The Manly Sailing team are proud to be a part of the Northern Beaches community, and think this very special corner of Sydney is worth looking after. We’ve been so excited to hear about the new developments and projects that are underway. It may have been a quiet few months in lockdown, but we’re thankful for all the hard work that’s been going on to keep Manly in tip top shape, re-boot the local economy and look out for those in need. Here’s a rundown of some of the exciting initiatives to keep an eye out for.

A massive $3.89 million investment has been secured to upgrade North Head, providing safer pedestrian access and an improved visitor experience. This popular lookout has 180-degree scenic views across Sydney Harbour, incredibly diverse native flora and fauna, and historical and cultural significance. The three-year project will make it more enjoyable and accessible for everyone.

Several areas across the Northern Beaches are set to benefit from the NSW Government’s Streets as Shared Spaces Program. In Manly, this will include the connections at Darley Road, Whistler Street, and Kangaroo Lane. The improvements will aim to facilitate social distancing, whilst making the spaces more welcoming and accessible.

Brand new fitness equipment has been installed along East Esplanade in Manly. Northern Beaches Council recently completed works to the area, including new paving, furniture, swing set and gym equipment. Right around the corner from our office, we have no excuse not to work out now!

Member for Manly, James Griffin, has secured over $300 000 in funding from the NSW government for jetty and ramp upgrades at Little Manly and Forty Baskets. The tidal pools have been updated with new decking, and the underwater shark bars replaced with sea-horse friendly netting.

Planning is underway to upgrade the facilities at Manly Village Public School, Curl Curl Public School, Brookvale Public School and Manly Vale Public School. At Manly Village, the Department of Education is looking to improve the standard and design of the learning spaces, expanding into spaces previously occupied by Community Northern Beaches (which has moved its location to 52 Raglan Street).

Manly Library has been transformed during the lockdown, with the ground floor being opened up into one big, bright and inclusive community space. There is now a separate children’s area with a room designated for Story Time.

The impacts of COVID have been pretty devastating for some businesses ed and families, and there are people doing it tough at the moment. Warringah MP Zali Steggall, together with her team, has been collecting pantry staple items for the Community Co-Op Northern Beaches, who are distributing food packages to vulnerable people. If you’d like to contribute, any canned food or non-perishable items can be dropped round to Zali Steggall’s Manly Officer (Level 2, 17-19 Sydney Road) between 9am-5pm.

Manly Dam Playground officially opened in July. The playground is an all-abilities playground created as part of the Connecting All Through Play program, an initiative to make play areas more inclusive. The playground features a climbing frame, a tunnel, a bridge, swings and more. It features wood and stone, to compliment the beautiful natural surroundings.

In June, member for Manly, James Griffin, announced the formation of the Manly Tourism and Economic Recovery Taskforce. Its aim it to lead Manly through the economic downturn resulting from COVID, by working with local businesses as well as the Manly Business Chamber. It is hoped that the initiative can help fast-track our economic recovery by encouraging resourcefulness and resilience. We’re definitely on board with this one!