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El Jannah Brings Charcoal Chicken to Brookvale

El Jannah, known for its mouth-watering charcoal chicken, is about to make its northern beaches debut.

This June, the beloved brand will open its first outlet in Brookvale at Warringah Mall, bringing its signature Lebanese-Australian flavours to a whole new audience. With its cult following already established across Sydney and beyond, El Jannah’s arrival is set to add some serious spice to the local dining scene.

A Legacy of Charcoal and Flame

In 1997, Andre Estephan opened the first El Jannah in Granville. He had a simple vision: serve up perfectly cooked chicken over open wood fires.

What started as a small venture quickly became a local institution. The combination of smoky, tender chicken and their famous garlic sauce has made El Jannah a favourite, not just in Sydney, but across NSW, ACT, and Victoria.

El Jannah Charcoal Chicken — Photo Credit: *El Jannah/Facebook*

Now, the northern beaches is ready to experience what so many others have loved for years. With the new Brookvale location, El Jannah will continue to grow, sharing its signature flavours.

The Menu: A Taste of Tradition with a Twist

El Jannah’s menu brings together the best of Lebanese tradition and modern food trends. The charcoal chicken, of course, is the star of the show. But the menu offers so much more than that.

From crispy falafel rolls and hearty burgers to chips, there’s something for everyone. The shawarma meal, with shawarma beef, fresh vegetables, pickles, and soft Lebanese bread, offers a satisfying taste of the Middle East.

Recently, El Jannah has also launched a breakfast menu, adding a unique Middle Eastern twist to breakfast classics. The kaki sandwich, made with traditional Lebanese sesame bread, has already become a hit with regulars.

A Fresh Addition to Brookvale’s Dining Scene

With fast food chains like KFC and Oporto already part of the scene, El Jannah will offer something unique to the area.

The outlet is taking over a spot near Supercheap Auto, Fitness First, and Bunnings. Whether you’re dropping in for a quick bite between errands or gathering with friends for a big meal, El Jannah will become a go-to for anyone craving delicious food.

As the opening approaches, El Jannah is on the lookout for local staff. Whether you’re looking for full-time, part-time, or casual work, there’s an opportunity to be part of this growing brand.

El Jannah: More Than Just a Meal

El Jannah is more than just a place to grab a bite. It’s a place where food becomes a way to connect with family and friends. Whether you’re a fan for years or are just discovering it, there’s a warmth to the experience that goes beyond the food.

So if you’re in the area this June, be sure to check it out. With its signature flavours and welcoming atmosphere, it is ready to make its mark on the northern beaches.

Published 14-Feb-2025

Brookvale Oval Security Boost Planned After International Vehicle Attacks

Brookvale Oval, the beloved home of the Sea Eagles, is set to undergo a security review in light of recent tragic vehicle-ramming attacks in the United States and Europe.

Read: Allambie Heights School Construction Causes Environmental Damage, Threatens Prehistoric Fish

The Northern Beaches Council has confirmed it is collaborating with local police to assess and enhance safety measures at “crowded places” like Brookvale Oval, prioritising the protection of pedestrians from potential copycat incidents. This proactive step aims to reassure residents and attendees that their safety is paramount.

The review will focus on mitigating the risk of vehicle-borne attacks, a growing concern globally. While details of specific security enhancements are yet to be released, the council has emphasised its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone visiting the oval.

Beyond Brookvale Oval

The security review isn’t limited to Brookvale Oval. The council has also indicated that other public events, such as the Australia Day breakfast BBQ at Newport Beach and the popular Sun Run from Dee Why to Manly were also subject to similar assessments.

The move to bolster security comes after independent councillor Vincent De Luca requested information from the council regarding his concerns about the increased risk of copycat terrorism. His enquiries highlighted the community’s anxieties and ultimately prompted Council to take decisive action.

Read: McTavish Surfboards Reconnects with Brookvale Surfing Roots

Council’s proactive approach to security at Brookvale Oval and other public events aims to not only enhance safety but also to reassure residents. By openly addressing these concerns and implementing preventative measures, Council hopes to maintain the vibrant community spirit that makes Brookvale such a special place.

Published 31-January-2025

Allambie Heights School Construction Causes Environmental Damage, Threatens Prehistoric Fish

Photo Credit: SaveManlyDamBushland/Facebook

A construction contractor in Allambie Heights has been fined $30,000 for causing environmental damage from sediment-laden runoff at The Forest High School site. The runoff polluted a creek home to a critically endangered fish species.

The Incident and Its Impact

The New South Wales Environment Protection Authority (EPA) found that ADCO Constructions failed to implement adequate sediment controls during heavy earthworks early in 2024. As a result, polluted water escaped into Curl Curl Creek, an ecologically sensitive waterway linked to Manly Dam.

Curl Curl Creek is the habitat of the Climbing Galaxias, a prehistoric freshwater fish species that has existed for over 60 million years. The pollution raised serious concerns about the survival of this critically endangered species, which relies on clean and stable ecosystems to thrive.

Community Reports Spark Investigation

The issue came to light after heavy rain in February 2024, when local environmentalists noticed brown, silt-laden water in Curl Curl Creek. Concerned residents reported their findings to the EPA, which conducted inspections with support from Northern Beaches Council. The investigation confirmed that sediment from the Allambie Heights construction site had reached the creek via stormwater drains.

Authorities also discovered that ADCO Constructions had been warned about similar run-off issues earlier in January but failed to take sufficient corrective action.

EPA’s Response

An EPA spokesperson stated that protecting sensitive ecosystems like Curl Curl Creek is a top priority and that compliance with environmental regulations is non-negotiable. The EPA noted that adequate pollution controls were not in place at the time of the incident, which was described as unacceptable.

The EPA has committed to monitoring the construction site on an ongoing basis to ensure compliance and prevent further damage to the local environment. The organisation has also urged residents to report any potential pollution incidents to its Environment Line.

Forest High School construction in Allambie Heights brings environmental damage — *Photo Credit: Save ManlyDamBushland/Facebook*

Community Concerns and Future Measures

Local environmental advocates expressed relief that the issue was being addressed but emphasised the need for stricter oversight. The Northern Beaches Council stated that it will continue to work with the EPA to enforce environmental standards at the site. The construction of The Forest High School, part of a relocation project, will remain scrutinized to ensure it does not further endanger the region’s unique biodiversity.

The EPA reminded all contractors working in ecologically sensitive areas of their legal responsibility to prevent environmental damage and protect local habitats.

Published 26-Nov-2024

McTavish Surfboards Reconnects with Brookvale Surfing Roots

Australian surfboard legend Bob McTavish has returned to Brookvale, opening a new surf shop at 182 Harbord Road, more than 50 years after shaping boards there during the rise of the Australian surfing scene.

A Historic Return to Brookvale

McTavish, 80, one of Australia’s pioneering surfboard shapers, has come full circle by opening a new McTavish Surfboards store in Brookvale, the heart of surfboard manufacturing in the 1960s.

The location is next to Bennetts Surfboards, where McTavish first honed his craft. Upon returning, McTavish said, “I am stoked because we are back where it all started! Right next to Barry Bennett’s, the founder of foam and glass in Australia.”

The new store blends surfboard sales, apparel, and a community space for surfers and locals to gather. The shop offers handcrafted boards designed at their Byron Bay factory and sustainable apparel and equipment.

The space also features a café, surfboard repair workshops, and surf film screenings to unite the local surf community.

Building a Community Hub

The McTavish team personally built the store’s interior, aiming to create a welcoming spot for both local surfers and visitors.

Ben McTavish, Bob’s son and head shaper, expressed how meaningful it is to reopen in Brookvale, saying, “It was like it’s meant to be, on Harbord Road, next to absolute legends of the industry, Bennetts! For Dad, it’s like sliding into your favourite old leather boots.”

McTavish Surfboards — *Photo Credit: McTavish.com.au*

The shop’s layout is designed to host events such as film nights, BBQs, and ‘Demo Days,’ fostering a sense of community. According to McTavish’s CEO, Cam Deague, the new Brookvale store tells the story of their surfboards and the craftsmanship behind them

“We think of our boards as forever boards, that stand the test of time, you fall in love with, and get you out there every day,” Mr Deague said.

Continuing a Legacy

Bob has been shaping surfboards for more than half a century and was instrumental in developing the modern surfboard in Australia. He and other pioneers, known as the Brookvale Six, transformed the industry in the 1960s by shifting from hollow wooden boards to fibreglass designs.

“In the sixties, the ‘Brookvale Six’ emerged from hollow wood surfboards into the new fibreglass, and rapid modifications of shapes and construction led to the current brilliant designs that make surfing so much fun!” Bob shared.

Today, McTavish Surfboards is still focused on these design fundamentals, offering boards that connect to the rich history of the Northern Beaches, while embracing modern craftsmanship. The store’s new offerings reflect their commitment to quality, sustainability, and keeping the spirit of surfing alive.

A Space for Surf Enthusiasts

In addition to surfboards, the new store showcases a collection of everyday apparel made with sustainable materials like hemp and merino wool.

“The new Brookvale store allows us to show Sydney the full depth and heritage of the brand that you can only experience in Byron,” Arran Russell, McTavish’s apparel designer, said.

Whether you’re a regular in the water or someone who loves the surfing lifestyle, the McTavish Brookvale store offers a welcoming space to enjoy coffee, talk surfing, and be part of a community built around the ocean. McTavish Surfboards is open seven days a week and remains a gathering point for surfers old and new.

Published 25-Oct-2024

Irish Tradies Halt Work After Snake Discovery at Manly Dam

Work at a construction site near Manly Dam was interrupted on Tuesday morning, October 1, when a group of Irish tradies encountered a red-bellied black snake.

The 1.2-metre reptile was spotted sunning itself on the worksite, causing concern among the Irish labourers. Construction manager Matt Goodwin reported that the overseas workers were particularly affected by the snake’s presence.

Chris Williams, a professional snake catcher called to the scene, described the snake as relaxed despite being in a high-traffic area in Manly Dam. Williams successfully captured and relocated the snake to nearby bushland.

RARE Environmental, the company overseeing the project, confirmed they have staff trained by wildlife rescue group WIRES to minimise risks to animals during construction activities.

Police Investigate Possible Firebug After Series of Bushfires in Allambie Heights

Police and fire authorities are investigating a suspected firebug after several bushfires erupted within minutes of each other in the dense bushland near retirement villages in Allambie Heights, raising alarms across Sydney’s northern beaches.

Read: New Streetside EV Chargers in Northern Beaches, Including Allambie Heights, Meet Surging Demand

The first reports came in Monday afternoon, 9 September, when several blazes were detected at the northwestern end of Manly Dam Reserve in Allambie Heights, a critical area known for its natural beauty and proximity to essential infrastructure, including a large Sydney Water pipeline that serves the northern beaches.

The fires sparked fears as they emerged close to residential areas housing vulnerable populations in three nearby retirement communities—William Charlton Retirement Village, Allambie Heights Village, and Fred Huntly Village.

Emergency Services Response

Fire and Rescue NSW, along with Rural Fire Service brigades, responded swiftly with units from Forestville, Dee Why, Beacon Hill, Davidson, Belrose, and Terrey Hills. Despite the rapid spread of the flames, thanks to the dense undergrowth, firefighters managed to contain the fires by late afternoon. They navigated challenging terrain and limited access to water near the pipeline, requiring strategic and strenuous firefighting efforts.

Amidst the firefighting operation, local police intensified their presence, scrutinising everyone using the popular walking and biking trails near the pipeline for any unusual activities. About eight officers from the Northern Beaches command were detailed to intercept and question recreationists, a move underlining the serious concerns about a potential arsonist at large. This policing effort reflects the heightened worry among authorities and the community about a firebug causing mayhem and endangering lives and property.

FILE PHOTO
Photo Credit: Fire and Rescue NSW

Ongoing Investigations and Safety Measures

The area was closely monitored overnight by the Beacon Hill Rural Fire Brigade, and further assessments are planned to ensure any potential reignition can be swiftly managed. Fire investigators from NSW RFS and detectives from NSW Police are collaborating on a thorough investigation, treating the fires as suspicious and focusing on the hypothesis of deliberate lighting. Community leaders and local safety officials urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior immediately to prevent further incidents.

Read: Allambie Heights Public School Affected by Asbestos Contamination

Authorities are committed to maintaining safety and are taking every precaution to safeguard against future threats. They emphasise that community cooperation is crucial as they work to determine the origins of these alarming fires.

Published 12-Sept-2024

Swiss Deli Cafe Expands with Second Location in Brookvale

Swiss Deli Cafe, a longstanding culinary fixture in Brookvale, has expanded its presence with the opening of a second location, offering patrons a new dining experience beyond its original Warringah Mall spot.

Read: New Streetside EV Chargers in Northern Beaches, Including Allambie Heights, Meet Surging Demand

The new Swiss Deli Cafe, nestled between commercial buildings behind the mall on Old Pittwater Road, represents owner David’s latest venture after over 15 years as a tenant in Warringah Mall. This expansion marks a significant milestone for the beloved local eatery, serving the Northern Beaches community since 2005.

A Commitment to Quality

Open Monday to Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., the new cafe boasts a bright and spacious interior, providing a refreshing alternative to its bustling mall counterpart. Patrons can now enjoy a $5 beer or wine while soaking in the northern sun, offering a relaxed dining experience overlooking Old Pittwater Road.

Photo Credit: Supplied

The second location continues to uphold Swiss Deli Cafe’s reputation for quality. It features their award-winning Danes Coffee and a mouth-watering food selection. The menu includes a variety of freshly made sandwiches, wraps, salads, and pastries, catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs.

Photo Credit: Swiss Deli Cafe/Facebook

Menu Highlights

Among the most popular items on the menu is the signature Reubun Sandwich, which has become a customer favourite. The cafe also offers a variety of freshly made sandwiches, wraps, and salads, catering to different tastes and dietary requirements. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available, ensuring that all patrons can find something to enjoy.

Photo Credit: Swiss Deli Cafe/Facebook

Coffee enthusiasts flock to Swiss Deli Cafe for its award-winning Danes Coffee, which has received praise for its consistently high quality. The cafe’s pastry selection, including cookies, muffins, and cakes, perfectly accompanies a morning coffee or afternoon tea.

In addition to its dine-in and takeaway options, the new Swiss Deli Cafe offers catering services and meeting reservations. This expansion of services caters to the local business community, providing a convenient option for corporate gatherings and events.

Photo Credit: Supplied

Community Connection

Swiss Deli Cafe’s longevity can be attributed not only to its quality food but also to its strong community ties. The friendly, accommodating staff has created a welcoming atmosphere that keeps customers returning. The cafe’s convenient location in Warringah Mall, on the ground floor just outside Woolworths, makes it easily accessible to shoppers and local workers.

Read: Westfield Warringah Mall in Brookvale Plans Downsizing David Jones, Adding New Tenants

As Swiss Deli Cafe approaches its 20th anniversary, it continues to evolve while staying true to its core principles. The cafe’s ability to adapt to changing customer preferences while maintaining its focus on quality and service has been key to its enduring success.

Published 20-Aug-2024

Brookvale Cafe Ditches Delivery Giants, Launches Own Service to Cut Costs for Customers

Photo Credit: Cactus Cafe

Cactus Cafe, located in the industrial heartland of Brookvale, is making waves by moving away from food delivery giants like DoorDash and Uber Eats.

Read: New Streetside EV Chargers in Northern Beaches, Including Allambie Heights, Meet Surging Demand

Owned by Cedric le Page and Manu Marsan, the cafe has launched its own delivery service to reduce customer costs and retain more profits.

Photo Credit: Cactus Cafe

The move comes as a trial, offering online orders delivered within 30 minutes for a flat $3 fee. Cedric, who currently makes deliveries on foot, plans to upgrade to an electric bicycle as the service grows.

The cafe owners wanted to do more for the locals and people working there. They realised that launching their service would allow them to retain more profits and provide better care for their customers.

Photo Credit: Cactus Cafe

The cafe’s revised menu boasts a wide range of grab-and-go options, including the famous “breaky burrito” and “deluxe” bacon and egg roll. Lunch offerings feature burgers, wraps, poke bowls, and chicken salad.

Photo Credit: Cactus Cafe

order here

Cedric explained that many customers in Brookvale are too busy to wait in a cafe, and the high fees of delivery platforms often drive up prices. By charging a flat $3 fee on orders over $25, Cactus Cafe aims to offer a more affordable and convenient option.

Read: Allambie Heights Public School Affected by Asbestos Contamination/a>

Photo Credit: Cactus Cafe

The cafe owners are pleased with the positive response from customers and the number of deliveries already being made around Brookvale.

Published Date 05-August-2024

New Streetside EV Chargers in Northern Beaches, Including Allambie Heights, Meet Surging Demand

Allambie Heights has gained vital new public charging infrastructure through an Australian-first trial that transforms streetside power poles into EV charging stations, to address the booming uptake of electric vehicles in the Northern Beaches.

Read: Revised Design Released for The Forest High School Relocation to Allambie Heights

Over 3,100 EVs now registered in the region and more than 1,300 in the past year alone.

The Northern Beaches Council has joined seven other local government areas in a year-long trial called the Intellihub EV Streetside Charging Project, which has seen seven streetside power poles converted into charging points across public sites between Newport and Manly.

One of these charging stations is located on Allambie Road in Allambie Heights.

Location Address
Manly Ashburner St, Manly
West Promenade, Manly
Collaroy Anzac Ave, Collaroy
Frenchs Forest Blackbutts Rd (opposite Malbara Cres.)
Terrey Hills Yulong Ave, Terrey Hills
Allambie Heights Allambie Rd, Allambie Heights
Newport Dearin Reserve (opp. 13 Kalinya St)

Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins highlighted the area’s rapid growth in EV ownership, necessitating an expansion of local charging facilities.

“The Northern Beaches is one of the fastest growing areas for EV ownership, and we are working with industry partners to make sure there are enough local charging stations to keep pace with demand,” she said, expressing hope that the new chargers would encourage more residents to switch from petrol and diesel vehicles to electric.

Photo Credit: Intellihub

Cr Heins further stated that the council aims for a 30 percent reduction in vehicle emissions by 2038, with the transition to electric vehicles playing a crucial role in achieving this target.

The EV chargers are connected to the overhead electricity supply, and the energy use is matched with 100 percent accredited GreenPower, ensuring that for all the energy required to charge electric vehicles, an equivalent amount of certified renewable energy is put back into the grid.

EV drivers can locate and access the charging sites through the Exploren App, which displays the new chargers on public EV charging maps.

“A typical EV can get more than 200km of driving from a two-hour charge at any of these sites,” Intellihub CEO Wes Ballantine said.

Read: Ancient Rock Carvings At Gumbooya Reserve Saved From Destruction

If the trial proves successful, more streetside power poles could be rolled out across the country as charging stations for electric vehicles.

Published 23-May-2024

Allambie Heights Public School Affected by Asbestos Contamination

Bonded asbestos has been discovered at Allambie Heights Public School as part of a widespread investigation into contaminated mulch across Sydney.

Read: Westfield Warringah Mall in Brookvale Plans Downsizing David Jones, Adding New Tenants

The discovery at Allambie Heights Public School adds to the situation’s urgency, with authorities working swiftly to assess and address the risk. The discovery at Allambie Heights Public School adds to the situation’s urgency, with authorities working swiftly to assess and address the risk. The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) revealed that mulch tainted with asbestos has been found at numerous locations, prompting an expansive testing initiative. The investigation, initiated in early January, marks the largest undertaken by the EPA in decades.

Asbestos contamination, though concerning, underscores the need for stringent monitoring and remediation efforts to ensure the safety of communities.

“Breathing in asbestos fibres can cause asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. The risk of contracting these diseases increases with the number of fibres inhaled and the risk of lung cancer from inhaling asbestos fibres is also greater if you smoke. People who get health problems from inhaling asbestos have usually been exposed to high levels of asbestos for a long time. The symptoms of these diseases do not usually appear until about 20 to 30 years after the first exposure to asbestos,” per NSW Health.

ASBESTOS HEALTH RISKS

Expansion of Testing Sites

The contamination was detected in mulch in a garden bed at the school, prompting immediate action from authorities. As part of precautionary measures, testing commenced at seven schools throughout Sydney on Friday, 16 February 2024.

These efforts aim to identify any further instances of asbestos contamination and mitigate potential risks to public health.

Whilst the investigation unfolds, affected areas are being cordoned off, and remediation efforts are underway to ensure the safety of students, staff, and the broader community.

FRIABLE and NON-FRIABLE ASBESTOS

Reassurances Amidst Concerns

Despite the findings, officials have sought to reassure the community regarding the potential health risks of bonded asbestos. Education Minister Pru Car emphasised that expert advice indicates the risk remains low, particularly when the material is undisturbed. The NSW EPA has mobilised resources to expedite testing and tracing efforts, collaborating with Fire and Rescue crews to bolster investigative capabilities.

Meanwhile, the company implicated in distributing contaminated mulch cooperates with authorities, albeit with some resistance. As the investigation progresses, stringent measures are being considered to address regulatory shortcomings and prevent future incidents.

Read: Revised Design Released for The Forest High School Relocation to Allambie Heights

Despite the scale of the investigation, authorities stress that the risk remains manageable, with most affected settings deemed low risk. However, vigilance and caution are paramount, with the NSW EPA urging individuals to report any concerns promptly.

Published 21-February-2024

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Location	Address
Manly	Ashburner St, Manly
	West Promenade, Manly
Collaroy	Anzac Ave, Collaroy
Frenchs Forest	Blackbutts Rd (opposite Malbara Cres.)
Terrey Hills	Yulong Ave, Terrey Hills
Allambie Heights	Allambie Rd, Allambie Heights
Newport	Dearin Reserve (opp. 13 Kalinya St)