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Wildlife Teaching Hospital Underway in Mosman

Construction has commenced in Mosman on Australia’s first wildlife specialist teaching hospital, located at Taronga Zoo.

Wildlife Care Expansion in Mosman

Taronga Zoo’s existing wildlife hospital, active since the 1970s, is being replaced by a new $80 million facility (SSD-33211326) aimed at advancing veterinary treatment, research and education. The hospital will expand on decades of wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, and will offer specialised surgical, recovery and care facilities for hundreds of native animals each year.

Response to Natural Disasters

The 2019–2020 Black Summer bushfires, which had a severe impact on billions of animals, prompted the development of the hospital. Taronga’s veterinary team played a key role in treating species such as koalas, wallabies, platypus, and amphibians during the crisis. The incident highlighted the need for modernised care infrastructure to meet the rising demand caused by more frequent natural disasters.

Features and Facilities

The new facility at Mosman will include:

Surgical theatres and recovery spaces for marine turtles, reptiles and amphibians
Expanded quarantine zones for wildlife rescued from illegal trade or transferred under conservation breeding programs
A pathology lab for onsite analysis
A Zoo Nutrition Centre to manage animal diets
Public viewing galleries for zoo visitors to observe veterinary procedures

The facility also aims to strengthen wildlife education through designated training spaces for students, vets, and volunteer carers.

wildlife teaching hospital — *Photo Credit: SSD-33211326*

Support and Funding

Funding includes $40.7 million from the NSW Government, with the remaining costs being raised through philanthropic donations. The project aims to improve state capacity for wildlife first aid by sharing critical care knowledge with trained carers and volunteers across New South Wales.

Outlook for Wildlife Health in Mosman

When finished, the Mosman facility will take over the current veterinary, quarantine and nutrition roles at the zoo. It will also boost capabilities for treating both resident and wild animals, while supporting future generations of wildlife veterinarians and conservationists.

Published 3-May-2025

Medical Contribution from Mosman Native Dr Charles Rowe Honoured

Photo Credit: Pexels

A Mosman-born doctor who dedicated decades to regional healthcare has been honoured, as the Young Historical Society reflects on the contributions of Dr Charles Rowe.

Early Life and Education in Mosman

Dr Charles Rowe was born in Mosman on 31 May 1918. He has a twin brother named Richard. Dr Rowe completed his early schooling at Marist Brothers in Mosman before attending St Joseph’s College, Hunters Hill, for his secondary education. Following his schooling, Dr Rowe studied medicine at Sydney University, graduating in 1942.

After completing his medical degree, Dr Rowe began working at Lewisham Hospital, where he progressed to the role of medical superintendent. In 1943, he tied the knot with June Bremmer at St Joseph’s in Neutral Bay.

Military Service and Move to Regional Practice

After marriage, Dr Rowe served for three years as a medical officer with the Royal Australian Air Force, including one year overseas. After leaving the service, he commenced work at Dr Bertram Cook’s practice in Bulli. In August 1948, Dr Rowe purchased Dr Cook’s practice.

Dr Rowe recalled his first maternity case in Young, assisting Mrs Florence Hardy of Wambanumba during heavy snowfall. The baby delivered that day grew up to be Mrs Robyn McDonald, who later worked as a nursing aid at Mercy Hospital.

Dr Charles Rowe — *Photo Caption: Dr Rowe’s medical bag.*
*Photo Credit: Young Historical Museum/Facebook*

Community Contributions Beyond Medicine

Dr Rowe was an Alderman on the Young Shire Council from 1950 to 1956. He was also appointed Deputy Mayor in his final year. That same year, he played a role in establishing and advising Alcoholics Anonymous chapters in Young and neighbouring towns.

Dr Rowe’s community involvement extended across various local organisations, including the Young Pony Club, Picnic Race Club, Parish Ball Committee, Road Safety Council, Riverine University College movement, and Riverina Region Advisory Council. He also served as a Government Medical Officer.

Beyond his medical work, Dr Rowe became the first president of the Young branches of both the National Catholic Rural Movement and the Young Rural Credit Union, while also being active in the National Civic Council. During the 1961 elections, he contested the Federal seat of Hume for the Democratic Labor Party. Unfortunately, he was not elected.

*Photo Caption: Dr Rowe’s medical instrument.*
*Photo Credit: Young Historical Museum/Facebook*

Return to Sydney and Legacy

Prior to retiring in 1970, Dr Rowe’s practice was joined by Dr Mullany. After returning to Sydney, Dr Rowe maintained strong ties with Young, making several visits before his death in 1975. A memorial service for Dr Rowe was conducted at St Mary’s Church in Young.

His widow, June Rowe, extended a formal thank you to the community through a published notice and a personal letter to Monsignor Weissel. His son, James Rowe, donated his father’s medical bag and instruments to the Young Historical Society, commemorating his service.

Published 26-Apr-2025

Mosman Electricity Substation Block Listed for $475,000

Photo Credit: BresicWhitney

A 101-square-meter block of land in Mosman containing a functioning electricity substation has been listed for auction with a guide price of $475,000.

Located at 37 Vista Street, the Mosman property is among eight similar sites across Sydney’s prestigious north shore suburbs being sold off by what’s understood to be an Ausgrid subsidiary. These properties are being marketed as opportunities in highly sought-after locations despite their small size and unusual features.

The block, zoned R2 – Low Density Residential, is scheduled to go to auction on April 30. It features a live electricity kiosk that will remain operational, with easements allowing maintenance workers access for repairs.

BresicWhitney’s Director Scott Thornton and Sales Agent Eliza Fitzpatrick are handling the sale. The official listing describes it as “a rare and intriguing offering” presenting “one of the most unique opportunities to hit the Lower North Shore in recent memory—its previous purpose now giving way to future possibilities, whether as an acquisition for immediate neighbours or something more ambitious.”

These substation blocks have generated significant online controversy, with social media users expressing reactions ranging from bemusement to anger. Critics have called the sales “disgusting” and examples of “greed,” while others questioned the practicality and safety of building homes around active electrical infrastructure.

The property sales have also sparked debate about missed opportunities for public space, with some residents arguing these small parcels would better serve communities as green spaces.

According to the original draft article, Belle Property agent Simon Harrison, who is coordinating most of these unusual sales, stated: “There’s nothing to compare them to. I’ve never sold anything like them.”

Three of the eight sites are scheduled for auction this weekend, with local sources suggesting at least one could sell for more than $700,000.

Published 22-April-2025

Mosman Council Sticks To Ratepayer-only Parking Policy

Mosman renters aren’t eligible for free beach parking permits, with the council continuing to offer them only to ratepayers under current local rules.

Mosman Renters Miss Out As Council Limits Beach Parking Access

Renters in Mosman are being left out of free beach parking benefits, with the council continuing to reserve permits for ratepayers only—a move that’s drawing growing community concern across Sydney’s north shore.

Since April 2024, proposals to extend beach parking permits to Mosman renters were rejected, with council policy continuing to favour ratepaying property owners who receive automatic free parking at Balmoral and nearby beaches.

Beach Access Hinges On Property Ownership

Parking near Mosman’s beaches is tightly regulated, with paid zones at popular spots like Balmoral, Clifton Gardens and The Spit. While permits are offered to eligible locals, Mosman Council ties beach permits to rates notices, making them a benefit linked to property ownership.

Renters may apply in certain cases, but the process requires approval and documentation that proves either ratepayer status or a special exemption. This leaves many long-term residents without the same level of access as their neighbours, particularly in areas with dense rental housing.

Parking Policy Rooted In Council Funding

Mosman Council says the system reflects ratepayers’ contributions to local services. Northern Beaches Council took a similar stance, rejecting renter access earlier this year.

The parking permit structure includes Resident Parking Permits (mostly for inner streets with time-limited zones), Beach Parking Permits (for ratepayers), and Business or Special Use Permits under strict eligibility rules. The council also maintains car parks at Bridgepoint and Spit Junction with limited free time.

Enforcement is active and digital permits are now the norm, with misuse potentially leading to cancellation. Parking officers monitor time limits and permit zones daily.

Community Reaction Mixed, But Voices Growing Louder

Council documents highlight fairness to ratepayers, but some locals question whether the system reflects the area’s growing number of long-term renters. Beach access is becoming a common topic in local forums.

Though the councils have not ruled out reviewing the system in the future, no changes are currently planned. In the meantime, renters will continue to rely on paid parking options or try their luck with limited public spaces.

Published 21-April-2025

Honouring the Fallen: Mosman’s ANZAC Day 2025 Commemorations

As the sun rises over the harbour this ANZAC Day, the Mosman community will come together in solemn reflection and spirited remembrance. From the moving dawn service to traditional games of Two-Up and live sport, Mosman offers a full day of opportunities to honour those who served.

Read: Titan of Mosman Bay: Triumph, Tragedy and Transformation of Archibald Mosman

Dawn Service at Georges Heights

Mosman’s commemorations begin with the ANZAC Day Dawn Service at the old parade ground next to the Harbour Trust Headquarters on Best Avenue, Georges Heights. The service starts at 5:30 am on Friday, 25 April, offering a chance to reflect on the sacrifices of Australian and New Zealand servicemen and women.

Parking is available at Georges Heights Oval, a short walk from the site, depending on weather conditions.

After the ceremony, a Gunfire Breakfast will be served at Frenchy’s Café from 6:30 am.

When: 5:30 am, Friday 25 April 2025
Where: Old Parade Ground, Best Avenue, Georges Heights
Website: rslmosman.com.au

Wider Sydney Services

Other ANZAC Day dawn services will be held across Sydney, including the Martin Place Cenotaph at 4:20 am and North Bondi at 6:00 am. The annual ANZAC Day March through the CBD begins at 9:00 am from the intersection of Elizabeth Street and Martin Place.

Commemorations at Mosman RSL

From 10:00 am, Mosman RSL will welcome the community for a day of remembrance and activity. Traditional Two-Up games run from 2:00 to 6:00 pm, and sports fans can enjoy live coverage of the AFL match between the Bombers and Magpies at 3:20 pm, followed by the NRL showdown between the Roosters and Dragons at 4:05 pm.

When: From 10:00 am, Friday 25 April 2025
Where: 719 Military Road, Mosman
Website: mosmanclub.com.au

The Buena’s ANZAC Day Tribute

The Buena opens at 9:00 am and will host Two-Up from 11:00 am. A Last Post ceremony at sundown will mark the end of the day, with live AFL and NRL matches shown throughout the venue.

When: From 9:00 am, Friday 25 April 2025
Where: 76 Middle Head Road, Mosman
Website: thebuena.com.au

Read: A Piece of Mosman’s Literary History Faces the Axe

From quiet reflection at dawn to spirited community gatherings in the afternoon, ANZAC Day in Mosman is a time to remember, reconnect, and pay tribute — lest we forget.

Published 21-April-2025

Nazi Symbol Poster Outside Mosman High Sparks Community Concern

Photo Credit: Mosman High School/Facebook

A Nazi-themed poster showing an altered Tesla logo was found outside Mosman High School, leading to police involvement and alarm among Jewish community leaders.

A Concerning Discovery

The poster was found by school leadership and reported to authorities by Principal Susan Wyatt, who acted quickly to conceal it with help from the art department after removal proved difficult.

North Shore Police are reviewing CCTV footage to identify those responsible. While no charges have been announced, the incident is being taken seriously under state laws banning the display of hate symbols.

Community Reaction

Jewish community members said the swastika imagery outside Mosman High was deeply upsetting and an attack on historical memory and student safety.

Advocacy groups for Holocaust survivors called it traumatic and harmful to any community that values respect. Local residents and parents echoed the concern, saying they were shocked by the poster and urged better monitoring of public spaces.

Broader Context

The poster appears linked to a wider anti-Tesla movement, with similar protests seen in Sydney and overseas. While some target CEO Elon Musk’s corporate influence, critics say Nazi-style imagery causes harm and overshadows valid concerns.

The group behind the Mosman poster remains unknown, but similar signs have surfaced across the lower North Shore. Mosman Council says it is removing the posters and taking steps to prevent further incidents.

Moving Forward

While no property was damaged, the emotional impact on students and staff remains a concern. School leaders are supporting students and urging families to report any similar incidents.

Community leaders have called for vigilance and education, urging residents to speak up against hate-driven actions and to ensure Mosman remains a safe environment for young people.

Published 15-April-2025

Mosman Local Secures “Knockdown” Property After Auction

Photo Credit: Atlas

A hotly contested auction for a Mosman deceased estate ended with a local resident outbidding six other hopeful buyers, paying $16.1 million for what agents describe as a likely “knockdown” property.

The three-bedroom house at 13 Stanley Avenue, situated on the prestigious Balmoral slopes, attracted significant interest primarily due to its elevated position offering uninterrupted ocean views. The property had remained in the same family for 65 years before coming to market.

Despite rainy conditions, four Mosman locals participated in the indoor auction where bidding opened at $10 million. The price quickly exceeded the $11.5 million reserve—a figure aligned with comparable sales in the area. As the auction progressed, bid increments ranged from $500,000 down to $100,000, with the final two buyers exchanging $100,000 bids until the hammer fell at $16.1 million.

“We didn’t have much guidance because the property was always going to be sold [at auction],” said selling agent Adrian Bridges of Atlas Lower North Shore.

The property’s value lies primarily in its location rather than the existing structure, with Bridges noting it was “probably a knockdown.” Buyers showed remarkable confidence investing in Stanley Avenue, which currently holds the Balmoral price record of $33 million.

“This will ultimately become a trophy home,” Bridges explained. “For this one to sell at this level speaks to the buyer’s confidence that a finished product is going to be up in the sort of $30 to $40 million range.”

The auction was part of a busy week in Sydney’s property market, with 1402 properties scheduled for auction. Domain Group reported a preliminary auction clearance rate of 66 percent from 848 reported results, with 187 auctions withdrawn.

Published 31-March-2025

Relief on the Way for Lower North Shore Bus Commuters

Photo Credit: Mosman Collective/Facebook

For months, commuters in Sydney’s Lower North Shore have battled packed buses and long wait times. Relief is coming as the government plans to roll out a new fleet of high-capacity buses.

New Buses to Ease Lower North Shore Commuter Chaos

Frustration has mounted across Sydney’s Lower North Shore, where thousands of commuters have endured lengthy delays and overcrowded buses due to ongoing service disruptions. The NSW government has now confirmed that 60 new high-capacity buses will be introduced to restore reliability and improve transport conditions in the affected areas.

Why Lower North Shore Commuters Have Been Struggling

The crisis began in October 2024, when 83 Volvo articulated buses were pulled from service due to safety concerns over chassis cracks. These buses primarily operated in the Lower North Shore and Northern Beaches, leaving commuters scrambling for transport alternatives. Delays lasted over an hour in most locations, with packed services leaving passengers waiting for as long as several buses before they could get a seat.

*Photo Credit: Mosman Collective/Facebook*

The government plan includes 50 new articulated buses and 10 double-deckers, which are meant to cut congestion and increase overall capacity. Transport Minister John Graham conceded that the takeout of the fleet had created big holes in the service, particularly during the peak hours

New Buses on the Way – But Not All at Once

While commuters can expect some relief soon, full restoration will take time. Officials confirmed that six of the withdrawn buses will be reintroduced in April, with additional buses phased in throughout the year. The 60 new buses that will be procured will be rolled out within the next 12 months, focusing on the worst-hit areas.

The Lower North Shore has been one of the worst-hit regions, with suburbs like Mosman, Neutral Bay, and North Sydney suffering from rampant transport bottlenecks. Northern Beaches commuters such as Manly, Dee Why, and Mona Vale have also suffered from extended waiting times, resulting in resident frustration.

The new fleet, under plan by state lawmakers, will be used to enhance passenger capacity and restore frequency to the most affected bus routes.

Community Relief is on the Horizon

The response from local leaders has been generally positive, though some have cautioned that relief won’t be immediate. North Shore MP Felicity Wilson acknowledged that residents had been dealing with an unreliable transport network for months but said the staged rollout of new buses would gradually restore normalcy.

Officials have assured residents that once the new fleet is fully operational, peak-hour congestion will ease, and service levels will return to pre-disruption standards. While commuters remain frustrated, the commitment to improving transport in the Lower North Shore is now set in motion.

Published 13-March-2025

A Piece of Mosman’s Literary History Faces the Axe

Photo Credit: Wikimedia

Mosman locals are about to lose a piece of their suburb’s history. The Himalayan Cedar at 17 Warringah Road, a tree tied to beloved Australian author Ethel Turner, is scheduled for removal, raising questions about heritage preservation in the community.

A Piece of Mosman’s Literary History Faces the Axe

A century-old Himalayan Cedar in Mosman, once part of the home and garden of Ethel Turner, the celebrated Australian author of Seven Little Australians, is set to be removed.

*Photo Credit: Mosman Library Service/Facebook*

The tree, which is at 17 Warringah Road, is believed to have been planted during Turner’s stay on the property, which she lived for over five decades. It was a handsome and tall feature, but recently decayed at an extremely fast pace, necessitating its intended destruction.

A Declining Icon in a Historic Suburb

The Mosman Council confirmed that the tree has suffered significant decline, citing a recent arborist report that noted extensive damage to its roots and trunk. The assessment also raised concerns about possible poisoning, pointing to drill holes found near the base.

However, council officials have not formally determined foul play, attributing the removal decision to safety concerns. Turner’s home, Avenel, was a well-known fixture in Mosman’s history.

During 1901 until her death in 1958, Turner lived in the house, tending its gardens and finding inspiration for her paintings. The house itself was demolished in 1970 to be followed by apartments, but remnants of its past have remained, like the Himalayan Cedar.

Community Reaction and Preservation Concerns

News of the tree’s removal has sparked concern among Mosman residents and literary enthusiasts. Others see it as another loss of historical identity in a suburb already undergoing swift change. While there has been discussion of saving or memorializing the property, no plans have been formally set.

Local historians and residents have been shocked that more was not undertaken to save what they see as a living connection with one of Australia’s favourite authors. Turner’s Seven Little Australians remains part of the country’s literary heritage, and some locals think that the suburb should be doing more to commemorate that legacy.

As the demolition date draws closer, Mosman residents are left to wonder at the new form of their community and the challenge of striking a balance between heritage preservation and city growth.

Published 13-March-2025

Ormeggio at The Spit: Exquisite Seafood with Stunning Views in Mosman

Photo Credit: Ormeggio/Facebook

Ormeggio at The Spit in Mosman offers a refined Italian dining experience featuring sustainable seafood, innovative cuisine, and stunning Middle Harbour views. This acclaimed restaurant continues to set the standard for contemporary Italian dining in Sydney.

A Culinary Destination with a View

Located in the heart of Mosman, Ormeggio at The Spit blends traditional Italian culinary techniques with modern innovation. The restaurant boasts a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, with diners enjoying some of the best waterside seating in Australia. When guests enter the venue, they are treated to impeccable service, an impressive selection of wines, and dishes celebrating the finest Australian produce.

A Menu Designed for Every Occasion

Ormeggio’s menu highlights fresh, sustainably sourced seafood focusing on refined Italian flavours. Guests can opt for an a la carte experience or from two sharing menus designed to showcase the best of Ormeggio’s offerings.

Ormeggio Classics – $149 per person

A four-course tasting menu featuring:

Baccalà Cappuccino (2012) – Salted cod alla Vicentina, potato foam, cocoa, and spices.
Tonno e Pistacchio (2017) – Yellowfin tuna crudo with Bronte pistachio cream, purple potato chips, and trout roe.
Mezze Maniche (2021) – Seafood Bolognese ragù, béchamel, and Parmigiano-Reggiano chips.
Pesce Spada Cotoletta (2022) – Crumbed and fried MSC swordfish with cured tuna loin, Pyengana cheddar, sage hollandaise, and fresh tomato and caper salad.
Limone Gelato (2020) – Amalfi lemon gelato with candied lemon and Italian meringue.

Tribute to Australian Produce – $279 per person

An elevated seafood experience highlighting local ingredients:

Tonno – Yellowfin tuna, Ulladulla, NSW, with polenta taco, tuna mayonnaise, capers, and pine nuts.
Scampo – Scampi from Port Headland, WA, served on toasted brioche with Russian salad, Oscietra caviar, and cured egg yolk.
Aragosta – Jervis Bay rock lobster prepared three ways.
Granchio – Mud crab from Gladstone, QLD, with Carnaroli risotto, lemon curd, trout roe, and milk protein.
Merluzzo – Aquna Murray Cod from Griffith, NSW, served with green asparagus, bergamot, and almond.
Nocciola – King Valley hazelnut gelato with caramelised banana, coffee, and chocolate crumble.

Vegetarian Menu – $139 per person

A thoughtfully crafted plant-based menu:

Polenta Taco – Vannella mozzarella, pickled green tomato, and walnut.
Eggplant Parmigiana – Smoked eggplant with marinara sauce, herb emulsion, and Sardinian pecorino.
Home-made Tagliolini – Pasta alla Mugnaia with green peas, asparagus, and crispy seaweed.
Amalfi Lemon Gelato – Italian meringue and candied lemon.

Additional Specials

Alessandro’s Weekly Risotto Special – A rotating risotto feature for $79 per person, including a snack, risotto, and lemon gelato.
Stressless Sundays – A four-course ‘Ormeggio Classics’ menu available for $95 per person.

All menus can be paired with a curated wine selection for an enhanced dining experience.

Mosman restaurant — *Photo Credit: Ormeggio at The Spit/Instagram*

VIEW FULL MENU

Exceptional Reviews from Diners

Patrons consistently praise Ormeggio at The Spit for its top-tier food, knowledgeable staff, and breathtaking waterfront views. Guests frequently highlight the impeccable presentation of dishes and the depth of flavour in each course. The restaurant is committed to providing a unique Italian dining experience.

Recent visitors have described the restaurant as a go-to for special occasions. They note the intimate and relaxed atmosphere, the professionalism of the staff, and the seamless blend of traditional Italian techniques with modern culinary artistry. Many also commend the chef’s ability to create a personalised menu. Each dish offers an elevated take on classic Italian flavours.

Private Functions and Exclusive Dining

Ormeggio at The Spit is ideal for weddings, corporate events, and private gatherings. The restaurant offers exclusive hire options and can seat 90 guests or 100 for cocktail-style functions.

Function Spaces:

The Chef’s Table – An intimate space for up to 12 guests with a semi-private setting.
The Deck – A private outdoor dining area for up to 30 seated guests or 40 for cocktail events.
The Dining Room – A vibrant space accommodating up to 54 seated or 70 standing guests.

Group bookings of 8-18 guests can select from pre-designed set menus. Larger gatherings can opt for semi-private or exclusive function options.

Mosman fine dining — *Photo Credit: Ormeggio at The Spit/Instagram*

BOOK A TABLE

Opening Hours and Contact Details

Opening Hours:
Wednesday to Sunday: Lunch from 11:30 a.m. and dinner from 5:30 p.m.

Contact: 02 9969 4088 or info@ormeggio.com.au
Website: ormeggio.com.au

Published 12-Mar-2025