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Oh, that fresh breath of air—that is Autumn! Sigh, thank you... Welcome to the season of clear, crisp mornings, beautiful temperate weather, awesome ocean swell, and the starting line for everything 2025.
Can you believe we’re a quarter of a century into the not-so-new millennium? Wow, how did that happen? The only real reference is when you start talking to a 20-something-year-old and realize they weren’t even born when Cathy Freeman won that epic race at our hometown Olympic Games. I mean, what tha?!! I remember that moment like it was, well… 25 years ago.
Hello, Autumn! Our theme for 2025 is FOCUS. What’s your FOCUS for the next 12 months, five years, or 25 years? In life and business, we’re constantly evolving, and what you sow now will determine what you reap down the track. So, do you have a plan? Is there a FOCUS?
This season, we focused on the villages of Collaroy and Long Reef to see what we could discover for our The Best of the Beaches special. What we found was a tight-knit community of small business operators living their best lives and looking forward to showcasing their patch of Beaches paradise to you. And here’s what we found…
• A Beaches surf shop institution, Long Reef Surf Co, is turning 40 this year! Still the go-to for wetsuits and water sports gear.
• A historic pie shop getting a major facelift. Any local who loves an Aussie meat pie has surely stopped by. The Upper Crust, we salute you.
• A world-renowned skiing institution, Larry Adler Ski & Outdoor, just in time for the season ahead.
• A high-calibre kitchen designer and builder, Collaroy Kitchen Centre.
• A master stroke of backyards with Focus Pools and Miller Stone & Co.
• A world-class spinal injury care centre, Sargood on Collaroy, deeply embedded in the community.
• One of the best community and oceanfront dining gathering hubs this side of the Spit Bridge, The Beach Club.
• The newest café on the block – Butterbox at Long Reef Surf Club.
• The ultimate homewares paradise at Alfresco Emporium.
• And at the northern end, exquisite fine dining at Hedonist Collaroy.
There is so much more to discover on your trail through Collaroy/Long Reef this Autumn—get out and enjoy it!
Other places we think you’ll like...
• Coffee and treats – Outpost Collaroy, Patagonia NB, Taste Espresso, and Mr Gelato by Matteo
• Wellbeing – Mind, Body N Pole, Lashes & Brows, Collaroy Skin Care & Beauty Retreat, Chakra Hair & Beauty, and FlexiFit
• Dining – GurTaj Indian, The Beach Club, and Hedonist Collaroy
• Foodies – Astin Min, a treasure trove of yummy food and bits-and-pieces
The rest of the season is just a cracker. Check out what’s on! ANZAC Day, Easter, and Head Above Water’s 24-hour Swimathon at Collaroy rockpool, just for a start. Ben Ross is exhibiting at Harvey Galleries, The Superjesus are playing at Avalon RSL, and there’s a matinee show of The Roy Orbison Story at Glen Street Theatre.
We asked Northern Beaches Council Mayor, Sue Heins, “Where’s all the money going?” with this controversial 39% rate rise? Now we want your opinion to be heard loud and clear. Jump into the chat and let us know what you think! Head to page 26 for more.
James Griffin wants to know what’s happening with Manly Town Hall now that the Council has turned it into a home for administration offices. It’s hardly the use it was meant for.
We have some awesome stay and play experiences with the Q Station, Jonah’s Restaurant and Hotel, and Manly Pacific. Get into trivia at the Manly Skiff Club, the kids’ playground is open every day at The Mona, and when you’re in Newport, check out what the RMYC has on offer as their renovation is about to start. They’re still open with $25 weekly lunch and dinner specials.
The schools have a 2025 focus too! We certainly have some fabulous choices when it comes to our kids’ education.
Amanda, my better half, is back in the gym and on a mission at VAMOS 'Personal Cube' Strength Training in Balgowlah. Fun fact: So am I. I can’t let her out-benchpress me, can I?
As for the rest of the BC family, Smile On in Mona Vale has their teeth-straightening system that’s revolutionised cosmetic dentistry, and Rebound Health is helping kids get focused.
Our property flip mag showcases the incredible new brand, Wattle Court. Formerly under another name, the expert team led by Horst and Michelle Lueckl brings us a stunning Palm Springs-inspired flagship home in Allambie Heights.
The Upstate Market Wrap with Peter Mosedale keeps you up-to-date with all things property, and this formidable team is eager to make your property journey rock this Autumn.
Did you know? This year’s focus Pantone colour is Mocha Mousse. Statement stone featuring bold veining, kitchen gardens, and my personal favourite – curved sofas – are flooding the 2025 design palette.
If you’re in the midst of building or renovating, you might be wondering, DA or CDC? James from MILEHAM Architects and Builders will guide you on the right path.
We’ve also been talking to Peter from Eyachts about hybrid propulsion and Greenline yachts.
Upstate Projects’ Bathers is almost ready. Luxury living right next to Collaroy Beach.
Finally, the guys from my favourite business name of the season, buck&simple, share some ideas if you’re thinking bespoke house design might be just what you need.
Autumn gears are in motion! Gain your FOCUS and tuck in. •
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