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Menya Monaka Brings Authentic Ramen and Late Nights to Mona Vale

Mona Vale residents now have a new spot for delicious ramen and evening snacks as Menya Monaka, a noodle house by day and izakaya by night, has opened its doors in the local area.

A New Addition to the Community

Menya Monaka is the latest venture from Fuminori “Bun” Fukuda. Along with his wife Eriko, he runs the popular Cafe Monaka in Mona Vale, which has been serving the community for over five years.

Seeing a need for more diverse dining options, particularly for ramen and later opening hours, the Fukudas decided to expand their contribution to the local food scene. They believe their new establishment will complement the existing businesses and provide locals with a place to enjoy a comforting meal and drinks into the evening.

lunch menu

Authentic Japanese Flavours

*Photo Credit:* *Menya Monaka*
*Tonkotsu Ramen – 伊山 style*

Drawing on his upbringing in Japan and training in a friend’s ramen shop, Mr Fukuda aims to bring an authentic taste of Japanese noodles to Mona Vale. Menya Monaka specialises in Kanto-style ramen, a style from eastern Japan known for its medium-to-thick, house-made noodles. This differs from the Kyushu-style ramen more commonly found in Sydney.

Customers can look forward to various broths and toppings, including traditional tonkotsu and a vegan option called tan tan. The restaurant also offers classic ramen side dishes, with the gyoza particularly praised in early reports. A significant feature of Menya Monaka is its commitment to making fresh noodles daily in a dedicated noodle room at the back of the premises, using a noodle machine imported from Japan.

dinner menu

More Than Just Ramen

While ramen is the main focus during the day, Menya Monaka transitions into an izakaya and sake bar in the evenings. The aim is to introduce the Japanese custom of “shime-no-ramen” to Sydney, where people enjoy a bowl of ramen after drinks and snacks. The evening menu features a selection of cocktails, sake, and small plates such as miso eggplant and twisted ramen noodle pretzels.

Larger protein dishes like Wagyu sirloin are also available for those seeking something more substantial. This dual concept aims to cater to both those looking for a quick and tasty lunch or dinner and those wanting a place to unwind and socialise later in the evening, addressing what locals reportedly felt was a gap in Mona Vale’s late-night dining options.

Local Connection and Expectations

Having already established a strong connection with the Mona Vale community through Cafe Monaka, the Fukuda family hopes their new restaurant will be similarly embraced. Cafe Monaka has become a popular spot, attracting both locals and visitors from other parts of Sydney who appreciate its blend of Australian brunch favourites and traditional Japanese dishes.

Many see Menya Monaka’s opening as a positive addition to the area. It offers high-quality Japanese cuisine and a unique dining experience. The fact that it is a family-run business, much like Cafe Monaka, suggests a continued focus on personal service and quality food that the Mona Vale community has come to expect.

Published Date 15-May-2025

A New Chapter for Mona Vale: Mid-Rise Housing Near the Town Centre

Mona Vale is set to undergo significant change following the approval of new planning rules that allow for buildings up to six storeys high within close proximity to its town centre.

Read: Mona Vale Centre Selected for New Housing Developments

This forms part of NSW’s Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy, which aims to unlock 112,000 new homes across the state over the next five years.

The policy, which came into effect on 28 February 2025, changes what can be built in areas within 800 metres—or roughly a 10-minute walk—of key town centres and transport hubs. In Mona Vale, this means that low and mid-rise housing types such as terraces, townhouses, and apartment buildings will be permitted in designated residential zones.

Within this radius, R2 low-density residential zones will allow for 2–3 storey buildings such as townhouses and terraces, introducing greater housing variety to what has traditionally been a suburb dominated by detached homes. In R3 medium-density zones, the changes allow for apartment buildings up to six storeys within 400 metres of the town centre, and up to four storeys between 400 and 800 metres.

These changes are designed to support housing growth in well-located areas near shops, services and public transport, easing pressure on housing affordability and reducing urban sprawl. Development will still need to meet design and amenity standards, including requirements for car parking, light access, and lot size, with clear benchmarks to guide approvals.

While some parts of the Northern Beaches have been excluded from the broader rollout of this policy due to environmental risks, Mona Vale’s flood-prone status has not prevented its inclusion. The suburb has long struggled with drainage and creek flooding, but is now earmarked as a key site for housing growth given its infrastructure, town centre, and transport access.

The shift could reshape Mona Vale’s character over time, introducing more diverse housing options and potentially more residents. However, the rules do not override all local controls—councils will continue to assess key elements of proposed developments, aiming to strike a balance between growth and liveability.

Read: Mona Vale Roads to Slow Down with New Safety Changes

With construction expected to follow swiftly after the changes come into effect, residents and developers alike will be watching closely as Mona Vale enters a new phase of urban evolution.

Published 14-May-2025

Mona Vale Applauds as MP Dr Sophie Scamps Secures Re-election, Pledges Pittwater Heritage Status

Mackellar’s recently re-elected Independent MP, Dr Sophie Scamps, who represents communities across the electorate, including Mona Vale, has affirmed her commitment to nominate the historically and culturally significant Pittwater area for National Heritage listing, a key promise from her successful campaign.

The Australian federal election was held on Saturday, 3 May, 2025. By Wednesday, 7 May, 2025, figures from the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) tally room showed Dr Scamps had secured a notable victory.

Scamps Confirmed for Second Term

Dr Sophie Scamps — *Photo Credit:* *DrSophieScamps/ Facebook*

Dr Scamps successfully retained her seat in Mackellar, marking her second term representing the electorate. The AEC reported she had garnered 38.37% of the primary vote. In the two-candidate preferred count, Dr Scamps received 56,733 votes, ahead of her opponent James Brown who polled 45,775 votes.

Local news outlets also confirmed her re-election, noting a swing in her favour and reporting that she had delivered an acceptance speech. Early voting for the election had commenced on Tuesday, 22 April, due to Easter and Anzac Day falling within the election period.

Protecting Pittwater’s Legacy

A central promise from Dr Scamps during her campaign was the plan to nominate the ‘Pittwater area’ to the National Heritage List. She stated that this initiative aims to protect and conserve the area’s unique heritage values and significance for future generations. Dr Scamps highlighted that Pittwater is a breathtaking natural wonder and an area of profound importance to Australia that warrants such protection.

The Member for Pittwater, Jacqui Scruby, strongly supports this nomination. Ms Scruby remarked that protecting Pittwater through a National Heritage Listing would help safeguard its unique cultural, natural, and historical legacy.

She believes this is a crucial step toward preserving the shared history for future generations and defending the landscape from encroaching development and environmental degradation.

The Significance of Pittwater

Dr Scamps explained that Pittwater’s sites directly link to First Nations’ ancestors and traditions, referencing notable figures like Bowen Bungaree of the Garigal clan. She also noted the area’s reflection of Australia’s colonial history, from its naming by Governor Arthur Phillip in 1788 to an 1891 event where a day was spent drafting the Australian Constitution at The Basin, onboard the Lucinda.

According to Dr Scamps, Pittwater is a cornerstone of the nation’s story, encompassing sacred Indigenous heritage sites, iconic landmarks like Barrenjoey Lighthouse, and remnants of early maritime structures. She identified threats to Pittwater’s character and beauty, such as inappropriate development and excessive excavation.

The proposed National Heritage Listing aims to secure federal protection under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, which would require ministerial approval for any actions impacting Pittwater’s heritage values.

Dr Scamps further described Pittwater’s natural landscapes, including its bushland reserves, coastal headlands, wetlands, and Norfolk Island pines, as illustrative of Australia’s rich biodiversity. She also pointed to Pittwater’s cultural resonance, from its history as a maritime hub to a leisure retreat and its contribution to the development of surf lifesaving in Australia.

Process for Heritage Nomination

The Commonwealth Environment Minister opens nominations for the National Heritage List annually. The list recognises places of national importance based on criteria that include having ‘outstanding heritage value to the nation’.

Dr Scamps’ office indicated that the precise geographic boundaries for the Pittwater nomination would be determined through consultation with the community, local historians, and conservationists, to preserve the ‘general area’ known as Pittwater. If successful, Pittwater would be managed according to National Heritage management principles, likely requiring heritage assessments for any development within the protected area.

Currently, there are 123 places on the National Heritage List, 29 of which are in New South Wales, including nearby Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.

Published Date 08-May-2025

Mona Vale Centre Selected for New Housing Developments

Photo Credit: DA2025/0143

Mona Vale is set to see significant changes as it becomes the sole town centre in Pittwater designated for new low to mid-rise housing developments under recent NSW government planning reforms.

Development Details

housing developments — *Photo Credit:* *DA2025/0143*

The new rules mean that areas within 800 metres of Mona Vale’s town centre, specifically within R2 zones, will allow the construction of two- to three-storey terraces, townhouses, and apartment buildings.

Certain R3 zones closer to the centre will permit buildings up to six storeys, while those further out will allow four-storey structures. This focused development aims to bring more diverse housing options to the area, catering to families and essential workers.

Local Impact and Planning

The selection of Mona Vale follows discussions between local representatives and the NSW government, where the unique challenges of the Pittwater region were highlighted. Concerns about the area’s geography, infrastructure, and environmental risks, such as flooding and bushfires, were raised.

Local representatives advocated for local council control over planning in other Pittwater villages, ensuring decisions were made with community input. They stated that this approach allows for sustainable development that respects the region’s character outside of the Mona Vale town centre.

Housing Targets and Regional Growth

This development is part of a broader plan to meet the Northern Beaches’ housing target of 5,900 new homes by 2029. The government’s reforms aim to address the ongoing housing needs in Sydney and surrounding areas.

The Northern Beaches Council’s work and consultation with the Department of Planning were acknowledged as crucial to the final planning outcomes. The Department of Planning offers a mapping tool to help residents determine how these changes will affect specific properties.

Published Date 24-March-2025

Mona Vale Roads to Slow Down with New Safety Changes

Photo Credit: Felipe Jiménez/Pexels

Mona Vale’s streets are about to get safer, with speed limits lowered and new crossings planned to protect pedestrians in high-traffic zones.

Set for Slower Speeds and Safer Crossings

Mona Vale residents will soon see major changes to local roads, with reduced speed limits and new safety upgrades rolling out as part of a Council initiative to make neighbourhood streets safer.

From May 2025, Northern Beaches Council will roll out a 40km/h speed limit on streets east of Pittwater Road, from Narrabeen Beach to Mona Vale Hospital, along with new crossings, kerb extensions and signage to slow traffic and boost safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

Community Safety First

The changes follow months of community feedback across the Northern Beaches. In Mona Vale, locals raised concerns about speeding, parking, and pedestrian safety near schools and shops. Council revised the original plans to reduce traffic disruption while still improving safety.

While not all suggestions were adopted, Council aimed to balance community input with the goal of reducing accidents and promoting walking and cycling. The revised plans were endorsed in April and will go to the Local Traffic Committee in May for review.

Road Changes Focused on Pedestrian Safety

In Mona Vale, the project targets high-foot-traffic areas with raised crossings near schools, kerb build-outs to shorten walks, and possible one-way conversions on narrow streets to ease congestion and improve visibility.

These changes are part of the Council’s broader Safer Neighbourhoods strategy to improve local road safety and encourage active transport, with Mona Vale among the first areas to move toward implementation.

Drainage and Streetscape Already Upgraded

In 2022, Council completed drainage upgrades on Park Street, Mona Vale to boost stormwater capacity, reduce flooding, and improve traffic safety and public space.

A planned driveway raise at 18–20 Park Street was dropped after surveys showed it wasn’t needed. Two new trees near Mona Vale Church were shifted slightly north-west to allow more space to grow.

Published 21-April-2025

Worker Dies in Tragic Construction Accident at Mona Vale

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A construction worker has died after falling approximately 16 meters from scaffolding at a building site in Mona Vale.

The fatal accident occurred just after 11:30am yesterday (Thursday, April 10) at the corner of Bungan Street and Waratah Street, where a four-level apartment building is nearing completion. The victim, a man in his 50s, fell from the upper level of construction scaffolding and landed on the pavement below.

A pedestrian who witnessed the accident reported hearing yelling from above before seeing the worker crash through tree branches and land on the pavement. The witness, who was walking through the pedestrian arcade adjacent to the building from Akuna Lane, stated the victim landed dangerously close to them.

Following the fall, colleagues of the worker rushed to provide aid and began CPR while emergency services were contacted. According to the witness account, the man appeared to have been killed instantly.

Four NSW Ambulance crews responded to the scene, including Intensive Care Paramedics from Narrabeen Ambulance Station and NSW Ambulance Inspector Christine Ashman. Upon arrival, they confirmed the man was deceased.

Northern Beaches Police Area Command established a crime scene at the building site and began conducting inquiries with witnesses. A NSW Police spokesperson confirmed that the matter has been reported to the coroner and SafeWork NSW, which will be investigating the circumstances of the incident.

The identity of the deceased worker has not yet been released pending notification of family members.

Published 10-April-2025

Half a Century of Service: Zonta Club’s Impact on the Northern Beaches

Photo Credit: Facebook/Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc.

For 50 years, the Zonta Club of Northern Beaches has been changing lives. From crisis support to scholarships, the group continues to champion women’s rights and opportunities.

Northern Beaches Zonta Club Marks 50 Years of Supporting Women

In 1975, a small group of Northern Beaches women united with a modest but powerful vision—to improve the lives of women in their community. Fifty years later, the Zonta Club of Northern Beaches continues to advocate, educate, and support women and girls.

A Legacy of Service

Journalist Maggie Vaile founded the Zonta Club of Warringah, seeing an opportunity to unite like-minded women to make a difference. In 1975, their first fundraiser supported victims of Cyclone Tracy, establishing a long tradition of community-based fundraising. The club renamed itself in 2003 to more accurately reflect its coverage of the Northern Beaches.

*Photo Credit: Facebook/Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc.*

The club has direct programmes for women, for example, education scholarships, study grants, and crisis assistance. The club also interacts with youth through the Z-Club at Mackellar Girls Campus and local high school projects with the aim of promoting leadership and advocacy.

Community Recognition

This year’s International Women’s Day Breakfast, held on 5 March, placed the club’s ongoing influence in the limelight. Squadron Leader Dr. Anna Williams, co-author of Changing Altitudes, shared insights on women’s experiences in the Air Force.

Local community member Lisbeth Lawsen was crowned Pittwater Woman of the Year. This recognition acknowledges her efforts in establishing crisis accommodation for women and children of the Northern Beaches through the Northern Beaches Women’s Shelter at night. Supported by Zonta and other community organisations, the shelter continues to provide much-needed service for women.

Looking Ahead to 50 Years

As the club prepares for its 50th anniversary in 2025, members are looking back on their history while also looking forward to the future. Dee Why RSL will host an anniversary dinner on 15 September to bring together past and present members and celebrate their achievements.

The community can get involved by attending meetings held every fourth Monday of the month at The Sands Hotel in Narrabeen. New members, volunteers, and supporters are all encouraged to join their club and be a part of empowering women through service and advocacy.

Published 12-March-2025

Menya Monaka Brings Shime-No-Ramen and Late-Night Dining to Mona Vale

Photo Credit: Menya Monaka/Instagram

Menya Monaka is bringing a new late-night dining experience to Mona Vale, with ramen at its heart.

Owner Fuminori “Bun” Fukuda is introducing locals to shime-no-ramen, a Japanese dining tradition that hasn’t quite made its mark in Australia—until now.

What is Shime-No-Ramen?

In Japan, a night out often follows a simple ritual: start with drinks and snacks at an izakaya, then finish with a steaming bowl of ramen. The word “shime” means “to close,” and shime-no-ramen is all about ending the night on a satisfying note.

Fukuda has noticed that many Australians treat ramen as just another dish to pair with drinks, often letting the noodles sit too long while sipping wine. At Menya Monaka, the concept is different. Enjoy your drinks and small plates first, then savour your ramen while it’s hot and fresh.

Bringing Kanto-Style Ramen to Sydney

Unlike most Sydney’s focus on Kyushu-style ramen—known for thin noodles and rich tonkotsu broth—Menya Monaka highlights Kanto-style ramen, which comes from eastern Japan. These bowls feature medium-to-thick noodles, made fresh in-house daily.

The name “Monaka” combines “Mona” for Mona Vale with “Ka”, the Japanese character for family. It’s a nod to his popular café, Cafe Monaka, and the strong relationships he has built with locals. “Menya” translates to “noodle shop,” reinforcing ramen as the star of the menu.

Each bowl is crafted using house-made noodles and slow-cooked broth options: tonkatsu, chicken, or a soy-based vegan alternative. To maintain quality, the restaurant serves only 100 bowls per day.

More Than Just Ramen

For a true shime-no-ramen experience, Fukuda recommends starting with snacks and drinks first. The menu includes a selection of izakaya-style small plates, such as:

Twisted ramen noodle pretzels
Sourdough with moromi-miso butter
Sesame-soaked smashed cucumber
Nori-shio fries

For something heartier, there’s Wagyu sirloin steak and karaage chicken. The bar offers an impressive selection of sake, Japanese whisky, cocktails, and Australian wines.

lunch menu

dinner menu

The interior design is sleek and minimal, taking inspiration from authentic Tokyo ramen bars rather than the more familiar styles seen in Sydney.

Bringing Late-Night Dining to Mona Vale

Opening a restaurant is challenging, especially when everything is made from scratch. But for Fukuda, authenticity comes first. Through Cafe Monaka, he has built a strong relationship with the community, and regulars had been asking for a quality late-night dining option.

Now, it is one of the few spots in Mona Vale open late, giving locals a new place to unwind after hours.

One thing you won’t find here? Sushi. Menya Monaka wants to showcase the country’s diverse food culture beyond its most famous dish.

The Perfect End to the Night

If you have room for dessert, options like monaka ice-cream sandwiches, matcha tiramisu, and yuzu cheesecake provide a sweet finish.

Guests can order however they like, but Fukuda hopes they’ll embrace the full shime-no-ramen experience over time. In Japan, that means ending the night with a perfect, comforting bowl of ramen.

Book table

Published 7-Feb-2025

Mona Vale Teenager, Tilly Rose Cooper, Organises Swimwear Drive for Fijian Children

Photo Credit: My Fijian Clothes Drive/ Instagram

Inspired by what she saw during a family trip to Fiji, 13-year-old Tilly Rose Cooper, a member of the Mona Vale Surf Life Saving Club, launched a swimwear drive and worked with surf clubs from Palm Beach to Collaroy to gather donations of swimwear, rashies, and wetsuits for the children of Tagaqe Village in the neighbouring archipelago.

Fijian Holiday Inspires Action

Mona Vale Teenager, Tilly Rose Cooper, Organises Swimwear Drive for Fijian Children — *Photo Credit:* *My Fijian Clothes Drive/ Instagram*

Tilly recently travelled to Fiji with her family for her grandparents’ vow renewal in Tagaqe Village, a community that requires an invitation to visit. She spent time with local children and noticed they lacked proper swimwear, often swimming in their everyday clothes or school uniforms.

Recognising the potential danger and wanting to help, Tilly started a collection drive. She hopes to provide the children with suitable swim gear, improving their safety in the water and repurposing items that would otherwise end up in landfills.

Call for Donations and Community Support

Tilly calls for donations of new or gently used swimwear, rashies, board shorts, t-shirts, hats, thongs, and sunblock for children and teenagers. Donation boxes are located at participating surf clubs from Palm Beach to Collaroy. Tilly hopes to collect around 20 boxes of items to send to Fiji.

She has been a member of the Mona Vale SLSC since she was a Nipper, and her family has a long association with the club. She enjoys being part of the club, learning new skills, making friends, and participating in events.

Local Support and Recognition

Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby acknowledged Tilly’s initiative, stating that it is inspiring to see a young person return from a holiday wanting to give back to the community. Scruby encouraged everyone to donate to the cause and plans to recognise Tilly’s efforts in parliament.

The collection period ended 9 February but Tilly also seeks a sponsor to assist with the shipping costs. Those interested in sponsoring or helping in other ways can contact Tilly’s mother, Allison, at allison@steamit.com.au.

Published Date 05-Feb-2025
Updated 10-February-2025

Mona Vale Lifeguards Praised for Quick Action in Teen Rescue

Photo Credit: Careflight

The quick actions of lifeguards at Mona Vale Beach have been commended after they successfully resuscitated a 15-year-old boy pulled unconscious from the water.

Mona Vale Lifeguards Praised for Quick Action in Teen Rescue — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

The teenager was swimming with friends on Wednesday morning when he was found unresponsive in the surf. His friends noticed he was in trouble and immediately sought help from nearby lifeguards.

A lifeguard entered the water and assisted in bringing the boy ashore. He was not breathing and had no pulse. Lifeguards quickly began CPR while waiting for paramedics to arrive.

Lifeguards from nearby Warriewood Beach also rushed to Mona Vale to help. After several minutes of intense effort, the boy regained consciousness and began breathing again. NSW Ambulance paramedics, including an Intensive Care team, arrived on the scene and provided further treatment.

The CareFlight Rescue Helicopter landed at Apex Park, and the boy was transported to Sydney Children’s Hospital in a stable condition.

Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steven Pearce praised the lifeguards’ quick response, emphasising how vital their presence is on local beaches. He said this incident serves as a reminder about the importance of swimming at patrolled locations, especially with challenging surf conditions predicted.

Mr Pearce expressed his relief that the lifeguards were able to act quickly and effectively, ultimately saving the boy’s life. He wished the young man a speedy recovery.

Published Date 16-Jan-2025