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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

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

Photo Credit: Pexels

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