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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.

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.

Swiss Deli Cafe Brookvale — *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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Cactus Cafe in Brookvale — *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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sue Heins Northern Beaches Council — *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.

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.

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.

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

Organisers Apologise for Allambie Heights Fireworks Chaos that Injured Kids

The organisers behind the fireworks display of the annual Christmas concert at Allambie Heights Oval have issued an apology over an accident that injured several children.

According to reports, Howards & Sons and its director, Andrew Howard, are very concerned for the victims, which included 11-year-old boy Elias Carrera who had his chest burned and punctured because of a rogue firework.

The boy apparently requires plastic surgery and was transferred to the Westmead Children’s Hospital from the Royal North Shore Hospital.

“We are out and recovering, not as straight forward as they’d hoped with the firework going in further than first thought – at an angle and downwards reaching his spleen and tearing his abdominal muscles,” Elias’ mum, Emma Carrera, wrote.

“Quite a large area of damaged tissue had to be taken so it’s too difficult to close. He currently has a drain in and wound left partially open in the hope it’s safe enough to close it in a few days time with a second surgery.

“Looks like the burns unit will be home for this week and just so grateful it wasn’t worse – thank you all again for the incredible support – we are truly humbled. Hug those loved ones a wee bit tighter tonight.

An 8-year-old girl was also treated for burns on her wrist and has since been released from the Northern Beaches Hospital.

Several other bystanders were also treated by the paramedics and fire crew members who rushed to the chaotic scene. Witnesses said that children were screaming when the fireworks started “shooting at the audience” watching the Christmas carols at around 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, the 11th of December 2022.

Police say that the fireworks accident may be due technical issue but Safework NSW is currently investigating. Mr Howard also said the investigation will be his company’s priority.

Howards & Sons is a “globally renowned fireworks and special effects company” and has had no problems with its fireworks displays in the past. Reports cited that the company has its license and paperwork in order with SafeWork NSW.

Northern Beaches CEO Ray Brownlee said that the event, which had been sponsored by local businesses, observed proper protocols. The Allambie Heights Christmas Carols have been running since 2008 and the fireworks display is a regular attraction.

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

Changes are coming to Westfield Warringah Mall in Brookvale after the Scentre Group lodged a development application to redevelop the shopping centre by downsizing David Jones and bringing in three new tenants.

Per DA2022/1822, the northern section of Westfield Warringah Mall will undergo major changes from the ground floor to the roof. The most significant features of these changes include the accommodation of one new tenant on the ground floor, two new tenants on the second floor, a site for a new gym, and a co-working space.

Work on Level 2, where David Jones is housed, will comprise some demolition that will create openings for new glazed windows, a new door opening to the common mall, and the construction of a dividing wall to create spaces for two tenants.

Scentre Group also plans to install a pedestrian bridge from the car park on Level 2, in preparation for the 24/7 gym that will have its own security measures, including a swipe card for all members to access the facility outside of the staffed hours.

Warringah Mall — *Photo Credit: DA2022/1822*

The redevelopment will also include a new roof with skylights to increase the safety of the car park, especially at night and a common walkway on the southern edge of the building.

“The proposal is minor in nature relative to the size of the whole shopping complex,” the urban designers stated in the DA. “The proposal will enhance the function and internal amenity of the site, resulting in minor changes to the built form which will only be slightly visible on the roof.”

The DA is currently under a public notification period until the 2nd of December 2022.

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

Photo Credit: School Infrastructure/NSW

Revisions for the design of the new building for The Forest High School relocation to Allambie Heights have been released, showing a shift from four-storey buildings to two-storey structures that will not ruin the neighbourhood streetscape and character.

School Infrastructure NSW took the feedback of the community in considering the changes after complaints that the original four-storey building designs were too big.

Following further architectural studies, reducing the building’s height to two storey and dividing the structures into smaller spaces may also significantly improve the travel time around the planned campus.

The Forest High School — *Photo Credit: School Infrastructure NSW*

The design changes also includes configuring the sports courts to the west side of the property with the gymnasium relocated to overlook the sports field. Ramps, stairs and lifts, multiple undercover and courtyards will be added throughout the school site to allow the students and staff options for different modes of travel and maximum use of the outdoor spaces.

Per School Infrastructure NSW, “the design for The Forest High School has continued to be developed in consultation with department experts, school representatives and the Project Reference Group.”

Actual construction of The Forest High School in Allambie Heights has not yet been determined, pending the approval of the development application and the tender process. However, School Infrastructure NSW anticipates that the existing building, McLeod House, will be demolished by late 2022 to prepare for the new site.

The Forest High School is relocating from its Frenchs Forest site as the suburb is undergoing significant changes to create a new town centre. Moving the school to Allambie Heights will benefit the town centre planning.

The new site was selected because it is already serviced by gas, water, electricity, stormwater and public transport, aside from providing the right size and space for The Forest High School’s intake.

SSD Preparation Underway for The Forest High School Relocation to Allambie Heights

Preparations are underway for the State Significant Development (SSD) application, as well as the technical studies and environmental impact assessment, of the relocation of The Forest High School to Allambie Heights.

Consultations are also ongoing with Northern Beaches Council, Transport for NSW, and other key stakeholders to prepare the design development and planning details required before filing the SSD.

In December 2021, the NSW School Infrastructure released the concept design of The Forest High School, which has been earmarked for a 2025 opening along 187 Allambie Road, Allambie Heights. The new site will feature modern flexible learning spaces fit for 1,500 students, a new library, canteen and administration spaces, a multi-purpose sports and performance hall, new outdoor sports courts, and landscaped recreation with outdoor learning spaces.

*Photo Credit: NSW School Infrastructure*

The new site, located near the Warringah Aquatic Centre sporting facilities, was chosen as an adequate environment to build a new high school since it can accommodate the current intake of the current school. The location is also well-serviced by public transport, water, stormwater, electricity, and gas.

Due to the relocation, the assessment report in the SSD will also detail the school transport plan and travel demands of the school community. The project will also include a range of infrastructure proposals, such as school drop-off and pick-up areas, staff car parking, and secure bicycle or scooter parking.

New bus zones and upgrades to existing pedestrian and road infrastructure are also possible, if the plans, based on discussions with Transport NSW, the Northern Business Council, and bus operators, are consolidated.

Principal Rosemary McDowall expressed that the designs and preliminary plans meet the needs of the school community. She’s happy to see the plans incorporate a collaborative space with the NSW School Infrastructure taking in the inputs and comments properly.

Construction of the new school is expected to start by mid-2023, after the demolition of the former Cerebral Palsy Alliance building in late 2022. The old school, on the other hand, will become part of the Frenchs Forest new town centre, which will have medium density residential units.

Ancient Rock Carvings At Gumbooya Reserve Saved From Destruction

Photo credit: mapio.net

Ancient rock art at the Gumbooya Reserve in Allambie Heights have been saved from destruction, thanks to a resident living nearby who noticed something amiss and informed the authorities.

Read: Mario Sardelich Honoured 42 Years After Rescuing Drowning Boy at Manly Dam

The rock art, which portrays a kangaroo or a wallaby, was at the brink of destruction because of poor drainage at the site. A local noticed the erosion and told staff from the Allambie Heights’ Sunnyfield intellectual disability support charity about it.

The staff informed the Aboriginal Heritage Office (AHO) at Freshwater about the damage. Following a visit by their inspectors, AHO sought the help of Heritage Council of NSW who also sent specialists to examine the site.

Entrance to Gumbooya Reserve (Photo credit: mapio.net)

The staff from AHO cleaned the engraving platform and took away the excess material from the engraving. They also installed an improved drainage to ensure they will not be damaged by water when it rains.

There are around 68 carvings at the Gumbooya Reserve. Some of the figures include a fish, a dolphin, and a large human figure – all believed to be located in a sacred site. History has it that the Aboriginal Australians used the reserve as an ancient track to get to nearby Manly beach. At present, the reserve is surrounded by houses and a main road running alongside.

To help protect the Aboriginal site, Council also has revealed its plans to improve landscaping around the engraving with native ground covering plants.

CarExpert Debuts New Experimental Automobile Hub in Brookvale

Did you know that CarExpert has opened an all-new experimental showroom and test drive hub at Westfield Warringah Mall in Brookvale?

After opening in March 2021, CarExpert’s test drive hub allows automobile enthusiasts and car buyers to discover, drive, and compare some of the latest cars available. The company, which was founded in 2018 by the team behind the automobile website CarAdvice.com.au, is rapidly expanding, and this new venture serves as their very first retail initiative.

Taking up an area of 960 square metres of floor retail space, along with a section of the shopping centre’s valet car park, is the automobile hub which features up to 40 cars from various manufacturers in the industry.

As part of CarExpert’s experimental bid, there will be no salespeople present at the hub nor will it sell cars. Instead, the venue will be staffed with independent car experts who aim to help visitors find the perfect car for them.

Having experts assist those who come to visit rather than salespeople also removes the pressure to buy, and advice provided will be independent and completely built on experience. The hub will have connections to local dealers in a concierge style service.

No fees or commissions will be paid to CarExpert for their services, however. Instead, these dealers simply must provide the customers sent by the company with excellent service.

Westfield Warringah Mall can be found at Cnr Old Pittwater Rd and Condamine St, Brookvale, open every day from 9:00 a.m. onwards with the exception of Sundays, in which the shopping centre opens at 10:00 a.m.

To learn more about CarExpert, visit their website here. Follow their social media pages on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates and announcements concerning the showroom.