No beach? No problem. Here are some of the best pools, tidal baths and harbour swimming spots within easy reach of Glebe. Glebe isn't exactly synonymous with glistening coastlines and white-sand beaches. But when the weather warms up, you don't have to travel far from the 2037 postcode to take a dip. While there may not be a beach on your doorstep, swimming in Glebe means you're surprisingly close to some of Sydney's best pools, tidal baths and harbour swimming spots. From heated indoor pools and 50m outdoor lanes to historic harbour baths and free swimming enclosures, there are plenty of places to cool off without venturing too far from home. So, grab your swimmers, slip-slop-slap and get ready to make a splash at one of these local(ish) swimming spots. Victoria Park Pool 1.2km from Glebe 📍 Corner City & Parramatta Rds, Camperdown 💰 Adults $8; Concession $6; Children 3–16 $5.20 An absolute no-brainer for Glebe locals. Set within the nine-hectare Victoria Park, this heated 50m outdoor pool feels like a little urban oasis. Whether you're there for serious laps or a leisurely summer splash, it's a convenient option when you're looking for a swimming pool near Glebe. Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre 1.4km from Glebe 📍 458 Harris Street, Ultimo 💰 Adults $9.20; Concession $6.90; Children 3–16 $6 Named after Australia's five-time Olympic gold medallist, this distinctive wave-shaped aquatic centre is one of the handiest year-round options for 2037 residents. The indoor heated pool means you can get your laps in regardless of what Sydney's weather decides to throw at you, making it a particularly practical choice for swimming near Glebe all year round. Dawn Fraser Baths 2.5km from Glebe 📍 Elkington Park, Balmain 💰 Adults $7.50; Children 5–16 $4.30 This is the one for old-school Sydney summer vibes. Australia's oldest surviving public swimming pool sits right on Sydney Harbour, with heritage timber boardwalks, lap lanes and a child-friendly beach area that appears at low tide. Dawn Fraser Baths is open seasonally from October to April, making it a quintessential warm-weather swimming spot near Glebe. Cook + Phillip Park Pool 2.8km from Glebe 📍 4 College Street, Sydney 💰 Adults $9.20; Concession $6.90; Children 3–16 $6 Need a reliable indoor swim? Cook + Phillip has you covered. Partially tucked underground beside St Mary's Cathedral, the centre has a 50m indoor pool and operates year-round, making it particularly handy when the sun isn't playing ball. For Glebe locals after an indoor swimming pool nearby, it's another practical option within easy reach of the 2037 postcode. Marrinawi Cove 3.5km from Glebe 📍 Barangaroo Point Reserve 💰 Free For something a little more Sydney Harbour spectacular, Marrinawi Cove is the ticket. The netted harbour swimming enclosure at Barangaroo Reserve lets you swim surrounded by sandstone, native gardens and city skyscrapers - and, wonderfully, it won't cost you anything. If you're searching for a free place to swim near Glebe, it's hard to beat the combination of harbour views and a completely free dip. Callan Park Tidal Baths – Coming Soon 3km from Glebe 📍 Balmain Road, Lilyfield NSW 2040 💰 Cost: TBC This could become the closest thing Glebe has to a new local harbour swim. The new tidal baths will sit on Iron Cove at Callan Park, featuring a shark net, jetty, pontoon and accessible pathway. Construction is underway, with completion slated for late this summer. Once open, the baths could add another option for swimming near Glebe, particularly for locals looking for an outdoor harbour swim closer to home. Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool 4km from Glebe 📍 1C Mrs Macquaries Road, Sydney 💰 Adults $8; Concession $6; Children 3–16 $5.20 If you're going to make the trip, you may as well swim somewhere spectacular. This 50m heated saltwater pool sits beside the Royal Botanic Garden with Woolloomooloo Bay and the city skyline as its backdrop. It's seasonal, closing from May to August, so it's particularly well suited to a summer swimming guide - and makes for a pretty spectacular swim when the weather is on your side. North Sydney Olympic Pool 5km from Glebe 📍 4 Alfred Street South, Milsons Point 💰 Adults $11; Children 3–15 $8.80; Concession $8.25 Recently reopened after a five-year, $122 million redevelopment, North Sydney Olympic Pool combines a heated 50m outdoor saltwater pool with a 25m indoor pool, splash areas and wellness facilities. It's the furthest option on our list, but if you're prepared to venture across the harbour, you'll find a subs

Your local guide to what’s on in Randwick, from community events and regular activities to theatre, entertainment and live music nearby. Looking for things to do in Randwick? We’ve rounded up some of the best upcoming events, regular activities and entertainment happening across Randwick and nearby neighbourhoods. From community events and art groups to theatre, festivals and family-friendly activities, there’s plenty to add to your calendar. What's On in Randwick 🦅 Community Birding 📍 Randwick Sustainability Hub 📅 September 12, 8am–10am Discover the incredible birdlife of Randwick Environment Park on a guided community birdwalk. Learn how to identify local species, understand their habitats and contribute to citizen science projects while exploring one of the area’s important natural spaces. Suitable for beginners and experienced bird lovers alike, the morning includes a relaxed walk, shared birding moments and the chance to connect with fellow nature enthusiasts. Don’t forget your camera and binoculars if you have them. Details: events.humanitix.com/community-birding-group-12-09-26 🐻 Toy Swap 📍 Randwick Sustainability Hub 📅 2nd Saturday Monthly, 10am – 12pm Give pre-loved toys and books a second life at this fun, family-friendly community swap. Bring along clean, good-quality items to exchange. Reduce waste and discover new treasures while supporting a more sustainable Randwick. Details: events.humanitix.com/toy-swap-randwick-sustainability-hub 🎨 Next Chapter Art Group 📍 Margaret Martin Library, Randwick 📅 1st Thursday Monthly, 10.30am – 12pm Enjoy inspiring monthly conversations about the creative process over tea or coffee with fellow art lovers. Featuring guest speakers from a range of artistic disciplines, this free library event is open to members. Bookings essential: eventbrite.com.au/e/the-next-chapter-art-group-2026-tickets-1976516595343 📚 The Swoon Club 📍 Margaret Martin Library, Randwick 📅 1st Wednesday Monthly, 6pm – 7pm Calling all romance readers! Join Randwick Library’s monthly romance book club to chat about your favourite tropes, authors and love stories in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Light refreshments are provided, and library membership is free. Details: eventbrite.com.au/e/the-swoon-club-at-randwick-tickets-1990928281083 ♟️ Chess Club for Adults 📍 Lionel Bowen Library, Maroubra 📅 Every Thursday, 1pm – 3pm Sharpen your strategy and enjoy a friendly game at this weekly chess club for adults. Whether you're looking to improve your skills or meet fellow chess enthusiasts, players of all levels are welcome. Chess boards are provided, and bookings are essential. Details: randwick.nsw.gov.au/library/library-events/library-calendar/events/2025/recurring-events/adults/term-1/chess-club-for-adults-2025 🌿 Prince Henry Bushcare 📍 Prince Henry, Little Bay 📅 Second Saturday Monthly, 9am – 12pm Help protect Randwick’s beautiful coastal bushland by joining the Prince Henry Bushcare team. Volunteers work alongside Council’s Bushcare Officers to restore native habitats, remove weeds and care for one of Little Bay’s important bushland areas. No experience is needed — just bring your enthusiasm and enjoy a morning outdoors with the community. Details: randwick.nsw.gov.au/community/whats-on/events/regular/bushcare-events/prince-henry-bushcare Events Near Randwick 🎭 Sydney Fringe Festival 📍 Various Venues 📅 September 1 - 30 Sydney’s biggest independent arts festival returns, bringing a vibrant program of theatre, comedy, music, cabaret, performance and everything in between. Celebrating Sydney’s bold ideas, emerging artists and creative communities, Sydney Fringe Festival transforms neighbourhoods into stages with hundreds of unique events to discover. This year, right around the corner from Randwick, The Entertainment Quarter is hosting a huge schedule of events. Details: sydneyfringe.com 🎭 Next To Godliness 📍 New Theatre, 542 King St 📅 October 6 - 31 Erin and Sophia are crime-scene cleaners working for the people who caused the crimes, and paid handsomely. But when one job turns up a little too “alive”, their carefully controlled system starts to unravel. Alastair Brown’s razor-sharp world premiere shows a darkly comic chain reaction that exposes just how far some people will go to clean up their messes. Details: newtheatre.org.au 🤡 Cirque du Soleil’s KOOZA 📍 The Entertainment Quarter 📅 October 17 - January 3 2027 Roll up, Sydney! The magic of Cirque du Soleil returns with KOOZA - a journey of jaw-dropping acrobatics, colourful characters and edge-of-your-seat entertainment. Follow The Innocent as he enters a mysterious world of daring performers, mischievous characters and breathtaking feats of strength, balance and agility. Details: cirquedusoleil.com/australia/sydney/kooza/buy-tickets

Learn more about BB Designer Jewellers, the family-run Newtown jeweller creating custom jewellery on King Street More on Newtown For more than two decades, BB Designer Jewellers has been a trusted family jeweller in Newtown, creating custom jewellery and helping customers turn life’s biggest milestones into pieces to be treasured for generations. Located on King Street, the boutique jewellery workshop is a place where craftsmanship, personal service and meaningful stories come together. Behind the bench is husband-and-wife team, Naz & Vartan, whose passion for traditional craftsmanship is matched by their love of the local community. Whether repairing treasured family heirlooms or designing one-of-a-kind engagement rings, every piece is created with care, conversation and an understanding that jewellery is never just about precious metals or gemstones - it’s about the stories they carry. For Naz & Vartan, Newtown was a natural home for BB Designer Jewellers from the beginning. “It’s a suburb that celebrates individuality. People here value creativity and authenticity, and that’s exactly what we want our business to reflect. Our clients don’t just come in to buy jewellery - they come in with stories, ideas and memories they want to preserve. Being trusted with those moments is something we never take for granted.” Over the years, that trust has grown across generations. It’s now common for the team at BB Designer Jewellers in Newtown to work with grandparents, parents and children from the same families. “It means a lot when people return to us at different stages of life. It shows that what we create becomes part of their family history.” Custom Jewellery at BB Designer Jewellers Every custom piece begins with a conversation. Clients are involved throughout the process, from early sketches through to selecting stones and refining the final design in the workshop. The advice is simple: trust your instincts, ask questions, and choose what feels authentic rather than what’s trending. “Handcrafted jewellery carries intention. It’s made for one person, not a shelf. Every detail has meaning.” For customers looking for custom jewellery in Newtown, that personal approach is central to the BB Designer Jewellers experience. Understanding Lab-Grown Diamonds One of the most common conversations in-store today is around lab-grown diamonds. The difference lies in their origin. Natural diamonds form deep within the Earth over millions of years, while lab-grown diamonds are created using advanced technology that replicates the same conditions in a controlled environment. Both are graded to the same international standards and are designed to last a lifetime. For many clients, lab-grown diamonds also offer greater flexibility with budget, often allowing for a larger or higher-quality stone. Engagement Rings and Meaningful Jewellery in Newtown Whether it’s an engagement ring, a treasured family piece or a completely new design, the team at BB Designer Jewellers Newtown believes jewellery should feel personal. While techniques and trends evolve, BB Designer Jewellers remains grounded in its approach: quality craftsmanship, dedication to their work and personal service. The minute you walk through the doors, you’re on a first-name basis with Naz & Vartan. There’s no script, no pressure, just conversation, care and time taken to get it right. After more than 20 years in Newtown, BB Designer Jewellers has become part of the fabric of the neighbourhood, shaped as much by its community as it has shaped it in return. And for the team at BB Designer Jewellers, that’s exactly how they like it. BB Designer Jewellers 373 King St, Newtown 02 9557 5030 | bbdesignerjewellers.com.au

Randwick High School is getting a major makeover ahead of the 2027 school year, with new classrooms, specialist learning spaces, accessibility upgrades and more More on Randwick Construction is now underway on a major upgrade that will transform the Randwick High School ahead of the 2027 school year. Delivered by the NSW Government as part of its commitment to strengthening public education, the project is on track for completion by Day 1 of Term 1, 2027. The upgrade will provide students with modern learning spaces designed to support a broad range of academic, creative and vocational opportunities. At the heart of the redevelopment is a new two-storey building featuring contemporary classrooms, a lecture theatre and administration facilities. The school's performance hub will also be revitalised with additional classrooms and dedicated music practice rooms, while a new marine science learning hub will include specialist workshops and teaching spaces. Visual arts facilities and administration areas will also receive a significant refresh. Students and visitors can also expect improved accessibility across the campus, with a new Rainbow Street entrance, additional lifts, stairways, pathways and landscaped outdoor areas. Air conditioning will also be installed in classrooms to create more comfortable learning environments throughout the year. Transition to co-ed learning at Randwick High School The latest works build on the successful first stage of improvements completed in 2024, which prepared the former Randwick Boys' and Randwick Girls' high schools for their transition into a single co-educational campus. Those upgrades included modern science laboratories, new Technology and Applied Sciences and food technology facilities, an indoor fitness hub, running track, refurbished canteen and expanded shaded areas, as well as the removal of the fence that had long divided the two schools. Since becoming co-educational at the beginning of 2025, Randwick High School has expanded its curriculum to include additional languages, vocational education and training pathways, Engineering Studies, Software Engineering, Geography, Dance, Drama, Design and Technology, and Community and Family Studies. Enrolments have also grown, with 1,520 students now attending the school—60 more than the combined enrolments of the former single-sex schools before they merged.

From routine check-ups and children’s dentistry to Invisalign, implants and emergency appointments, Vital Dental brings comprehensive dental care to Royal Randwick Shopping Centre. More on Randwick Vital Dental makes looking after your teeth easy, accessible and convenient for Randwick locals. Let’s be honest: if your teeth aren’t hurting, booking a dental appointment probably isn’t at the top of your to-do list. But that’s exactly why regular check-ups matter. A quick visit can help spot small problems before they turn into painful, expensive ones – and keeping up with your dental health doesn’t have to be complicated. With its handy location in Royal Randwick Shopping Centre, Vital Dental makes a visit to the dentist easy and painless for locals. The practice has been part of the community since 2020, bringing a wide range of dental services together under one roof. Vital Dental Services From simple check-ups and cleans and children’s dentistry to Invisalign, braces, implants, teeth whitening and cosmetic treatments, the team can help with everything from everyday maintenance to more specialised care. The Team at Vital Dental understands patients with dental anxiety and do their very best to make every visit as comfortable and relaxed as possible. Patients can enjoy two hours of free undercover parking, with the option to extend parking to three hours for appointments, plus lift and mobility access. The clinic is open six days a week, with emergency appointments available every day. New to the dentist, overdue for a check-up or simply can’t remember the last time you went? You’re welcome at Vital Dental. Interest-free payment plans are available for most treatments, too. Your teeth don’t need to be causing trouble before you give them attention. A little preventative care now can save a lot of hassle later. Keep an eye out for the Vital Dental ad in this issue for their latest specials and offers. Vital Dental Royal Randwick Shopping Centre, Randwick NSW 02 9665 8744 | www.vitaldental.com.au

A brutal murder, a failed prosecution and a glimpse into Sydney’s hidden gay subculture left one of the city’s most intriguing mysteries unsolved. More on Randwick By Elliot Lindsay On the afternoon of 3 October 1922, visitors strolling through Sydney's Centennial Park made a grisly discovery. Hidden amongst dense ti-tree scrub near the Darley Road gates lay the battered body of Clarence Carrington McLennan, a 30-year-old tuberculosis patient from the Woodville Red Cross Home at 128 Belmore Road, Randwick. His outer clothing had disappeared. His underpants were around his ankles. An almost empty beer bottle lay beside his body, while a pool of blood nearby suggested he had been struck elsewhere before being dragged into the scrub. For the police, it initially appeared to be a straightforward murder investigation. Within days they believed they had identified their suspect. Yet nine months later the prosecution collapsed, the accused walked free, and McLennan's killer vanished into history. More than a century later, his murder remains one of Sydney's forgotten unsolved crimes. McLennan had left the Red Cross Home earlier that morning and met his long-time acquaintance James Robert McKeevers, better known by the feminine nickname "Rosetta." The pair spent much of the day drinking together before encountering Sylvester Patrick O'Reilly, a 26-year-old horse trainer and former First World War soldier. O'Reilly later admitted drinking with the men before claiming he left McLennan alive. According to another witness, McLennan was last seen in Centennial Park between 1.45pm and 2.15pm walking with two men. Clarence McLennan Murder Investigation takes strange turn The investigation soon took an unexpected direction. From the earliest reports, detectives believed McLennan's death bore striking similarities to the 1921 murder of Constable Ernest Wolgast, who had been killed while investigating criminal activity in Centennial Park. Newspapers reported that detectives were conducting large round-ups of men "suspected of immorality" alongside known thieves and park touts who preyed upon vulnerable visitors. The Barrier Miner observed that police believed "the same sordid story of vice" surrounded McLennan's death, revealing that investigators already regarded Centennial Park as a place where homosexual men met discreetly and where criminals sometimes targeted them. This was no idle speculation. Only three years earlier Sydney had been transfixed by the sensational trial surrounding the death of Hugo Tuck, a man living under an assumed name who belonged to the city's secret homosexual subculture. Tuck had invited a 17-year-old youth to his Elizabeth Street flat before suffering fatal head injuries. During that trial detectives uncovered intimate love letters, diaries recording dozens of male visitors, and evidence of a clandestine social world largely invisible to respectable Sydney. The similarities between the two cases were sufficiently striking that O'Reilly was questioned during the Coroner's inquiry about his knowledge of the Tuck case and people associated with it, suggesting investigators themselves considered whether the two murders were somehow connected. At McLennan's inquest, another revealing piece of evidence emerged. Detective-Sergeant Truskett testified that O'Reilly had described both James Robert McKeevers and Clarence McLennan as "queens"—a contemporary derogatory term commonly applied to effeminate homosexual men. This evidence is further supported by the feminine nickname "Rosetta," by which McKeevers was universally known. Historian Garry Wotherspoon, writing on Sydney's post-war camp subculture in Hyde Park, observed that it was common for camp men to adopt or be given feminine names by friends, a practice that can be traced back to the nineteenth century. McKeevers' nickname therefore provides further evidence that he belonged to Sydney's clandestine homosexual community. Whether the same accurately reflected McLennan's private life can never be known with certainty. Nevertheless, the available evidence strongly suggests that police believed they were investigating a murder connected to this hidden social world. The newspapers quickly seized upon this aspect of the case, filling their columns with lurid references to "degenerates," "vice," and Sydney's so-called subterranean underworld, often devoting more attention to McLennan's presumed sexuality than to identifying the person responsible for his murder. Initially, the evidence against O'Reilly appeared persuasive. He had first denied knowing McLennan before later admitting they had spent part of the afternoon drinking together. Fingerprint experts identified one of O'Reilly's fingerprints on the beer bottle found beside the body, and police arrested him only days after the murder. Prosecution case falls apart But as the inquest unfolded, the prosecution's case steadily unravelled. The fingerprint expert conceded that O'Reilly could simply have handled the bottle while the men were drinking earlier in the day. Two additional fingerprints recovered from the bottle remained unidentified. A motor driver named Myers, who knew McLennan by sight and saw him walking with two companions shortly before the murder, failed to identify O'Reilly during an identification parade. McLennan's missing clothing was eventually traced to a pawnshop, but the pawnbroker specifically stated O'Reilly was not the man who had pawned it. Despite these weaknesses, the Coroner committed O'Reilly to stand trial. Yet the trial never occurred. Over the following months, the Crown repeatedly sought adjournments, informing the court that the delays were necessary on unspecified "grave public grounds." O'Reilly spent three months in prison before being released on bail, all the while protesting that he possessed evidence capable of proving his innocence. Finally, in June 1923, after nine months living under the shadow of a capital charge, the Attorney-General quietly abandoned the prosecution. No explanation was publicly offered. Mystery remains Who killed Clarence McLennan remains unknown. Robbery certainly appears to have played some part. His clothing vanished, and someone later pawned it. Yet the circumstances surrounding his death also point towards another possibility. If McLennan had entered the secluded scrub expecting a consensual meeting with another man—as many homosexual men of the era were forced to do because their relationships remained criminalised and hidden—he may have been particularly vulnerable to robbery, blackmail or violence. History records numerous cases in which men exploited such secrecy to prey upon their victims, while others ended in sudden violence fuelled by fear, shame or the ever-present threat of exposure. The surviving evidence is insufficient to determine which explanation is correct. What it does reveal is how quickly the investigation became entangled with contemporary attitudes towards homosexuality. Police and newspapers alike viewed the crime through that lens, yet for all the sensational headlines, the central question was never answered. More than one hundred years later, Clarence Carrington McLennan remains not only the victim of a brutal murder, but also one of Sydney's most overlooked mysteries.

Budget Bites, Pub Specials & Local Food Favourites Eating out can be expensive, especially with the cost of pretty much everything rising at the moment. But finding a great-value meal in Randwick doesn’t have to be difficult. If you’re looking for cheap eats in Randwick that won’t blow the budget, our handy weekly guide has you covered. From pub food specials and affordable lunches to schnitzels, steaks, wings and family-friendly deals, there are plenty of ways to eat out for less. Here’s where to find some of the best cheap food and weekly food specials in Randwick. Monday 🐶 The DOG; All Day Pub Classics ($32): Grab any of The DOG’s signature classics & a drink. 👑 Royal Hotel Randwick; Chicken Schnitzel ($20): Choose between the Loaded Schnitzel, with melted cheese, fried egg and onion rings, or the Fiery Hawaiian, with pineapple, bacon, cheese, chilli sauce and avo. From 5pm. 🐎 Coach & Horses Hotel; Steak Night ($18): Grain-fed rump steak served with chips & salad. 🇮🇪 Shea’s Clovelly; Chicken Stack ($22): W/ bacon, crisp onions, champ & pepper sauce. Tuesday 🐶 The DOG; All Day Pub Classics ($32): Grab any of The DOG’s signature classics & a drink. 👑 Royal Hotel Randwick; Lamb Shank ($23): Red wine-braised lamb shank served with mash, peas, bacon, caramelised onions and red wine jus. 🐎 Coach & Horses Hotel; Chicken Schnitzel ($18): Served with chips and salad from 5:30pm. 🇮🇪 Shea’s Clovelly; Irish Night ($20): Choose between a 4 in 1 or Spice Bag. Wednesday 🐶 The DOG; All Day Pub Classics ($32): Grab any of The DOG’s signature classics & a drink. 👑 Royal Hotel Randwick; Sirloin Steak ($29): 200g sirloin served with French fries, onion rings, house slaw and gravy. Available 5–9:30pm. 🍗 Wingboy Randwick; Wingsday ($35): Enjoy 90 minutes of Wingboy’s legendary bottomless wings and fries. From 4pm. Thursday 👑 Royal Hotel Randwick; Baby Back Ribs ($25): BBQ pork ribs served with house slaw & chips. From 5:30pm. 🐎 Coach & Horses Hotel; Curry Night ($20): McDonnell’s chicken curry (add a schooner for only $5, Thursday is practically Friday anyway). 🍽️ The Avenue; Kids Eat Free Night: One free kids’ meal with every adult main. Friday 🍽️ The Avenue; Lunch Specials (Members Prices $16–$20): Choose from pub favourites including tacos, burgers, schnitzels, chicken parmigiana, rump steak, roast chicken, salads, fish and more. Available 12–3pm. 🇮🇪 Shea’s Clovelly; Catch of the Day ($26): Tempura-battered fish served with fries, peas and tartar sauce. Saturday 🍗 Wingboy Randwick; Weekend Wings ($27): Tuck into unlimited wings and fries for 60 minutes. Bookings recommended. From 5pm. Sunday 👑 Royal Hotel Randwick; Sunday Roast ($29): Roast of the Day, available all day. 🍗 Wingboy Randwick; Weekend Wings ($27): Tuck into unlimited wings and fries for 60 minutes. Bookings recommended. Where to Find Cheap Eats in Randwick Whether you’re after a cheap pub meal in Randwick, a midweek dinner special, an affordable lunch or a family-friendly food deal, there are plenty of options to choose from throughout the week. Randwick Cheap Eats: The Venues 🐎 Coach & Horses Hotel 147 Avoca St, Randwick NSW 2031 📞 (02) 9399 3005 🌐 Website: coachandhorseshotel.com.au/ 👑 Royal Hotel Randwick 2 Perouse Rd, Randwick NSW 2031 📞 (02) 9399 3006 🌐 Website: royalhotelrandwick.com.au/ 🇮🇪 Shea’s Clovelly 211 & 213 Clovelly Rd, Clovelly NSW 2031 📞 0414 428 339 🌐 Website: www.sheas.com.au 🍽️ The Avenue Randwick 2 The Avenue, Randwick NSW 2031 📞 (02) 9399 4144 🌐 Website: heavenuerandwick.com.au/ 🐶 The DOG 2 St Marks Rd, Randwick NSW 2031 📞 (02) 9114 7311 🌐 Website: merivale.com/venues/the-dog/ 🍗 Wingboy Randwick The Spot, 51 Perouse Rd, Randwick NSW 2031 📞 (02) 9184 0871📧 randwick@wingboy.com.au 🌐 Website: wingboy.com.au Keep this guide handy and check back regularly for the latest Randwick food specials and cheap eats.

From comedy and theatre to cabaret, music, dance and experimental performances, discover what’s happening across Sydney at the Sydney Fringe Festival 2026. Sydney is about to get a whole lot more creative, with the Sydney Fringe Festival 2026 bringing an enormous program of theatre, comedy, music, dance, cabaret, circus, immersive experiences and experimental work to venues across the city. But with so much happening, deciding what to see can feel like a show in itself. From First Nations performances and family-friendly events to late-night cabaret and boundary-pushing experimental work, here are some of the highlights to have on your radar. Discover Sydney’s Fringe Hubs One of the easiest ways to navigate the festival is by exploring its dedicated Fringe Hubs. Rather than heading to just one venue, these hubs bring multiple artists and performances together in particular Sydney precincts, making it possible to turn a single show into a full night of entertainment. There’s the Multicultural Comedy Hub, the Queer Hub, the Emerging Artist Share House, the Off Broadway Hub, Fringe on The Rocks and more, each offering a different slice of the festival program. Fool’s Paradise at The Entertainment Quarter One of the festival’s major hubs, Fool’s Paradise, brings a packed program of comedy, circus, cabaret and live entertainment to The Entertainment Quarter in Moore Park. It’s a great option if you want to experience several Fringe shows in one lively precinct, with performances running throughout the festival. Yalgali Puts First Nations Stories Centre Stage One of the major festival-wide programs for 2026 is Yalgali, which places First Nations artists and connection to Country at the centre of Sydney Fringe. Rather than being confined to one venue, Yalgali unfolds across multiple spaces and includes events spanning music, comedy, dance, film, performance and community gatherings. The program includes events such as the Yalgali X Eora Open Mic Night, RITUALS, Yalgali Film Night IMAGINE and Sitting Ganaay. Sydney Fringe isn't just for adults. Fringe Kids brings family-friendly performances to the program, with shows designed specifically for younger audiences and their grown-ups. This year's program includes productions such as The Giant Balloon Show, alongside other family-focused performances throughout the festival. Find Something Completely Unexpected If predictable theatre isn't quite your thing, this is where Sydney Fringe really comes into its own. The 2026 program includes experimental and immersive works alongside more traditional performances, including The Lab@UNSW, which provides a space for experimentation, innovation and artistic risk-taking. There are also productions that don't fit neatly into one category, making Fringe a particularly good excuse to take a chance on something you've never seen before. You might stumble across a strange new comedy, an immersive performance, an experimental dance piece or a show you've never heard of - which, really, is half the fun. Comedy, Cabaret and Music Are Everywhere If you're looking for a night out rather than a traditional theatre experience, there are plenty of options. The 2026 program covers everything from stand-up and musical comedy to cabaret, drag and live music. Copa on the Rocks, for example, combines cabaret and a lounge setting, while the program also features everything from musical theatre to experimental music performances. And with performances taking place across different parts of Sydney, you can build your Fringe night around your favourite neighbourhood. Your Fringe, Your Way Perhaps the best thing about Sydney Fringe is that there isn't one correct way to experience it. You can choose a single show you've been dying to see, spend an entire evening exploring a Fringe Hub, take the kids to a family performance, discover First Nations artists through Yalgali or simply browse the program until something completely unexpected catches your eye. With the official program searchable by artist, event, date, price and genre, it's easy to find something that suits your interests - even if you have absolutely no idea what you're looking for when you start. Sydney Fringe Festival 2026 is the perfect excuse to try something new. Check out the full program and start planning your Fringe adventure HERE.

For more than 60 years, Randwick Meals on Wheels has delivered nutritious food, companionship and independence across Sydney’s eastern suburbs More on Randwick For more than six decades, Randwick Meals on Wheels has been quietly making a difference across Sydney's eastern suburbs, delivering far more than nutritious meals. Every weekday, the not-for-profit organisation provides a vital service that helps older people remain healthy, independent and connected to their community. Randwick Meals on Wheels supports residents throughout Randwick, Waverley and parts of Bayside, and while a freshly prepared meal is at the heart of its service, the organisation's impact extends well beyond the dinner table. Each delivery also brings a friendly face, a brief wellbeing check and an opportunity for conversation—something that can make a world of difference for people living alone. Increasing importance of Meals On Wheels As Australia's population ages, services like Meals on Wheels have become increasingly important. Many older residents wish to remain in their own homes for as long as possible, and having access to nutritious food and regular social contact can help make that possible. For many clients, the daily knock at the door offers reassurance that someone cares and is looking out for their wellbeing. The organisation provides a wide range of dietitian-approved meals that meet Australian nutritional standards and the requirements of the new Aged Care Act. Clients can choose from traditional roasts, pasta dishes, seafood, vegetarian options, Asian-inspired meals and desserts, with texture-modified meals, including minced and moist or pureed options, available for those with specialised dietary needs. Frozen meals are also supplied for weekends and public holidays, ensuring clients have access to nourishing food every day of the week. Supplementary Meals On Wheels Services Randwick Meals on Wheels also offers a shopping service for those who have difficulty getting to the shops. The service is flexible and can be tailored to individual needs, whether that’s weekly, ongoing support, or occasional/as-needed assistance. The cost is just $5 per shop. Randwick is the only Meals on Wheels currently offering this list shopping service. Meals On Wheels Eligibility Eligibility is straightforward. Older Australians aged 65 years and over—or 50 years and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people—can access the service through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme via My Aged Care. Those receiving Support at Home funding can also choose Randwick Meals on Wheels as their meal provider. Behind the scenes, an army of dedicated volunteers helps keep the organisation running. From meal preparation and packing to driving delivery routes, these volunteers contribute countless hours each week, helping create a service built on compassion and community spirit. Their visits often become an important part of a client's routine, reducing social isolation while providing peace of mind for family members. Like many community organisations, Randwick Meals on Wheels also relies on donations and bequests to continue providing affordable, high-quality meals while maintaining its personalised service. Every contribution helps ensure that older residents can continue living safely and independently in the homes and neighbourhoods they know and love. In an age where many services are becoming increasingly digital and impersonal, Randwick Meals on Wheels is a reminder that sometimes the simplest acts of kindness—a nutritious meal, a friendly conversation and a familiar smile at the front door—can have the greatest impact. www.randwickmealsonwheels.com.au

Coogee, Clovelly, Maroubra, Randwick & other eastern suburbs beaches will remain meter-free after council rejected controversial parking plan More on Randwick In early 2026, Randwick City Council proposed introducing paid parking for visitors at its major beach precincts, arguing the move would improve parking availability for locals while helping fund the growing cost of maintaining the municipality's popular coastline. The proposal quickly became one of the most debated local government issues in Sydney's eastern suburbs. The original plan proposed installing parking meters at beachside areas including Coogee, Clovelly, Maroubra, Malabar, Little Bay, La Perouse and Yarra Bay. Residents would not pay for parking, with each household initially offered one free permit. Visitors, however, would pay seasonal parking fees. There were three main objectives to the plan: Improve parking turnover during busy summer periods. Give local residents better access to beach parking. Generate revenue to help cover approximately $23 million annually spent on beach maintenance, lifeguards, cleaning, coastal infrastructure and public amenities, with visitors contributing to costs traditionally borne by local ratepayers. It would be a similar system to what already operates at neighbouring coastal councils such as Waverley and Northern Beaches. The public response to the proposal was immediate and passionate, and initially seemed balanced in for/against sentiments. Some of the main pro arguments were: Local ratepayers should not shoulder the full cost of maintaining beaches used by millions of visitors each year. Paid parking would encourage higher turnover of spaces, making it easier for residents to park. A modest visitor charge was fair given the extensive services provided. Some of the main con arguments included: Parking fees would make beaches less accessible, particularly for families and lower-income visitors. Local businesses feared customers would choose other destinations rather than pay for parking. Residents worried paid parking would gradually expand beyond the initial areas ("meter creep"). Many believed better enforcement of existing time limits could solve congestion without introducing parking meters. Community engagement attracted more than 12,000 responses, making it one of the largest consultations undertaken by the council. Council's survey found a slight majority of respondents supported the proposal, while a representative telephone survey recorded stronger support among residents. However, formal submissions and petitions were overwhelmingly opposed, highlighting a significant divide between different consultation methods. In response to the impassioned feedback, Council substantially modified the original plan. Changes included: Increasing resident permits from one per household to unlimited permits; Reducing the number of proposed metered parking spaces and limiting them to beachside areas; Introducing a staged rollout rather than implementing the scheme all at once. A council meeting held on June 30, 2026 was attended by a large contingent of local residents and community groups. Presumedly reading the room, councillors voted to reject the proposal, resolving that no parking meters will be introduced at Randwick's beaches and no further action will be taken on the proposal. For now, beach parking at Randwick's coastal precincts will remain free, although council has indicated it will continue exploring other ways to manage congestion and fund the maintenance of its popular beaches.

From shark nets and SMART drumlines to drones and SharkSmart alerts, here’s how Sydney is managing the risk More on Randwick A spate of recent shark bites and sightings has left many beachgoers a little wary of the water. Yet, sharks have always been a known element in Sydney’s coastal playgrounds and, statistically speaking, shark attacks are still considered very rare. A lot is also being done to help mitigate the possibility of an encounter with this apex predator. Sydney's coastline supports a healthy population of sharks, with the species most commonly encountered including bronze whalers, bull sharks, wobbegongs, grey nurse sharks and tiger sharks. Great white sharks are also regularly recorded offshore, particularly during seasonal migrations. Shark activity typically increases from late spring to autumn (November to April), after periods of heavy rain when runoff attracts baitfish, during the annual whale migration (May to July and September to November), and at dawn and dusk when many shark species are most active. Areas that experience more frequent shark sightings include Bondi, Maroubra, Coogee, Cronulla, Manly and the Northern Beaches, Botany Bay, and the entrances to Sydney Harbour around North Head and South Head. These locations coincide with migration routes used by white sharks and habitats favoured by bull sharks. Bull sharks are increasingly associated with incidents in Sydney Harbour and estuaries, particularly during warmer months, while great white sharks remain the species most commonly linked to attacks along the open coastline. Sydney went almost 60 years without a fatal shark attack before the 2022 Little Bay tragedy, and despite several high-profile incidents since then, the vast majority of Sydney beaches have never experienced a fatal shark attack. Shark prevention measures Shark nets Sydney introduced shark nets in 1937, making the program one of the world's oldest shark mitigation initiatives. Today, 51 beaches between Newcastle and Wollongong are meshed seasonally from 1 September to 31 March. The nets are designed to reduce the likelihood of shark encounters rather than form an impenetrable barrier. While they target white, bull and tiger sharks, they also capture non-target species including dolphins, turtles, rays and harmless sharks, leading to ongoing debate about their environmental impact. SMART drumlines Since 2015, NSW has progressively expanded the use of SMART (Shark-Management-Alert-In-Real-Time) drumlines as a more targeted approach. Unlike traditional drumlines, SMART drumlines temporarily capture sharks alive, immediately alert contractors, allow sharks to be tagged and released about one kilometre offshore, and provide researchers with valuable data on shark movements. Tagged sharks can later trigger public warnings if detected near beaches. More than 300 SMART drumlines now operate along the NSW coast, including beaches in Waverley, Randwick, the Northern Beaches, Sutherland Shire, Bondi, Maroubra and Cronulla. Drone surveillance Drone patrols have become one of NSW's primary shark mitigation tools. Surf Life Saving NSW drones patrol popular beaches, identify sharks from the air, track their movements, warn swimmers using loudspeakers, and assist with rescues and other coastal hazards. Following several recent shark incidents, the NSW Government significantly expanded the program in 2026, introducing year-round monitoring at around 70 beaches, including Sydney's major ocean beaches. Artificial intelligence is also being trialled to improve shark detection, with drone footage monitored in real time and integrated into SharkSmart alerts. Acoustic listening stations Many sharks caught on SMART drumlines are fitted with acoustic transmitters. Listening stations installed along the coastline, including at beaches in the Northern Beaches, Waverley and Randwick, detect tagged sharks when they swim within range. These detections alert authorities, contribute to SharkSmart notifications and provide scientists with valuable information about shark movements. SharkSmart app The NSW Government's SharkSmart app provides real-time shark sightings, tagged shark detections, drone observations, beach closures, safety advice and information about shark mitigation equipment. It has become an important tool for swimmers, surfers, fishers and other ocean users. Current approach NSW's shark management strategy now focuses on reducing risk while minimising impacts on marine wildlife. Rather than relying solely on shark nets, the state uses a layered approach combining seasonal shark nets, SMART drumlines, drone surveillance, acoustic listening stations, shark tagging, scientific research, community education through the SharkSmart program and real-time digital alerts. The NSW Government describes the Shark Management Program as the world's largest integrated shark mitigation program, and it continues to evolve as new technologies become available. Marine scientists generally agree that while no single method can eliminate shark risk entirely, combining multiple technologies provides earlier detection, more effective public warnings and better protection for both beachgoers and marine wildlife.

From Aboriginal heritage and market gardens to Royal Randwick, Coogee’s shark murder and the origins of The Spot More on Randwick Every suburb has a story (and Randwick has plenty). From ancient Aboriginal connections and colonial estates to world-famous racecourses, giant seaside attractions and even being the literal birthplace of Australia, did you know that? The 2031 postcode has seen more than its fair share of fascinating moments. Coogee Aquarium Welcome to Did You Know, a new recurring series uncovering Randwick’s most fascinating facts, forgotten stories, curious characters and hidden local knowledge that have shaped the Randwick we know and love today. 1. Ancient Beginnings Long before Randwick was home to cafés, coastal walks and apartment buildings, this land was cared for by the Bidjigal and Gadigal peoples of the Eora Nation. The coastline, waterways and bushland provided places for gathering, fishing, ceremony and connection to Country for thousands of years. This deep Aboriginal history remains an important part of Randwick’s story today. 2. The Name Randwick Ever wondered where Randwick got its name? English settler Simeon Henry Pearce named the suburb after his birthplace — Randwick, a village in Gloucestershire, England. After arriving in Sydney in 1842, Pearce purchased land in the area and named his estate after the place he had left behind. The name stuck, and a small rural settlement became the Randwick we know today. 3. A Council Is Born Randwick officially became a municipality on 22 February 1859, making it one of the oldest local government areas in New South Wales. At the time, the area looked very different — think farms, market gardens and country estates rather than busy streets and beachside cafés. The new council helped guide Randwick’s transformation from rural outskirts into a thriving Sydney suburb. 4. Randwick’s First Mayor When Randwick Municipality was established in 1859, Simeon Henry Pearce became the suburb’s first mayor. A businessman, landowner and early community leader, Pearce played a major role in advocating for roads, infrastructure and development - helping shape the foundations of modern Randwick. 5. Sydney’s Hidden Water Supply Today, Centennial Park is where Sydneysiders go for picnics, walks and weekend bike rides, but almost 200 years ago, it played a much more practical role - supplying Sydney’s drinking water. The area’s Lachlan Swamps provided fresh water for the growing colony, with engineer John Busby creating Busby’s Bore in the 1830s. The underground tunnel carried water into Sydney, and parts of it still exist today. 6. Garden District Before Randwick became one of Sydney’s most desirable suburbs, much of the area was covered in market gardens. Local growers produced fruit and vegetables that helped feed Sydney’s growing population throughout the 1800s. The suburb’s journey from farmland to fashionable neighbourhood was a significant transformation. 7. The Road To La Perouse Before traffic jams and light rail, Randwick was part of an important route connecting Sydney to La Perouse and Botany Bay. A main road through the area helped open up Sydney’s southern coastline and made Randwick an important link between the city and the wider region. 8. Racing Royalty Randwick and racing have been inseparable for almost 200 years. Horse racing began in the area in the 1830s, with Royal Randwick Racecourse officially opening in 1860. The racecourse attracted trainers, jockeys and racing families, helping shape the suburb’s identity - and making the name “Randwick” famous around the country. 9. Blenheim House Hidden within modern Randwick is a reminder of its colonial past. Built in the 1840s, Blenheim House is one of the suburb’s oldest surviving homes. Originally built for Simeon Henry Pearce’s family, the sandstone residence offers a glimpse into a time when Randwick was filled with grand estates, gardens and open land. 10. Coogee’s Aquarium A popular tourist attraction and key to solving a murder. In the late 1800s, the Coogee Aquarium and Swimming Baths was one of Sydney’s most popular seaside attractions, featuring marine animals including sharks and seals. It also played a major role in the infamous “shark arm murder” case. 11. Federation History Randwick played a small but significant role in one of Australia’s biggest moments. On 1 January 1901, more than 60,000 people gathered at Centennial Park for the proclamation of the Commonwealth of Australia — officially marking the federation of the country. 12. The Spot’s Story Today, The Spot is known for restaurants, cafés and community life — but its name has a much simpler beginning. The area is believed to have been named after The Spot Cash Store, a local general store that operated there in the early 1900s. Over time, locals started using “The Spot” to describe the neighbourhood, and the name stayed. More To Discover This is just the beginning of our journey through Randwick’s past. From forgotten landmarks and unusual characters to local legends and hidden gems, there are countless stories waiting to be uncovered. Next issue, Local Knowledge continues with Did You Know: Randwick Curiosities — exploring the strange, surprising and little-known facts that make our neighbourhood so unique.