Brookvale Oval Archives - Allambie Heights News

Morning Commuter’s Car Destroyed by Fire at Brookvale Oval Car Park

A Brookvale worker got the shock of their life yesterday morning when they returned to find their car completely destroyed by fire in the Brookvale Oval car park.

Emergency services rushed to Alfred Road just after 7:15am on Thursday following reports of a vehicle ablaze near the popular sports ground. When crews from NSW Police and Fire and Rescue NSW Dee Why Station arrived, they discovered a white 2014 Jeep Compass engulfed in flames and smoke.

The vehicle was parked in the car park near the corner of Alfred Road and Pittwater Road, close to the oval that’s well-known to locals as home to the Warringah Rats rugby league club.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus quickly got to work, using hose reels from their truck to battle the blaze. The fire had started in the engine bay but had already spread into the cabin by the time crews arrived, causing extensive damage throughout the vehicle.

Within half an hour, emergency responders had completely extinguished the flames, with the all-clear given by 7:45am.

The car’s owner had parked there around 7am before heading to work at a nearby business, completely unaware of what would unfold. Police contacted the owner, who rushed back to find their vehicle had been reduced to a charred shell.

According to the owner, there had been no warning signs when they parked that morning. The Jeep had recently passed registration and undergone repairs, making the incident all the more unexpected.

Police have confirmed they’re not treating the fire as suspicious, suggesting it was likely a mechanical fault that sparked the blaze.

Fortunately, no other vehicles or property were damaged in the incident, and no injuries were reported. The area was cleared by 8am when a tow truck removed the burnt-out remains of the Jeep.

The car park at Brookvale Oval is regularly used by commuters and sports fans, making it a busy spot during morning hours. Yesterday’s incident served as a reminder of how quickly vehicle fires can develop, even in seemingly normal circumstances.

Emergency services praised the quick response time, which helped prevent the fire from spreading to nearby vehicles or the oval’s facilities.

Published 4-September-2025

Brookvale Oval to Honour Max Krilich’s Sentimental Wish

Photo Credit: Sea Eagles

Retired Manly Sea Eagles great Max Krilich made an emotional request for his ashes to be scattered at Brookvale Oval, where he built his legacy. When the time comes, the rugby league icon, who captained Australia to a World Cup victory, wants his final resting place to be at the spiritual home of Manly.

Mr Krilich, a stalwart of the Manly Sea Eagles, played 215 games for the club between 1970 and 1983. As a fierce competitor and natural leader, he captained Manly and the Australian national team, securing a World Cup triumph in 1982. Brookvale Oval, now known as 4 Pines Park, was the stage for many of Mr Krilich’s greatest achievements.

Beyond his playing career, Mr Krilich remained respected in the Manly community. He advocates for the club and supports its future generations. His request to have his ashes scattered at Brookvale Oval is a testament to his lifelong dedication to the Sea Eagles and their home ground.

Max Krilich — *Photo Credit: Sea Eagles*

Ken Arthurson’s Push for Brookie Hill Tribute

Rugby league administrator and former Manly coach Ken Arthurson has backed the idea of honouring Mr Krilich at Brookvale Oval. Mr Arthurson is campaigning for ‘Brookie Hill’ to be named after Mr Krilich and fellow Manly legend Roy Bull, recognising their immense contributions to the club’s history.

Mr Arthurson, widely regarded as the ‘Godfather of Manly,’ believes that renaming the iconic hill would provide a lasting tribute to two players who defined the club’s success in different eras. The push has gained traction among Sea Eagles fans and former players, who acknowledge the importance of preserving the club’s rich heritage.

The Emotional Support from Family and Fans

Mr Krilich’s wife, Irene, has voiced her support for his wish, understanding how much Brookvale Oval meant to him throughout his life. She shared that his deep attachment to the ground was not just professional but personal, with countless memories made both on and off the field. Fans have also rallied behind the idea, recognising the significance of granting one of their greatest captains his final wish.

A Career of Dedication and Excellence

Mr Krilich was a two-time premiership-winning player who played 215 first-grade games for Manly after making his debut in 1970. Before leading the unbeaten 1982 Kangaroos, he served as a reserve-grade hooker under club captain Fred Jones, honing his skills before assuming the top role. His leadership in the 1978 grand final victory and subsequent international success cemented his reputation as one of the game’s greatest captains.

Max Krilich Brookvale Oval — *Photo Credit: Sea Eagles*

In total, Mr Krilich played a record 334-grade games for Manly and later transitioned into administration, becoming a club chairman and life member. His contributions to the Sea Eagles extended beyond the field, ensuring the club’s legacy remained strong.

Between playing in the late 1960s and early 1970s, Mr Krilich balanced his rugby league career with an apprenticeship, eventually becoming a qualified plumber and running his own business, Max Krilich Plumbing Pty Ltd. In retirement, he remains an active club ambassador and an avid golfer, continuing to be involved in the Manly Sea Eagles community.

Next Steps: Honouring a Rugby League Icon

Discussions are ongoing regarding Mr Krilich’s request and the potential renaming of Brookie Hill. While official approval is yet to be granted, momentum is building within the Manly Sea Eagles community to ensure that one of their most revered figures is given a fitting tribute at the ground where he made history.

Published 19-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.

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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.

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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