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Mosman Among Sydney’s Top Water Wasters as Usage Hits Five-Year High

According to newly released data from Sydney Water, Mosman residents are among the highest water consumers. They use nearly 65,000 litres more than the average Sydney home.

Sydney’s Water Usage Reaches Record High

Sydney Water has reported a significant rise in water consumption across the city. Mosman, Hunters Hill, and Ku-ring-gai are among the top five water-consuming suburbs and Woollahra recorded the highest usage. Woollahra averaged 304,000 litres per household annually.

Between December 2024 and January 2025, Sydney Water supplied over 99 million litres of water across Sydney, the Blue Mountains, and the Illawarra. An increase of nearly 5% compared to the same period last year has been noticed.

Sydney Water’s Conservation Manager, Suhanti Thirunavukarasu, highlighted the importance of mindful water use during the hotter months when demand rises.

How Mosman Compares to Other Sydney Suburbs

New data reveals that Mosman households consume an average of 267,000 litres of water annually. In contrast, the water-conscious suburb of Kiama uses just 146,000 litres per household.

The top five water-consuming suburbs in Sydney include:

Woollahra: 304,000 litres per household
Hunters Hill: 277,000 litres per household
Mosman: 267,000 litres per household
Ku-ring-gai: 247,000 litres per household
Strathfield: 245,000 litres per household

On the other hand, some of the most water-efficient suburbs include:

Blacktown: 206,000 litres per household
Parramatta: 205,000 litres per household
Penrith: 205,000 litres per household
Campbelltown: 202,000 litres per household
Inner West: 172,000 litres per household
Blue Mountains: 160,000 litres per household
Kiama: 146,000 litres per household

The Push for Water Conservation

Sydney Water has urged residents to be more mindful of their usage. Small habits like leaving hoses running or taking long showers contribute to rising demand.

The agency has planned a $30 billion investment over the next decade to upgrade and expand water and wastewater networks, catering to Sydney’s growing population and increasing water needs.

Mosman water usage — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Future Implications and Next Steps

Sydney Water emphasises the importance of conservation efforts to prevent future shortages as water demand is climbing. Dam levels remain steady. Still, ongoing monitoring and sustainable practices are essential for long-term water security.

Residents are encouraged to adopt water-saving practices at home. Limiting shower times, fixing leaks, and using efficient irrigation systems are suggested to reduce unnecessary waste.

Published 7-Mar-2025

Man Rescued After Crash Causes Chaos on Mosman’s Spit Bridge

Photo Credit: Shell Massage-Avalon/Facebook

A serious collision on Mosman’s Spit Bridge in Sydney has left a man trapped in a crushed car, causing major traffic disruptions.

Man Rescued Following Truck and Car Crash Brings Havoc to Mosman, Sydney

A man was pulled out from a crashed car after a catastrophic collision with a truck on Spit Bridge in Sydney’s Mosman, causing enormous traffic congestion and stranding several commuters. The emergency responders rushed to pull out the man from the crashed vehicle since he was pinned inside.

Operation for Emergency Rescue

An ambulance helicopter, police, paramedics, and Fire and Rescue NSW were among the emergency services that arrived at the scene of the accident. At around 7:30 am on Monday, the victim, a man in his 40s, was trapped beneath the truck in his own car, which was completely destroyed in the collision.

While paramedics attempted to stabilize the wounded, firefighters used hand and hydraulic tools to chip away at the wreckage. After being saved, the man was taken to Royal North Shore Hospital on a stretcher. The man is stable, according to the reports.

Photo Credit: Shell Massage-Avalon/Facebook

Traffic Disruptions

The crash created havoc for morning traffic as the southbound lane on the Spit Bridge was closed, leading to heavy traffic congestion. Dozens of commuters were stranded, with buses stalled on the Burnt Bridge Deviation at Seaforth.

Numerous commuters deserted their bus routes in favour of other routes. Diversions were established, and Manly Road was still closed at Sydney Road.

Advice to Motorists

The authorities have asked Northern Beaches and lower North Shore commuters to steer clear of the roads and instead use ferry services from Manly if they were heading to Sydney’s CBD. They also cautioned that police investigation at the site would take time, and delays would persist.

Community Impact

The incident has raised concern over the need for road safety, particularly for busy roads like the Spit Bridge. Residents raised concern over the disruption of traffic, affecting residents and businesses within the locality.

Rescue operations have been commended for their response in saving the man and handling the scene under massive weather conditions.

Published 26-February-2025

World’s Best Restaurant Returns to Mosman for Exclusive Residency at Bathers’ Pavilion

Photo Credit: Bathers' Pavilion

Sydney’s fine dining scene is set for an extraordinary winter as L’Enclume, the world’s top-ranked restaurant, returns to Mosman for an exclusive six-week residency at Bathers’ Pavilion.

With its three Michelin stars and recent ranking as the No.1 restaurant in the world by La Liste, the British restaurant, led by renowned chef Simon Rogan, will transform the waterfront venue into a culinary destination from 16 July to 24 August 2025.

A Culinary Legacy: L’Enclume’s Return to Mosman

L’Enclume is originally based in Cartmel, Cumbria, UK. It is celebrated for its farm-to-table philosophy, sourcing the finest produce to craft innovative, multi-course tasting menus. Chef Rogan, who now holds nine Michelin stars across his restaurant group, introduced Australian diners to his visionary cuisine in 2023. The five-week residency at Bathers’ Pavilion in 2023 was a sell-out success, drawing thousands of eager diners and receiving widespread acclaim.

Building on that momentum, Chef Rogan and his team will again take over Bathers’ Pavilion. They will bring expert chefs, signature dishes, and impeccable service to Mosman’s stunning Balmoral Beach.

What to Expect from L’Enclume’s Residency

Diners at the L’Enclume x Bathers’ Pavilion residency will indulge in an exclusive 14-course tasting menu. It is priced at $590 per person, with optional wine and non-alcoholic pairings available. The menu is expected to feature locally sourced ingredients. With limited bookings, guests are encouraged to reserve their tables early, as Friday and Saturday sessions are already heavily booked. However, midweek and Sunday bookings still have availability.

Key Details:

Residency Dates: 16 July – 24 August 2025
Location: Bathers’ Pavilion, Mosman
Service Days: Wednesday – Sunday, lunch and dinner
Booking Options: Via Bathers’ Pavilion website or by phone (02 9969 5050)

BOOK A TABLE

L’Enclume’s Impact and the Bathers’ Pavilion Collaboration

Chef Rogan and his team are returning to Bathers’ Pavilion with the goal of delivering an even more ambitious dining experience, building on the overwhelming success of their first Sydney residency.

The partnership between L’Enclume and Bathers’ Pavilion has been years in the making. Both teams work closely to ensure a seamless blend of British culinary excellence and the unique setting of Balmoral Beach. This collaboration continues to elevate Sydney’s position as a global dining hub.

L’Enclume Mosman — *Photo Credit: L’Enclume/Instagram*

Dietary Requirements

L’Enclume accommodates most dietary needs with advance notice. Due to the complexity of the menu, requests cannot be accommodated on the day. Guests are advised to specify dietary restrictions when booking to ensure the kitchen can prepare accordingly.

A Rare Opportunity for Sydney’s Dining Scene

The L’Enclume residency at Bathers’ Pavilion is set to be one of the most exclusive culinary events of the year. It will offer Sydney food lovers a rare opportunity to experience a world-class dining institution without leaving Australia.

For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime gastronomic experience in Mosman, securing a reservation at L’Enclume’s six-week residency is an opportunity not to be missed.

Published 20-Feb-2025

Blue-Ringed Octopus Alert Issued for Balmoral Beach

Photo Credit: Facebook / Mosman Council

Multiple blue-ringed octopus bites reported at Balmoral Beach have prompted Mosman Council to issue a public warning to beachgoers.

Mosman Council confirmed they received notification from Royal North Shore Hospital about several bite cases occurring at Balmoral Beach within the past week. “Council was notified by Royal North Shore Hospital that many cases had occurred, to allow Council to provide information to the community to raise awareness about taking care in these areas,” a council spokesperson stated.

The blue-ringed octopus, one of the world’s most venomous marine creatures, poses a significant threat to visitors at Balmoral. These octopuses typically inhabit the rocky areas and tidal pools that characterise parts of the beach, creating potential danger zones for unwary swimmers and beachcombers.

What makes the situation at Balmoral particularly concerning is the octopus’s deceptive appearance. The creatures only display their characteristic blue rings when threatened, meaning they can be easily mistaken for ordinary brown octopuses until it’s too late.

While the Northern Sydney Local Health District hasn’t confirmed specific incidents, they acknowledged that such bites do occur in the Balmoral area periodically.

Health officials emphasise that anyone bitten at Balmoral should seek immediate medical assistance, as the venom can cause paralysis and respiratory failure. Symptoms to watch for include a painless bite mark with visible blood, numbness around the mouth and face, muscle weakness, and breathing difficulties.

Balmoral Beach remains open, but visitors are advised to exercise caution, particularly when exploring rocky areas or tidal pools where these creatures typically reside.

Published 12-February-2025

Bull Sharks Spotted in Mosman: Dog Owners Urged to Stay Cautious

Photo Credit: My Dog Site

Authorities are warning Mosman dog owners to keep their pets out of the water after three bull sharks appeared near Spit West Reserve.

The sharks circled close to D’Albora Marina, just metres from a popular dog swimming spot on 1 Feb.

Rising water temperatures have drawn sharks closer to shore, sparking concerns among residents.

Eyewitnesses Describe Close Encounter

A local boat owner, preparing for a fishing trip on Saturday, spotted the sharks around 1pm. He described the water as crystal clear, making the sharks easy to see.He also noticed that one of the sharks had a tag on its dorsal fin, likely from a research program.

Bull sharks — *Spit West Reserve*
Photo Credit: *CRS*

With the harbour’s water temperature at 26 degrees, he urged pet owners to think twice before letting their dogs swim.

He suggested that Sandy Bay in Clontarf is a safer option because of its shallow water. However, he added that he would not let his dog into the harbour this summer.

Bull Sharks Are More Active Now

Marine experts say bull sharks thrive in warm water, making Sydney Harbour a hotspot during summer when temperatures rise between 20 and 26 degrees. When the water cools below 19 degrees, these sharks migrate north to Queensland.

Lawrence Chlebeck, a marine biologist with Humane Society International Australia, emphasised that understanding shark behaviour can help people avoid danger.

How to Stay Safe Around Bull Sharks

Chlebeck shared key tips for swimmers and dog owners:

Avoid swimming at dawn, dusk, or night
Stick to designated swimming enclosures for extra safety.
Stay out of murky or polluted water
Watch for fish activity since diving seabirds often signal the presence of bait fish, which can attract sharks.

Chlebeck said that bull sharks likely were not hunting for food, but were exploring the surroundings.

Climate Change May Bring More Sharks to Sydney

Macquarie University shark expert Professor Culum Brown believes climate change will increase shark activity in Sydney Harbour.

As the climate warms, water temperatures will stay higher for longer, leading to increased appearance of bull sharks in Sydney Harbour and nearby estuaries, he added.

Recent Shark Attacks in Sydney

While fatal shark attacks remain rare, Sydney has seen several serious incidents in recent years.

In February 2022, a great white shark killed British diving instructor Simon Nellist off Little Bay. It was Sydney’s first fatal shark attack since 1963.

In January 2024, a bull shark attacked 29-year-old Lauren O’Neill at Elizabeth Bay, causing severe leg injuries and significant blood loss. The attack happened in water above 25 degrees before 8 p.m.

With ocean temperatures rising and shark sightings increasing, authorities urge swimmers and pet owners to stay alert.

For now, Mosman locals should keep their dogs on dry land—or at least stick to safer, shallow areas like Sandy Bay.

Published 4-Feb-2025

Renters Entitled to Free Parking at Sydney’s Beaches to Ensure Fairness

Photo Credit: Flickr

Free parking for renters at some of Sydney’s beaches is being offered to address cost-of-living pressures and promote fairness. If implemented, the plan would cover renters in the Mosman and Northern Beaches, giving them equal access to permits currently provided free or at low cost to homeowners.

Free Parking Proposal for Renters

On 23 January Roads Minister John Graham held a surprise press conference to announce the plan, pushing for reforms that would extend beach parking permits to renters in the Northern Beaches and Mosman.

Currently, renters in the Northern Beaches pay $250 for a foreshore parking sticker that allows them to park at the 40 beaches. Meanwhile, homeowners receive two permits for free and can purchase two additional ones.

In Mosman, renters pay $61 annually for a permit, while homeowners enjoy free parking access at four beach car parks.

Free Parking Plan Receive Council Criticisms and Financial Concerns

However, local councils raised concerns about the proposal, with mayors from Mosman and Northern Beaches criticising the lack of consultation and warning of the financial burden it could impose on ratepayers.

Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heines called the announcement “blindsiding,” emphasizing that local leaders were never consulted on the proposal. She questioned why the minister did not engage in discussions beforehand.

Mayor Heines estimates the plan would cost ratepayers $500,000 annually. She explained that local councils would love to offer free parking but beach and infrastructure maintenance cost ratepayers.

In Mosman, Mayor Ann Marie Kimber said that her council was not aware of the free parking for renters. While waiting for the final proposed details she urged the Minns government to focus on addressing broader housing affordability issues.

Current Beach Parking Fees and Usage

Without a permit, Sydneysiders face parking fees of up to $10 per hour at popular beaches such as Manly and Balmoral. At Bondi Beach, locals are charged to $10.80.

These charges help cover the costs of beach maintenance, staffing, and safety infrastructure, which councils say cannot be easily absorbed without revenue from permits.

Next Steps: Consultation with Councils

Mayor Heines seeks urgent convening with Minister Graham to discuss how would the government intends to fund the concept.

While there is acknowledgment of financial challenges, the government maintains its commitment to equal beach access for renters and homeowners, describing the initiative as a necessary step towards fairness.

Published 29-Jan-2025

ALDI Ice Cream Truck Brings Summer Treats from 36 cents in Mosman

Photo Credit: ALDI

Mosman residents are in for a delightful surprise this summer as the ALDI Ice Cream Truck makes its way to Balmoral Reserve offering frozen treats starting at just 36 cents.

This special one-day event combines summer nostalgia with budget-friendly prices, giving the local community a chance to cool down without overspending on Thursday, 30 January.

ALDI Ice Cream Truck Rolls This Summer

Andrew King, ALDI Australia’s Buying Director, explained the motivation behind the initiative: “ALDI’s Ice Cream Truck is delivering extra sweet savings this summer, so Aussies can beat the heat without breaking the bank.”

The truck’s menu features favourites like the Summer Delight and Tropical and Rainbow Stackerz, with no treat priced over $1. And for those unable to visit the truck, the same products are available at ALDI stores.

Where to Find this Affordable Treat This Summer

The ALDI Ice Cream Truck will stop at these locations:

Sydney: Balmoral Reserve, Mosman | Thursday, 30 January, 11am–3pm
Melbourne: Green Point Reserve, Brighton | Sunday, 2 February, 11am–3pm
Sunshine Coast: Alexandra Heads Surf Life Saving Club | Saturday, 8 February, 11am–3pm

Proceeds Supporting a Worthy Cause

All sales from the truck will go to Camp Quality, ALDI’s charity partner, to support children with cancer and their families.

ALDI’s Budget-Friendly Ice Cream Range

Local residents can still enjoy these frozen treats by picking them up at ALDI stores, where they’re sold at the same low prices:

Milfina Mini Yogurt Sticks: 36c per serve ($4.99 for a 14 pack in ALDI stores)
Milfina Choc Coats: 40c per serve ($3.99 for a 10 pack in ALDI stores)
Milfina Spider Stix: 50c per serve ($4.99 for a 10 pack in ALDI stores)
Milfina Plat-A-Pop (Chocolate and Rainbow flavours): 62c per serve ($4.99 for an 8 pack in ALDI stores)
Milfina Stackerz (Tropical and Rainbow flavours): 62c per serve ($4.99 for an 8 pack in ALDI stores)
Milfina Jelli Pop: 83c per serve (4.99 for a 6 pack in ALDI stores)
Monarc Crowns Cone: 92c per serve ($3.69 for a 4 pack in ALDI stores)
Milfina Polar bar (Original and Cookies and Cream flavours): 95c per serve ($3.79 for a 4 pack in ALDI stores)
Milfina Summer Delight: $1 per serve ($5.99 for a 6 pack in ALDI stores)

Published 27-Jan-2025

Easter Products Appear Early in Mosman Woolworths

Photo Credit: Pixabay

A Mosman Woolworths shopper has sparked debate after sharing photos of Easter products already on display at the Lower North Shore store in early January, just days after Christmas.

The customer photographed shelves stocked with Cadbury Easter bunnies, Dairy Milk Easter eggs, and Turkish Delight Easter eggs. “Give it a break,” they wrote in their social media post.

The premature appearance of seasonal items, including hot cross buns spotted on Boxing Day, has drawn criticism from customers concerned about the commercialisation of religious holidays.

Woolworths confirmed that while most Easter products will launch in March ahead of Easter Sunday on April 20, they offer a limited selection from January. A spokesperson said this allows customers to spread their holiday spending over a longer period.

The supermarket chain plans to introduce new varieties in March, including ‘Cinnabon’ hot cross buns with cream cheese filling and cinnamon swirl. This follows their previous successful launches of fairy bread and Caramilk flavoured options.

Woolworths has also announced plans to stock Australia Day merchandise this year, reversing their previous position. Their stores will feature a “Perfect for Australia Day” section, including Australian-made Australian flags and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags, with additional themed products available through their online marketplace platforms.

Published 8-January-2025

Mosman Reigns Supreme in Sydney’s Housing Market with Record Sales in 2024

Mosman, renowned for its stunning views, proximity to the city, and luxurious lifestyle, has claimed the top spot in Sydney’s housing market for the second consecutive year.

Read: Mosman Property Prices Keep Climbing, and Locals Are Feeling the Pressure

According to CoreLogic’s Best of the Best Australia 2024 report, Mosman achieved the highest total value of house sales in the city, surpassing even its traditionally pricier counterparts.

Photo credit: Christine Chiong-Hamis/Google Maps

In the 12 months leading up to September 2024, Mosman recorded an impressive $1.65 billion in sales value, a significant leap from the previous year’s $1.4 billion. This surge in sales was driven by a total of 238 houses sold, with the median sale price reaching a substantial $5.5 million.

The suburb’s robust performance has demonstrated the enduring appeal of its prime location and diverse housing options, solidifying its status as one of Sydney’s most sought-after addresses.

Why Mosman Continues to Draw Buyers

Photo credit: The Traveler (Going Places)/Google Maps

Michael Coombs of Atlas Mosman noted that the suburb is increasingly in demand due to its combination of luxurious estates, waterfront family homes, and its proximity to the city, making it an attractive choice for many buyers.

The area’s strong appeal is evident not only among local buyers but also among international expats. Mr Coombs noted that this year saw a significant increase in expat buyers, nearly doubling compared to 2023, and making up about 30 percent of the market share.

This influx of expat buyers contributed to a surge in activity at the beginning of 2024, with Mosman’s sales office recording a remarkable $300 million in transactions during February and March alone. The suburb’s blend of high-end properties, natural beauty, and central location near the CBD has proven to be an irresistible combination.

Eliza Owen, Head of Research at CoreLogic, explained that Mosman’s success is a direct result of the suburb’s higher price points and large sales volumes. The report reveals that while some suburbs saw a pullback in buyer interest, Mosman continued to draw significant investment, largely thanks to its mix of prestigious homes and strong market stability.

The Mosman Lifestyle: A Place to Live, Not Just Invest

What makes Mosman truly desirable isn’t just its real estate value—it’s the lifestyle it offers. Located just 8 kilometers from Sydney’s central business district, Mosman is close enough to the city to be convenient but far enough to feel like an oasis of calm. The suburb is home to some of Sydney’s most iconic attractions, including Balmoral Beach, Taronga Zoo, and numerous parks offering expansive views over the harbor.

Taronga Zoo (Photo credit: Anusha Ramgoolam/Google Maps)

Residents often describe Mosman as a family-friendly suburb, with a wealth of outdoor activities, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community. One local shared, “Mosman is where I grew up and holds many happy memories for me. It is a family-friendly suburb that offers a myriad of outdoor parks, beaches, and spots of natural beauty overlooking the harbours of Sydney.”

Another added, “Mosman is an amazing suburb which I have grown up in and where I am currently raising my 4 children. The neighbours are very friendly and helpful, the streets, park, and beach are always kept spotless, and the schools and childcare facilities are outstanding.”

These personal testimonials reflect the strong community spirit and lifestyle offerings that continue to make Mosman one of the most desirable locations in Sydney.

Looking Ahead

As Mosman retains its crown as the top performer in Sydney’s housing market, it’s clear that the suburb’s appeal is set to continue well into the future. Whether it’s the prestige of owning a grand waterfront estate or the lifestyle of being close to both nature and the city, Mosman remains a coveted destination for buyers, investors, and families alike.

Read: Critically Endangered Species Find New Home At Mosman’s Taronga Zoo

With a proven track record of strong sales and increasing buyer interest, particularly from expats, Mosman will undoubtedly remain one of the most dynamic and valuable suburbs in Sydney’s housing market.

Published 31-December-2024

Mosman Property Prices Keep Climbing, and Locals Are Feeling the Pressure

Photo Credit: MC/Facebook

Mosman, one of the city’s most well-known harbourside suburbs, is seeing property prices hit eye-watering heights, and it’s starting to weigh on long-term residents.

Mosman property prices — *Photo Credit: Mosman/Wikipedia*

Prices Are Sky High

Property values in Mosman have skyrocketed in the past ten years. Units currently average $1.425 million, while the median home price is $5.875 million. At 11.37% for homes and 8.78% for apartments, growth rates are still robust. However, it’s not just purchases that are expensive; mortgage repayments typically total more than $4,000 per month, and growing maintenance expenses and stamp duties are making matters worse.

For retirees and long-term locals, the financial pressure is becoming harder to ignore. Downsizing within Mosman isn’t always an option either, with unit prices now sitting firmly in the million-dollar range.

The Mosman Lifestyle Still Shines

Mosman suburb showcasing premium lifestyle — *Photo Credit: MC/Facebook*

Mosman is still one of Sydney’s most desirable suburbs for a reason, despite the financial strain. The area’s charm is hard to top thanks to improvements like the renovated Mosman Wharf, the Chinamans Beach and Balmoral playgrounds, and the updated Mosman Art Gallery. Improvements have also been made to public transportation, with more frequent bus services making it simpler to travel into the central business district.

On weekends, Balmoral Beach remains packed with families, while the village cafés buzz with locals enjoying brunch. It’s these little details that keep Mosman so highly valued, even amidst the financial pressures.

Mosman suburb lifestyle — *Photo Credit: Balmoral Beach/Wikipedia*

Changing Faces of Mosman

It’s difficult to ignore the changing demographics of the suburb. Getting a foot in the door is becoming more and more difficult for younger families and first-time homebuyers. High-end real estate is being seized by investors and high-earners, which is progressively changing the sense of community in Mosman.

People who have lived in Mosman for decades are beginning to face difficult decisions. For some, the only practical choice is to sell up and relocate to a less expensive area.

Comparisons to Other Markets

In comparison, areas like the Gold Coast offer significantly lower median house prices, currently sitting around $1.17 million. Developments in suburbs such as Isle of Capri and Bundall provide modern luxury homes at a fraction of Mosman prices. The cost savings, paired with a relaxed coastal lifestyle, are becoming an increasingly appealing option for those priced out of Sydney’s premium market.

Mosman property market report and trends — *Photo Credit: MC/Facebook*

What Lies Ahead?

Experts reckon Mosman prices will keep heading upwards. Demand is strong, stock is limited, and there’s no shortage of interest from affluent buyers. But with affordability remaining a serious issue, the suburb’s character might continue to shift over time.

Published 29-Dec-2024