Music: Gigs & venues for Friday night – or every night – jams.

Avalon RSL – The Heartbeat of C.O.F.F.I.N

Children of Finland Fighting in Norway is quite the acronym. What’s the inspiration behind it, and are any of you actually from Finland?  

No, sadly, there's no significant meaning behind it. We started this band kind of between Year 6 and Year 7. We were around 12 years old, and at that stage you're just discovering all these bands and different styles of music that are opening you up to the world of music. One week, you’ll choose this name, because you're influenced by AC/DC, and the next week, you change it to this name, because you're influenced by Metallica or Slayer.

But then we were put on the spot for a name at one point, and one of the guys just said “Children of Finland” for some reason. We thought that that was a terrible name, but because we told it to some older guy, we thought we had to stick with it. So we said “Maybe we can tell him that it's part of an acronym?” C.O.F… and then someone said, “Oh, C.O.F.F.I.N!” And the first thing that came to someone's mind for F.I.N  was “Fighting in Norway” – Children of Finland Fighting in Norway. It’s pretty random for a few kids from the Northern Beaches to have a name that includes two Scandinavian countries. But somehow, that's what we came up with.

What is one word you’d use to describe each of the members? Nice words? Whatever you like.

‍Abijah: talented, Aaron: annoyed, Kosty: clown.

As a band who uses their voice to fight social injustice, have you ever faced any pushback?

Yeah, a lot of the pushback probably happens in the shadows. For example, with our song ‘White Dog’, when that was first put on YouTube, it was reported by someone, and then taken down. And then several times after that, it got reported.

We've also had people sabotage us by calling venues and saying “Oh, don't book them; they're out of control; they'll screw up your venue and cause you trouble.” It was mainly earlier in the days when people didn't really know us as well, that you’d suddenly get a venue that says, “Oh, actually, we can't go ahead with the show.” And you wonder: where's this coming from? And you then find out someone spoke to someone there.

Some of our songs and the way we speak about some of these issues aren't black and white because these issues like toxic masculinity or racism or ideas about the environment aren't necessarily super straightforward.

We think it's not that interesting or honest to explore them in that sense. We like to show the complexities of them in a way that's not virtue signalling. And that then sometimes gets pushed back when people are like, “Oh they’re thugs” when they hear our song ‘Locals Only’, but really the song's ironic, and it takes a deeper examination to understand the nuance of what that song is making a critique on.

Indigenous rights seem to be a big part of what the band fights for. What connects you to that cause?

It's just a natural respect. We all have different backgrounds from around the world, and we feel very lucky to live
in such a beautiful place like Australia.

But we also feel enraged at how Australia has caused suffering for and destruction of Indigenous culture, and how it has continued to keep it as something that's
so separated from everyday Australian life.

When there's such a rich history and culture here, it seems so outrageous for it to not be more learned about and integrated into everyday life, as opposed to Maori culture, which in Aotearoa, New Zealand seems – from our visits –  to be something people are very much more connected to even if they aren't Indigenous Maori, but live in New Zealand.

And so for us, we see Aboriginality as such an amazing culture and a world of knowledge and experience. It's something we feel strongly about and wish that we were deeply connected to.

Are you always in agreement with political and social views? Yeah, we're really lucky. Growing up, our parents would often take us to anti-war rallies and rallies for issues around climate and protests against right-wing politics. So that was instilled in us early, and we are lucky to all come from a similar background and share the same principles and morals.

We've all appreciated discovering music and the environments that music happens as a place to explore these kinds of topics and issues, as opposed to being themes or ideas or debates that are solely explored within an academic or political setting; I think there's a danger in that because it removes it from the day-to-day conversation.

“That's a thing, politicians do,” or “that's a thing only academic activists debate about.” No, it shouldn't be. These are things that are just as much something for us to be engaged in, but finding a place to do that, though, is the problem. We think that live gigs and the music world can be a place for that, for the everyday person.

And is it to say that it should always be that? No way. That would be kind of boring and tedious if music always had to be political or have some agenda, but it's a great place to have those conversations.

And are you guys working on any music now?

‍Yeah, we've got a new album recorded, which hasn't been announced yet, but that will be coming out later in the year. It's a continuation on our Scandinavian theme.

The art on your merch is awesome. Who illustrates the designs?

Well, thank you very much. That would be me.

Do you have any art training or is that just natural talent?

‍That's another thing to thank the band for. Having been involved in this since we were young, we often were having to do our own posters and merch because, first of all, it's fun, and the visual side of things has always been something that's partnered with this band as well. But also, it's quicker. If you need to fly tomorrow, you just do it yourself.

And also having no money. Sometimes you might have a generous friend who's talented, but you can't really be contacting an artist like, “Hey, can you do the t-shirt design for us? By the way, we've got nothing to pay you.” So we just do it ourselves.

We're lucky that we also have Kosty in the band, our bass player who's a tattoo artist. So he's done designs too. It's something we enjoy, being directly invested in a part of the visual side of our band as well.

Do you have a favourite lyric you’d like to share?

Maybe from ‘White Dog’: “Are you the one whose kingdom comes, with drugs and guns // Disease as charity?”

Any last words?

I would just say to kids on the Beaches who are interested in playing music: don't hesitate. We just started by jamming together with friends and hanging out on the weekends. We never had some grand plan of becoming a band that recorded and toured the world; it was more hanging out and just spending time with each other and creating. It's been something that's given us a lot of engagement with the community and with places all over the world.

So, I would just say if you're thinking about it, you definitely should, because that's how we did it, and we were just a few kids skateboarding around the Beaches. •

@coffin_aus  |  Spotify: c.o.f.f.i.n.  |  coffinband.com

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Felons Barrel Room – Barreling Onto the Music Scene

Since opening at Manly Wharf in December 2025, Felons Manly's latest addition has wasted no time making its mark. With sold-out gigs, big-name bookings, and a program that only gets better. Live music is back in Manly, and it has found an electric home base. Lined with barrels, centred around a stage and kitted out with the best in audiotechnics and lighting, Felons Barrel Room is built to make musicians shine.

Felons Barrel Room launched with a bang. In early December 2025, Sydney-based soul sixpiece Winston Surfshirt and new wave pop rock band Mental As Anything headlined a three-night opening weekend that drew crowds from across Sydney and beyond.

Since then, the momentum has barely let up. Gig after gig has sold out or come close, with the venue quickly establishing itself as one of the most amped up places to see live music anywhere on the Beaches.

More than sixty French oak barrels line the walls and a state-of-the-art brewery sits behind the bar, brewing its first beer this winter.

The stage sits at the centre, framed by a purpose-built sound system from internationally recognised German audio manufacturer d&b audiotechnik, and a lighting rig designed for eye-catching performances. The venue holds seven hundred people, seating over three hundred for dining, and feels, somehow, both grand and welcoming at once.

The programming is eclectic. Piano bar evenings. Salsa nights. Comedy showcases. Running through it all is Felons’ commitment to original live music, from emerging local acts finding their feet to established names making the Barrel Room a destination stop on tour.

Trivia Night Wednesday

Weekly cash jackpot + prizes to be won from the Wheel of Fortune, valued up to $1,200! Including beers, merch and vouchers. Every Wednesday night, Jimmy from Trivial Things hosts a lighthearted evening of friendly competition, brain teasers and epic prizes that pulls a crowd every single week. Competitors enjoy an extended Happy Hour from 8:30 to 10:30pm. Register from 7pm for a 7:30 start, lock in your friends and make it a regular.

Jazz Club Thursday

Jazz Club night has earned its following, and it's not hard to see why. Every Thursday from 7pm, the Barrel Room shifts into a lower, cooler gear. Good music, good company and absolutely no reason to rush home.

What's On this Winter

Coming up through the winter months, Felons Barrel Room's calendar continues to deliver.

Featuring DJ Morgs, Jeswon and the rest of the crew, Thundamentals is a much-loved Australian hip-hop outfit known for high-energy live shows and a deeply loyal Thundakats following. On Saturday 13 June, they'll be tearing up the stage at Felons with a balance of ballads and bangers, just one stop on a sweeping tour through NSW and up to Queensland. Tickets essential.

Following close behind is genre-blending Aussie DJ and producer TSEBA, bringing free entry on Saturday 20 June. Inspired by Todd Terry and Kerri Chandler, TSEBA knows how to work a room. With collabs alongside EDM legends including Don Diablo, he's earned his stripes. Expect unreleased material mixed with old favourites, disco and soul that will keep feet moving all night.

Big Wheels

One act that perfectly captures the Barrel Room spirit is Brisbane-based rock duo Big Wheels, who grace our cover this issue. Co-fronted by Cass Ford and Lawson Doyle, they deal in what they call "golden rock," a sound somewhere between Fleetwood Mac, The Black Keys and The Last Dinner Party. Formed on the Sunshine Coast in 2021, they've built a following well beyond Queensland's borders, with support from Triple J, BBC Music Introducing and Amazon Music along the way.

Felons Barrel Room has become one of their Sydney homes. Their sound, layered vocals over gritty riffs, is big enough to fill the room and intimate enough to feel personal. Timeless, modern and a little nostalgic, when
Big Wheels play, you feel it.

More Than Music

On the food and drink side, the Barrel Room serves the much-loved Felons Manly menu. Think dry-aged ribeye, freshly shucked oysters and woodfired pizzas, alongside weekly specials, all grounded in simple cooking and the best local produce.

Better yet, enjoy Happy Hour Monday to Friday from 4 to 6pm, featuring cold pints at $10, wine at $10 and signature cocktails at $15.

On the Beaches, live music is a rite of passage. With Felons Barrel Room, there's never been a better reason to show up, stay late and come back next week. •

Open: Wed–Fri, 4pm–late | Sat & Sun, 11am–late | Manly Wharf, East Esplanade, Manly 2095  | felonsbarrelroom

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Night At The Barracks – A Star-Studded, Star-Lit Spectacular

There are few places in the world where you can watch a world-class act perform against the backdrop of a historic military precinct, settled on a pristine headland, with the Manly night sky overhead. Night At The Barracks is a truly unique experience, enriched with sound, starlight and fresh air. The award-winning concert series returns to North Head Sanctuary this September and October.

Boy & Bear

Supported by Charlie Collins & Kaitlin Keegan
Friday 11 September
Sydney's finest indie folk rock band opens the series. As five-time ARIA Award winners, Boy & Bear are the perfect way to ease into a season of live music.

Aloe Blacc‍

Supported by WILSN and Birren
Saturday 12 September
Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Aloe Blacc makes his long-awaited return to Sydney as part of his Wake Me Up tour, his first Sydney performance in seven years. Soulful, anthemic and not to be missed.

Long Way to The Top starring Dave Gleeson‍

Supported by  Don't Change: Ultimate INXS
Sunday 13 September
Dave Gleeson premieres his award-winning show, a euphoric sprint through the Australian rock canon featuring songs by AC/DC, INXS, Cold Chisel, Midnight Oil, Powderfinger and more. Brought to you by Triple M.

The Temper Trap‍

Supported by Lastlings and Summer Rain
Friday 18 September
ARIA Award-winners The Temper Trap return with new music from Sungazer, their first album in nearly a decade, alongside the timeless anthems that made them.

Sneaky Sound System‍

Supported by The Potbelleez and DJ Robbie Lowe
Saturday 19 September
The first of two unseated, dancing-only nights belongs to platinum-selling electro-pop powerhouse Sneaky Sound System, featuring the magnetic Connie Mitchell and DJ Angus McDonald. Clear some space and prepare to move.

PNAU‍

Supported by Alice Ivy
Friday 25 September
ARIA Award-winning electro pop pioneers PNAU bring The Nirvana Tour to North Head, fresh from international chart success with 'Cold Heart' alongside Elton John and Dua Lipa.

Ben Folds‍

Supported by Lindsey Kraft
Saturday 26 September
Emmy-nominated pianist, singer-songwriter and composer Ben Folds delivers hits from Ben Folds Five and his solo work, blending piano-driven anthems with sharp storytelling and over three decades of genre-defining music.

Katie Noonan: Jeff Buckley's Grace‍

Supported by Georgia Field
and Taya Lealani
Sunday 27 September
One of Australia's most versatile artists, Katie Noonan performs her critically acclaimed celebration of Jeff Buckley's iconic album Grace, following a sell-out national tour. Tender and breathtaking.

The Cruel Sea with Magic Dirt

Friday 2 October
A landmark evening as The Cruel Sea celebrate the 30th anniversary of their number one, double-platinum album Three Legged Dog, joined by the legendary Magic Dirt.

JET‍

Supported by Liquid Zoo and Aloe Vera
Saturday 3 October
The series closes with a supernova. JET bring their irresistible rock and roll energy to North Head for an unforgettable finale, with hits 'Are You Gonna Be My Girl' and 'Rollover DJ'.

The event runs on 100% renewable energy, with reusable cups, recycled merchandise and 100% electric shuttle buses this year.

Tickets on sale now. Visit nightatthebarracks.com.au.

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Swapping Secrets With Sneaky Sound System

An Interview with Angus McDonald and Connie Mitchell of Sneaky Sound System.

For other artists, dance can be less central to their music-making, but as one of the few unseated acts at Night At The Barracks, dance is clearly at the forefront. Why do you feel it is so important?

Dance music, at its core, is about connection and letting go of your inhibitions. It's one of the few things where a whole crowd can feel the same thing at the same time without needing to overthink it. We've always loved that immediacy – where people let go and simply move; there's no hiding behind it. If we're ever playing to a seated audience, it might be time to move on.

As a band that's been going for so long, you bring plenty of feel-good nostalgia. Can fans expect some novelty as well?

Hopefully a bit of both. We're very aware that certain songs carry memories for people – first festivals, first road trips, all that – and we love leaning into that. But we'd get bored pretty quickly if it was just a museum piece. So there's always little twists, new sounds, maybe a surprise or two – keeps it interesting for us as much as anyone. This show actually coincides with the 20th anniversary of our first album's release, so there could be a bit of a nod to that. To be honest, we always make things up as we go along, so the set will work itself out on the night.

Do you feel that the Australian dance music scene has changed over the years?

Massively. When we started, it felt a bit more underground – you had to go looking for it. Now it's completely woven into the mainstream, which is great, but it also means things move faster. Trends come and go pretty quickly. The upside is, there's so much talent coming through now, particularly home-grown talent, and the level of production, songwriting, performance and penetration into the global scene is crazy.

Sneaky Sound System hasn't always been a duo. Do the two of you feed off each other's energy well, or do you ever feel like you need to reach out for inspiration?

We definitely feed off each other. We were a trio for the first couple of albums and had a touring band of six plus a big crew for a while, but for the last 15 years or so, it has just been the two of us doing our thing. There's a shorthand now after all these years, which makes our partnership pretty fluid. We're always open to outside inspiration, whether it's collaborating, listening to new music, or just being out in the world watching other artists, but we do tend to live very happily in our own little bubble for the most part.

If your songs were the soundtrack to life, which songs would play at each moment?

On a road trip with the girls would be ‘Pictures’. At a massive sporting moment would be ‘Big’. At your wedding, it would be ‘I Love It’. When you're a little blue would be ‘Remember’. Big concert moment is ‘UFO’. Feeling silly is ‘We Love’. On a euro holiday is ‘Summertime Madness’. The end credits would be ‘Maybe’.

Which of your songs means the most to you?

That's always a tough one because they all capture a moment in time. But "I Love It" is probably the one that changed everything for us – it opened the door.
It was the first song we worked on and that moment hearing Connie sing on a song I had written just blew my mind. It transformed it, it transcended it, it set the wheels in motion as to what we could do together. We will always be grateful for that moment.

Do you have any fresh music coming
out in 2026?

We sure do; we've been sitting on a treasure trove of new material that will finally make its way out into the world. Also expect a couple of collaborations and some reworks of a few classics! •

Manly 11 September – 3 October 2026  |  33 North Head Scenic Drive, Manly | @nightatthebarracks  |  nightatthebarracks.com.au

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Theatre

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Glen Street Theatre – What's On

This winter, Glen Street Theatre presents a spectacular line-up of shows, including world-class theatre, comedy, dance and music; there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Anh Do – The Happiest Refugee Live!‍

Wed 19 & Thurs 20 Aug

When one of Australia’s most talented comedians delves deep into his own life’s joys and sorrows, the result is an unforgettable night at the theatre that leaves an audience quite simply experiencing... happiness.

Virgin in a Knife Fight‍

Fri 21 & Sat 22 Aug, 7.30pm

Virgin in a Knife Fight is a masterclass in theatrical storytelling. Join Logie-winning White Lotus actor Rob Carlton as he brings to life four true stories with four different moments of reckoning. It’s packed with laughs but gets into the messy stuff that surprises us, making life rich.

A Taste of Ireland‍

Thu 3 Sept – Sat 5 Sept

Direct from Off Broadway and London’s West End, the internationally acclaimed A Taste of Ireland is performed by former World Irish dance champions, featuring dancers from Lord of the Dance, Riverdance and Éireann.

The Gospel According to Paul – The Second Coming‍

Wed 9 Sept – Sun 13 Sept

After critically acclaimed sell-out seasons across the country, Jonathan Biggins’ unmissable political satire is coming to Glen Street Theatre.

Bombshells‍

Fri 18 & Sat 19 Sept

Joanna Murray-Smith's acclaimed play Bombshells is a journey from crisis to hilarity, via the unfiltered thoughts of a group of women all linked by more than just their proximity to the edge; a nervous bride-to-be, an exhausted young mother, a widow with a yearning for the unexpected, a broken-hearted cactus lover, and a feisty teenage talent-quest competitor who refuses to be ignored. Bombshells strips back the masks we wear to reveal the things that sometimes we'd just love to say out loud.

With plenty more shows to discover, Glen Street Theatre remains dedicated to fostering a vibrant arts culture in the Northern Beaches and can’t wait to share this remarkable season with the community.

Become a Glen Street Member for exclusive perks or grab your tickets now at www.glenstreet.com.au!

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Books

Turns out the Beaches has no shortage of storytellers. These locally authored titles are proof, and they span every shelf in the house. Know a local book that deserves a mention? Send it our way. Unit 1/535 Pittwater Road, Brookvale NSW 2100.

Mr Online by Jamie Mckeen

As part of the Mr. Mandem series, Mr. Online is one of many books written by Balgowlah father Jamie McKeen. Tired of reading his kids bedtime stories that didn’t relate to the real world, Jamie took matters into his own hands. Shaped by the tagline “real talk for little people”, the Mr. Mandem series teaches kids how to tackle issues ranging from screen addiction to fashion obsession. Rather than lecturing and causing conflict, the Mr. Mandem series helps kids reflect on their own behaviour naturally. Each story ends with a “Real Talk” prompt, turning stories into meaningful conversations. The series is now stocked in bookshops and libraries across Australia, and has been named a finalist in the 2025 Wishing Shelf Book Awards, one of the few children’s book prizes judged by children and teachers.

Jamie McKeen | mrmandem.com

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Solo Mum by Choice by Lorena Otes

Solo Mum by Choice is a memoir about one woman’s journey to motherhood without a partner, but with unwavering determination. After a string of failed relationships, Lorena Otes stumbles upon the growing community of women choosing to have children of their own. What follows is a deeply personal ride through IVF, medical mayhem and solo parenting told with warmth,
grit, and sharp self-awareness. Placing as runner-up in the Hawkeye Publishing Manuscript Development Prize 2024, Solo Mum by Choice has attracted accolades before even hitting the shelves. An inspiration to aspiring mothers and a reminder that family is what you make
it, it's a soon-to-be sensation. The memoir is adored for its laugh-out-loud humour, heartache-inducing ups and downs, and real-world comfort.

Lorena Otes | lorenaotes.com.au

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The Immortality Connection by James William Davis

Book 1 of the 5-part Private Investigator series, The Immortality Connection takes the reader on a twisty journey all the way to the islands of Hong Kong. Confined to a wheelchair in the prime of his life, Charlie Pyrmont searches for a cure – not only to his paralysis, but to mortality itself. When his obsession lands him in the clutches of an organisation brimming with false promises, only Detective Cameron Josey, hired by Charlie's worried family, can sniff him out. And what he finds is more than anyone bargained for. Don't stop at The Immortality Connection. Next up, Mind Set keeps the twists coming with its own story and fresh cast of characters in the Private Investigator world. Guaranteed to keep you guessing.

James William Davis | davisible.com.au | davisible@yahoo.com.au | 0427 221 189

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The John Bailey Series by Tim Ayliffe

Bestselling crime thriller author and Avalon Beach local Tim Ayliffe spent 25 years as a journalist in Australia and around the world before channelling that frontline experience into gripping fiction. The result is the John Bailey series: five pulse-pounding crime thrillers featuring a battered war correspondent who can't seem to stay out of trouble. From terrorist plots and white supremacist cells to Russian spies and government traitors, each book rips its premise straight from the headlines. Ayliffe himself says everything in his novels "has happened, will happen, or could happen." Set largely in Sydney, with Bailey's gritty authenticity as its anchor, the series has drawn comparisons to Michael Connelly and Lee Child but with a distinctly Australian edge. Once you start, you can't stop.

Tim Ayliffe | timayliffe.com

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Social

Northern Beaches Council – From Start-Up to Standout: Supporting Local Businesses

If you own or work for a local business, then you’re in good company; from tradies to hospitality, professional services to warehousing, healthcare to retail, there are over 33,500 businesses on the Beaches. Yet whether you balance spreadsheets, make coffee or products, hammer or blow dry, you likely share similar challenges to run and grow your business.

From generating income, streamlining processes, regulatory hurdles, tech challenges and much more, modern business needs a diverse skillset. While some business owners have the budget to get support and build capacity, many don’t. And navigating regulatory requirements can be overwhelming.

This is where Northern Beaches Council comes in.

Through a suite of free capacity-building business services, they support local economic growth by encouraging local start-ups and supporting growing businesses, keeping dollars local and generating jobs on the Beaches.

Informed by a community-approved Economic Development Strategy 'Business on the Beaches' and drawn from the expertise of a Business and Industry Stakeholder Committee, the offerings are diverse and fit for purpose.

The free business concierge program 'Let's Chat Business' helps owners navigate approvals and permits. Booking an appointment connects you directly with Council advisors, planners, compliance and other experts, or facilitates a referral to State Government support through marketing, finance and business planning advisors.

Initiate or build on your sustainability smarts by joining the Sustainability Business Network for networking and educational events, resources and expert guidance.

Or get recognised for your efforts and enter the local Business Awards. Council sponsors the annual Sustainability and Disability Inclusion categories to celebrate business innovation in environment and inclusion.

Businesses like cafes, shops and professional services rely on vibrant public spaces with features like convenient parking and outdoor dining areas which enhance the overall experience.

Council collaborates with the community and local businesses to deliver a vibrant program of themed activities throughout the year, including Easter, Halloween and Christmas celebrations, as well as live music events. These initiatives are designed to encourage the community to support local businesses and boost foot traffic. Highlights include Jingle Beats, Spring Sounds, Beats by the Beach, Love Local family fun days, and the winter festival, Rise Manly.

To find out more about how Council can support your business, visit their website or register to receive their monthly business newsletter to stay in the loop for all things business. •

northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au  |  1300 434 434  

Royal Far West – Community Care for Country Kids

Not many charities based on the Beaches can claim a reach stretching to the furthest corners of outback Australia. Royal Far West can, and their centenary year is already proving it. With $430,000 raised, a new CEO in Dr Briony Scott, and a Manly beach event still to come, 2026 is shaping up to be one of their biggest yet.

Each year, cyclists head out on a multi-day ride across regional NSW, raising vital funds and awareness for the developmental, behavioural and mental health services that help transform the lives of country children. This year's ride
was no exception.

From 17 to 20 May, 64 cyclists pedalled more than 300 kilometres across Western and Far West NSW, beginning in Parkes and travelling through Molong, Manildra, Trundle, and Eugowra before finishing in Forbes. They weathered downpours of rain and pushed their bodies hard across four days on the road, raising $430,000 to fund developmental, behavioural and mental health services for country children and their families.

"Ride for Country Kids is more than a physical challenge, it's an opportunity to connect with the communities we support and see firsthand the positive difference Royal Far West makes," said Dr Briony Scott, CEO of Royal Far West. "It's also an opportunity to raise awareness of the need for improved access to paediatric services in rural areas."

Dr Briony Scott is herself something of a landmark appointment. Taking the reins on 4 May 2026, she follows the steady hand of Mark Driessen, who led the organisation as Acting CEO from December 2025. With more than 30 years of senior leadership experience and a career built around the holistic wellbeing of young people, she brings considerable weight to the role. As Principal of Wenona for fourteen years and Roseville College for five, she became one of Australia's most respected voices across education and community. In 2022 she was named Principal of the Year (Non-Government) and recognised among the AFR's Top 5 Most Powerful People in Australian Education. She is currently Deputy Chair of the Chris O'Brien Lifehouse and has held board roles across health and education nationally.

"I am honoured to become Royal Far West's new CEO. This is an organisation with both a remarkable legacy and a clear future role. The challenge now is not only to continue delivering high-quality care, but to extend that impact so more children and families can access support earlier and more consistently," Dr Scott said.

Coming up in November, the Royal Far West Spin Off returns to Manly Beach. Keep an eye on royalfarwest.org.au for dates and details, and if the ride has inspired you to get involved, head to give.royalfarwest.org.au/go-beyond to make a donation. •

14–18 Wentworth St, Manly  |  (02) 8966 8500 |  royalfarwest.org.au