More on Dee Why Along Sydney’s Northern Beaches, youngsters are participating in an enterprising form of hide and seek involving decorated rocks – Secret Rocks. Sarah Downes, founder of Northern Beaches Secret Rocks (NBSR), told 2099 magazine why she established the fun activities group, which now numbers almost 5,000 members. By Alec Smart Cassie with a rock she painted. Photo: Linda Gee Spoonvilles You’re probably aware of ‘Spoonvilles’ springing up across suburbia during the Covid-19 lockdowns. In these micro-villages, kids have decorated spoons (usually wooden ones for stirring sauces) with faces and mini costumes. Planted in small patches of publicly-accessible ground, they create colourful clusters of cutlery characters. Spoonvilles bring communities together and are a fun creative venture for bored kids unable to attend school or day-care due to coronavirus restrictions. They are particularly popular in Melbourne, which has endured the world’s longest lockdown at well over 200 days. Northern Beaches Secret Rocks But on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, it’s not kitchen utensils that are utilised, but something as old as the Earth and in common supply: rocks! Sarah Downes founded NBSR on Facebook in May 2017 after seeing something similar in Canada - before the coronavirus pandemic. “Northern Beaches Secret Rocks was meant to be a way to share random kindness with the community and to build happiness within the Northern Beaches,” Sarah explained. “Basically, images are painted onto rocks. They can be anything from uplifting messages, to Yoda, to watermelon - any image that will bring a smile! Overall everyone loves a watermelon! We have painters of all ages, from 3 to 83, and there is no minimum level of skill. Some examples of painted rocks. Photo: Linda Gee Those who paint and hide the rocks are called ‘rockers’, and they do it in the spirit of goodwill, Sarah insisted. “Every rock shows the care and consideration of the painter, who has done their best to make something that will bring happiness to another. Heartfelt sayings like ‘Peace’, ‘This Too Shall Pass’, ‘Love’, are always popular, as well as themed rocks, such as the Hairy Maclary series of characters painted by one of our rockers. “We have lots of fish, cats, ice creams, turtles, you name it. Oh, and one cannot forget the Minions, whom everyone definitely loves. They are all special in their own way! We have a real depth of talent in the group.” However, unlike spoon villages, the rocks prefer social distancing and don’t gather in hamlets. Like fairies in forests and pixies in parks, these painted pebbles and stunning stones are shy and elusive. Hidden among foliage and rockeries in their native habitat along the coastline, it requires stealth and persistence to find them. “The rocks are sealed to protect them, then hidden randomly in the community for others to find,” Sarah declared. “On the back of the rock an identifier #NBSR is painted as a means to connect it to our Facebook group. Painters love it when someone posts a find of a rock they have made.” Some rocks are the finder’s keepers, others returned to their hiding spots, or hidden elsewhere. “Often the rock will find the right person,” Sarah revealed. “Sometimes people will find a rock on their birthday, when they need a boost, or sometimes it is a family out for a walk who come upon the rocks and get a nice surprise.” Puppy approves - keen for a seafront walk to seek out secret rocks. Photo: Linda Gee Are pebbles preferable for painting upon? “The best rocks are river rocks that are smooth and clean,” she explained. “Best rocks are the pink and white Kashmiri river stones anywhere from 30-70mm in size. They are sold in bags of 20kg and often rockers will share a bag if it is too many rocks. Best sourced from a nursery, we have the support of the Four Seasons Nursery in Belrose who do a home-delivery service. “Our rockers have been using a variety of paint pens from Poscas (a favourite), Life of Colour, Tooli Art, etc., and any acrylic paint. Sealing or varnishing rocks is a must, so the paint doesn't fade or chip off over time. It has been a great activity during lockdown as it covers so many aspects: art class, reading and geography - then the exercise part when you have a walk and hide the rocks. It is a lot of fun for all!” Full details on the NBSR Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1552698581430500/about Suggested hiding spots: Stony Range Botanic Garden, Dee Why; Curl Curl Boardwalk; Manly Lagoon; Red Hill Reserve, Oxford Falls; Warriewood Wetlands; Irrawong Waterfall, Narrabeen; Turimetta Headland; Narrabeen Lagoon. =================================

More on Dee Why At the southern end of Dee Why Lagoon, hidden behind bullrushes and almost submerged by incoming tides, lies a dual row of rotting timber poles. Resembling a ruined jetty, these forlorn stumps are among the last of Australia’s World War 2 sea defences still in place. By Alec Smart 'Dumble Stops' rotting in Dee Why Lagoon, left over from WWII. Photo: Alec Smart Dumble Tank Stops This small, forgotten cluster of approximately 22 timber staves were, from June 1942 – Sept 1943 (when Prime Minister John Curtin declared that ‘the danger of invasion has passed’) among the front line of Sydney’s deterrents to a feared Japanese naval incursion. Timber bollards (derived from the Norman-French word boulard, meaning ‘post’), known as ‘Dumble tank stops’, were driven into the beds of seaside lagoons, tidal lakes and creeks. In addition to bollards, shoreline defences included ‘concertina’ rolls of barbed wire, iron stakes, ‘hurdles’ consisting of interlocked steel scaffolding, and lines of pyramid-shaped tetrahedrons made of reinforced concrete. The latter pyramids (some flat-topped) were typically installed in rows near beaches or on the tideline to halt the advance of landing craft, tanks and mechanised machinery and were known by the amusing term ‘dragon’s teeth’. A single dragon’s tooth still sits among the mangroves at Bayview, opposite 1961 Pittwater Rd, the lonely reminder of a bygone era, regularly submerged by incoming tide. It’s possible Dumble stops were named after Lieutenant-Colonel Wilfred Chatterton Dumble, former General Manager of London Omnibus Company. W.C. Dumble was one of the key members of the Admiral Landships Committee in Britain that oversaw the construction and military engagement of the world’s first military tanks. How WWII Tank Traps Stop Tanks In co-developing the tank, in all likelihood Dumble also realised that their progress could be hindered by clusters of bollards, and maybe that’s how these timber staves inherited his name. The pyramid-shaped dragon’s teeth had the benefit of an armour-piercing sharp tip that would kinetically puncture the metal underside of a tank if the vehicle attempted to roll over the top. However, the main tactic of Dumble stops and dragon’s teeth was not to pierce tanks but impede and channel them into zones where they could more easily be damaged/destroyed by heavy armaments from planes or ground defence. Dragon's Teeth - how Dee Why Beach probably looked during WWII. Graphic: Alec Smart After several submarine attacks on merchant shipping off the coast of NSW in 1942, and Japanese air raids on Darwin (19 Feb 1942) and Broome (3 March 1942) causing hundreds of fatalities, Sydney was on high alert for a suspected naval invasion by sea. Five submarines in particular caused serious damage to Australian and US Navy vessels and merchant ships off the Australian east coast, beginning early May 1942, three of which launched the three mini-submarines that infamously entered Sydney Harbour. Sydney Harbour invasion Yet despite the anxiety, in the week leading up to the Sydney Harbour attack, several reconnaissance missions were made by Japanese seaplanes over Port Jackson and the CBD, scoping US and Australian Navy vessels moored around Garden Island, before returning to sea without encountering defensive fire. Despite inflicting casualties, the three midget submarines that infamously invaded Sydney Harbour on the night of 31 May/1 June 1942 ultimately failed in their mission. The first, M-27, snagged on a partially-built anti-submarine net; the third, M-21, was detected and attacked in Taylors Bay, Mosman. The two-man crews of both committed suicide in their vessels to avoid capture. In between, the second, M-24, evaded pursuers, loitered by Fort Denison awhile, then fired its two torpedoes minutes after Garden Island Naval Dockyard lights were turned off for the night, missing its intended targets. Tragically, one of those torpedoes struck a wall on which HMAS Kuttabul, a ferry converted into naval accommodation, was moored, and its explosion caused the troop ship to break apart and sink, killing 21 sailors. M-24 then vanished, never rendezvousing with the three submarines, I-27, I-22 and I-24, that loitered offshore awaiting its return, and it wasn’t discovered until 64 years later in Nov 2006 by a team of amateur scuba divers. It rests intact on the sea bed at a depth of 55 metres, 5km off Bungan Head, Newport. M-24 is protected as a war grave, its two crew members still aboard. The attack on Sydney Harbour was followed by one of the same three Japanese submarines, I-24, firing 10 shells into the Eastern Suburbs shortly after midnight on 8 June 1942 (which coincided with submarine I-21 firing shells into Newcastle in a coordinated attack). The vessel surfaced just 10km off the coast of Malabar, using the beam from Macquarie Lighthouse to guide its weapons’ trajectory. The shells destroyed houses in Bellevue Hill and Rose Bay in the Woollahra municipality, but spared civilian lives. Tragically, one American pilot died after he scrambled to fly out to encounter the submarine, crashing his plane on take-off. As a consequence of the mid-1942 raids on Sydney, Dumble tank stops, dragon’s teeth, iron stakes and concertina barbed wire were installed along Sydney’s beaches. Between Manly and Palm Beach, 300 dragon’s teeth tank traps, weighing approximately 2 tonnes each, were strategically placed along the shoreline, the first group of eight on Fairy Bower Beach (now a rock ledge, the sand long washed away). Allied military personnel also established encampments in strategic coastal locations, utilising parks and golf courses for training drills, with anti-aircraft guns and powerful searchlights put in place whilst the beaches were closed to swimming. A 'Dragon's Tooth' anti-tank pyramid among the mangroves at Bayview. Photo: Alec Smart A row of shoreline defences were also implemented between Port Stephens and Lake Macquarie, to protect the steel-producing port city of Newcastle, vitally important for the manufacturing of military equipment. Tank Trap Pyramids Removed Modern DayIn Aug-Sept 2019, after the most severe coastal erosion in 20 years when ocean swells washed away tonnes of sand, a row of dragon’s teeth were exposed again on Stockton Beach. On 9 Oct 2020, Hunter Water announced: “Over the past two weeks we have removed most of the concrete World War II tank traps from our section of the shoreline at Stockton beach. “The tank traps were removed to improve the safety of swimmers and surfers using this section of the beach. 185 of an estimated 200 tank traps have been relocated from the water and are being stored on our site. It’s possible the remaining tank traps, which remain buried, will be uncovered in future heavy sea events… We are exploring the potential for reusing the traps in future.” ============================================

More on Dee Why We sat down with the manager of KX Pilates, Dee Why. Pictured: Paul Cicchetti KX Pilates has taken Sydney, and the rest of Australia, by storm since it was first founded in 2010. The Kaizen eXperience or 'KX’ (Japanese for “change for the better”) is a philosophy that focuses on small and ongoing movements. KX Pilates classes offer exactly that — fast-paced, high intensity body toning workouts in just 50 minutes. We sat down with Paul Cicchetti, manager of KX Pilates Dee Why, to learn more. How long has KX Pilates been around and what motivated you to open the studio? KX Pilates has been around for 10+ years and started in Melbourne — a testament to the positive impact KX continues to have on our wellbeing! KX Dee Why opened in 2016. We wanted to be the first studio to bring dynamic Pilates to the Northern Beaches, which was so exciting for our team of amazing trainers who’d been on board since KX moved to Sydney in 2015. Have you always worked in the Health/Wellness industry? I started my fitness journey as a qualified PT in 2013, and then progressed to enrolling into the KX Academy the year after. Since then, my life has been devoted to the KX way of life! The Industry has seen me teach KX workouts nationally and eventually become a multi-site Studio Owner. What drew you to the KX Pilates brand and philosophy? The fast-paced yet low impact movements, practicality of each session and the results of course! All of that was available within an uplifting and inspiring community of clients and trainers. What can a first-timer expect from a KX Pilates class? First of all - sweat, baby! Each class is heaps of fun and we always offer an un-intimidating environment. Trainers are super supportive and eXperts at making our newbies feel at home. We also offer some great trial options for first-timers as well. What are the key benefits of regular classes? There are way too many to list - but I think the most important are stronger joints, improved mobility, toned muscles and increased confidence and awareness in your body. Getting a regular dose of amazing endorphins is also a massive plus! Find out more at their website or follow them on Instagram @kxpilatesdeewhy. KX Pilates Suite 4/11-13 Oaks Ave Dee Why NSW 2099 7900 6156

More on Dee Why Ronald Powles lived with his wife and son in their home on Pacific Parade, DeeWhy. He was a projectionist at the Narrabeen Roxy Theatre at 15 Waterloo Street. His wife was pregnant with their second child and was due to give birth any day. Then came the Narrabeen kidnapping. By ELLIOT LINDSAY Leading up to Narrabeen Kidnapping Ronald ran the night sessions at the theatre but would go in some mornings to check the machinery before the matinee screenings. It was local, and the visit only lasted a few minutes, so he would typically take his 2-year-old son, Philip, with him for the drive. On this February morning in 1938, he scooped up little Phillip, and off they went. They arrived at approximately 10 am and parked directly in front of the theatre. Ronald left Philip in the car and quickly ran in. After ten minutes, Ronald returned, but Philip was not in the vehicle. His first thought was that Philip, now in the ‘terrible twos’, may have got restless and discovered that he could get out. So, he searched the street and asked if the shopkeepers and passers-by had seen him. But Philip was nowhere to be seen. Ronald then returned to the theatre to call the police. The theatre manager informed him that a man had called fifteen minutes earlier and asked to speak to him. "I can't be bothered with phone calls," said Ronald. "I have lost my boy." The manager replied, "the man who rang said the message was about your boy and that he will call you back." Ronald was relieved as he assumed the call was someone letting him know they had found his son. Australia's First Kidnap Ransom Call At approximately 2:30 pm, the phone rang. "I have your son," said a voice. "Where is he?" replied Ronald. "I am holding him for £300," said the voice. "Don't be foolish," said Ronald, "this is no time for joking. I have not the money." The voice on the other end ignored Ronald and continued, "don’t make contact with the police, or you might not see your son. I will ring again.” The man hung up. Ronald and his wife decided to call the police, despite the threat. Several detectives of the Criminal Investigation Branch (C.I.B) shortly arrived at the theatre. This was the first time in Australian history that a child had been kidnapped and held for ransom. The law took it very seriously. A troop of 20 police officers arrived at the scene and searched the neighbourhood with a fine-toothed comb. Detectives interviewed the parents to determine why the kidnapper had targeted their family. Neither could think of any reason for it. The police theorised the kidnapper might be an enemy. Ronald could not think of who it could be. The voice had told them to expect another call at 8 pm that same night. However, when the clock struck eight, the phone did not ring. Ten minutes passed, and still nothing. Then at a quarter past eight, the phone rang. Ronald answered it. “Hello? Hello?” The caller was silent. “Where is my son?” Ronald demanded. The caller hang-up and the line went silent. The worried parents began to fear the worst. That night police broadcast Philip’s description on the radio and his photo given to the press. The following day, the kidnapping took up the entire front page of the Daily Telegraph and was in every newspaper across the nation. The Search for Philip Powles Now the whole country was looking for Philip. Miss Sheridan was the principal of a small school in Mona Vale named Quest Haven. The morning had been a bit stressful, and she decided to take a few moments out to enjoy a cup of tea and read the morning paper. Flipping from page to page, she came to the story of the kidnapping. When she saw the photo of young Philip, she almost dropped her tea in shock. Then, leaping from her chair, the newspaper still in hand, she raced out to the nursery. She found a small boy and compared him with the photo in the paper. It was the same boy! The day before, the Quest Haven school nurse received a call from a man telling her that a young boy was going to the school and she would need to collect him from the bus stop out front. She presumed it had been pre-arranged and went to the bus stop as requested. Philip Returned, Kidnapping Ends Sure enough, a bus arrived with a small unaccompanied boy onboard. She took him in, introduced him to the other children, and tucked him into bed later that night. That same evening, the school principal returned from external duties. When hearing of the boy's arrival, she said they were not expecting any children, and she didn’t know who he was. The school principal called the police to report they had Philip Powles. When Philip’s parents arrived to collect him, his mother was crying with relief that her son was safe. Philip seemed unphased by the whole ordeal, and when he saw his mother’s tears, he asked, “Why are you crying, mummy?” When asked where he had been, all he said was “Pippy Powles in a big bus!” Investigators searched for the kidnapper but could not obtain enough evidence to pin the crime on a suspect. However, they believed the man to have been 25 years old and someone Philip knew. This was the only way they could explain why Philip left with the man without crying. In the end, the mystery remained unsolved, although Philip was unharmed and lived a happy life with his parents and the new baby brother, who was born a few days after Philip was found. -------------------------- Elliot Lindsay hosts Murders Most Foul, Sydney’s True Crime Walking Tours. https://murdersmostfoul.com/ Insta: https://www.instagram.com/murdersmostfoul/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070235298375 ====================================================

More on Dee Why Craft breweries on Northern Beaches span from Manly to Avalon and with warm weather there is no better time to crack open a cold one. Here's our roundup of bars to check out. Touring Craft Breweries on Northern Beaches One of the best ways to see them is on tour with Northern Beaches Brewery Tours. On the tour, you'll visit four breweries, and they are always happy to take requests if you have a brewery you're been desperate to see. Setting off from the historic Manly Wharf, take a short trip to Brookvale for a behind-the-scenes tour, beer-tasting talk and delicious lunch. Then along the coast to Mona Vale or Manly Vale to enjoy tasting paddles and brewery stories. Hop back on the bus to 'Brewvale' for the tasting session at the last two breweries. From there, it is a short trip back to Manly, where we will drop you off near the original microbrew house of 4 Pines and Manly Wharf. Trust us when we say you won't be disappointed. The tour itinerary is planned so you can sit back and relax. And with brewers branching out into the world of distilling, alcoholic ginger beers, seltzers and non-alcoholic beverages, there is something for everyone on our tours! Craft Breweries Around Dee Why 4 Pines: Born following a post-surf chat at Manly between Jaron and his dad Steve, a whole lot has happened since these guys first opened their own microbrewery in Manly in 2004. 4Pines’ 11(!) venues including BrewPub Manly, TruckBar Brookvale, Public House Newport + Blocks Bar Manly. Bucketty’s: All about the Brewery, the Bar and the Music. Bucketty’s is one of Brookvale’s hidden gems (well, to the rest of Sydney it is!) and really a one-of-a-kind venue. There is such a friendly atmosphere and everyone is welcome, even if you have four legs. All of Bucketty’s brews are made in-house by hand with the amazing brew team rotating a range of beer + ciders across their 15 taps. They also have a stack of great Aussie wines, beers and spirits. 26 Orchard Rd, Brookvale Modus Operandi: Born in 2014, the Mona Vale venue is the first of MO’s establishments and the original HQ of Modus Brewing, playing a pivotal role in the award-winning past of the company. The venue has been awarded champion smaller, medium & large brewery and continues to produce award-winning beers today. The venue is filled with character and you’ll find 16 beers on taps, a delicious rotating menu featuring dripping burgers, authentic pizzas, chicken wings that are both mild and damn hot (for the risk-takers), and hearty bowls & salads if you are looking for something lighter. 14 Harkeith St, Mona Vale Quakers Hat Brewing: A small family run craft brewery dedicated to serving its local residents. Since opening in 2019 the team have been releasing delicious takes on classic beers as well as some new and inventive styles! You can get the goods straight from the source when the Taphouse is open (Thursday 6pm to 9pm, Friday 5pm to 9pm, Saturday 2pm to 9pm) or purchase take away from the brewery Monday to Saturday. Cam Robinson, Head Brewery, Recommends Beer of choice — Red Rye IPA. This is one of the first beers we brewed. I really like the relationship between the malty rye and the fruity hops and find it a great winter beer. Tasting Notes: This is a dark, malty brew coupled with big hop flavours reminiscent of blackberry and tropical fruits. Price — $21/4 pack, $90/24 pack case. Order online or pick up at B14/1 Campbell Parade, Manly Vale Seventh Day Brewing — Midnight Surfer: Big in both alcohol and flavour, this dark beauty is packed with malts, real cacao and coffee beans. $40/4 Pack. Order online or in-Store. 7th Day Brewery 14/9 Powells Road Brookvale

More on Dee Why From school murals to garage doors — and now a B-Line bus stop — the two artists known as Geebs have spent a decade making their mark around Sydney. By Adeline Teoh A date for most couples would be a trip to the movies or dinner for two — but not artistic duo Debbie and Gillie Drummond. The pair met around 18 years ago and spent their dates “going out to paint walls,” they recall. “That was our thing and that's essentially how Geebs was born.” About The Name Geebs Geebs is a combination of their teen nicknames ‘Gui’ and ‘Debs’ and represents a decade of collaboration that spans public artwork, from a striking rosella mural at Rozelle Public School and the walls of inner west Sydney terrace houses, to businesses such as Mitre 10 and Collaroy eatery Sloppy Tee’s. It was during those art dates that the two found common ground with shared influences including classical 1950s animation, tattoo art and low-brow culture. “I grew up watching a lot of cartoons on TV and reading comic books,” says Gillie of his early influences. “Drawing and building things at home were what I would spend most of my time with — until I got introduced to graffiti!” Debbie, whose mother was an artist, was never far from markers and paper in her childhood. As a teen, she became involved with the graffiti scene and, by the time she met Gillie, was already painting murals. “It struck me then that I could never be a person working in a 9-5 job.” “We actually worked in cartoon animation studios for a moment in our lives,” says Gillie. “I'm a tattoo artist myself — and Debbie had a brief time tattooing as well. We take a lot of inspiration from the simplicity of retro cartoons and the bright, solid colours from traditional tattoos. The way of solving a complex idea by using shapes that are easy to read from a distance is one of the ways we incorporate this into our art.” The pair started Geebs “as a way of blending the things that we both shared in common,” they explain. “So instead of painting individually together, we would create the whole concept as a duo, working and adding to each other's ideas organically from start to finish. When we paint a mural we can both do everything. It's pretty fun and it feels like we are one.” One work of theirs you might have seen more frequently than most is A Place for Everyone, which graces the Dee Why B-Line bus stop, thanks to a commission by Transport for NSW. Depicting Cultural Diversity in Art Given the theme of ‘cultural diversity', the pair drew on the people they knew in Dee Why to create the design. “It really is that diverse, [there are] more people from different ethnic backgrounds than any other area in the beaches. So, we thought, ‘let's try and represent as many nationalities as we can in one single image, no birds, no plants, no nothing just people’,” says Gillie. “The intention was … to identify and celebrate the cultural differences.” The bus stop design is a little unusual as it’s monochromatic (at the request of Transport for NSW) but otherwise, Geebs’ signature style is better described as vivacious. “We get a lot of comments about how bright and vibrant the colours are, and that people feel joy by looking at it,” notes Debbie of their other works. “We just want people to have a break from all the visual noise and the concrete feel that surrounds us. Like breathing fresh air but with your eyes.” See more of Geebs’ work at www.geebsart.com

More on Dee Why The Strand is Dee Why’s favourite place to eat, drink and relax. And Corretto Dee Why is a venue that lets you do all three, all day. By Adeline Teoh Tua Fatongiatau is dedicated to ensuring that people who step into Corretto Dee Why have a good time. The venue manager for the all-day drinking and dining destination started as its bar manager back when it was called Twenty Four, and has since seen it successfully rebrand as Corretto, becoming its licensee. The laidback beachside eatery serves everything from morning espressos to evening cocktails with a euro-leaning, seafood-friendly menu. “With a beachfront view of Dee Why, the space reflects its surroundings with a Mediterranean-inspired fit-out, which then creates a chilled atmosphere that the guests love,” describes Fatongiatau. “Together, we have worked to make Corretto one of the go-to places here on the northern beaches.” He notes that although people now travel “from all around Sydney” to dine there, he’s pleased to see repeat clientele from the Dee Why community too. “I love working here and meeting new people every day, as well as seeing our regular locals on a daily basis.” Story of Venue Manager of Corretto Dee Why Fatongiatau’s foray into hospitality was largely an accident. Although many in his family have hospitality backgrounds, it was a friend of his brother — formerly the bar manager at the Hilton’s Marble Bar — who gave him his first stint as a “fresh-off-the-boat glassy”. Since then, Fatongiatau has accomplished a lot in the space, including as a competitive bartender. With accolades such as Hilton Worldwide’s Culinary Champion APAC and NSW finalist for The Blend’s cocktail competition to his name, he’s used to taking the art of cocktail-making back to basics, building everything from the foundation of flavour up to the flair. We talk to him about cocktails, Corretto and community. You've done competitive bartending. How do you prepare? Straight to the books I’d go! I would research ingredients that I would like to highlight and would fit the kind of style drink I wanted; back then I was into making tiki-style drinks, going for tropical elements. After coming up with a drink, I would write down what I wanted to say during the presentation, and then reread it daily so that I knew it off by heart. Personally, overcoming nerves was the most challenging part. If you have that on lock, you can excel in many comps, as confidence is key to a great presentation. On the day of the comp, I’d go through my notes again, just make sure that everything is good to go. What's your favourite cocktail to make? A classic daiquiri — you can’t go wrong with it! You only need rum, lime, and sugar, then Bob’s your uncle and bam! What’s your favourite dish/beverage pairing? Corretto’s crispy skin barramundi with fire-roasted capsicum, spinach, pumpkin hummus and dried olives, paired with grapefruit negroni. What do you like most about the Northern Beaches? Well, obviously the beautiful beaches. [Dee Why Beach] being as long as it is, there’ll always be a quiet spot somewhere. But, on top of that, there’s a great sense of community, especially within the hospitality crowd. We have a great crowd of regulars who come in, it really makes the venue come alive. If someone had a day in Dee Why, what would you recommend they do? Try out Corretto for sure. 100% go through our cocktail list — many have said it’s the best on the beaches — and try our tuna tacos and house-made mushroom gnocchi. Add a walk around the beach before or after, and you’re onto a winner of a day. Corretto Dee Why website 1/24 The Strand

By Isabella Edwards More on Dee Why We’ve checked out some of the best live music in Northern Beaches and caught up with some up-and-coming and amazing local talent. Nothing beats a bit of live music. Whether you’re knocking off on a Friday afternoon or heading out for dinner and drinks after a day on the beach, live music makes the perfect soundtrack to a great evening. But where to go? Which acts are worth your time? Don’t stress; we’ve got you covered. Venues of Best Live Music in the Northern Beaches Dee Why RSL 932 Pittwater Rd, Dee Why NSW 2099 First established in 1937, the club now has over 60,000 members and boasts one of the largest live music venues on the northern beaches. Dee Why RSL can tickle any musical fancy. With an extensive list of live performances from Fleetwood Mac tribute shows to concerts by The Wiggles, there is something for everyone at Dee Why RSL. Recently, the venue hosted the ARIA award-winning northern beaches duo Lime Cordiale, during their “Country Club Experience” tour. Bucketty’s Brewing Co 26 Orchard Rd, Brookvale NSW 2100 If unwinding with a well-crafted beer and a chilled-out acoustic sound is your kind of gig, you can’t beat Bucketty’s Brewing Co. With relaxed music on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 7 pm they’ll carry you through to the weekend with live music on Friday and Saturday nights that’s sure to get you dancing. What’s better? You can ease into the week ahead with more music on and a family-friendly atmosphere Sundays from 4 pm! Stop in and try their beer of the week while you enjoy some tunes. Dee Why Hotel 834 Pittwater Rd, Dee Why NSW 2099 If relaxed pub-style music sessions are more your speed, don’t miss the amazing live performances at the Dee Why Hotel. Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night, Dee Why Hotel showcases a different new talent and as a bonus to the audience – you can usually snag some discounted cocktails to help you soak up the atmosphere! With a tasty and child-friendly menu, it’s the perfect place to enjoy some live music with the whole family. Jah Bar 1/23 The Strand, Dee Why NSW 2099 If its stunning beachfront location and delicious tapas offerings weren’t enough to get you through the door, perhaps pairing it all with some sensational local musicians will. Each Sunday from 3 pm – 6 pm, Jah Bar hosts some of the best live acts around. Amazing music, delicious food, and $10 Sangria on Sunday afternoons? Sounds like the perfect way to end a weekend to us! Singer, Haley Holgate Not familiar with the name? You’re about to be! Haley Holgate is a beaches-based indie-folk singer/songwriter and storyteller. Featuring clean-cut lyricism and commanding melodies, her writing reflects on life’s pitfalls and turns them into hooky, warm worlds of sound. Some of her key influences include the whimsical stylings of Mumford and Sons, Phoebe Bridgers, the Lumineers, Julia Jacklin and Lizzy McAlpine. “My high school teachers at Pittwater House and lecturers at the Australian Institute of Music have really nurtured my love for music and performance, and I’ve been song writing and gigging around the beaches on the weekends during my studies. I’ve always had a passion for music; as a kid, I was quite competitive when it came to playing SingStar on my PlayStation, and I loved going to dance classes after school. I first knew I wanted to be a singer/songwriter when I heard Mumford and Sons on the radio when I was 10 – I connected with their music in such a special way and wanted to be able to do the same for other people.” Haley credits being raised on Sydney’s northern beaches as being a core element of her creativity. “It’s so easy to enjoy a nourishing lifestyle living on the Northern Beaches, and I’ve found that it is essential to my creative process to get out in nature and have a free headspace for ideas to flow through. Narrabeen Lakes and Dee Why Beach have both been great sources of inspiration for me, and I’ve brought my guitar to so many other beautiful spots to write.” Haley relishes in Dee Why’s live music scene but recognises that the industry has some growing to do when it comes to up-and-coming artists: “I’d love to see more opportunities for artists in the early stages of their journey to help them grow successful careers in music.” You might be lucky enough to spot Haley busking by the beaches on the weekends, but you don’t want to miss her upcoming live shows – though you might have to venture a little further afield than Manly or The Strand. “I have two shows coming up, the first at Lazybones Lounge in Marrickville on the 29th of March, and then at Sappho Books, Café and Bar in Glebe on the 21st of April. I’m in the process of recording my first single and album, so keep an eye out on my socials for more details soon!” Check out some of Haley’s amazing performances and keep up to date with her on Instagram: @haleyholgate Entertainer, JøshjøsH With a musical style as eclectic and cool as his name, JøshjøsH is a Dee Why local with over 15 years of experience in the live music game. Describing his music as “music is for road trips and people who appreciate storytelling through music.” JøshjøsH took his emotive blend of soulful lyrics and easy-going melodies on the road in January, touring the NSW coast and performing in caravan parks and campgrounds, creating the perfect summer soundtrack. “I wanted to get out of the major city rat race and try to mix my love of surfing, music and camping together. I had never done something like this before, but it was one of the most meaningful and fulfilling tours I have done to date. I was grateful to play to people who were happy to listen and enjoy all the same things I do.” Coastal life is engrained into JøshjøsH’s music, with his Dee Why roots being pathing the way for his relaxed, beachy sound. “I have met some other inspiring creatives through surfing and living in the area. That community and support network has been really helpful in finding my voice as an artist. I feel like the coastal lifestyle and closeness to nature here finds its way into my music as well.” A performer from a young age, JøshjøsH was encouraged by his parents to pursue music. Thankfully, he listened to their sage advice. You can catch JøshjøsH at his upcoming shows. “I have a show at Low 302 In Surry Hills supporting Northern Beaches act "Tommy Gun" and Melbourne act "Play Lunch" on their east coast tour on March 23rd. Then I will be playing a free show at Bucketty's Brewery in Brookvale on April 27th.” Not enough? Lucky for us, JøshjøsH will be releasing new music later this year. You can check out his catalogue on Spotify or give him a follow on Instagram to see his latest news: @yeajoshjoshpaul

More on Dee Why Meet Pablo Severo, a local Drone enthusiast and the mastermind behind this week’s cover image. We caught up with Pablo to learn about his love of drone photography and to learn some tricks of the trade. When did you get into Drone photography? And was this a progression from an initial interest/passion in Photography? “I got into drone photography in 2017 when I finally bought my first drone. Operating drones was a progression from my passion for photography; I have been photographing since 2012.” How long have you been a Dee Why/Northern Beaches local? “I have been living in Dee Why since 2010.” What are some of the most exciting things you’ve spotted with your drone? “This is a very hard one to answer. I was really excited to get into drones because it opens up a whole new world of possibilities and different points of view. The idea of getting that new perspective on things like colours, shapes, shadows and textures really excites me - so I’m pretty easy to please. Every time I put my drone up I’m confident I’ll capture something new and exciting.” What are some of your favourite places to shoot on the Northern Beaches? “I have a soft spot for Dee Why but Manly, Shelly Beach and Long Reef are also places that I really enjoy taking photos. We’re pretty spoiled for choice when it comes to the scenery along the Northern Beaches coastline.” What are your top 3 tips for ‘Drone Beginners’? “1. Become familiar with your drone settings, and controls - try and start with the learner settings. Definitely become familiar with basic drone rules before your first flight. Watching tutorials on the internet will be really helpful when you’re starting. 2. Always use your common sense when operating a drone - do not fly over people too low or in controlled airspaces for example. 3. Try new techniques, new settings, different perspectives/angles and the most important thing: have fun!” What does it take to get the perfect shot? “Perfection is something that doesn’t exist and it is very subjective in my opinion. Maybe what is good for me will not be good for others. I could say an image with good exposure, colours, textures and composition make a good photo and I would not be wrong, but for me I think the ‘perfect’ photo tells a story, expresses feelings and it does not need to be explained.” We love Pablo’s work! You can check out some of his amazing shots - like the one we’ve used on our cover, over at his Instagram - @pabloseverophotography

By Alec Smart More on Dee Why The Long Reef Headland coastal walk is a circular trek from Dee Why Surf Life Saving Club (DY SLSC) north to Long Reef Headland and Fishermans Beach, then back around Dee Why Lagoon (via Pittwater Rd). It is approximately 7 km with amazing views, lots of history (and not too steep!). Pelicans on Fishermans Beach below Long Reef Headland. Photo: Alec Smart It’s an enjoyable 90-minute walking adventure at all times of year, especially during whale migration season (May to November) when these magnificent leviathans can be seen offshore making their long journeys between the Southern Ocean and the Coral Sea. The seafront path for the Long Reef Headland walk follows part of the route of the Bicentennial Coastal Walkway, which extends from Manly to Palm Beach. As well as spectacular vistas from wind-swept cliffs and opportunities to pause for picnics or a paddle in the ocean, there are several key points along the route that are historically fascinating. Dee Why Lagoon WWII tank traps At the southern end of Dee Why Lagoon, hidden behind bullrushes and almost submerged, lies a dual row of 22 timber poles. Resembling the supports for a ruined jetty, these rotting stumps are actually remnants of World War 2 sea defences to halt a Japanese invasion, known as “dumble stops”. After three Japanese mini submarines entered Sydney Harbour in May 1942, one of which torpedoed a ferry upon which 21 sleeping sailors were killed, shoreline defences were erected from Manly to Newcastle. These included rolls of barbed wire and “dragon’s teeth” (metre-high concrete pyramids weighing two tonnes apiece) along the seafront, and dumble stops - timber bollards - driven into tidal lagoons. Old WWII ‘dumble stop’ tank defences in Dee Why Lagoon, Dee Why. Photo: Alec Smart The shoreline defences were embedded to impede tanks arriving by marine craft. Their main tactic was to channel the tanks into areas where they could more easily be intercepted and destroyed by heavy armaments. Incidentally, one of the aforementioned submarines, M-24, which managed to evade capture and escape out to sea, rests on the sea floor 5km off Bungan Head, Newport, at a depth of 55 metres. Its two crew members are still aboard, having committed suicide, and it is a protected war grave. Copper Mine on Long Reef Headland Coastal Walk On the southern face of the cliff above Long Reef Beach, close to where the path to the headland ascends from the sand, lies a hidden tunnel from an old copper mine. In operation for a short period in the 1930s, it was dug horizontally 30 metres into the claystone and had a rail track for buggies along its floor. Years after it was abandoned and occupied by roosting bats, the entrance was capped with a concrete plug, to deter youths from entering and risk getting buried beneath collapsed ceilings. Hard to detect, the sealed entrance is described on Flickr website by a photographer as “between the red-brown oxidised rocks and grey-green reduced siltstone.” Dee Why Beach and Dee Why Lagoon (top right), viewed from Long Reef Headland. Photo: Alec Smart Fossils Fossils of sea creatures and marine plants often fall from the cliff face around the headland. According to Northern Beaches Council, “Formed in the Triassic period 230 million years ago, Long Reef Headland is unique in Warringah for its chocolate shales, claystones and ironstones. “Fossils of fish and plants are not uncommon on shale rock platforms. In 1986 the Australian Museum uncovered the bones of a 200 million year old, 2 metres long Labyrinthodont amphibian, similar to an axolotl." Fishermans Beach Located at the northern base of Long Reef Point, on the southern end of Collaroy, lies Fishermans Beach. Part of Long Reef Aquatic Reserve, the oldest aquatic reserve in NSW, it’s a sheltered cove ideal for snorkellers and at low tide rock pools appear. Pelicans also inhabit the beach. The water is often reddish due to the erosion of the volcanic clays. However, be mindful that the beach is not patrolled by surf lifesavers. Fishermans Beach c1937, showing three residential cottages. Photo: Northern Beaches Council Library From the 1870s a small community of fisher folk dwelled in seafront cottages, although there is only one of these small buildings remaining, which was built in the 1930s. A Council photo from 1937 shows three houses. The sheltered cove was also used to collect cattle and ship them to Sydney markets when the district was farmland in the 19th century. A few rusted winches from this era still line the shore; one is believed to have originally been used to haul a buggy in the copper mine on the southern face of the headland. Shipwrecks at Long Reef Several ships have run aground at Long Reef, where no lighthouse was built, despite the imposing headland and exposed reefs at low tide. These include: the steamer SS Duckenfield in May 1889 with one fatality (which already had a notorious reputation from multiple collisions and maritime accidents dating back to 1876, one of which involved the washing overboard and drowning of 500 sheep); and the paddle wheel steamer Euroka in October 1913 which disintegrated on the rocks by Fishermans Beach. Incidentally, Collaroy Beach was named after a paddle steamer, the SS Collaroy, which ran aground there during dense fog on 21 January 1881 and lodged in the sand. It was not recovered until 4 years later but became a popular tourist attraction in the interim. SS Collaroy, 1881, run aground on the then-unnamed beach north of Long Reef Headland. Photo: State Library NSW Garigal at Long Reef Headland The whole Upper Northern Beaches region was originally inhabited by the Garigal, a saltwater people, whose clan totem was the whale. Historians believe they ranged from Dee Why Lagoon north to Broken Bay and the Lower Hawkesbury, and west to Terrey Hills, encompassing Middle Harbour Creek, Cowan Creek and Pittwater. There are numerous Aboriginal sites revealing evidence of their thousands of years of inhabitation, including rock engravings, shell middens, grinding grooves, cave art stencils and shelters. According to an online e-book, Long Reef Golf Club, The First One Hundred Years, “prior to white settlement, the coastal Aborigines used part of the headland area as a burial ground. Some of their remains were excavated during the early construction of the golf course and clubhouse.” A versatile maritime culture, the Garigal paddled out into the Pacific Ocean in simple canoes made of gum tree bark to catch fish and marine creatures. The first Europeans reported that they surfed recreationally in these water craft too – like modern sit-on kayaks. Beach walkers at sunset on Dee Why Beach. Photo: Alec Smart Suggested Route for Long Reef Headland Walk Start from Dee Why Surf Life Saving Club, amber north along the seafront path between Dee Why Lagoon and the sand dunes. Then, when you reach the beach, pass the entrance to the lagoon and Long Reef Surf Life Saving Club (both on your left), whilst sticking to the sand. A short distance ahead, ascend the timber boardwalk stairs and stroll up to the lookout atop Long Reef Headland, skirting the golf club greens (to your left) and the cliff edge (to your right). Still bearing north, after a detour down to Fishermans Beach at the southern end of Collaroy, turn west (inland) and ramble through the playing fields in Griffith Park, then back down the hill to Dee Why via the edge of Pittwater Rd, where you’ll overlook the western side of Dee Why Lagoon. There is no path on the left side of the road, so for safety’s sake, cross to the right side pavement. After a 1.5km descent, cross back over to the eastern (left) side of Pittwater Rd at Lismore Ave, then walk another 50 metres south to a small green bus shelter. Here, on your left, you’ll find a footpath that weaves in behind apartments around the south-western edge of the lagoon, where you’ll see and hear all manner of birdlife in the tree canopies above. Heading east to the sea, the forested path eventually takes you back to James Meehan Reserve (named after the emancipated convict and government surveyor who named the beach DY – literally two letters, perplexing everyone! – from which the seaside suburb sprung). Soon you’ll return to the original starting point: Dee Why Surf Life Saving Club. View of Dee Why Lagoon from Pittwater Rd, Collaroy. Photo: Alec Smart Facilities Along the Way There are public amenities at Dee Why SLSC and Long Reef SLSC, as well as Fishermans Beach and Griffith Park. There are several cafes in close proximity to Fishermans Beach, either at Long Reef Golf Club or on Pittwater Rd nearby, and near Dee Why SLSC on The Strand. Long Reef Headland websites: Long Reef Headland Walk details from Northern Beaches Government https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/recreation-area/long-reef-reserve https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/marine-protected-areas/aquatic-reserves/long-reef-aquatic-reserve-celebrating

More on Dee Why Have you been lucky enough to catch artist, James Maltman, creating an Australian-inspired chalk mural along the Dee Why Beachfront? The artist returned to his former local beach to meet some old friends but ended up "blown away" by support from the community as he worked on the art piece ("They were even bringing me homemade biscotti!"). James Maltman Interview on Chalk Art We caught up with him to learn more about chalk art and his ongoing creative connection to Dee Why. How did you get into chalk art? I started during lockdowns. I lived in Dee Why, and needed to find a way to keep my 3-year-old entertained. I found some chalk in the house, and we took it to our front path. Before that, I had never really drawn, certainly not with chalk. Slowly, I improved and noticed families on their walks stopping to admire the drawings. I started to do more, with my son deciding on subjects. Lots of my early work was from his favourite shows like Bluey. From there, I built the courage to head to the beach to create art on the sea walls. We loved seeing your work in Dee Why. Can you tell us more about the piece and the Aussie characters involved? The Northern Beaches Council has always supported my work. Although I recently moved out of the area, they asked if I wanted to draw a mural at Dee Why Beach. I jumped at the chance to reconnect with the community. I landed on surfing characters as it felt like I was returning to how it all began - drawing characters my son loves and throwing in some for the older crowd. I’m most proud of having Blinky Bill hold a Bubble O’Bill Ice Cream! Can you tell us more about your connection to Dee Why? My wife and I lived in Dee Why for about ten years. Only a short walk from the beach felt like I was on an eternal summer holiday. I loved the beach, cafes, restaurants and people. It’s a melting pot of cultures and personalities. I’ve felt an immense connection to the community through my chalk art – families on their morning walks, groups gathering around while I create a piece or a friendly nod and smile of a local while I draw in the early morning hours. It makes me extremely happy to think I’ve been able to bring just a little joy to the amazing people of Dee Why. How did Dee Why locals respond to your work as you were creating it? I was nervous the first few times I drew at the beach but gained more confidence every time. I often came early in the morning; I got to see some incredible sunrises and build a connection with regular locals walking, surfing or swimming down at the beach. I moved away last year but have been able to return a few times, and each time I get the warm response of "YOU'RE BACK!" What role does a suburb play in your designs? Where to next? For me, it’s about being part of a community and suburb. The community of Dee Why has done so much for me. I’m now living with my family in Sydney’s northwest suburbs and have brought my chalking to a new community. I fit my chalking around work and family life and continue to do small commissions, but mostly my work is voluntary and just for joy rather than money. How can people support your chalk art? Follow me @now_yourechalking. Share my work, tell your friends, hire me for an event, say hello if you ever bump into me while I’m drawing or buy me a virtual coffee at www.buymeacoffee.com/NYChalking By Tahney Fosdike

More on Dee Why As life gets busier & more stressful many of us forget to make our mental & physical health a priority. Knowing this inspired Willie Bishop, the Head Trainer at F45 Brookvale, to create the Brothers4Brothers support group. Brothers4Brothers Support Group - Willie Bishop Interview In a recent conversation with Neighbourhood Media, Willie Bishop told us how the group came to be and how they support men’s mental health, particularly in Dee Why. What inspired Brothers4Brothers support group? The inspiration behind Brothers4Brothers actually came from my marriage separation. Being married for 17 years but then separated for two I hit rock bottom and went through deep anxiety and depression. I was also very suicidal at that time as well. Then one morning I had a penny-drop moment and made the decision on the spot to become a better man and role model for my two younger boys at the time. After two years I was able to reconcile my marriage and save my family. Now 5 years on we have two new additions to our family. Having experienced all of that and coming through the other side gave me a passion to help other men. How big of an issue is men's mental health in Australia? I believe there's still a massive stigma around men's mental health. Which is why I believe so many men continue to take their own lives. I truly believe that men's groups, like Brothers4Brothers and others, are so important for our mental health and well-being. It's a safe space where we can talk and unpack. How does Brothers4Brothers help support mental health awareness & improve mental health overall? Brothers4Brothers is a safe and comfortable space where men can talk and show vulnerability without judgment or expectation. We facilitate one-day workshops where we speak about vulnerability and breaking the stigma around this issue. We also have weekly Zoom chats as an opportunity to check in with each other and keep each other accountable. We also have fortnightly walks that are open to our community. The work we do in this space doesn't discriminate. It's open to all men from all walks of life. What separates Brothers4Brothers from other men's mental health/support groups? We value family, culture, connection and community. The reason why family is first to me is because I lost mine in the past. What I went through I don't want any man to experience. So family first always. In saying that, understanding your culture and where some of your behaviours may come from is really important to understand. Having a genuine connection is what I search for these days. The relationships and friendships I choose to form are now based on the heart and soul of a person. Not what's on the outside. I believe with these values we are able to connect with like-minded men, and people to build community and awareness in this space. Have you found that tackling mental health outside of a traditional setting allows men to open up more? I never felt a genuine connection when I was seeking professional help. Just by chance, I connected with someone through sports which was my outlet that I felt really comfortable around. To this day he mentors me and has educated me so much that I now find myself in his shoes educating and helping others. Who specifically is Brothers4Brothers designed for? The work we do in this space doesn't discriminate. Our home is open to any man, or teenager that is looking for growth, self-development, connection and community. In terms of our Dee Why issue, what should men in the area be on the lookout for from Brothers4Brothers? Through this journey, I've learnt that sometimes people come and go for whatever reason. I just want our community to be aware of who we are and what our vision is. To create a safe space where men can talk and show vulnerability without judgement or expectation. It's simple. What are some of the highlights coming up in the next few months for Brothers4Brothers? Our next major event coming up is going to be supporting the Suicide Prevention Day Walk. It's something we supported last year and will continue to do again this year. I'm in the process of looking at speaking in high schools and running mental health and wellbeing workshops for years 7/8. I believe early intervention is the key. We’ll continue to gather fortnightly as a brotherhood to build connection and community. I'll also continue to do one one-on-one mentoring with men. For more information about Brothers4Brothers, head to their website here. By Jamie Apps