Waverley Archives - Waverley News

Sydney Swans’ Defensive Rock Nick Blakey Set for Brisbane Challenge

As the Sydney Swans prepare to face the Brisbane Lions on Saturday, 28 September, all eyes are on Waverley College Old Boy Nick Blakey, the homegrown talent who has become a lynchpin in the Swans’ defensive line.

Read: Waverley Cemetery Waives Fee for Centenarian Who Outlives Burial Plot Contract

Rising through the ranks

Nick Blakey’s AFL journey began long before he donned the red and white jersey professionally. Born into an AFL family, Blakey moved to Brisbane at two years old when his father, two-time premiership midfielder John Blakey, took an assistant coaching role with the Brisbane Lions. By the time he was six, the family settled in Sydney as John joined the Swans’ coaching panel.

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Growing up in an AFL household laid a solid foundation for Blakey’s future. His time at Waverley College, renowned for its strong AFL program, further honed his skills. The school’s support was crucial during a challenging period when Blakey faced severe stress fractures in his spine, a setback that tested his resilience.

“The AFL program they have implemented at the school is really paying off not only for them but the students as well,” Blakey said.

“They enabled me to concentrate on my footy both on and off the field. My recovery last year was a very long and slow process and the school really helped me get through it.”

Nick Blakey, defensive dynamo

Blakey’s early AFL career saw him kicking goals and spending time on the wing. However, it’s in defence where he has truly found his calling. His transition to half-back has transformed him into one of the competition’s premier defenders.

“I didn’t have a defensive bone in my body and that was probably the downfall of me as a player, early days,” Blakey admits. “But transitioning down back, you’ve got nowhere to hide out there.”

The move to defence sharpened Blakey’s instincts. His defensive skills, combined with his trademark dash from the backline, have made him a key figure in the Swans’ strategy. The sight of him breaking away from defence has become a crowd favourite, electrifying the stands with his speed and vision.

His importance to the team was underscored in 2023 when Blakey became the first AFL player contracted until the 2030s, signing a seven-year extension with the Swans. The extension reflects his long-term value to the club and his role as a future leader.

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In 2024, Blakey’s defensive prowess earned him his first All-Australian selection. He was one of four Swans to receive the honour—notably, the only one not from Sydney’s vaunted midfield trio.

Read: Waverley War Memorial And The Generosity Of The Vickery Family

Blakey’s journey from a Swans Academy product to an All-Australian defender is a shining example of Waverley College’s and the club’s successful development pathways. With his signature style and defensive acumen, Blakey’s influence on the game continues to grow, making him a crucial player to watch in the seasons to come.

Published 26-September-2024

Waverley Cemetery Waives Fee for Centenarian Who Outlives Burial Plot Contract

A 102-year-old Sydney woman has outlived her 25-year burial plot contract at Waverley Cemetery, sparking a review of cemetery policies for long-lived residents.

The incident occurred earlier this year when Dorothy Jackson, who purchased her plot at 77, was informed that her contract had expired. She was initially asked to pay $6,000 to extend the contract for another five years.

Unexpected Longevity Challenges Cemetery Policy

Ms Jackson’s daughter, Ann Cooper, expressed surprise at the situation. She stated that her mother had not expected to live beyond the contract’s term when she initially purchased the plot.

Waverley Cemetery, located in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, is home to over 100,000 burials, including those of notable Australians. The cemetery is facing space constraints, which has led to the implementation of renewable interment rights.

After being contacted about the issue, Waverley Mayor Paula Masselos announced that the council would waive the extension fee for Ms Jackson. Ms Masselos acknowledged that this case highlighted the need to review cemetery policies, especially considering the increasing number of people living to advanced ages.

Ms Masselos explained that these rights help ensure that burial sites are actively used and not forgotten. The cemetery has also introduced niche walls for urns, which already have a waiting list.

Waverley Cemetery — *Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons*

Broader Cemetery Management Challenges

Ben Kelly, CEO of the Australasian Cemeteries & Crematoria Association, noted that unused burial plots are a common issue in cemeteries across the country. He stated that many families are unaware they own plots, leading to inefficient use of cemetery land.

Kelly suggested that fixed-term contracts for burial plots are one way to manage limited cemetery space effectively. He advised plot owners to check their contract terms and contact the cemetery if a term is nearing expiration.

Published 26-Aug-2024

Rare Chance to Own a Piece of Sydney’s History: Robin Hood Hotel Seeking New Owners

Did you know that the iconic Robin Hood Hotel, which has remained in the hands of one family for three generations, is now on the market?

Read: Passeggiata: Check Out Waverley’s New Italian Restaurant

The hotel, perched in a commanding position overlooking the bustling Charing Cross Intersection serves as the entrance to the highly-desirable Bronte retail precinct and provides a gateway to Sydney’s most affluent neighbourhoods, including Bronte, Clovelly, and Coogee.

Originally built by Tooth & Co in 1938, the venue has long aimed to be the Eastern Suburbs’ finest ‘local,’ offering live entertainment and consistently excellent food and beverage options.

Robin Hood Hotel — Photo credit: Dave Sarks/Google Maps

Described in the listing as “One of Sydney’s most treasured suburban hotels underpinned by a high cash flow business woven into the fabric of the local community,” the hotel has become a beloved institution over the years.

The sale process, overseen by leading agency HTL Property, is anticipated to generate significant interest among local and national industry participants who are eagerly seeking to acquire a prestigious hotel landmark.

Situated on a spacious 1757 sqm landholding, the Robin Hood Hotel benefits from favourable zoning and planning guidelines, presenting potential for future mixed-use redevelopment. This aspect adds an enticing prospect for investors looking to maximise the property’s value and capitalise on the area’s thriving commercial and residential market.

Following a thorough and meticulous renovation and refurbishment project worth $8 million, the multi-story hotel has undergone remarkable improvements. It now showcases an expanded trading area, providing a larger footprint for various activities. Moreover, the hotel has significantly increased its capacity to accommodate up to 451 patrons across two levels.

What sets the Robin Hood Hotel apart is its exclusive 3:00 a.m. licence, allowing guests to revel in its unique offerings until the wee hours of the morning. The recent renovation project notably included the activation of Lorraine’s bistro on the first floor, which also holds a distinctive approval for extended trading hours.

Read: Waverley War Memorial And The Generosity Of The Vickery Family

With its prime location, remarkable renovation, and established reputation as a local favourite, the hotel promises to be a lucrative and sought-after acquisition in the thriving Sydney hospitality landscape.

Published 6-June-2023

Waverley College Ramps Up War on Mullets With a $20 On-the-Spot Haircut for Non-Compliant Students

Waverley College has issued a new directive to students who attempt to go to school sporting a mullet, informing them that they could either follow the school’s hairstyle guidelines under its uniform policy or opt for a $20 haircut done on-the-spot.

Deputy principal Gabby Smith informed the parents prior to the start of Term 2 that their sons would be given a choice if they will get a haircut by the school’s chosen hairdresser or go home and miss classes to get their mullet sorted out. Their choices will be noted on their school file and related action taken pertinent to the policy will no longer require phone calls to their home or their parents.

In 2021, Waverley College banned mullets and other hairstyles that do not adhere to the school’s uniform policy, such as rat tails, braids for men, undercuts, layering, tinting and colouring, as well as the overuse of products. The school officials said that the rules had been clear and that the majority of the parents were supportive of the policy.

The mullet has been part of Australian culture since the 1970s and grew in popularity a decade later. Fashion expert Ailsa Weaver said that the hairstyle is a way of life for some Australians who take pride in their identity as “larrikins,” or fashion rebels.

Australian icon John Farnham had the mullet as his signature look, and heaps of sportsmen in the country also wear the same hairstyle.

Published 2-May-2023

Waverley to Begin FOGO Collection Service in 2024

Waverley is preparing to lay the groundwork for a trial of its Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) collection service by 2024.

Per the official statement, a number of factors like procurement, workforce planning, community education programs and contractual matters are being undertaken to iron out the program before the trial runs.

Waverley Council is also planning to secure funding from the NSW Environment Protection Authority to sustain the FOGO collection service. However, residents may expect a rate increase as the cost for providing commingled recycling bins will set back Council more than $2.6 million a year. Mayor Paula Masselos expects a $25 per year increase for ratepayers.

The move follows Randwick, Woollahra and Penrith, which have been running its FOGO trials for a couple of years. However, some Waverley councillors warned that the program should be carefully planned as the local governments that have gone done FOGO first have had some unexpected outcomes.

FOGO Collection Service Waverley — Photo Credit: WaverleyCouncil

The councillors believe that FOGO collection service is a complex process that must not be rushed, thus the rollout’s timeline will provide Waverley sufficient time to prepare the residents.

The decision to start FOGO, however, has been well-received by a community enthusiastic to meet its environmental goals. Local leaders expect that many residents will participate in the trial.

Meanwhile, Waverley Council has encouraged residents to learn better meal planning, storage and food waste techniques in preparation for the FOGO trials by following the tips and tricks from the NSW Love Food Hate Waste Food Smart Programs.

“When we throw away food, we’re also throwing away all the natural resources like water and energy that went into growing, packaging, producing, transporting, selling and preparing your food,” the Council stated.

Six Students Involved in Hazing Expelled from Waverley College

Six students involved in a hazing incident at Waverley College have been expelled from the Catholic private all-boys school, school principal Graham Leddie has confirmed.

The incident apparently happened in late October between a group of Year 7 and Year 9 kids. Mr Leddie acknowledged that the younger students “provoked” the Year 9 boys and displayed “silly behaviour” by throwing fruits during their lunch break.

However, the school authorities believed that the older boys “completely disproportionately” responded to the provocation thus the incident got out of hand. The principal said that the silliness turned into an assault and humiliation, even as most of the younger victims were actually not involved in the provocation.

Mr Leddie said that the response was “unacceptable on every level” thus the school made the right action to cancel the enrolment of six Year 9 students, following an investigation. He was made aware of the hazing by some of the parents of the Year 7 students and immediately suspended those involved.

According to reports, the Year 9 boys used belts to beat the Year 7 boys, who were also ordered to lick the shoes of the other kids or bark like a dog. The hazing happened inside a classroom that had no CCTV.

Some of the parents also spoke with 2GB radio host Ben Fordham and said that this has been a “systemic problem” in Sydney’s private schools. One father denounced the actions of the older kids, saying they were “gutless” for picking on students a lot younger than them.

Waverley College has initiated appointments with a psychologist for the students. NSW Police was also made aware of the incident after a parent went to the police station to file a report.

What Makes Waverley Community Garden Popular with Green Thumbs

Amidst Eastern Sydney’s concrete jungle is a healthy and thriving space beloved by many green thumbs. Tucked away within the grounds of Clementson Park is the Waverley Community Garden, where plant lovers eagerly await their plot allocation.

The community garden has 45 plots but most of these have been claimed by local families and garden groups. At least three plots, however, are for communal use and as a standard procedure, propagators take turns to use the plot to grow their crops.

Locals enjoy growing produce at the Waverley Community Garden because it has been properly set up for nurturing all sorts of plants. A rainwater tank ensures that the plots are moist whilst the soil is kept healthy using compost materials. The garden has its own worm farm for the soil as well and there is a marsh nearby that serves as a home for frogs.

The fence line of the community garden has an abundant row of rosellas, limes, and lemon myrtle. Every month, garden groups host activities to train better gardeners through educational hands-on workshops. Some even bring working bees to help with the propagation.

The Waverley Community Garden became so popular that inter-suburb residents have tried to claim it for their own use. Thus, members that care for the garden for more than a decade have come up with strict criteria for plot ownership and it’s reserved strictly for residents.

“The purpose of the community garden is to provide residents who have little or no access to a garden, an opportunity to undertake their own food production, share gardening tips and engage in intergenerational learning,” the Council said. Applications to become a member of the community garden are ongoing.

Waverley Bowling Club Residential Units Expected to Sell Out As Development Begins

The approved development of a 55-apartment unit at the site of the Waverley Bowling Club on Birrell Street has been receiving a “rush of inquiries” from interested investors, per the developer.

Expected to start construction in mid-2021, the Mirvac luxury retirement project is primed to become quite popular with its target demographic — the over 55 years old — as the site is will be featured with four different buildings and two new bowling greens at the centre.

One section of the land will house a six-storey residential apartment, boasting of a view of the ocean. It will have a landscaped rooftop as a communal area for residents who would love to indulge in outdoor dining and barbecues.

The other buildings will be three-storey and two-storey structures. The development will also incorporate a club or community facility, a cafe with both indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a bistro and bar. All of these additions will look out to the greens.

Eastern Suburbs Leagues Club, which owns the property, partnered with Mirvac for the development. The group’s chairman, Nick Politis, said that the upcoming changes will enable Waverley Bowling Club to thrive as a favourite events and recreational venue for the local community.

“We are committed to delivering a niche hospitality offering that includes an indoor-outdoor casual and contemporary café, bistro and bar, with a strong garden feel reminiscent of the site’s history, where our community can enjoy a social occasion with friends and family,” Mr Politis said.

For years, Eastern Suburbs Leagues Club sought to redevelop the site or face closure. Despite the opposition from some members, NSW Planning Portal approved the plans (DA-483/2018/A) with some modifications.

Mirvac has not yet advertised the prices of the units but sales will begin a few months after the project breaks ground.

Waverley House Buying Market Jumps by 12.3%, Rentals Down

House buying in Waverley has grown by 12.3 percent, outperforming Sydney as an influx of buyers look for leafy, beachside escapes to spend more time at home and maintain social distancing. Twenty other local government areas in the region show similar growth.

In the latest Domain House Price Report for the last quarter of 2020, Waverley’s house market grew by 12.3 percent with an average price of $3.2 million.

Property experts said that remote working has had Sydneysiders relocating to the beachside, drawn by the appeal of “holiday homes.” Whether investors are looking to move temporarily or permanently, the trend in open houses, which normally averages five groups at a time, saw an increase to 20 groups.

TOP REGIONS FOR HOUSE PRICE GROWTH

Local Government Area	Dec-20	YoY Change
Byron	$1,150,000	26.0%
Parkes	$335,000	24.1%
Kiama	$1,020,000	20.0%
Shoalhaven	$645,000	19.4%
Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional	$308,600	18.7%
Hilltops	$315,500	17.3%
Ballina	$750,000	15.4%
Orange	$495,000	15.1%
Coffs Harbour	$585,000	14.7%
Lismore	$450,000	13.9%
Waverley	$3,200,000	12.3%
Newcastle	$671,500	11.9%
Port Stephens	$635,000	11.8%
Wingecarribee	$865,000	11.6%
Federation	$315,000	11.5%
Nambucca	$480,000	11.4%
Yass Valley	$665,000	11.2%
Bellingen	$635,000	11.1%
Forbes	$321,500	10.9%
Wollongong	$775,000	10.7%

The average time for a house to stay in the market has been cut in half as well. The usual three to four months is down to a short stretch of a month or two.

But industry insiders are cautious about the potential risks once Sydney’s international borders open and people resume a normal workplace set-up.

On the flipside, Waverley house rentals, along with Rose Bay and Coogee, have dropped to 12 percent or at a median price of $1,100 a week for the 2020 December quarter.

Domain senior research analyst Nicola Powell said current rental rates are affected by the ongoing border restrictions and an increased supply due to the building boom pre-pandemic. Sites that usually attract new students, new migrants and tourists are hardest hit by the lockdowns.

LARGEST HOUSE RENT FALLS

Suburb	Median Asking Rent	Annual change
Malabar	$950	-20.8%
Double Bay	$1,400	-20.0%
Pyrmont	$700	-17.6%
North Manly	$850	-14.1%
Seaforth	$1,200	-14.0%
Blakehurst	$680	-13.9%
Rose Bay	$1,400	-12.5%
Woollahra	$1,288	-12.4%
Waverley	$1,100	-12.0%
Balmain East	$970	-11.8%

However, industry insiders sense the market is slowly picking up in January 2021 as restrictions ease and more workers return to the office.

Waverley Council Installs Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

Council-funded electric vehicle charging stations have been installed around Waverley suburbs to support owners of zero-emission vehicles. The move is in conjunction with two other councils in the Eastern Suburbs, Woollahra and Randwick, in a push to encourage Sydneysiders to consider using electric vehicles (EV).

“There’s a transformation in motoring in Australia and around the world and the move to EVs start here in Waverley and surrounds,” Mayor John Wakefield of Waverley said.

The Councils have partnered with Jet Charge for the facility. The initial EV charging stations may be found at the following locations but the Councils are invested in adding more areas as the needs grow:

Waverley	Queen Elizabeth Drive Spring Street outside Mill Hill Community Centre
Randwick	Coogee Beach Randwick Community Centre Silver Street car park Des Renford Aquatic Centre
Woollahra	Kiaora Place Shopping Centre

EV users may be able to find the specific locations by downloading the Chargefox app, Bookings and payments are also made on this app.

These charging stations support universal charging for all models of electric vehicles. However, EV owners must bring their own Type 2 (Mennekes) cables to use the facility.

Charge times averagely take 15 minutes and cost around 10 to 25 cents per kilowatt-hour.