Brookvale Archives - Allambie Heights News

Native Bush Rats Return To Bushland Near Brookvale

Native bush rats are being reintroduced into bushland near Brookvale as part of a Sydney rewilding project aimed at restoring a locally missing species and reducing pressure from invasive black rats.

Native Species Returns To Bushland Near Brookvale

Allenby Park, which spans Allambie Heights, Beacon Hill and Brookvale, is one of the key locations included in the reintroduction of native bush rats. The species, also known as bogul in Dharug language, is being returned to urban bushland where it had previously disappeared.

The initiative is led by the University of Sydney, with support from Macquarie University and partner councils. At Allenby Park, Northern Beaches Council is supporting site management, monitoring and community engagement while researchers oversee the reintroduction process.

Allenby Park urban rewilding — Photo Credit: Australian Museum

Decline Of A Native Species

Bush rats were once common along the Sydney coastline but became locally absent from many urban reserves over time. Their decline has been linked to competition from introduced species, urbanisation, and predation from foxes and feral cats.

Surveys across 31 urban reserves found bush rats missing from nearly half of the sites. In contrast, invasive black rats were detected in almost all surveyed areas, highlighting a shift in species presence within urban bushland.

How The Rewilding Program Works

The reintroduction is being carried out in stages across Allenby Park and Twin Creeks Reserve at Turramurra. A total of 100 bush rats are planned for release across both sites, including 50 within Allenby Park, with the rollout continuing through to May.

Before native species are released, researchers have been targeting invasive black rats within Allenby Park to improve survival conditions. About two dozen black rats were trapped during early preparation stages.

The project is also trialling a scent-based method to support settlement. Materials carrying the animals’ natural odour are placed near release points to help encourage the bush rats to remain within the reserve.

Ecological Role In Brookvale Bushland

Bush rats support bushland ecosystems by pollinating native plants such as banksias and dispersing seeds and fungal spores. These functions contribute to maintaining vegetation in natural habitats.

The species is also expected to compete with invasive black rats within bushland areas. Unlike introduced rodents, bush rats remain within dense vegetation and are not typically found around residential properties.

Next Steps

Releases are continuing in stages, with monitoring underway to assess how well the bush rats establish within Allenby Park. Researchers will track whether the animals remain in the reserve and contribute to rebuilding local populations.

Further expansion into additional urban reserves may be considered if the program demonstrates sustained success in restoring native species.

Published 18-Mar-2026

El Jannah Brings Legendary Garlic Sauce and $5 Deal to Brookvale

Photo Credit: El Jannah

Western Sydney’s legendary charcoal chicken chain El Jannah has officially brought its famous garlic sauce and wood-fired flavours to the northern beaches with a new restaurant in Brookvale.

The Long Wait Ends

El Jannah Chicken — *Photo Credit:* *El Jannah*

The charcoal fires were lit for the first time on Boxing Day, December 26, 2025. This launch marked the 30th franchise for the brand in New South Wales and happened nearly a year after the company first announced plans to take over the former Quattro Formaggi Deli Cafe space. Residents who had walked past the wooden hoardings near Supercheap Auto at Westfield Warringah Mall can now see the renovations are complete and the restaurant is fully operational.

To celebrate the launch, the owners offered a special meal deal for one day only. Customers who visited the new shop on opening day were able to grab a quarter chicken, small chips, and a serving of the brand’s popular garlic sauce for just five dollars. The company acknowledged that the construction barriers had been up for a long time, but they delivered on their promise that the wait was finally over.

New Flavours on the Coast

This new eatery has already started to shake up the local casual dining options within the shopping centre. It joins other established takeaway spots like KFC and Oporto but brings a different style of “Lebanese-Australian food” cooked over open wood fires. The venue is now serving as a family-friendly destination for quick lunches or dinners, operating daily from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm. Locals can choose between dine-in seating or takeaway and delivery through services like Uber Eats.

The menu features more than just the signature charcoal chicken. Food lovers have been ordering crispy falafel rolls, fried chicken, burgers, and a shawarma meal that includes beef, parsley, onions, pickles, and Lebanese bread. A major draw for many customers remains the “toum,” a tangy and creamy garlic sauce that helped the brand build its reputation. Traditional sides such as tabouli, fattoush salad, hummus, and babaghanouj are also available.

From Granville to the World

El Jannah was started by Andre Estephan, a Lebanese migrant who opened the first shop in Granville in 1998. What began as a single location has grown into a major business with outlets across the ACT, Victoria, and key Sydney suburbs like Crows Nest and Lindfield. The company is currently hiring a mix of full-time, part-time, and casual staff to run the new Brookvale location.

The business has big plans for the future. It recently signed a multi-million dollar agreement to expand into the Middle East. Over the next five years, the chain intends to grow from 50 restaurants to 200, positioning itself as a serious rival to major fast-food giants. In the coming year alone, they plan to launch 25 new restaurants, with 11 of those slated for Sydney locations including Cronulla, Maroubra, and the CBD. Head of marketing Adam Issa stated the team was excited to share their charcoal chicken legend with the Brookvale community.

Published Date 08-January-2026

High School Catchment Questions Raised In Brookvale

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Brookvale Public School families are seeking clarity on Brookvale high school catchment arrangements after their intake alignment remained with Cromer Campus despite Freshwater High being closer.

Brookvale High School Catchment Changes In Context

New Northern Beaches high school intake areas were released in 2024, alongside plans for Freshwater Senior Campus to transition into a full Year 7 to Year 12 high school.

Brookvale Public School families say they expected rezoning as part of the broader Northern Beaches adjustments, but the school remained aligned to Northern Beaches Secondary College Cromer Campus.

high school catchment — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Distance And Access At The Centre Of Brookvale Concerns

The distances cited by the Brookvale school community place Cromer Campus at 3.7 kilometres from Brookvale Public School, while Freshwater High is described as 1.3 kilometres away along Winbourne Road.

Parents have raised concerns about the practical impact of travel, including reports that trips to Cromer can take about 45 minutes by bus and may involve transfers or timetable issues.

Department Rationale And Boundary Alignment

In a formal response to questions about the Brookvale alignment, the Department said intake adjustments followed consultation and were informed by enrolment modelling, projected student demand, teaching space capacity, and alignment between feeder primary schools and secondary intake areas.

The Department also stated Brookvale Public School’s alignment with Cromer Campus remained consistent with its previous high school alignment.

Brookvale school zoning — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Community Concerns And Next Steps

The Brookvale P&C has raised concerns that the outcome may disadvantage a culturally diverse school community, including families navigating the process in a second language.

The Department has said it has met with the school’s P&C and will continue working with the principal as changes take effect. Enrolment patterns and Year 7 placement data across the Northern Beaches are to be monitored over 2026 and 2027.

Families can also apply for non-local enrolment, with Forest High expected to have capacity for non-local enrolments in 2026 and beyond, subject to the school’s criteria and available places. An appeal pathway is available for non-local decisions.

Published 15-Dec-2025

Brookvale Karate School Tackles Domestic Violence Through Free Self-Defence Class

Photo Credit: GKR Karate

A Brookvale karate school is addressing domestic and family violence by hosting a free community self-defence class as part of a national awareness campaign.

Brookvale Dojo Hosts Free Community Self-Defence Class

GKR Karate at Westfield Warringah Mall in Brookvale will hold a free two-hour self-defence seminar on Saturday, 25 October, under its annual “Stop Domestic & Family Violence” Purple Belt Campaign. The event welcomes participants of all ages and fitness levels to learn practical safety and awareness techniques.

The class aims to teach attendees how to stay safe, avoid conflict, and de-escalate potential threats. It also promotes GKR Karate’s broader mission to use martial arts as a tool for empowerment and personal development.

Brookvale self-defence class — Photo Credit: GKR Karate

Domestic Violence Remains a Concern on the Northern Beaches

Official data from the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) shows 383 domestic violence-related incidents were recorded across the Northern Beaches in the 12 months to July 2025 — an increase from 331 the previous year.

The rate of domestic violence-related assaults in the region reached 143 per 100,000 residents, compared with 494 per 100,000 in Sydney’s outer south-west and 466 in the outer west and Blue Mountains. The figures highlight the need for continued awareness and community involvement in prevention efforts.

Supporting Survivors Through RizeUp Partnership

The Brookvale seminar supports RizeUp Australia, a national organisation that assists families escaping domestic and family violence. Funds raised through the sale of purple belts, T-shirts, and merchandise will go directly to the charity’s support programs.

GKR Karate’s collaboration with RizeUp aligns with its goal of combining physical training with social awareness and advocacy for safer communities.

GKR Karate’s Approach to Empowerment and Inclusion

GKR Karate promotes respect, discipline, and confidence alongside self-defence skills. The organisation encourages people of all ages and backgrounds to train together in a family-oriented setting that values wellbeing and mutual support.

The Brookvale event is one of several across New South Wales, with seminars also being held in Glendenning, Katoomba, Wollongong, Riverstone, Penrith, Blacktown, Campbelltown, and Cameron Park.

Continuing Community Engagement in Brookvale

Through its annual Purple Belt Campaign, GKR Karate continues to advocate for domestic violence awareness and personal safety. The Brookvale class reinforces the importance of collective action and education in reducing violence and promoting resilience within the community.

Published 21-Oct-2025

Brookvale Depot First in Sydney With Fast-Charging Electric Buses

Brookvale has become the first bus depot in Sydney to be converted for gantry-mounted fast-charging, enabling electric buses to recharge in as little as 20 minutes.

Background

On 19 September 2025, the Brookvale Bus Depot on Sydney’s northern beaches was officially fitted with Australia’s first gantry-mounted fast-charging station for electric buses. This marks the first upgrade of Sydney’s 11 major depots and represents a key step in phasing out diesel buses by 2028.

Plans for the depot’s transition were first announced in late 2022, with Brookvale chosen as the pilot site. It currently operates 13 electric buses, which will grow to a full fleet of 229 battery-powered vehicles within three years.

Charging System and Capacity

The $25 million installation at Brookvale includes 13 pantograph charging positions and 10 plug-in chargers. Each bus can travel up to 300 kilometres on a single charge, with recharging possible in 20 minutes to one hour depending on conditions.

To support the facility, a 250kW rooftop solar system has been installed to power depot operations such as lighting. The depot’s wider electricity supply is planned to be sourced from renewable energy.

Expansion Across Sydney

The Brookvale project is part of a larger program to convert Sydney’s 8,000-strong bus fleet to battery electric power. Depots at Leichhardt and Kingsgrove are scheduled to install the same charging technology in 2026, while a new purpose-built facility is planned at Macquarie Park.

The program also includes regional trials, the delivery of a new depot at Macquarie Park, and the purchase of 1,200 new electric buses. From 2027, at least 50 per cent of bus production will include local Australian manufacturing content.

Community Impact

For northern beaches residents, the Brookvale conversion is expected to deliver quieter, cleaner, and more reliable services. The introduction of fast-charging allows buses to return to service quickly, improving frequency and reducing downtime.

Looking Ahead

By 2028, Brookvale is expected to operate a fully electric fleet of 229 buses. As additional depots complete their conversions, the move to zero-emission buses will progressively expand across Sydney, creating a long-term shift toward cleaner public transport.

Published 28-Sep-2025

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

Man Jailed After Crashing Through Brookvale Bunnings Gates

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A 53-year-old man who crashed through the boom gates at Bunnings Warehouse in Brookvale has been sentenced to six months imprisonment after a magistrate rejected his claim that the incident was a medical emergency.

Matthew James Hall was discovered semiconscious behind the wheel of a BMW at approximately 10.23pm on 3 March, having crashed through the car park entrance at the Bunnings store located at Westfield Warringah Mall in Cross Street, Brookvale. The vehicle had rolled about 30 metres before colliding with a parked Kia sedan.

The unemployed Erskineville resident, who has been banned from driving until 2031 and hasn’t held a valid licence since 1998, told emergency services he had been attending a nearby party when he left to purchase food. Hall, who suffers from diabetes, claimed he desperately needed sustenance to prevent his blood sugar from dropping dangerously low.

His solicitor, Simon Grover, argued in Manly Local Court on Wednesday that his client’s judgement had become impaired due to hypoglycaemia. “It was a medical emergency, that’s how I see it,” Mr Grover told the court, explaining that Hall’s thoughts had become erratic due to low blood sugar levels.

However, Magistrate Daniel Reiss was not convinced by the medical emergency defence. He questioned why Hall had not simply asked for food at the party or requested someone else drive him to obtain supplies if he was feeling unwell.

“It’s not a justifiable medical emergency,” Magistrate Reiss stated. “Your driving record is horrendous.”

The court heard that Hall has 10 previous convictions for driving while disqualified, though he claimed these related to his use of electric scooters rather than motor vehicles.

Under NSW law, driving while disqualified carries maximum penalties of up to $3,300 and six months imprisonment for a first offence, while second or subsequent offences can result in fines up to $5,500 and imprisonment for up to 12 months.

Hall pleaded guilty to driving while disqualified as a second offence. Magistrate Reiss sentenced him to six months prison and imposed an additional 12-month driving disqualification period.

The convicted man has since lodged an appeal with the District Court challenging the severity of his sentence.

The incident occurred at one of the northern beaches’ major retail centres, with Westfield Warringah Mall being a significant shopping destination in Brookvale that serves the Northern Beaches region.

Published 11-September-2025

Brookvale Man Charged After Cannabis Operation Discovered in Factory Fire

A Brookvale resident is facing multiple charges after a factory fire on Powells Road revealed an alleged cannabis growing operation containing dozens of plants.

Emergency services rushed to the industrial complex on Tuesday evening, 22 July, following reports of heavy smoke billowing from one of the units. Fire and Rescue NSW crews from multiple stations across the Northern Beaches, including Dee Why, Manly, Forestville, Narrabeen and Mosman, converged on the scene near the Brookvale bus depot shortly before 6pm.

Twenty-three firefighters worked to suppress the blaze, which was located behind partitioning within the rear section of the multi-business complex. The fire was quickly brought under control, preventing any spread to neighbouring premises.

A 50-year-old man found at the property required medical attention for smoke inhalation and was transported to Northern Beaches Hospital by NSW Ambulance paramedics. During the incident, police officers from Northern Beaches Police Area Command were observed preventing the man from leaving the scene whilst receiving medical assessment.

What began as a fire response quickly transformed into a criminal investigation when NSW Police established a crime scene at the property. Following the man’s release from hospital treatment, he was arrested and taken to Manly Police Station.

Police allege they discovered a hydroponic cultivation setup inside the unit, with approximately 55 cannabis plants seized from the premises. The arrested man, identified as Adam Kristian Cook of Brookvale, was also allegedly found in possession of 21 grams of methamphetamine and $5,390 in cash, which police believe represents proceeds from criminal activity.

Cook appeared before Manly Local Court via video link on Wednesday, 23 July, facing five separate charges. These include two counts of possessing prohibited drugs, cultivating a prohibited plant in commercial quantities, knowingly allowing premises to be used for drug activities, and dealing with proceeds of crime.

The magistrate refused Cook’s application for bail, remanding him in custody to appear before Downing Centre Local Court on Tuesday, 23 September 2025.

The incident highlights ongoing concerns about illegal drug operations in industrial areas across Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Police investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fire are continuing.

Authorities are appealing for public assistance with their enquiries. Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Published 23-July-2025

Proposed Apartment Block Aligns with Brookvale Structure Plan

Photo Credit: DA2024/1684

A proposed 68-unit apartment development has been lodged for a prominent Pittwater Road site in Brookvale, supporting long-term revitalisation plans for the suburb.

Development Proposal in Brookvale Supports Long-Term Plan

A new four-storey apartment complex featuring 68 residential units has been proposed for a vacant block at 638 Pittwater Road, Brookvale. The development forms part of the ongoing implementation of the Brookvale Structure Plan, which was endorsed by NBC in late 2023.

Previous Approvals and Site History

The site, formerly occupied by a St Vincent de Paul shop and warehouse, previously received development approval in 2020 for a three-storey mixed-use building. That proposal included 48 units and three commercial or retail spaces on the ground floor. The site has since been cleared for redevelopment and remains vacant.

Revised Application Details

A new application has now been lodged by a Strathfield-based developer to increase the building height to four storeys and the total number of units to 68. The location, positioned near the Brookvale bus depot and on the edge of an industrial zone, is being targeted as part of a broader mixed-use development strategy.

The developer’s planning consultant noted that the site’s use for shop-top housing fits within the objectives of the Brookvale Structure Plan and represents a logical urban design outcome for the area.

Brookvale Structure Plan Overview

NBC formally endorsed the Brookvale Structure Plan on 28 November 2023. The plan outlines a 15-year development roadmap that allows for up to 1,350 new homes and aims to increase housing diversity and affordability across the suburb. At least 5 per cent of these homes are designated as affordable housing.

The plan also includes provision for up to eight-storey mixed-use buildings along Pittwater Road, with potential for 15-storey developments near Warringah Mall and the B-Line stop. Two industrial zones—east and west of Pittwater Road—will remain, though building heights can reach four storeys.

Additional features include a proposed town square with green space, new community facilities, and improved pedestrian and cycling infrastructure. The plan is supported by studies on transport, employment, and housing, as well as feedback from public consultation.

Brookvale Structure Plan — Photo Credit: DA2024/1684

Public Submissions and Next Steps

Public submissions for the development application at 638 Pittwater Road closed on 9 July. The proposal is one of the early developments intended to support the implementation of NBC’s long-term redevelopment plan for Brookvale.

Published 12-July-2025

Tradespeople Hit by Tool Thefts in Brookvale

Photo Credit: NSW Police Force/ Facebook

Police are urging local tradespeople to increase security after a targeted series of thefts from work vehicles saw thousands of dollars worth of equipment stolen in the Brookvale area.

Targeted Attacks on Work Utes

The warning follows several break-ins that occurred between Sunday evening, 15 June 2025, and Monday morning, 16 June 2025. During this period, thieves targeted three separate commercial vehicles parked on Consul Road, Old Pittwater Road, and Funda Place. The offenders stole power tools, including drills and nail guns, with an estimated total value of around $15,000.

In a related incident in the neighbouring suburb of Dee Why, a family-run business suffered an even greater loss when their entire work ute was stolen from Whaddon Street. The family, who have four young children, stated that the return of their vehicle is crucial for their livelihood.

Police Urge Proactive Security Measures

Authorities believe the stolen tools are likely to be sold through online trading platforms and are advising the community to be watchful for suspicious listings.

To combat these thefts and improve the chances of recovery, police are encouraging all tool owners to take simple but effective preventative steps. They recommend recording the serial numbers of all valuable equipment. As an alternative, owners can permanently mark their tools by engraving their driver’s licence number on them, as this provides a unique and lifelong identifier that can help police return recovered items to their rightful owner.

Community Support Available

To assist residents in securing their property, Dee Why Police Station is making an engraver available for public use. This initiative allows tradespeople and other community members to easily mark their valuables, making them less attractive to thieves and easier to identify if found.

Published Date 03-July-2025