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Creative Starz Launches Performing Arts Program in Mosman

Photo Credit: Creative Starz Academy /Facebook

A children’s performing arts school is expanding its holiday program to Mosman, offering musical theatre activities designed to build confidence and creativity.

Background and Program Overview

Creative Starz Academy, a performing arts organisation for children, is expanding its musical theatre holiday camps to Mosman this winter. The academy began in Willoughby, later extending to Manly Vale, and is now introducing its seasonal programs to both Mosman and Beacon Hill. Previous camps have featured musical productions such as “Annie,” “Mary Poppins,” and “The Wizard of Oz.”

The academy also runs weekly performing arts classes for children aged 4 to 11.

Winter Camps and Locations

This year’s winter school holiday camps will run across four Sydney suburbs, with the Mosman camp taking place at St Luke’s Anglican Church on Heydon Street from Monday, 7 July to Friday, 11 July 2025.

The Beacon Hill camp will be held at Beacon Hill Public School from Monday, 14 July to Friday, 18 July 2025.

Each program spans five days and culminates in a mini-musical performance, with Mosman students working on “Matilda.” Holiday camp enrolments are open to children aged 6 to 13, with a program cost of $460.

Daily Activities and Schedule

The camps are scheduled from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day, with drop-off available from 8:00 a.m. and pick-up until 5:30 p.m. (except on the final day, which ends at 4:00 p.m.).

Children participate in singing, dancing, and acting in the mornings, while afternoon sessions focus on rehearsals, peer performances, and group activities aimed at building teamwork and problem-solving skills. A final showcase for friends and family is held at the end of the week.

Musical theatre camp in Mosman — *Photo Credit: Creative Starz Academy /Facebook*

Program Philosophy and Educational Goals

Creative Starz Academy does not position itself as a school of excellence but rather promotes inclusive participation for children of all skill levels.

The program is designed to support self-expression, independent thinking, and the development of communication skills. Its philosophy centres on nurturing creativity and fostering self-esteem in a structured but supportive environment.

Future Sessions and Ongoing Expansion

The academy has also confirmed additional holiday programs scheduled for September and October 2025. Details for these upcoming sessions are available on request. With the launch in Mosman and Beacon Hill, Creative Starz continues its growth across Sydney’s northern suburbs.

Published 24-May-2025

Modern Asian Dining Expands in Mosman with Onice Restaurant

Photo Credit: Onice Restaurant/Instagram

Onice, a modern Asian restaurant in Mosman, is attracting attention for its fusion of Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese flavours paired with attentive service.

Background and Opening

Located at 161 Middle Head Road, Onice opened in February as a new addition to Mosman’s dining scene. Founded by Alex Nguyen, who previously worked as a flight attendant, the venue began as a daytime café before shifting to a full modern Asian menu in response to strong customer demand.

Mr Nguyen prioritised a welcoming atmosphere, offering both lunch and dinner daily in a space designed with glowing wall lamps, padded banquettes, and timber furnishings.

Mosman dining scene — *Photo Credit: Onice Mosman/Instagram*

Menu Overview and Culinary Focus

Onice’s menu blends influences from Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese cuisines. Entrées include dishes such as betel leaf-wrapped wagyu beef, grilled lamb cutlets, and sizzling scallops with nam prik pao butter.

Larger plates feature twice-cooked beef ribs with Penang curry, grilled Skull Island prawns with XO butter, and turmeric chicken with lemongrass and chilli. Two “Feed Me” options, priced at $89 and $119 per person, offer curated selections for shared dining.

Mosman Asian restaurant — *Photo Credit: Onice Mosman/Instagram*

Vegetarian choices include chilli salt tofu and wok-fried seasonal greens. Sweets range from matcha cheesecake to Vietnamese crème caramel. Drinks include a concise list of wines, boutique beers and limited non-alcoholic options. The restaurant also offers BYO on Sundays.

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Public Feedback and Community Response

Patrons have praised both the food and the service. Reviews describe the atmosphere as quiet and relaxed, with one diner noting the attentive care shown by staff during colder weather. Dishes such as sweet and sticky chicken wings, crispy pork salad, and special fried rice with prawn and scallop have received positive mentions.

Customers also highlighted the venue as a welcome replacement for a former Japanese restaurant previously located at the same site.

Parking is considered accessible, with nearby council parking offering the first two hours free. Visitors also noted the extensive wine list for a venue of its size, including bottles from regions such as Adelaide Hills and Margaret River.

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Looking Ahead

Onice continues to operate seven days a week, with hopes from returning customers that the lunch offerings will further evolve. With consistent service and a diverse menu, it has quickly positioned itself as a notable new dining venue in Mosman.

Published 20-May-2025

Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn 2025 to Take Over Mosman for Children’s Health

Photo Credit: Humpty Dumpty Foundation/Facebook

One of Australia’s steepest residential streets will become a sea of colour, laughter and sweat as the Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn 2025 brings thousands together in Mosman for a race that raises vital funds for children’s health.

More Than Just a Race

Set for Sunday, 25 May, the 23rd Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn will see families, schools, athletes and even pets tackle the 420-metre Awaba Street climb to raise funds for vital children’s medical equipment.

*Photo Credit: Humpty Dumpty Foundation/Facebook*

More than a fun run, the Balmoral Burn is a community event backing better care for sick kids, with over $35 million raised since 2001 for 500+ hospitals nationwide.

While elite runners chase King and Queen of the Hill titles, many others join simply to be part of the day. Events cater to all levels, from family relays and the No Burn Walk to the always-popular Pet and Owner Race.

A Morning Packed With Colour and Character

This year’s program features over 20 races from 8:10 a.m. to midday, including the crowd-favourite Run Baby Run, where participants tackle the hill in inflatable baby suits to honour premature and sick newborns.

Other favourites include the colour-filled Celebration Run and Corporate Relays, where local teams compete in friendly rivalry. Adding to the energy are appearances from event founder Phil Kearns AM, Nine’s Amber Sherlock, and Mosman distance runner Ed Goddard.

Giving That Goes the Distance

The Balmoral Burn is all about impact, with fundraising rewards like race entries, merchandise, lunches, and even a visit to the Humpty Dumpty Foundation. Those who raise $10,000 or more earn a personal thank you from Phil Kearns.

Every dollar helps place urgently needed equipment into hospitals, from portable oxygen machines to neonatal monitors, changing the lives of sick children and their families across Australia.

How to Get Involved

Registration is open now at www.balmoralburn.com.au, with entry prices ranging from $15 to $60 depending on the race. Community groups, families, schools and individuals are all encouraged to sign up, donate or cheer from the sidelines.

The Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn 2025 runs from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, 25 May. It’s a chance to race, walk or simply cheer for a great cause in the heart of Mosman.

Published 20-May-2025

New Mosman Mega Lot Signals Shift in Cowles Rd Housing

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A combined residential site on Cowles Road in Mosman has been listed for approximately $40 million, becoming the latest large-scale amalgamation influenced by recent state planning reforms.

LMR Policy Sparks Redevelopment Surge

A large-scale property listing on Cowles Road, Mosman, marks the sixth major amalgamation in the suburb since February. Nine adjacent homeowners from 92 to 108 Cowles Road have unified their properties into a 2,151-square-metre block. The move aligns with the NSW Government’s updated Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy, designed to facilitate more diverse residential development in key areas.

These changes, introduced on 28 February 2025, permit higher-density projects within 800 metres of designated town centres and public transport. Cowles Road falls within this zone, making it eligible for the new development controls.

Mosman property development — Caption: 92 Cowles Road, Mosman
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Development Potential and Valuation

Selling agents JLL described the site as suitable for a six-storey residential project, with an estimated gross floor area of up to 4,732 square metres and a maximum allowable building height of 22 metres. Market expectations suggest the parcel could achieve as much as $43 million, depending on buyer interest and development conditions.

The proposal includes potential for harbour and city views from upper levels, subject to council approval. The current listing follows three other ongoing amalgamations in the same street: 65–77 Cowles Road (1,858 sqm), 74–78 Cowles Road with 17a–19 Wudgong Street (2,355 sqm), and 138–144 Cowles Road (1,664 sqm).

Strategic Policy Context

The NSW Government’s Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy aims to deliver 112,000 new dwellings over five years across Greater Sydney, the Central Coast, Lower Hunter, Newcastle, and the Illawarra-Shoalhaven. Stage 2 of the policy expanded housing types allowed in mid-rise zones, including terraces, townhouses, and apartments.

Mosman housing — *Caption: 100 Cowles Road, Mosman*
*Photo Credit: Google Maps*

This policy sits under the broader State Environmental Planning Policy (Housing) 2021 framework and responds to the state’s ongoing housing supply targets.

Property Details and Ownership

The Cowles Road listing comprises eight semi-detached dwellings and one free-standing house, with individual lot sizes ranging between 205 and 491 square metres. Among the nine properties, 102 Cowles Road is owned by the Anglican Church, which bought it in 1986. The most recent transaction was for 92 Cowles Road, purchased in 2021 for $2.715 million.

Some homeowners who bought prior to 2010 may stand to gain significantly if the amalgamated site reaches the upper price estimate.

property listing — Caption: 104 Cowles Road, Mosman
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Local Response and Implications

Mosman official Marie Kimber stated that Council has limited authority to oppose developments that meet the new planning criteria. She noted that the LMR reforms are expected to alter the character of Mosman and similar suburbs across Sydney.

With increasing demand for well-located housing and relaxed density controls, further amalgamations may continue to reshape the area’s residential landscape.

Published 11-May-2025

World-Class Baroque Musicians to Perform Pastoral Concert in Mosman Art Gallery

Photo Credit: Humanitix

An ensemble of internationally recognised musicians will present an intimate concert of Baroque pastoral music on historical instruments at the Mosman Art Gallery, bringing the sounds of 17th and 18th-century Italy and Germany directly to the local community.

Concert Details and Theme

The event, titled “Pastoral Fantasies: A Baroque Journey through Italy and Germany,” is scheduled for Sunday, 8 June, 2025, beginning at 3:00 PM. Hosted at the Mosman Art Gallery & Community Centre, located at 1 Art Gallery Way, Mosman, the performance is expected to last between one and a half to two hours. The concert aims to take listeners on a musical exploration centred around the theme of pastoral landscapes as imagined by composers of the Baroque era.

Featured Composers and Music

The programme will feature works from some of the period’s most prominent composers. Audiences can expect to hear music by German composers Georg Philipp Telemann, George Frideric Handel, and Johann Sebastian Bach, alongside Italian composers Arcangelo Corelli and Pietro Locatelli. The use of period instruments aims to provide an authentic listening experience, presenting the intricate beauty of Baroque compositions in a setting true to the time.

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Meet the Ensemble

A quartet of highly accomplished musicians will perform these works. Adele Ohki will play the baroque violin. Ms Ohki studied extensively in Canberra and the United States, earning a Master’s in baroque violin from Boston University. She has performed with numerous orchestras and ensembles in the US before returning to Australia in 2020. She serves as Head of Strings at Newington College, Sydney, and performs with leading Australian ensembles.

Melissa Farrow, recognised as a leading Australian baroque flutist, will perform on Baroque flute. She holds principal flute positions with the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra and Haydn Ensemble and performs regularly with other major Australian groups. Ms Farrow studied historical flute performance in Sydney and Europe and teaches at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.

*Photo Credit:* *Rosemary Quinn/ Facebook*

Rosemary Quinn will perform on the Baroque cello. Ms Quinn is confirmed as the cellist for this specific “Pastoral Fantasies” concert, joining the ensemble for the performance. Further biographical details were not available in the information provided.

Anthony Hamad will play the harpsichord. Mr Hamad focuses on historical keyboard instruments from the 17th and 18th centuries, incorporating historical performance practices into his playing.

He studied in Sydney and the Royal Conservatory in The Hague and performs regularly with prominent Australian early music ensembles, including the Muffat Collective, the Australian Haydn Ensemble, and the Australian Romantic and Classical Orchestra. He also teaches musicology and historical performance at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.

Published Date 06-May-2025

Wildlife Teaching Hospital Underway in Mosman

Photo Credit: SSD-33211326

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