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Iconic Mona Vale Pub Undergoes Major Transformation

The Park House at Mona Vale is set to reopen its doors on the October long weekend, unveiling a major transformation and a return to its roots with the new name “The Mona.”

Photo Credit: Facebook / The Mona Vale Hotel

Ben Hanson, owner of the establishment and nephew of pub tycoon Arthur Laundy, has spearheaded this renovation, aiming to restore the venue’s local charm while introducing modern amenities. “I want the pub to have that local, relaxed feel again,” Hanson stated, emphasising his vision for a family-friendly and inclusive atmosphere.

The revamp marks a new chapter for the venue, which has been a fixture in Mona Vale since 1966, previously known as the Mona Vale Rex Hotel. In 2014, the pub underwent its first major renovation under the ownership of Fraser Short and the Laundy family, transforming into Park House Food & Liquor.

Key features of the refurbishment include:

A tribute to local surfing culture with a mural of surfing legend Simon Anderson, painted by Australian artist Steve Gorrow.
The introduction of “Ben’s Bakery Café & Pizzeria,” opening at 6am, honouring Hanson’s father and his legacy in the northern beaches’ bakery scene.
A revamped courtyard offering both indoor and outdoor dining options.
An upgraded menu developed by Hanson in collaboration with Laundy Hotels group head chefs, featuring classic pub fare alongside elevated “surf and turf” options.
Significant improvements to the Beer Garden and Back Yard, including new astroturf, shade sails, and a children’s playground.
The addition of an airstream caravan housing beer taps, a deck for live music, and a large screen for sports broadcasts.
Extensive landscaping with over 150 new plants added to enhance the ambience.

The grand reopening weekend, scheduled for October 4-6, promises a series of events including performances by international DJs, live music, family-friendly activities, and a broadcast of the NRL Grand Final.

Published 24-September-2024

Safety Risks Heightened on Mona Vale Road Due to $340-M Upgrade Delay

Drivers on Mona Vale Road face increased safety hazards from debris and soil blowing onto the road due to the deferral of a $340-million upgrade project.

Local motorists are expressing growing concern as the planned upgrade of Mona Vale Road, valued at $340 million, has been postponed, leading to dangerous conditions on a busy section of the road.

Originally intended to expand and improve safety along the 3.4km stretch from McCarrs Creek Rd in Terrey Hills to Powder Works Rd in Ingleside, the project’s delay has compromised existing road conditions. Soil, sand, and construction debris have been reported to blow onto the road surface, creating slippery and hazardous driving conditions.

Last year, NSW officials confirmed that the Mona Vale Rd (West) upgrade would be deferred by at least two years, a decision made despite previous commitments and budget allocations. This deferral has occurred even as adjacent projects near completion, causing frustration among local residents and council members.

Mona Vale road — *Photo Credit: TransportNSW*

During a recent Northern Beaches Council meeting, Cr Vincent De Luca highlighted concerns brought to his attention by an anonymous construction insider. The source reported that the unsettled debris from the halted construction works is contributing to an already notorious accident black spot.

This stretch of road is particularly critical as it sees over 37,000 vehicles daily, and road crash data indicates a troubling history of accidents and fatalities in the area.

Mr De Luca has urged that the state government resume the upgrade promptly to mitigate further risks to driver safety.

In response to the safety concerns, Transport for NSW (TfNSW) acknowledged the delay, attributing it partly to unseasonal wet weather, which is affecting construction schedules. TfNSW has assured that measures are being taken to stabilise the area, including erosion and sedimentation controls and planting native vegetation to secure the embankments. Furthermore, traffic management changes have been implemented to safeguard motorists during ongoing works, including a reduced speed limit and partial road closures.

The community continues to watch closely, hoping for a swift resumption of the roadworks to ensure the safety and efficiency of one of the area’s critical commuter routes.

Published 27-Aug-2024

From Fairway to Fine Dining: The Mona Social Elevates Golf Club Experience

The Boathouse Group recently unveiled its latest venture, The Mona Social. Located on the scenic grounds of The Mona Vale Golf Club, this sophisticated addition to the group’s venue portfolio has elevated social experiences through its a la carte bistro restaurant, connected to a casual bar with sports viewing areas, pool tables, in-house golf simulator, and tap beer.

Read: Sweeping Sights in Store at New Mona Vale Golf Club Venue

Antony Jones, CEO of The Boathouse Group, described the venue as “Boathouse meets country club.” Visitors walked in and immediately recognized it as a Boathouse venue through its quintessential abundance of beautiful interiors. However, rather than a coastal theme, it featured an inviting country feel with warm timber tones and lush greenery.

Mr Jones highlighted the incredible location, saying, “When we first walked into the space, we were blown away by how iconic the location and outlook is. We’re thrilled to have provided locals and visitors alike the opportunity to enjoy this venue as it was intended, for socialising with friends and family over a drink or a meal.”

Photo credit: The Mona Social/Google Maps

The venue, situated above the golf club’s headquarters and separate from the club, complemented the golfing experience.

Andy Hugill, the club’s General Manager, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to have the team from The Boathouse Group launch this brand-new venue concept above our clubhouse. It has brought a whole new dimension to Mona Vale hospitality options, along with our newly renovated clubhouse and cafe.”

Mark LaBrooy, the Head of Culinary at The Boathouse Group and Cameron Johnston, the Head Chef at The Mona Social (Photo credit: The Mona Social/Facebook)

The Boathouse Group Head of Culinary, Mark LaBrooy, along with Head Chef Cameron Johnston (formerly of Bathers Pavilion & Peterman), developed a menu that reinvented classic bistro staples.

Mr LaBrooy stated, “We had a lot of fun building menus fit for the fast-paced style of service. From paying homage to the ocean surrounds to infusing a contemporary twist, we strived to strike a balance that is both sophisticated and accessible with our two dining formats.”

The bistro menu featured highlights such as venison tartare with a zesty kick of horseradish, octopus or beef tongue skewer, chargrilled prawns, and garlic and kombu mussels. Larger dishes included modern favourites like red wine braised beef cheek served with Jerusalem artichoke chips, lamb rump, and crispy skin chicken. Dessert options featured indulgent classics such as creme caramel, lemon tart, and a hot fudge sundae.

Bar visitors enjoyed a sharp food menu, including the Mona Social club sandwich and a classic cheeseburger. For a modern twist on bar food, options like an anchovy crumpet or an eel and pork terrine were available.

The drinks offering was designed around long lunches, with a bright cocktail menu featuring classics like mojitos and specialty creations such as the signature ‘Caddy Issues’, a mix between a cosmopolitan and a sea breeze, and the ‘On the Green’ with kiwifruit, gin, and Japanese melon.

The wine list focused on emerging Australian winemakers and classic regions, with Chablis and German Riesling available to enjoy course side. Tap beer was a highlight, with a collaboration with 4-Pines called ‘The Swingers Lager’ featured at launch. A carefully selected list of Scottish whiskies was also available.

Read: Mona Vale Embraces Sustainable Practices: Johnson Brothers Hardware Leads the Way

The Mona Social is open for lunch and dinner, and is catering to all occasions in between. Visit their website for more details.

Published 31-July-2024

Mona Vale Residents Rally Against $23M Nursing Home Expansion

Photo Credit: nsw.gov.au / DA2024/0882

Mona Vale residents have rallied against the proposed $23 million expansion of a nursing home. The plan, which would see the facility double in size, is facing scrutiny as the public comment period draws to a close.

Thompson Health Care, operators of 16 nursing homes across Sydney and New South Wales, submitted a development application to Northern Beaches Council earlier this month. The ambitious project aims to increase the nursing home’s capacity from 63 to 118 beds, a move that would significantly alter the landscape of Bassett Street, just 350 meters from Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal involves demolishing the existing nursing home — a former conference and convention centre converted in 2005 — along with two neighbouring houses now owned by Thompson. In their place would rise a new two-storey structure, complete with off-street parking for 38 vehicles and facilities to accommodate 50 staff working across several daytime shifts.

This latest application, lodged on July 9, is an amendment to a previously approved plan from April 2021. It includes modifications to the building’s layout, balcony designs, and bay windows. However, these changes have done little to quell local opposition, which has been mounting since the original development application in 2020 drew nearly 40 objections.

At the forefront of the resistance is the Mona Vale Community Group. In a joint submission prepared by town planning consultants, the group argued that the new building would result in a “jarring streetscape impact” and is inappropriate for an area zoned for “low density residential” use.

“The long, unarticulated length of this facade, is completely uncharacteristic of adjoining and nearby development,” the submission stated, highlighting concerns about the project’s scale and its potential to alter the neighbourhood’s character.

Individual residents have also voiced their apprehensions. Adam and Nicole Byrnes, in their submission to the council, emphasised that the proposed development “is in complete contrast with keeping to the character of the existing neighbourhood.”

Beyond aesthetic concerns, locals worry about practical implications. Britt Treloar predicts an increase in noise, particularly from service vehicles. “A facility of this size especially with trucks (delivery, garbage, nursing home bus) reversing/beeping into nursing home at all hours,” Treloar warned.

Published 29-July-2024

Sweeping Sights in Store at New Mona Vale Golf Club Venue

Did you know that a stylish, new venue is being developed at the top floor of the Mona Vale Golf Club, promising panoramic views of the golf course and nearby Warriewood beaches?

Read: What’s On Mona Vale Golf Club

The prime location caught the eye of The Boathouse Group, the hospitality group behind the upcoming project. According to initial details, the space will channel a cosy, inviting country club atmosphere with warm wood tones and abundant greenery.

Whilst a food and drink menu is still in progress, the venue will be open to both club members and the general public for social gatherings.

Mona vale golf club — Photo credit: Gian Francisco/Google Maps

They want to give people a place to enjoy time with friends and family over drinks or a meal with this incredible backdrop.

The Mona Vale venue marks part of The Boathouse Group’s strategic growth efforts to build out its portfolio of waterfront cafes and restaurants over the next five years, not just within NSW but into additional states, with the ultimate goal of doubling total revenue.

The group recently partnered with North Wollongong Surf Club to develop their upstairs space into a 200-plus seat restaurant, securing the location through a competitive tender process to further expand their footprint outside Sydney.

Read: The Basin Dining Room Now Open at Mona Vale Surf Life Saving Club

Fresh off the hiring of celebrity chef Mark LaBrooy for their forthcoming North Wollongong outpost, the group saw the open layout and iconic views as a chance to bring their signature coastal aesthetic to the world of golf.

The Boathouse Group, founded in 2008 by Andrew and Pip Goldsmith, was rescued from collapse in 2019 by a syndicate including the Isaac brothers, Andrew Robb and family, and the Sorensens. Jones and Ben Isaac now look to purchase the Sorensen majority stake, making Jones a minority shareholder.

Published 4-March-2024

Mona Vale Embraces Sustainable Practices: Johnson Brothers Hardware Leads the Way

In an effort to contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future, Johnson Brothers Hardware in Mona Vale has launched its E-Waste Recycle Program.

Starting from 4 Dec 2023, the Mona Vale store will serve as a free collection point for electronic waste (e-waste) in partnership with Sircel, a renowned e-waste management company.

Accessible and Free E-Waste Collection for All

Located conveniently at the start of the parking area dedicated to Trade customers, these collection bins are open for use by everyone during regular business hours. This initiative reflects the commitment of Johnson Brothers Hardware to provide a hassle-free and accessible solution for the responsible disposal of e-waste.

What Qualifies as E-Waste?

E-waste encompasses a wide range of items that contain electrical plugs or batteries. This includes but is not limited to electric power tools, household appliances, computers, and mobile phones.

It’s essential to note that Johnson Brothers Hardware cannot accept gas, petrol, or diesel appliances as part of this recycling program.

Once you bring your outdated power tools, tablets, or televisions to our e-waste collection bins, here is what occurs:

Each week, Sircel, the recycling partner, collects e-waste from the Mona Vale store and transports it to their state-of-the-art facility located in Western Sydney. At the Sircel facility, the disposed items will undergo:

Assessment of Electronics for Reusability: Sircel carefully assesses electronics to identify those that could have a second life, such as televisions and computers.
Thorough Data Erasure for Future Repurposing: Sensitive data is meticulously wiped from all electronics to prepare them for potential reuse.
Battery Extraction and Responsible Recycling: For electronic products without foreseeable reuse, Sircel responsibly extracts batteries and channels them to an accredited partner specialising in battery recycling.
Mechanical Transformation of E-Waste: The e-waste materials undergo a mechanical transformation process to ensure that they are securely and efficiently recycled.

Following these processes, individual commodities are recovered and reintroduced into the circular economy as regenerated resources. This remarkable transformation means that your old power tools, household appliances, and computers could find a new life in various forms.

Plastic tool casings might be repurposed into bench seats, copper cabling could become a new copper pipe, and the valuable metals in your old phone, such as gold, silver, and palladium, could be transformed into fuel cells for automobiles.

By participating in the E-Waste Recycle Program at Johnson Brothers Hardware in Mona Vale, you contribute to the sustainability of our environment and help make finite resources infinite.

Photo Credit: Johnson Bros Mitre 10 – Mona Vale

You will also take significant steps towards reducing electronic waste and creating a cleaner, greener future.

Published 20-Dec-2023

Mona Vale’s Charlie Pittman Shines in the Top 4 of ‘The Voice Australia’

Photo Credit: The Voice Australia/YouTube

Mona Vale has lately been gaining recognition for a gem other than its surf beach – a rising star named Charlie Pittman, whose singing talent has made him one of the frontrunners in The Voice Australia.

The 19-year-old has made a remarkable impression on the Australian music scene as a contestant on “The Voice Australia.” Charlie’s unique talent and impressive performances have set him apart, making him one of the standout artists in the show’s upcoming Grand Finale.

Sunday night’s episode of “The Voice Australia” was nothing short of electrifying as four remarkable artists competed for the coveted title. Ezra Williams, Tarryn Stokes, Charlie Pittman, and Ethan Beckton, each representing different coaching teams, secured their spots in the eagerly awaited season-ender.

Charlie, mentored by Coach Guy Sebastian, surprised the judges and the audience with his innovative rendition of A-ha’s classic hit “Take On Me.”

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However, it wasn’t just his vocal prowess that left everyone in awe; it was the audacious act of performing inside a clear box suspended a staggering five meters above the stage that truly captivated the crowd.

“Charlie looked like a star tonight,” Coach Jason Derulo commented while Mr Sebastian praised his musical maturity.

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Charlie’s journey on “The Voice Australia” has been marked by his willingness to take risks and push boundaries. As he advanced to the Grand Finale, Charlie expressed his gratitude to his supporters.

“Thank you so much for believing in me and letting me take risks. I won’t let you down,” he said on TV.

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But before the ultimate showdown, each finalist has released an original track created in collaboration with renowned producers and songwriters. These singles, ranging from emotional ballads to vibrant pop numbers, are available for streaming and download, giving fans a taste of what’s to come.

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“The Voice Australia 2023” grand finale will air on Sunday, 8 Oct 2023 at 7:00 p.m. on Channel 7.

Published 26-Sept-2023

Mona Vale’s Charlie Pittman Impresses Judges on ‘The Voice Australia’

Charlie Pittman, who was born in Mona Vale but grew up in England, has returned to Australia compete in The Voice, where he chose to honour his late father’s memory and wowed the judges with a touching rendition of Dean Lewis’ “How Do I Say Goodbye” during the Blind Auditions.

The emotional tribute drew the attention of the judges, making Charlie an instant sensation on the show. As he sang his heart out, the judges on “The Voice Australia” were captivated by his soulful performance.

The first to turn their chair around was Jessica Mauboy, followed swiftly by Guy Sebastian and international sensation Jason Derulo. British singer Rita Ora, while not turning her chair, couldn’t resist sneaking a peek to catch the final moments of Charlie’s audition.

Charlie’s talent and the poignant choice of his audition song left the judges profoundly moved, and their eagerness to have him on their respective teams was evident.

A Tribute to His Late Father: Charlie’s Special Connection to Australia

Charlie’s decision to audition for “The Voice Australia” held deep personal significance.

“My late father was Australian,” he revealed, explaining that the audition was a heartfelt and healing experience to honour his Australian heritage. Charlie’s choice to pay homage to his father’s memory through music resonated deeply with both the judges and the audience.

From Suffolk to Mona Vale: Charlie’s Remarkable Journey

Charlie’s remarkable journey took him from his birthplace in Mona Vale to Holbrook in Suffolk, England, where he spent a significant part of his upbringing. Despite his time in England, Charlie’s roots remained firmly planted Down Under, where he has returned to pursue his passion for music.

“I’ve been chipping away at the industry for the last few years but have still had to work non-music jobs just to get by.”

In the end, Charlie had the challenging task of choosing his mentor for the competition. He ultimately opted for Australian singer Guy Sebastian, who will guide him through the next phases of “The Voice Australia.” With Guy by his side, Charlie Pittman is poised to continue making waves on the show.

“The Voice Australia” season 12 airs on Channel 7.

Uncertainty Surrounds Mona Vale Rd West Upgrade as Mona Vale Rd East Upgrades Near Completion

A cloud of uncertainty looms over the future of the Mona Vale Rd West upgrades, leaving residents and commuters concerned about the fate of these critical infrastructure initiatives. However, work on Mona Vale Rd East upgrades continues.

Mona Vale Rd West project covers a 3.4-kilometer stretch between McCarrs Creek Rd, Terrey Hills, and Powderworks Rd, Ingleside. Initially funded by the Perrottet Government with a $340-million commitment, the project’s future has been thrown into uncertainty following a strategic review of infrastructure projects by the newly-elected Minns Government.

Mona Vale Rd West: Funding Review Sparks Controversy

In the aftermath of a recent serious head-on collision on the road in mid-August 2023, Pittwater MP Rory Amon has expressed uncertainty regarding the fate of the previously funded project aimed at widening Mona Vale Road West. He has urged the State Government to uphold the upgrade despite concerns.

Mr Amon took action by writing to both the Minister for Roads and the Treasurer. He emphasized the crucial need to retain the allocated $340 million for the project in the forthcoming Budget.

“[The] collision is an unfortunate reminder that the widening and safety upgrades of Mona Vale Road West are paramount and must proceed. The allocated $340 million must remain in the Labor Government’s Budget being delivered on 19 September2023. With each day that goes by, lives are put at risk. The widening and safety upgrades will address these risks and also significantly reduce congestions across the road network,” Mr Amon stated.

Whilst the detailed design work for Mona Vale Rd West continues, the project itself has been placed under review. John Graham, NSW Minister for Roads, has acknowledged the review and noted that the project’s fate will be determined based on the findings.

SIGN THE PETITION TO PROCEED WITH UPGRADES

Key Features of Mona Vale Rd West Upgrade

Creating a new traffic signal intersection, dedicated turning lanes, and a truck climbing lane
Widening Mona Vale Road to four lanes with a central concrete safety barrier
Relocating and reconfiguring existing intersections for enhanced safety
Constructing local road connections, shared use paths, and fauna crossings
Upgrading street lighting, constructing retaining walls, and landscaping
Community Concerns and Advocacy

Mona Vale Rd East: Transforming a Notorious Traffic Route

For the past four years, a monumental effort has been underway to transform Mona Vale Rd East, the one-lane-each-way route that leads into the northern beaches of Sydney. The ambitious $140-million upgrade aims to tackle the notorious traffic jams that have plagued the road, with over 210,000 cubic meters of rock and soil already removed.

The project, which covers 3.2 kilometers between Manor Rd at Ingleside and Foley St, Mona Vale, involves massive rock breaking and excavations to reshape the terrain and widen the road to four lanes.

Transport authorities anticipate that the completed upgrade will improve safety and reduce travel times for the approximately 35,000 vehicles that traverse Mona Vale Rd daily. The project includes various safety measures such as a fauna overpass and underpass to protect local wildlife from road traffic.

Although originally expected to conclude during the 2022/23 financial year, a firm completion date remains uncertain due to unforeseen delays.

Key Features of Mona Vale Rd East Upgrade

Widening Mona Vale Road to four lanes with a central concrete safety barrier
Adding three-meter-wide shoulders for breakdowns and cyclists
Replacing the existing roundabout with traffic lights and pedestrian crossings
Establishing bus priority lanes and new bus stops
Implementing speed limit changes and safety measures for trucks and buses
Building retaining walls, cuttings, and other terrain-related features
Enhancing fauna connectivity and upgrading drainage systems

Published 31-Aug-2023

Trial On For Toy Library Service at the Mona Vale Library

Photo Credit: Design Miss C/Pixabay

Did you know that with a toy library membership, you can now borrow and check out toys for your children from the substantial collection at the Mona Vale Library?

From 6 April 2023, the Northern Beaches Council launched the 12-month trial for the Toy Library service at Mona Vale and Manly libraries. Parents or carers may check out a maximum of six toys a month for their children.

The initiative is a partnership between the Council and the EarlyEd Cubby House Toy Library. Members may also use the services online and pick toys to borrow from the catalogue. Toy pick-ups are conducted every Thursday between 10:30 to 11:00 a.m.

Cubby House was started in 1979 to support the development and learning of children with special needs. and their families. In its early years, more than 70 families were part of the program but the number has ballooned to 8000 families in two decades.

The library offers a range of high-quality toys and play equipment for babies from six months old to primary school-age kids. The toys are selected based on guidance from parents, occupational therapists, and early education professionals.

Incidentally, is also looking for volunteers to help manage the toy library and keep the program active. Interested parties may phone 9923 2727 for more information.

After more than four decades, the Cubby House initiative has evolved into a community library to help all kinds of families save on the cost of toys. With this service, parents do not have to buy toys regularly and increase their cardboard footprint. They can simply borrow the right toys for their kids and return them at a reasonable time.

Membership to the Toy Library requires a separate registration from general library membership.

Published 14-April-2023