pregnancy and safely guiding them back into exercise afterwards, rebuilding their strength and confidence, while reducing the risk of issues during recovery and later in life. After moving to Australia, discovering Orangetheory Fitness marked an exciting new chapter in her career. “For me, it offers the perfect balance for anyone wanting to become both strong and fit. Every session combines cardiovascular training, strength work, and expert coaching in a supportive and motivating environment.” T1, Level 1, 640 Military Rd, Mosman orangetheory.com

From Mosman Schoolboy to Media Giant, Remembering John Laws, the Man with the Golden Tonsils More on Mosman John Laws, the man with the golden tonsils, dominated talkback radio for decades and became one of the most recognisable media figures this country has ever produced. Such was Laws' impact on Australian social culture that when he died in November last year, he was given the rare honour of a state funeral — televised, no less. Born Richard John Sinclair Laws in Wau, Papua New Guinea, in 1935, Laws moved to Australia as a child and was educated in Sydney. He spent his formative years on the North Shore, attending Mosman Preparatory School before later studying at Knox Grammar School, Wahroonga. Here, he cultivated his articulation, gilding a voice that was inherently mellifluous and commanding. The resonating timbre of his speech was commensurate with his formidable stature, a towering 1.88 metres (6ft 2’’). And he had the personality to match. Starting a Broadcast Career Laws began his broadcasting career in the 1950s, working in regional radio before finding his way to Sydney, where his career exploded. At stations like 2UE and later 2SM, he perfected the art of talkback radio long before podcasts and opinion-driven media became fashionable. He wasn’t simply reading the news or chatting to callers. He turned radio into performance. Laws was phenomenally popular yet also divisive. Listeners tuned in for the booming delivery, the celebrity interviews, the political clashes and, of course, the advertising reads that somehow became cultural catchphrases. Few Australians of a certain age can hear the words “Valvoline, you know what I mean” without instantly hearing John Laws’ voice in their head. His signature opening was: “Hello world, I’m John Laws”, followed by the strains of “The Lonely Bull” by Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass, a tune that became his own anthem. Record-Breaking Legacy At his peak in the 1970s, ’80s and ’90s, Laws was one of the most powerful voices in Australian media. Politicians desperately wanted his approval because they knew his audience trusted him. Prime ministers lined up for interviews. Celebrities dropped by the studio. If John Laws talked about an issue in the morning, there was a good chance the rest of the country would be discussing it by lunchtime. During the height of his career, Laws was one of the highest-paid radio broadcasters in the world. Part of his appeal was his unapologetic confidence. He spoke with certainty, often with blunt opinions, and cultivated an image of luxury and success. He had an impressive collection of prestige cars, wore tailored suits and enjoyed all the finer things, and he never pretended otherwise. The Original Shock Jock Laws was one of the original “shock jocks” and sparred openly with rival broadcasters like Alan Jones and Derryn Hinch. The biggest controversy of his career came during the infamous “cash for comment” scandal in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Investigations revealed that prominent radio personalities, including Laws, had accepted payments from companies in exchange for favourable on-air commentary that was not properly disclosed to listeners. The scandal rocked Australian media and damaged public trust in talkback radio. Laws defended himself fiercely, arguing that audiences understood the commercial realities of broadcasting. Laws was frequently criticised for the insensitive, disparaging, sometimes even abusive way he spoke to some of his callers. Unfortunately, he helped create a degree of tolerance for truly toxic behaviour by media personalities. While controversy may have tarnished his reputation, it never completely destroyed his audience appeal. Many listeners remained loyal, seeing Laws as authentic despite the criticism. That loyalty was one of the defining features of his career; listeners felt like they knew him personally. Laws always signed off with the phrase: “You be kind to each other” — which would often feel incongruous given the combative nature of his shows. Modern talkback radio in Australia owes an enormous debt to John Laws. The style that dominates AM radio today — opinion-driven, personality-heavy, conversational and confrontational — was shaped in large part by him. Later broadcasters, from Alan Jones to countless others, followed pathways that Laws helped create. Even after officially “retiring” several times, he kept returning to radio. Broadcasters understood that his voice still carried weight and familiarity. For many Australians, hearing John Laws on air was like hearing an old relative: comforting, familiar and impossible to ignore. Retirement In 2024, he finally stepped away from daily broadcasting for good, ending one of the longest careers in Australian media history. By then, he had spent more than 70 years behind a microphone — a staggering achievement in an industry notorious for chewing people up and moving on quickly. When John Laws died in 2025 at the age of 90, tributes poured in from across politics, media and entertainment. Admirers praised his broadcasting brilliance, while even critics acknowledged his enormous influence on Australian culture. The word “icon” is used rather freely these days, but it can aptly be applied to John Laws, who was literally and figuratively a giant of the Australian media and cultural landscape. Loved and loathed in equal measure, Laws has ensured that one way or another, he will not be easily forgotten. John Laws CBE 8 August 1935 – 9 November 2025

Young Local Band, Four Leaf Clover, Wins Aaron Chugg Award and Finishes Third at Prestigious YouthRock 2026 Competition More on Mosman Four Leaf Clover, a band made of four young, talented locals, are primed for success. The youngest band in this year’s YouthRock competition (welcoming entrants up to 18), Four Leaf Clover impressed the judges with their charismatic stage presence, taking out 3rd place overall at the 2026 YouthRock Competition. They were also presented with the prestigious Aaron Chugg Award, given to the band displaying the most passion and commitment. The band - Kalash, Vocals (14), Josh, Guitar (14), Abby, Drums (13), Skye, Keys & Harmonies — first met at the Big Music School in Crows Nest. They quickly realised they shared a mutual hunger for success, a dedication to their art, and they sounded great together! With a steady base of fans and an ever-growing social media following, Four Leaf Clover is gaining recognition on the Sydney music scene. Their success at YouthRock 2026 will definitely boost their fame. YouthRock Band Competition The annual competition has long been regarded as a launch pad for up-and-coming musicians, providing young performers the chance to showcase their talent in front of industry professionals and live audiences. Previous competitions have helped nurture a new generation of Australian artists and bands, with judging typically focusing on musicianship, originality, stage presence and overall performance quality. Past winners have included Silverchair, Alex Lloyd and Short Stack. For Four Leaf Clover, the win marks a significant moment in the band’s rapid rise within Sydney’s music scene. Known for their energetic live performances and youthful indie-rock sound, the band particularly connects with a young audience, with songs that address the real feelings and experiences of their peers. Four Leaf Clover now joins a growing list of young Australian acts making waves well before finishing school. With this significant acknowledgement from YouthRock, the band’s future looks incredibly bright - and local music fans will no doubt be watching closely to see what comes next. You can follow Four Leaf Clover on Instagram: @fourleafclover.band

We catch up with Sydney local and talented artist, Louise Smith, who brings colour, creativity and joy to every canvas. Louise Smith’s paintings are vibrant, bold and uplifting art. Being in front of an easel is her happy place, and she loves experimenting with colours, shapes and styles. “I don’t like to necessarily be bound by naturalistic colours. It’s fun to mix paints and see what happens, where it takes the painting,” Louise tells Neighbourhood Media. “After completing a painting with lots of detail, I like to lash out on a big canvas, an abstract with big brushes, and splash the paint about to release the confinement of all those details.” What inspired Louise to Paint? Though she now truly enjoys the freedom of expression and unbridled imagination, Louise’s impetus to start painting came from somewhere quite pragmatic. “My house needed some art on the walls." Inspired by a friend’s beautiful floral painting, Louise began researching Australian native flowers. This ultimately led to her painting a very large canvas of flowers which still adorns her wall to this day. Native flowers feature a lot in Louise’s works. She is drawn to their unique, distinct shapes and bold colours. For the same reason, Louise also likes painting native birds, beach and ocean scenes, natural landscapes, and themes with a particular Australian flavour. “I like to paint just about any subject that has bright colours,” Louise explains, “and I enjoy the freedom to paint abstracts. I think I'm drawn to the ocean because of its colours. Such variations of blue and green and the contrast of the sand and rocks, the brilliant white of waves. Plus it doesn't have to be exactly as I see - there's some latitude in my interpretation.” How long does each painting take? When working on a painting, Louise sets aside several hours, allowing herself time to get into the right headspace. There’s no pressure to produce. “It's like meditation for me,” Louise says, then adds: “Painting can be a bit lonely though — spending hours alone — so I like painting with other artists too, learning from them and being inspired by what they create. I belong to a couple of groups and the other artists bring different talents.” Favourite Mosman Spots Louise and her husband live in Dee Why, but her grandparents lived in the Mosman area and she often visited with her family when she was young. She still visits frequently and likes to show friends some of local attractions. “One of my favourite day trips, especially if you want to impress an out-of-area guest, is a walk from Neutral Bay to Mosman, along the harbour and through the streets. Some view-points of the harbour along the way are mesmerising and there are nice places to eat, drink or get a coffee at either end. You can retrace the walk or hop a ferry to the city and catch another ferry back to your starting point. You can’t go wrong,” says Louise. For the past two years, Louise and her husband have been travelling overseas and around Australia. Currently, they’re residing in Cronulla to be close to Louise’s 95-year-old mother and to look after her sister’s cat while she’s away. If you look at Louise’s website, you’ll see she’s clearly been inspired by the range of interesting locations around the Shire. She has also embraced the local artists community. “I found a wonderful art group at Cronulla Beach where I learned a lot about painting landscapes/beaches around me. You can see I still like to adapt them to my sort of colourful interpretation and experiment with painting styles. I like to have a go at different techniques of painting to keep the interest up, but I think its good discipline to do realistic paintings too every now and then. Also our art group was having a little exhibition at the beach and I knew paintings of the beach and other local highlights were likely to sell…and they did! Out of ten paintings I took, I sold four.” Louise and her husband will be taking a road trip around Australia for the next seven months. She’s had to pack her canvases away but she is bringing an A5 artist’s pad and some watercolours so she can keep up her skills and capture some moments of beauty. And then? “Back to Dee Why in January and back to normal suburban life and hopefully some BIG paintings.” www.artbylouise.net More on Mosman

Parsley, Rosemary, Mint and More: The Herbs That Thrive in Sydney Gardens This Autumn More on Mosman Now is a great time to start planting herbs that will thrive in the cooler weather. As Sydney’s summer heat fades and the evenings start to chill, it’s a good idea to think about planting herbs. The milder temperatures, increased rainfall, and warm soil create ideal growing conditions for a wide range of herbs that thrive in the city’s temperate climate. Whether grown in garden beds, balcony pots, or kitchen windowsills, herbs bring beauty, fragrance, flavour, and practical benefits to Australian homes. Parsley One of the easiest and most rewarding herbs to plant in autumn is parsley. This hardy herb flourishes in Sydney’s cooler months and is a staple in countless dishes, from soups and salads to pasta and marinades. Rich in vitamins A and C, parsley has long been valued for its medicinal qualities, traditionally used to support digestion and reduce inflammation. Coriander Coriander is another popular autumn herb, especially for home cooks who enjoy Asian, Indian, or Mexican cuisine. Unlike in summer, when coriander quickly bolts to seed, the cooler autumn weather allows it to produce lush leafy growth for much longer. Its fresh citrus flavour makes it ideal for curries, noodles, and salsas. Rosemary Rosemary remains one of the most versatile herbs for Sydney gardens. This evergreen shrub thrives year-round and requires little maintenance once established. Its aromatic leaves are widely used in roasted meats, breads, and Mediterranean dishes, while the plant’s strong scent can help deter mosquitoes and garden pests. Rosemary has also been associated with memory support and stress relief in traditional herbal medicine. Thyme Thyme is another excellent autumn planting choice. Compact and hardy, thyme suits small gardens and pots and pairs beautifully with slow-cooked meals during the cooler months. Medicinally, thyme has antibacterial properties and is commonly used in herbal teas to soothe coughs and sore throats. Its tiny flowers also attract bees and pollinators, helping to support healthy gardens. Mint Mint grows vigorously in autumn and is best planted in containers to prevent it from spreading uncontrollably. Its refreshing scent makes it a favourite for teas, desserts, cocktails, and salads. Mint has long been used to ease digestive discomfort and nausea, while its strong aroma can help repel ants and flies. Lavender For gardeners seeking both beauty and practicality, lavender is an excellent addition. With its silver foliage and purple flowers, lavender adds colour and fragrance to autumn gardens while attracting bees and beneficial insects. The calming scent is widely used in oils and herbal remedies to promote relaxation and better sleep. Dried lavender can also be placed indoors to naturally freshen rooms and wardrobes. Sage Sage is another traditional herb well suited to Sydney’s autumn climate. Its earthy flavour complements rich dishes and roasted vegetables, while historically it has been used for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory qualities. Sage plants are also believed to help repel cabbage moths and other unwanted insects from vegetable patches. Planting herbs in autumn not only provides fresh ingredients throughout winter but also creates a sensory garden filled with fragrance, colour, and life. With relatively little effort, Sydney gardeners can enjoy herbs that nourish the kitchen, support wellbeing, and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable outdoor space.

Eight-Storey Apartment Building, Heydon Street Project, Signals a New Era for Mosman Amid Growing Debate Over Higher-Density Housing Development More on Mosman An eight-storey building in Heydon Street may be the first of many to come apartment developments in Mosman. Until now, Mosman has been seemingly immune to the prolific high-rise developments that have been altering the landscapes of many Sydney suburbs. The leafy harbourside suburb with its serene streets and beautifully preserved heritage homes encircled by manicured gardens felt untouchable. That is now beginning to change. Developer Abadeen has received conditional approval for an eight-storey apartment building on Heydon Street. If approved, it will be the first major project to be approved in Mosman under the NSW government’s controversial low and mid-rise housing policy. It would also be the largest apartment block to receive the green light in the suburb in more than half a century. Positioned just 100 metres from Bridgepoint Shopping Centre, the development will feature 27 apartments spread across eight levels, with sweeping north-facing views across Middle Harbour available from the second floor upwards. Designed with affluent downsizers in mind, the boutique project will offer just four apartments per floor, prioritising privacy, natural light and spacious layouts over high-density living. Prices are expected to begin at $1.99 million for two-bedroom residences when sales launch later this year. The project is being closely watched across Sydney’s property sector, where the NSW government’s low and mid-rise housing reforms are reshaping planning controls in established suburbs near transport, retail and services. The policy aims to increase housing supply in areas traditionally dominated by detached homes, addressing Sydney’s worsening affordability and housing shortages. Abadeen founder and executive chairman Justin Brown described the project as an example of how thoughtful design could successfully align with the state’s evolving planning framework. Abadeen chief executive Joe Tack said the project reflected both the quality of the location and changing buyer demand. “This is a highly considered site within a highly established local setting, offering elevated views and strong connectivity,” he said. “The project has been designed to respond to that context, delivering a scale and quality of housing aligned with both the planning framework and evolving market demand.” [realestate.com.au] Yet the development also highlights growing tensions within the community. The state government’s housing reforms have sparked significant opposition in Mosman, where residents have organised petitions against higher-density projects and raised concerns about congestion, neighbourhood character and infrastructure pressure. In response to locals’ concerns, Mosman Council is currently developing a Masterplan as an alternative to the State Government’s LMR Policy. The Masterplan will take into consideration feedback provided through several community consultation platforms as well as collaborative communications with NSW State Government. With 13 additional development applications already lodged under the LMR policy, Mosman’s skyline — and identity — may be entering a new era.

Balmoral's beloved Fig Trees are falling victim In Sydney's controversial “tree wars” More on Mosman The towering Port Jackson figs lining Balmoral Beach are among Mosman’s most recognisable landmarks, providing shade for beachgoers, habitat for wildlife, and a green backdrop to one of Sydney Harbour’s most photographed stretches of foreshore. But over the past two years, the Balmoral's Iconic fig trees have repeatedly become targets in what experts and councils increasingly describe as Sydney’s ongoing “tree wars”. The most serious incident occurred in February 2024, when nine mature and semi-mature fig trees along The Esplanade were found with holes drilled into their trunks and roots. The Mosman Council feared the holes had been used to inject deadly herbicide into the trees. A resident reportedly spotted a person behaving suspiciously near the trees late at night, prompting council workers to inspect the site the following morning. Council contractors immediately began emergency treatment works, flushing out the drill holes and applying soil treatments in an attempt to save the figs. Former Mosman Mayor Carolyn Corrigan described the attack as “absolutely egregious behaviour”, deploring that locals will surely be “absolutely aghast” at the news. After countless years of providing a backdrop to Sydneysiders’ daily lives, Cr Corrigan begs the question, “Can you imagine Balmoral without those figs?” Thankfully, the trees appeared to have survived the poisoning attempt. However, despite their resilience, the attacks did not stop there. In late 2025, two more Port Jackson figs at Balmoral Reserve were illegally pruned in another suspected act of vandalism. Mosman Council erected large warning banners at the site and sent letters to nearby residents seeking information, while also encouraging locals to provide CCTV or dashcam footage that could help identify those responsible. The repeated incidents have reignited debate about why established trees in wealthy harbourside suburbs continue to be targeted. Across Sydney, mature trees have increasingly been poisoned, chainsawed or illegally removed in areas where they obstruct water views. Similar cases have occurred in Longueville, Castle Cove, Woolwich, and other waterfront suburbs, where councils believe some vandals are motivated by the prospect of improving harbour vistas and therefore increasing property values. Environmental advocates say the damage goes far beyond aesthetics. Large established figs can take decades — sometimes more than a century — to reach maturity. Once damaged or destroyed, they cannot simply be replaced overnight. Mature canopies help cool surrounding streets and public spaces, provide shelter and nesting areas for birds and wildlife, reduce erosion and improve air quality. Along busy foreshore areas like Balmoral, they also provide vital shade during increasingly intense summer heatwaves. Arborists warn that poisoning can have lingering impacts, even when trees initially survive. Chemicals introduced through drilled holes can weaken root systems, make trees more vulnerable to disease and instability, and create long-term structural problems that may not become visible for years. The emotional impact on communities can also be significant. Balmoral’s figs are deeply tied to the identity of the beach itself. For generations of locals, they have framed family picnics, morning swims, and waterfront walks. Their loss would dramatically alter the look and feel of the reserve. Councils across Sydney have begun taking increasingly public approaches to discouraging vandalism. Some have installed oversized banners or “shame signs” where trees were destroyed, while others have placed shipping containers in front of newly created harbour views to ensure vandals do not benefit from the damage. Despite growing public outrage, prosecutions remain rare due to difficulty identifying offenders. With most attacks suspected to take place at night, occurring in natural beachside areas with minimal CCTV surveillance, police are struggling to pin down the culprits behind this crime on our local wildlife. Councils, environmental groups, and locals alike are now pushing for stronger penalties, arguing that current fines are insignificant compared to the potential increase in property values created by unobstructed views. Currently, the maximum penalty is an on-the-spot fine of $3,000 for individuals or $9,000 for businesses, though serious offences prosecuted in court can warrant fines up to $1 million. While these fines are hefty, they barely make a dent in the potential financial gain of the crime, as improved beach views are capable of adding millions to a property’s value. Since facing backlash from the community, the government has proposed doubling on-the-spot fines, however many still say this is not harsh enough. Mosman Council is continuing to investigate the Balmoral incidents and has urged residents to report suspicious activity around public trees or reserves. Locals are urged to retain CCTV or dashcam footage if they witness suspicious activity near Balmoral Reserve or The Esplanade. Residents can also contact Mosman Council directly via the details provided below, or report any information regarding the vandalism to NSW Police.

Once facing redevelopment, Warringah Bowling Club is now rebuilding for a sustainable community-focused future. More on Mosman By Lucy Pearson Warringah Bowling Club, once in a period of serious uncertainty, has recently entered a new chapter focused on renewal, community and long-term sustainability. The club is now being reimagined as a vibrant social and sporting hub for Mosman, while still protecting its core identity as a home for lawn bowls. We spoke with the club’s new general manager, Michelle Howe, about what the Club’s future looks like. You’ve stepped into this role at an incredibly pivotal moment; what did you walk into, and what made you say yes to taking it on? Walking in, I was immediately struck by the passion and dedication of our members and that of the rejuvenated board. It was clear this was more than just a bowling club; it was a community club standing at a crucial, exciting crossroads. Saying yes was easy. I had been offered a unique chance to honour the club’s legacy while steering it toward a more sustainable future. On day one, I was welcomed by the board, met local members, and quickly prepared for the arrival of our new catering partners, Lusso Kitchen. Some Mosman locals might not realise how serious things got. How close did the club really come to disappearing? The board ultimately prevented the club from being sold to property developers. Under current state legislation, the site could have been redeveloped into a 16-storey building with up to 155 dwellings. Instead, the board saved the green space, ensuring the club remains available for community use, which is a significant win for the Mosman community. There’s clearly a lot of history here; what does Warringah Bowling Club represent beyond bowls? While bowls remain central to its identity, the Club is far more than a sporting venue. It’s a social hub and meeting place for all ages, we host live music, events, pickleball, bridge, mahjong, trivia, dining, choir, barefoot bowls, meat raffles and more. At its core, it exists to foster connection and community. How are you reinventing the Club, whilst preserving its legacy? We are proud to remain a bowling club and continue competing in Bowls NSW pennants competitions, with dedicated greens for bowlers. At the same time, the top green has been transformed into a pickleball and barefoot bowls space, open to members and guests with spectator seating. Together with Lusso Kitchen, we are building a welcoming, multi-use hub for members, locals, families and the wider community. How will your partnership with Lusso Kitchen change the club? Lusso Kitchen brings experience from other local clubs and understands the culture and community expectations. They are introducing a fresh, high-quality, family-friendly dining experience. This partnership allows us to focus on the club's atmosphere and community while ensuring consistent, enjoyable food for members and guests. If this comeback is successful, what will the club look like in a year? The aim is a financially sustainable, thriving community hub that bridges generations. In a year, it looks like a place where people come together to play sport, socialise and enjoy a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that remains deeply valued by its members and the wider community. Warringah Bowling Club 74 - 82 Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman 02 9969 4313 | warringahbowls.com.au

The Mosman Art Prize celebrates contemporary Australian art in one of Sydney’s most iconic harbourside suburbs. More on Mosman For more than seven decades, the Mosman Art Prize has remained one of Australia’s most respected and enduring art awards, attracting established and emerging artists from right across the country. Held annually at the Mosman Art Gallery, the prestigious exhibition has become a highlight of Sydney’s cultural calendar and a proud tradition within the local community. Established in 1947, the coveted prize has built a reputation for showcasing exceptional contemporary Australian painting while supporting artistic innovation and creative expression. Each year, hundreds of entries are submitted by artists working across a broad range of styles and perspectives. Finalists are then selected for a major public exhibition that transforms the Mosman Art Gallery into a vibrant celebration of creativity. Beyond the main award, the Mosman Art Prize also plays an important role in fostering community engagement with the arts. Visitors are encouraged to explore thought-provoking works, discover new artists, and immerse themselves in the stories and ideas behind each piece. The exhibition often sparks conversation throughout the Lower North Shore, drawing art lovers, collectors, families, and curious locals alike. The prize continues to reinforce Mosman’s reputation as a thriving cultural hub, where creativity and community intersect. Whether you are a passionate art enthusiast or simply looking for inspiration close to home, the Mosman Art Prize offers a unique opportunity to experience some of the country’s finest contemporary artworks in a welcoming and distinctly local setting. Entries Close Monday 13 July, 5pm. Visit www.mosmanartgallery.org.au for details.

Kholl Modern Bistro is an exciting new venue with an eclectic menu centred around charcoal grill. More on Mosman Located in the heart of Cremorne, Kholl has quickly established itself as one of the area’s most exciting contemporary dining destinations. Led by chef Tomoyuki Usui, the modern bistro blends refined technique with a relaxed neighbourhood atmosphere, creating a venue that feels both sophisticated and approachable. A modern fit-out designed around the restaurant’s signature charcoal grill concept; soft lighting, sleek interiors and an open, energetic dining room create a welcoming environment suited to everything from casual weeknight dinners to celebratory occasions. The venue balances the elegance of fine dining with the comfort of a local bistro, making it equally popular for date nights, family gatherings and group get-togethers. Kholl’s menu showcases a creative approach to modern Australian dining with strong French and Japanese influences. The charcoal-fired mains are a standout, featuring premium cuts such as Black Angus sirloin and wagyu flank steak served with house-made sauces including truffle ponzu and smoked garlic emulsion. Smaller share plates highlight seasonal produce, with dishes like crispy Brussels sprouts with truffle powder, sweet corn ribs in caramelised soy and roasted carrots with sesame yoghurt demonstrating the kitchen’s inventive flair. Seafood dishes and house-made fermented elements further elevate the menu, while a seven-course sharing option offers an alternative dining experience. The drinks program complements the food beautifully, featuring signature cocktails, curated wines and sake pairings designed to harmonise with the menu. Kholl also caters to private functions and events, offering an intimate and stylish setting for birthdays, corporate dinners and special celebrations. With its polished service, distinctive cuisine and vibrant atmosphere, Kholl delivers a memorable modern bistro experience on Sydney’s Lower North Shore. 8/255 Military Rd, Cremorne bistrokholl.com