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Storm Causes Chaos in Double Bay: Cars Damaged by Fallen Tree

Photo Credit: Gabriella Neuang-keo/Facebook

Double Bay experienced chaos overnight as a large candlenut tree fell onto multiple cars on Ocean Avenue, causing significant damage.

The State Emergency Service (SES) responded to over 40 incidents in the city between the evening of 6 January 2025 and the morning of 7 January 2025.

*Photo Credit: Gabriella Neuang-keo/Facebook*

Background and Context

Double Bay, a picturesque suburb in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, faced unexpected challenges due to the recent wild weather. Shortly after midnight on 6 January, a band of cloud brought a cool change, driving rain and thunderstorms across New South Wales (NSW). The storm, driven by a low-pressure trough, caused heavy rainfall and strong winds, impacting central and inland NSW.

The Incident

Emergency services were called to Ocean Avenue in Double Bay shortly after midnight following reports of a tree falling across the road and hitting a car. The road was temporarily blocked as emergency services worked to clear the path. Local resident Matt reported hearing a loud crash around midnight of 6 January and found a huge tree across the street.

Another local resident, Sarah Leven, remarked that the tree might have toppled around the same time. She was woken by the sound of machinery working to remove it.

Gabriella Neuang-keo, whose car was damaged by the fallen tree, posted on social media, stating that the incident might have happened during the night of 6 January and morning of 7 January. She wasn’t sure of the exact time, but the tree was removed in the early hours of 7 January.

Ocean Avenue is a popular parking street, and it was fortunate that more cars were not damaged. No injuries have been reported.

Damaged car in Double Bay. — *Photo Credit: Gabriella Neuang-keo/Facebook*

Community Impact

Residents in NSW made 57 calls for assistance to the SES on 6 January 2025, mostly due to trees falling onto power lines, roads, and houses. The incident has raised concerns among residents about the safety of trees in the area. Woollahra officials are investigating the cause of the fallen tree and working to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Fallen tree on cars in Double Bay after storm. — *Photo Credit: Gabriella Neuang-keo/Facebook*

Storm Overview

Heavy rain and strong winds led to trees toppling across various parts of NSW and Greater Sydney. A spokesperson for SES said teams were working to resolve any remaining incidents, as more storms are anticipated to smash through the state.

Rainfall totals were not extreme, with Sydney recording 13mm of rain, but the fast-moving thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are expected to continue throughout the week, potentially bringing damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and hail to the region.

Current Weather

Sydney is currently experiencing cloudy skies and a high chance of showers. The weather forecast predicts that showers will continue, with possible thunderstorms in the coming days.

Next Steps

As the SES continues to respond to incidents, residents should remain vigilant and report any fallen trees or hazards to local authorities. City officials are also considering ways to improve tree care and safety in the area.

The storm in Double Bay has highlighted the importance of being prepared and raising community awareness during severe weather events. While the SES and local authorities work to mitigate the immediate effects, residents are reminded to stay safe and report any problems as soon as possible.

Published 9-Jan-2025

Double Bay Tops Christmas Champagne Sales at Dan Murphy’s

Photo Credit: Dan Murphy's Double Bay/Facebook

Double Bay has officially claimed the title of Australia’s top champagne consumer during the Christmas season, with Dan Murphy’s reporting record-breaking sales in the harbourside suburb.

Double Bay champagne sales — *Photo Credit: Dan Murphy’s Double Bay/Facebook*

A Festive Favourite in Double Bay

Champagne has long been a staple in Double Bay’s festive celebrations, and last Christmas was no exception. According to Dan Murphy’s, the Double Bay store outperformed every other location in the country in champagne sales during the holiday period. With a mix of luxury French labels and premium Australian sparkling wines flying off the shelves, it’s clear the locals know how to celebrate in style.

Top Champagne Picks in Double Bay

Two standout champagnes dominated the festive tables in Double Bay:

Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial ($54.90): Known for its refined elegance and smooth finish, this classic label remains a crowd favourite.
Veuve Clicquot NV ($64.99): With its bold and distinctive flavour, this iconic champagne continues to be a top choice for celebrations.

These premium champagnes reflect Double Bay’s preference for quality and tradition during the festive season.

Double Bay champagne sales highlight holiday trends — *Photo Credit: Dan Murphy’s*

Sparkling Success: Local Favourites

While champagne reigned supreme, Australian sparkling wines also held their ground. Double Bay shoppers showed strong support for two sparkling labels:

Chandon Brut NV ($24.99): Crisp and refreshing, this remains a go-to sparkling option.
Jansz Premium Cuvee ($24.99): Known for its balance and finesse, this Tasmanian sparkling wine continues to impress.

These selections highlight a trend where locals are embracing both international luxury and high-quality local alternatives.

Shifting Tastes and Festive Trends

Dan Murphy’s noted that while champagne remains the drink of choice for celebrations, premium Australian sparkling wines have been gaining traction. With rising champagne prices and the growing reputation of local sparkling wines, many customers are finding value and quality in homegrown options.

Ed Carr, chief winemaker at Tasmania’s House of Arras, highlighted the decades-long effort to elevate Australian sparkling wine standards. Mr Carr said that over time, Australian sparkling wine producers have fine-tuned their techniques, creating wines with complex aged profiles, including notes of mushroom, toast, and brioche. These efforts have resulted in sparkling wines that can confidently stand alongside renowned French varieties.

Merchandise Manager, George Radman has pointed to a shift in consumer behaviour. Rising champagne prices and a weaker Australian dollar have encouraged more people to explore mid-tier sparkling wines, with many willing to spend a little extra for quality.

Looking Ahead: More Bubbles, More Celebrations

As champagne prices continue to climb globally, Double Bay’s appetite for sparkling celebrations isn’t likely to wane. Whether it’s French champagne or local sparkling wine, one thing is clear—Double Bay will continue to set the benchmark for festive celebrations.

Published 4-Jan-2025

Parking Dispute Sparks Tension in Double Bay

Photo Credit: Pixabay

A parking dispute on William Street in Double Bay has highlighted local frustrations over vehicle placement, with one resident leaving an angry message on a white Honda Civic.

The confrontation occurred on Tuesday afternoon when a local resident took exception to the car’s positioning, which appeared to occupy space typically sufficient for two vehicles. The resident responded by affixing two strips of masking tape to the windscreen with pointed messages about the parking manner.

One note explicitly asked the driver to “please don’t park like a jackass,” while another noted the vehicle was taking up “2 car parking” spaces. The windscreen wipers were also raised as part of the protest.

A parking permit visible on the windscreen suggests the driver is likely a local resident, potentially creating an awkward neighbourhood situation.

The incident follows similar recent parking disputes, including a case in Newcastle where a vehicle blocked a driveway, forcing a visitor to navigate through a front yard.

Under New South Wales law, parking across a driveway carries significant consequences:

A $302 fine for the offence
Illegal to stop over a driveway except when picking up or dropping off passengers
Drivers must move within two minutes
Parking across one’s own driveway is also prohibited

The dispute underscores ongoing challenges with urban parking, even in affluent neighbourhoods like Double Bay.

Published 4-December-2024

New York Fashion House Rag & Bone Debuts in Double Bay

American fashion house Rag & Bone is set to unveil its newest Australian location in Double Bay later this month.

Read: Luxury Vision: $18M Proposal Aims to Transform Cross Street in Double Bay

The store opening on Friday, 29 November 2024 marks a strategic milestone for Signal Brands Australia, bringing the brand’s signature blend of sophisticated craftsmanship and contemporary style to one of Sydney’s most fashionable neighbourhoods.

Situated at 31-33 Knox Street, the new boutique seamlessly integrates Rag & Bone’s characteristic urban aesthetic with Double Bay’s refined atmosphere. The store’s design creates an approachable yet elevated shopping environment that resonates with the precinct’s sophisticated character while staying true to the brand’s New York roots.

Paul Smith, Managing Director of Signal Brands Australia, expressed enthusiasm about the location choice. He said that Double Bay’s vibrant, cosmopolitan energy and fashion-forward community had long attracted the brand’s attention. He emphasised that the new location would offer customers an immersive experience reflecting the brand’s essence, combining timeless design with distinctive edge.

The carefully curated store will showcase the full spectrum of Rag & Bone’s offerings for both men and women. Customers can explore everything from the brand’s renowned denim collection to tailored jackets, sophisticated outerwear, accessories, and footwear. Each piece embodies the brand’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and contemporary design.

To commemorate the opening, the Double Bay location will host a week-long celebration featuring exclusive in-store promotions, including special gifts with purchase and complimentary beverages for shoppers. These offerings are designed to welcome customers to experience the brand’s unique approach to modern fashion.

Read: Double Bay Tops ATO List as Australia’s Wealthiest Postcode

Since its founding in New York in 2002, Rag & Bone has established itself as a formidable presence in the international fashion landscape. The brand has garnered both critical acclaim and commercial success by masterfully combining authentic heritage elements with modern details. Its signature aesthetic—an understated yet edgy New York sensibility—has resonated with fashion enthusiasts worldwide, making it a go-to label for innately wearable clothing.

Published 23-November-2024

Borne: A Sanctuary for New Mothers in Double Bay

Photo Credit: Borne

Double Bay is now making headlines for a different reason. It’s home to Borne, a luxurious retreat to support new mothers during the often-overlooked fourth trimester.

Borne is located within the InterContinental Hotel and offers a comprehensive wellness program for women and their newborns. The five-day packages provide around-the-clock care from a team of experts, including lactation consultants, midwives, doulas, and educators.

These professionals guide new mothers through the challenges of breastfeeding, swaddling, and bathing their infants.

The retreat is more than just a luxurious staycation. It’s a sanctuary where women can recover physically and emotionally. Founder Avalon Nethery, inspired by her own experience with postnatal depression, recognised a gap in the market for specialised postpartum care.

She believes the modern expectation for women to balance careers and motherhood can lead to isolation and overwhelming stress.

Borne aims to address this issue by providing a supportive community for new mothers. The retreat offers various services, from gourmet meals to expert advice, designed to help women confidently transition into motherhood.

While the cost of a four-night stay at Borne may be significant, Nethery emphasises the long-term goal of making such care accessible to all women. She hopes to work with government and insurance providers to reduce the financial burden and ensure every new mother can benefit from this specialised support.

The impact of Borne’s services can be seen in the experiences of women like Melinda, a first-time mother who struggled with a high-risk pregnancy and traumatic birth.

She found solace and support at the retreat, gaining the confidence and knowledge she needed to navigate the challenges of early motherhood.

Published Date 19-November-2024

Roma Arcade in Double Bay to Transform with High-End Hotel and Retail

Long-standing Double Bay shopping centre Roma Arcade could soon be transformed into a high-end mixed-use hub featuring hotel rooms, office spaces, and retail stores.

Background of the Redevelopment Proposal

The Roma Arcade, located on New South Head Road in Double Bay, was purchased in March 2024 by education entrepreneur Adrian Fonseca and his wife Nancy Reardon-Fonseca for approximately $21 million.

Mr Fonseca, who serves as the deputy president of the GWS Giants and is the founder of Oxanda Education, bought the property with his wife as part of a vision to revitalise the area. This acquisition marked the first time in decades that the arcade changed hands, making it a significant transaction for the Double Bay community.

Details of the Proposed Development

The Fonsecas’ plan – DA 393/2024 lodged with Woollahra Council – proposes demolishing the existing arcade structure to make way for a five-storey complex with a mix of functions designed to attract both locals and visitors.

Roma Arcade — *Photo Credit: Before/Google Maps*

According to the planning documents prepared by GSA Planning, the new development would house three levels dedicated to retail and office space and feature 15 studio-style hotel rooms across the third and fourth levels. Each hotel room would be designed with ample natural light and small balconies to provide an open, airy feel, appealing to tourists seeking a boutique experience.

According to the proposal, the rooftop will be transformed into a terrace, adding an extra community-oriented element for relaxation and gatherings. Fonseca’s team has indicated that the new centre will blend well with Double Bay’s “desired future character,” aiming to create a high-quality, modern space that fits within the area’s growing commercial and social environment.

Community Impact and Economic Potential

The proposed redevelopment is expected to generate new employment opportunities for Double Bay, replacing the existing structure with a facility that incorporates retail, office, and accommodation elements. Planners believe that the new complex will draw in more visitors and contribute to the local economy by providing additional shopping, work, and stay options.

The hotel rooms, especially, are expected to attract tourists and business travellers, further boosting local businesses and encouraging longer stays in the area.

Oliver Meehan, head of development at Oxanda Education, describes the Roma Arcade project as a vital part of Double Bay’s “tremendous revitalisation,” aiming to bring modern amenities and high-quality architectural design to the neighbourhood. By focusing on both retail and office spaces, as well as accommodation, the development offers more varied business opportunities than the existing structure, which has historically hosted a smaller selection of shops.

Next Steps and Community Response

Pending council approval, the redevelopment will move forward, with the demolition and construction phases likely to follow shortly after. Woollahra Council’s decision will weigh the potential benefits of increased economic activity and tourism against considerations from local residents and business owners who may be impacted by construction.

Community members and stakeholders are encouraged to provide feedback during the planning review process to ensure the redevelopment aligns with the needs and expectations of Double Bay’s residents.

Published 15-Nov-2024

Nicole & Baby Boutique Brings Pet Pop-Up to Double Bay for the Holiday Season

Nicole & Baby Boutique, a luxury pet brand from Sydney, has opened a community-focused pop-up event in Double Bay, bringing unique pet products and experiences to local pet lovers.

Running from early November until Christmas, the pop-up, held in collaboration with pet-friendly store Fido & Fido, offers an array of pet-focused activities and premium pet products. Attendees can expect services like professional pet photography, “puppuccinos” for dogs, pet styling sessions, and regular giveaways. The event aims to foster a sense of community among pet owners by creating a welcoming space for those who enjoy pampering their pets.

High-Quality Pet Fashion and Products

Founded in 2022 by Nicole Voyatzis, the Nicole & Baby Boutique started as an online store inspired by her dog, Baby. Noticing a lack of high-quality, fashionable pet clothing that blends style with function, Nicole created a brand that offers pet clothing, accessories, toys, and dishware with a luxury edge.

Nicole & Baby Double Bay — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

The boutique has gained a following, with more than 10,000 followers on Instagram and recognition from British Vogue, where it was featured in three consecutive issues from September to November 2023.

Nicole is committed to environmentally conscious practices, including eco-friendly packaging. She has partnered with the RSPCA, dedicating 10% of all sales to the organisation to support its work with abandoned, injured, and sick animals.

The pop-up in Double Bay features a selection of these products, including seasonal holiday-themed attire and Australian-made items. It reflects her ongoing dedication to supporting animal welfare and fostering connections within the pet-loving community.

Nicole & Baby Boutique plans to expand its Australian-made products and add custom embroidery services. Additionally, inspired by her second dog Boo, who struggles with anxiety, Voyatzis is developing a product specifically designed to help ease pet anxiety. She hopes to release this product as part of her mission to address pet wellness and comfort.

Building a Community of Pet Lovers

Nicole & Baby Boutique has also gained support from a community of pet influencers who regularly share their experiences with the boutique’s products. This growing community includes pet owners across Australia and beyond, who gather online and now in person at the Double Bay pop-up to celebrate their shared love for pets and quality pet care.

The pop-up will continue to operate at Fido & Fido in Double Bay through the Christmas season, offering pet owners a unique opportunity to shop, socialise, and connect over their passion for pets.

Published 6-Nov-2024

Luxury Vision: $18M Proposal Aims to Transform Cross Street in Double Bay

In a bold move that promises to reshape one of Sydney’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, developers have unveiled plans to transform Double Bay’s Cross Street into a haven of luxury retail and high-end living.

Read: Double Bay Leads the Way with a $90-Million Collective Property Sale

The proposed $18 million redevelopment at 8-10 Cross Street is set to redefine the area’s skyline and shopping experience.

8-10 Cross St, Double Bay (Photo credit: Google Street View)

Caradonna Capital, the developer behind this ambitious project, has submitted plans for a striking seven-storey mixed-use building designed by the renowned Woods Bagot. The development will replace several existing retailers, including the well-known Florida dry cleaners, a women’s clothing store, and a popular cafe.

Cross Street — Photo credit: Woods Bagot

The new structure will feature a harmonious blend of retail and residential spaces. At street level, shoppers can look forward to three new retail units and a cafe, promising to maintain the area’s vibrant shopping culture. Fashion enthusiasts will be particularly pleased with two dedicated fashion outlets included in the plans.

Above the retail spaces, six luxury apartments will offer residents an opportunity to live in one of Sydney’s most sought-after locations. These high-end homes are expected to attract discerning buyers looking for a perfect balance of urban convenience and suburban tranquillity.

The development also includes plans for a basement car park, addressing potential concerns about parking in the busy shopping district.

Read: New Housing Development on New South Head Road in Double Bay

This project represents a significant investment in Double Bay’s future, aiming to cement Cross Street’s reputation as one of the most prestigious retail and residential strips in Sydney. While some may lament the loss of familiar local businesses, others see this as a necessary step in the evolution of this upscale suburb.

As the plans move through the approval process, all eyes will be on Cross Street, watching as it potentially transforms into a new jewel in Double Bay’s crown.

Published 9-October-2024

Healy Ryan from Double Bay Makes Waves as NSW/ACT Sailing Awards Finalist

Photo Credit: Australian Sailing

The 2024 NSW/ACT Sailing Awards finalists have been revealed, and Double Bay Sailing Club is shining brightly with young sailor Healy Ryan nominated for Youth Sailor of the Year.

Ryan, who also represents Hunters Hill Sailing Club, is recognised alongside Louis Tilly from Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club and Joel Beashel from Belmont 16ft Skiff Sailing Club & Cruising Yacht Club of Australia.

Celebrations Set for Cruising Yacht Club of Australia

ACT Sailing Awards — *Photo Credit:* *Australian Sailing*

Australian Sailing is inviting the NSW and ACT sailing community to celebrate the achievements of these remarkable individuals at the NSW/ACT Sailing Awards Presentation. The event will be held on Saturday, 21 September, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the prestigious Cruising Yacht Club of Australia.

Diverse Group of Finalists Represents Sailing’s Strength

The finalists showcase a diverse range of contributors to the sport, from dedicated club volunteers to elite athletes who recently competed in the Paris Olympic Games. The list includes professionals striving to expand sailing’s reach, promoters leveraging technology to increase visibility, and Australian Sailing Team athletes consistently performing at the highest level.

Other Notable Finalists

Female Sailor of the Year: Rhiannan Brown, Evie Haseldine, Olivia Price

Male Sailor of the Year: Shaun Connor, Grae Morris, Jim Colley

Team of the Year: Anthony Johnston & Marcus Ashley-Jones, Brin Liddel & Rhiannan Brown, Olivia Price & Evie Haseldine, Jim Colley & Shaun Connor

Instructor of the Year: Isabella Holdsworth, Bella Jones

Volunteer of the Year: Eric Duggan, Peter Mansbridge

SheSails Award: Twin Wire Skiff Programme, Women’s Sailing Course

Sport Professional Award: Jack Buchan, Graham Biehl, Jeremey Atkinson

Sport Promotion Award: Dave Flower, Ethan Tucker, Lisa Darmanin, Jervis Tilly

Sustainability Award: Shane Guanaria, Sustainability Working Group

Club of the Year Award Category A: Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club, Belmont 16ft Sailing Club, Drummoyne Sailing Club, Manly 16ft Skiff Sailing Club

The finalists for Coach of the Year, Official of the Year, and the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award will be unveiled at the Awards Presentation, adding an extra layer of excitement to the evening.

buy tickets

Tickets for the NSW/ACT Sailing Awards Presentation can be purchased online. The event includes canapes served throughout the evening. It promises to be a night of celebration and recognition for the outstanding individuals and organisations that make sailing thrive in NSW and ACT.

Published Date 18-September-2024

Double Bay Leads the Way with a $90-Million Collective Property Sale

Homeowners in Double Bay have united to list their properties, culminating in a staggering collective asking price of $90 million for redevelopment into denser residential units.

The amalgamation strategy in Double Bay involves five homes on Henrietta Street and Brooklyn Lane, reflecting the premium nature of the location. An additional site in Mosman comprises seven homes with a $75-million guide, suggesting a similar upscale development.

This initiative follows the recent amendments to the State Environmental Planning Policy (Housing) 2021, which now permits more dual occupancies and semi-detached dwellings in R2 residential zones. According to Colliers International, these changes, while somewhat controversial, are essential for alleviating the housing shortage by encouraging denser developments in traditionally low-density areas.

Henrietta and Brooklyn Double Bay — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Guillaume Volz, the National Director at Colliers, recognizes the community’s resistance to higher density but stresses the importance of these developments in addressing Sydney’s housing crisis. His colleague, Paul Ephron, points out the previous strict local regulations that restricted development in these areas and states that the new policy changes enable larger investments to rejuvenate and improve the local communities.

The policy’s success is measured by its potential to transform community landscapes and its economic impact. By allowing homeowners to band together for collective sales, the policy could potentially double property values, offering a significant incentive for participation. The ongoing development will free up housing stock in undersupplied areas and, as Volz notes, create vibrant new local centres that contribute to the community’s character and meet its evolving needs.

The broader implications of these developments are set to unfold as the state introduces more low- and mid-rise housing reforms slated for later in 2024. These reforms will further increase density near transport hubs and town centres across Greater Sydney and surrounding regions, potentially transforming the urban landscape and accommodating the growing population.

Published 12-Sept-2024