Manly MattersMay 2025 |
Dear Resident,
Welcome to the May 2025 edition of Manly Matters.
This e-newsletter provides you with important information and updates on what’s happening across our community and the issues and projects I am working hard to deliver on. You will also find a table of how various projects and election commitments are progressing.
As always, my office is here to help. Should you wish to get in touch to discuss an issue, or would like to learn more about what I’ve delivered and what I stand for, please head over to my website: https://jamesgriffinmp.com/
You can also follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Linkedin for further news covering the Manly Electorate.
I look forward to seeing you out and about in our community.
Yours sincerely,
James Griffin MP
Member for Manly
In this edition:
- E-Bike Management
- Anzac Day 2025 Recap
- Manly Local Woman of the Year 2025 Announced
- Vale former Member for Manly, David Hay MBE
- Funding Delivered for Local Surf Clubs
- Manly Inflatable Boat Race raises $30,000
- Night at the Barracks Returns!
- NSW Planning Reforms and Our Community
- Recognising Local Legends in NSW Parliament
I am seeking your views on a proposed licensing scheme for e-mobility devices. If you have a view on this proposal, please have your say by filling out this quick survey below:
ANZAC Day Services 2025
This Anzac Day marked the 110th Anniversary of the Gallipoli Landing. It was wonderful to see such strong attendance at various services throughout the morning, despite the poor weather. The Manly area has a proud history of service, and I thank everyone who took time out of their day to come together and commemorate those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.
Melissa Burgess named Manly Local Woman of the Year 2025
Congratulations to Melissa Burgess, named Manly’s 2025 Local Woman of the Year. As the founder of Op for Change, Melissa has built a thriving, volunteer-run op shop that donates all profits to local charities. I thank Melissa and her team of volunteers for all they do to support those most in need across our local area.
Vale David Hay MBE, former Member for Manly
It is with a heavy heart that I report the passing of David Hay MBE, former Member for Manly and Mayor of Manly. David was a true gentleman and will be missed by many in the Manly community. I extend my deepest sympathies to Jean and his family.
I was honoured to speak in NSW Parliament in recognition of David and his outstanding contribution to public life. To read my speech, click on the button below:
Racing for a Cause: Manly Inflatable Boat Race 2025
After a hiatus, the Manly Inflatable Boat Race returned this year and was a huge success. The race raised over $30,000 for Manly’s Adolescent and Young Adult’s Hospice (AYAH) and cancer research charity Tour de Cure. Thank you to the sponsors and all those who braved the freezing weather to raise vital funds for a great cause.
Local Surf Club Funding Delivered
I’m delighted that funding has been secured under the NSW Government Surf Club Facility Program to deliver vital upgrades to three local surf clubs:
- Dee Why SLSC will receive $215,425 to modernise bathrooms and changerooms
- North Steyne SLSC will receive $181,583 for building upgrades
- North Curl Curl SLSC will receive $98,738 to enhance its community spaces.
Our Surf Club’s deserve modern and fit-for-purpose facilities that match the value of the role our surf life savers play in keeping our community safe.
South Curl Curl Boardwalk Extension
The long-awaited South Curl Curl Boardwalk extension is due to begin construction this month, with an expected completion date of September 2025 (weather permitting). Funded by the NSW Government and delivered by the Council, this extension will link up South Curl Curl Beach to the Fisherman’s Walk, creating an accessible pathway allowing users to bypass the carpark.
Check out my video highlighting this fantastic new piece of community infrastructure:
Queenscliff Pedestrian Ramp Delivered
Thanks to funding from the NSW Government and advocacy from Queenscliff locals Paul and Tracey Oates, we now have a new cyclist, pedestrian, pram and wheelchair friendly ramp connecting Queensie and Freshwater. This has been a great addition to the area and is a fantastic example of community infrastructure done right.
Night at the Barracks Returns!
Manly’s iconic Night at the Barracks is back and bigger than ever! From 12 September to the 5 October, North Head will play host to an impressive line-up of Aussie talent, including Cut Copy, ICEHOUSE, Hoodoo Gurus, Lime Cordiale, Amy Shark and Missy Higgins among others.
Tickets are now on sale so don’t miss out! To secure your spot and for more information, click on the button below:
NSW Planning Reforms and Our Community
The new state government planning laws commenced earlier this year. For our area, this means a significant shift allowing low-rise (1–2 storey apartments) and mid-rise (3–6 storey) developments within 800 metres of designated town centres. These new planning rules override Council’s existing development controls, with the aim of increasing housing supply in areas close to services and public transport.
In the electorate of Manly, these reforms will apply to residential areas within 800 metres walking distance of:
- Balgowlah Stockland Shopping Centre
- Dee Why Town Centre
- Manly Town Centre
- Manly Vale Town Centre
- Mona Vale Town Centre
- Warringah Mall Shopping Centre
Speeding up building approvals is key to solving housing affordability issues. However, growth must be well-managed and supported by the right infrastructure, especially when it comes to public transport.
On the Northern Beaches, we are heavily dependent on our bus network and require ongoing investment in our roads. Sensible and responsible planning means making sure our transport, roads, and local services can support the needs of a growing community. The NSW Government must ensure housing changes are backed by a comprehensive infrastructure and transport plan for our area. I have asked for a Transport and Road Infrastructure plan to be fast-tracked.
Recognising Local Legends in NSW Parliament
One of the great privileges of representing Manly in NSW Parliament is getting the opportunity to acknowledge the incredible individuals and organisations doing great things in our community. If you know anyone or any business you think is deserving of acknowledgment, please reach out to my office!
And welcoming NBSC Manly Campus at NSW Parliament to discuss all things democracy!
Last modified: July 3, 2025
