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.
Photo Credit: DA2024/1684
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
We’ve combed Allambie Heights, Beacon Hill, Brookvale, North Manly, Oxford Falls, and Warringah Mall for the best reviewed restaurants in the area where people waxed lyrical about their dining experience and what they love most about it. Here’s our list!
Nick Z ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ It was a short drive from the hotel. My colleagues did not want to have breakfast at the hotel so we took a drive down the road to Fuel.. I wanted something healthy so I decided on the Acai bowl. I was happy with the meal, nicer and refreshing. I’d say it’s in my top 5 of Acai bowls I’ve ever had. It had a good blend of fruit and granola mix with the acai. I should have asked them if they had peanut butter to make it even better. Maybe next time.
Nadav L ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Visited with friends for dinner and absolutely loved it! All dishes were great and authentic, and the service from Jess and the team was very welcoming! The dips with the bagel are a great way to kick off the meal. We then had the beetroot, the grilled eggplant, and the tabbouleh salad which were all excellent. Out of the bigger dishes we tried the Turkish kofta which was very authentic and well executed and the shawarma which was great too. All of that for a very fair price. Very warmly recommended!
Bec S ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This beats Ottolenghi restaurants in London! Amazing Middle Eastern flavours, beautiful presentation, fine precision from the chef in balancing flavours & careful knife skills. The staff & manager were fantastic & talked us through the traditional Israeli street food inspiring their menu. Can recommend the Jerusalem bagel with homemade dips (hummus, labneh, eggplant, olive oil w pomegranate molasses), roasted beetroot entree, Arabic kofta & coconut malabi dessert. Well done Fuel.
Simon S ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I recently dined at this restaurant, and I can honestly say it was an incredible experience. Every dish was not only delicious but also brought me so much joy. The flavors were vibrant and perfectly balanced, making each bite a delight. I left the restaurant with a big smile on my face and a craving to return. I can’t wait to come back and enjoy this amazing food again!
Jessica Yunjun P ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The food at this restaurant is of great value for the money. The dishes were served very quickly, and all the ingredients were fresh! The customer service was kind and attentive, and there is ample parking space available. The quality of the food was superb. I will definitely come back for more.
Peter N ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The food was delicious, portions were large, all at a low cost. Impressive. Chicken karaage was soo crispy and perfectly cooked, salmon was very tasty. Staff were friendly. Reccomend.
Maria L ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Shaggys is a great place to go when your a local and fancy a meal out with a Freshly made Cocktail, Fantastic Food, Frozen Margarites are the best. Highly recommend this place, support our local Allambie shops with this new wine bar.. 🙂 Thanks Shaggy, we will be back soon.
Ashlee D ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I absolutely love this coffee shop! The atmosphere is always welcoming, the drinks are consistently excellent, and the service is top-notch. Isabella is especially amazing—friendly, knowledgeable, and always makes my coffee just right with the perfect amount of caramel. You can tell she genuinely cares about creating a great experience for every customer. Highly recommend stopping by if you’re in the area!
Tracey Z ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Such delicious Mexican and family friendly. So reasonable – not many places in Northern Beaches you can get away for dinner for two with two drinks under $60!! Our go to when we don’t feel cooking.
Murilo ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Authentic and very high quality Brazilian food. The service is outstanding and the owners are always working and making sure that everything is perfect. Highly recommended
Christa E ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Freshly cooked on the BBQ, the chicken hearts were so delicious we even forgot to take a picture. The hosts are so nice and they will make you feel very welcome. The great service just makes dining there such a pleasurable experience! The food is absolutely delicious, fresh and you can taste that the owners care about the food they put on your plate. Highly recommend!
Annaliese C ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This place is awesome! Ivan has absolutely nailed the art of hospitality and customer service. It feels like dinner at a friend’s house with incredible food. We loved everything we ate and we took on board Ivan’s suggestions and got that too – delicious. We loved it all so much we doubled down and ordered seconds (leaving us overfull but very happy!). Also don’t leave without getting some Churros!!
I’m BOO ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great atmosphere, clean, and delicious food. Perfect for dinner or after work, as the place stays open late. If you’re looking for a chill spot with Thai style, I totally recommend this place.
Su Min Sussan L ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Everything was so delicious and well cooked. The crispy chicken entree was both crunchy and juicy! And I loved the prawn pad thai especially. I’m so happy a nice sit-down Thai restaurant has opened inside the mall, I will definitely be returning. Staff are super friendly too.
St Augustine’s College in Brookvale hosted the then-Father Robert Prevost in 2008 during World Youth Day. This was years before he became Pope Leo XIV. At the time, he was serving as the global leader of the Augustinian order and took part in religious activities with students and staff.
The visit included prayer with students and staff, joint participation in a beachside Mass at Collaroy, and a return visit in 2009 to present awards. The Pope’s interaction with the school community left a lasting impression among staff and students, with particular focus on his approachability and engagement.
While the visit to Brookvale occurred during the same period as the Augustinian Youth Encounter (AYE), held at the nearby Collaroy Conference Centre, the school visit was separate. The AYE brought together young people from various countries for faith-based activities aligned with Augustinian values, including cultural exchanges, beach Mass, and community-building events.
These gatherings highlighted themes of unity, shared life and spiritual development—principles that Father Prevost supported in his role at the time.
Current students at St Augustine’s College have expressed appreciation for their school’s link to the Pope, noting it as a meaningful aspect of their faith journey. Staff members also acknowledged the significance of having welcomed someone who has now assumed the highest leadership in the Catholic Church.
The College Headmaster, Jonathan Byrne, stated that the institution remains open to welcoming the Pope again, reaffirming its commitment to Augustinian hospitality.
The school’s chaplain described the election of Pope Leo XIV as the “greatest honour” for the Augustinian community. His appointment has been viewed as a moment of significance for those connected to the order’s traditions of community, reflection, and learning.
A Brookvale brewery has expanded its operations by converting a former 1980s wedding venue into a late-night destination featuring a cocktail bar, pool hall, and karaoke rooms.
Bucketty’s Brewing Co, located in Brookvale, has extended its footprint with the launch of two new hospitality spaces. The development involved repurposing a 1980s-era wedding venue once known as Valentine’s. Owners Nick and Lexi McDonald oversaw the transformation, which introduces both a nostalgic cocktail bar and a sports-focused pool hall.
The updated site operates as a single venue called Chalky’s, which houses Valentine’s — a soft-lit cocktail and wine bar located at the other end of the space. Valentine’s draws inspiration from the original wedding venue, offering classic cocktails and premium wines. Chalky’s includes six 8-foot pool tables, two private karaoke rooms, and large booths suitable for groups.
Photo Credit: Chalky’s/Instagram
Food and Drink Offering
Head chef Martin Brito leads the kitchen across both venues. Brito, who trained under renowned chefs including Peter Doyle and David Thompson, offers South American-inspired dishes and elevated pub meals. Menu highlights include a 600g ribeye known as “The Expensive Steak”, slow-cooked lamb shoulder for two, and a Sportsman platter featuring sliders, calamari, and fries.
Chalky’s also features 16 taps dedicated exclusively to beers from independent local breweries such as Bucketty’s, Freshwater Brewing, and Dad and Dave’s Brewing. A whisky selection includes rare and local varieties like 78 Degrees Muscat and a 21-year-old Auchentoshan Scotch.
Patrons can hire pool tables for $20 per hour, while uniquely styled karaoke rooms are available for private rental starting at $90 per hour. One karaoke room includes vintage décor resembling a classic lounge room, while the other is covered in rock posters collected by a family member of the venue owners.
The expansion reflects the brewery’s strategy to circumvent limitations faced by independent producers in entering mainstream pubs and bottle shops. By operating its own venues, Bucketty’s can directly serve its range of products and showcase other local makers. The owners have also secured approval for a second site in Bucketty, near Cessnock, with plans for a brewery, café, and restaurant.
Open daily from 3 p.m. on weekdays and from noon on weekends, the Brookvale venue adds to the Northern Beaches’ growing independent hospitality scene. The development preserves the memory of Valentine’s while offering a modern mix of entertainment, dining, and locally made drinks.
Brookvale will return to alcohol-free zone status after ongoing reports of street drinking and antisocial behaviour led Northern Beaches Council to prioritise new restrictions. The decision follows a peninsula-wide review, with support from police, rangers, and locals ahead of its proposed start in September 2025. Community feedback is open until Sunday, 27 April, through the council’s “Your Say” website or by written submission.
Brookvale’s alcohol-free zone expired in 2023, but continued public drinking—especially near Pittwater Road and Warringah Mall bus stops prompted its return, with police data and council patrols confirming ongoing alcohol-related disturbances.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
The decision means people will no longer be allowed to drink alcohol on public roads, footpaths, laneways, and carparks within the designated Brookvale zone. Police and rangers will have the authority to seize opened alcohol containers if someone is drinking or appears about to drink in a restricted area.
What the Review Covered
Brookvale was one of 19 alcohol-free zones reviewed by Northern Beaches Council in a region-wide assessment designed to streamline timelines and apply consistent rules.
The review used police data, complaints, and community input to guide changes, some zones, like Avalon and Newport, were adjusted, while others, including Belrose and Cromer, will be removed due to fewer incidents and reduced concern.
Council confirmed the changes won’t affect licensed outdoor dining, parks or beaches, as alcohol-free zones apply only to road-related areas, aiming to keep shared public spaces safer for families and commuters.
How Residents Can Have Their Say
Northern Beaches Council is seeking community feedback on the proposed zones until Sunday, 27 April 2025, via its “Your Say” website or by written submission.
Residents are encouraged to read the full summary of assessments available online, which outlines the reasons for each zone’s status. In Brookvale’s case, the decision was shaped heavily by safety concerns and the push from authorities to prevent a repeat of past issues.
The Broader Picture
The review reflects ongoing efforts to balance safety and public access, with Brookvale highlighting the challenges of managing alcohol in busy hubs with transport, nightlife, and public facilities.
By returning the suburb to an alcohol-free status, officials hope to prevent late-night disturbances and make key parts of Brookvale more comfortable for everyone. The proposed changes reflect not only policy but also years of community input and policing efforts.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
