Welcome to our week in review.
The weather has been challenging this week, with rain, fog and only a few rays of sunshine.
Wet Weather: Accidents + Tree Hazards
There were multiple accidents around Lane Cove.
It would be no surprise to regular readers of In the Cove that ITC was notified by our readers of accidents at:
- River Road West (between Barina Road and Wararoon Rd) – at least two accidents, see photo below.
- Mowbray Road – (near 428 Mowbray Road Lane Cove North) – at least four accidents notified to In the Cove.
On Sunday, 3 August 2025, a tree branch came down on Finlayson Street between Coxs Lane and Centennial Avenue, bringing a street-spanning power cable with it – a fire crew was in attendance. Unfortunately, it was not good for the owner of the car parked under the tree (see our cover photo).
The wet weather brings slugs and leeches – check out this slug ITC spotted on Sunday 3 August 2025.
Artarmon Man in Custody After Being Charged with Allegedly Producing Child Abuse Material
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) have released details of Operation Arctile.
It is an AFP investigation that has led to an Artarmon man, David James, 26, being charged with allegedly producing child abuse material through his employment at out-of-school hours care facilities in Lane Cove West and other Northern Sydney and Inner Sydney Suburbs between April 2021 and May 2024.
The AFP allege the man produced child abuse material of 10 victims, aged six and under, during his employment at six OOSH (out of school hours) care services.
Junior Adventure Group operates the Helping Hands Lane Cove West OOSH and has released the following statement (full statement below):
“Junior Adventures Group (JAG), whose centres include Helping Hands, OSHClub and Primary OSHCare, is aware that a former casual staff member has been arrested and charged following an Australian Federal Police (AFP) investigation.
The individual was stood down by Junior Adventures Group (JAG) in June 2024 after concerns were raised about a separate incident that is not part of the current police investigation.
When the concerns were raised, JAG took immediate action, notifying NSW Police, NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian, and the NSW Regulatory Authority. The employee was immediately suspended and did not work another shift at any JAG centres.”
Jerome Laxale to Lead National Election Review
Jerome Laxale, Lane Cove’s federal representative and Member for Bennelong, has been appointed Chair of the Federal Parliament’s committee on electoral matters.
This is a key role that aims to protect and improve how elections are run across Australia.
Jerome said the committee will begin by reviewing the 2025 federal election, with a focus on making sure all Australians feel safe and respected when they vote.
“Our democracy should never put anyone in a position where they feel unsafe or pressured,” he said.
He has promised to work openly and listen to the public as the committee looks at ways to strengthen Australia’s electoral system and keep democracy strong.
Lane Cove Rotary has arranged for Jerome Laxale to present – My Life by Jerome Laxale MP on Tuesday, 19 August 2025 @ 6:15 pm.
He is going to speak about his background, why he got into politics and what matters to him most without making it political.
Please note that as Rotary is a non-political organisation, this event is similarly non-political. Jerome will be speaking about his background and providing us with insights into the man behind the role. A question-and-answer session will follow Jerome’s presentation.
Further information here.
Business Alert
In 2020, development consent for the property at 382-386 Pacific Highway, Lane Cove aka the 99 Bikes Artarmon shop, was granted. Consent was given for the demolition of existing structures and the construction of a 5-storey boarding house with basement parking.
99 Bikes Artarmon is closing in preparation for the development.
Vale Rosalie Lucas
Rosalie, a Riverview resident for 60 years and wife of Geoff for 62 years, has passed away after a very full and happy life, and a lifetime of giving back to her community.
Christine Butters OAM has kindly written an article for In the Cove detailing Rosalie’s numerous achievements.
Rosalie was a true community champion, and you will be blown away when you read what she achieved: author, musician, archaeologist.
Please read our article about this AMAZING and INSPIRING Lane Cove local.
Lane Cove’s Borrowing Power Featured
Two of Lane Cove’s libraries have featured in The Guardian Australia’s online video story about the growing resurgence of borrowing over buying.
The Sydney Library of Things now has four branches; The Coal Loader at Waverton, Lane Cove, Cromer and Randwick. The Lane Cove Toy Library is a branch of TSLOT.
The Lane Cove Toy Library has been open for just over a year and has been growing ever since.
Both libraries operate on a click and collect system. Browse at home, and volunteers will prepare your order, allowing you to borrow your items quickly and easily during your preferred collection timeslot.
Watch The Guardian Australia’s video here.
Warringah Freeway Southbound Alfred St Exit Reopens
The Southbound Alfred St exit from the Warringah freeway to Kirribilli and North Sydney was reopened on Saturday 2 August 2025.
The offramp has been closed since November 2024 to allow for essential works to be completed more efficiently. By implementing the Alfred Street off ramp closure, the project work in this area has been completed 6 months earlier, around 90 nights of noisy work has been avoided, up to 10 weekends of extended work were not required and it has eliminated 5 traffic changes that would otherwise be needed in this location.
The reopening is being described by Transport for NSW as “interim” with further works to occur before the project is completed. There will continue to be intermittent temporary closures of the Alfred Street off ramp to safely finalise work in the area.
The entry point for this interim offramp is further south than the original. Motorists are advised to follow the roadwork directional signage. The Warringah freeway upgrade is expected to be completed late 2026.
Stay up to date here.
Lane Cove Businesses Win Local Business Awards
North Shore Local Business Awards
Helloworld Travel Lane Cove (an ITC Business Supporter) were thrilled to be awarded ‘The most outstanding Specialised Retail Business for 2025’ at the North Shore, Local Business Awards last week.
The team noted the achievement “is a testament to our dedicated team and the loyalty of our valued clients. We’re so proud of our team and we love making our client’s travel dreams come true!”
Congratulations to the team!
Northern Districts
Seven Spices (an ITC Business supporter) won the Outstanding New Business Award.
Seven Spices told ITC:
“From a dream to your dining table, this journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Every plate, every flavour, every moment has been crafted with love — and now, being recognised for it feels surreal.
Your support, your votes, your belief in us… it means the world. We couldn’t have done it without you.
Also a special thanks to Amar – the pillar behind it all, your resilient efforts and the strength you bring to the table have helped us be where we are…
Here’s to the passion, the people, and the plates that brought us here.
We can’t wait to celebrate this moment with you — see you soon.”
Sydney Landscaping
Last year, the Sydney Landscaping team won the Outstanding Service and Trade award.
Last night they won two awards. Outstanding Service and Trade and Business of the year.
Sydney Landscaping told us:
“We are incredibly proud and humbled to share that Sydney Landscaping Pty Ltd has taken home two amazing honours at the Northern Districts Local Awards 2025:
- Outstanding Service & Trade
- Business of the Year
These awards are a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of our entire team. Every member of Sydney Landscaping plays a vital role — from our on-site landscapers to our office staff and project managers. Together, we’ve built a culture rooted in craftsmanship, collaboration, and a shared commitment to delivering outstanding results for our clients.
We don’t just build outdoor spaces — we build trust, relationships, and pride in our community. These awards reflect not only the quality of our work, but the strong sense of unity and purpose that drives everything we do as a team.
To our amazing clients, supportive families, and local community — thank you for believing in us and allowing us to do what we love every single day. We are truly honoured to be recognised in this way.
This is a moment we’ll never forget, and one we share as a team, with gratitude and pride. Here’s to continuing to grow together — stronger than ever.”
Via Napoli Lane Cove won the Outstanding Restaurant of the Year.
Building For Sale In Lane Cove Plaza
Are you looking to buy some commercial property? 32 Burns Bay Rd is for sale. The building faces onto the plaza and also has access from Sera Street near the Lane Cove Marketplace carpark entry. It is home to Gelatissimo, Proven Beauty, Electronics Today and another commercial suite. Fear not, the sale is touting the long-term investment reliability of the fully-leased site. More details here.
Lane Cove Netball Club Trivia Night
Bring your A-game, and get ready for a night of fun, laughter, and brain-bending trivia, all in support of Lane Cove Netball Club.
When: Saturday, 9 August 2025
Time: 6:30pm arrival for a 7:00pm start
Where: The Alcott, Lane Cove
Cost: $35 per ticket
How: Email your team of 6 people (15yrs+) AND Purchase your ticket(s).
Secondhand Saturday At The Lane Cove Toy Library
The Lane Cove Toy Library is joining Lane Cove Council’s Secondhand Saturday with a MEGA Toy Garage Sale — and you’re invited!
From puzzles to board games to toys for all ages — this is your chance to grab a bargain, keep items out of landfill, and support a great local initiative.
What: Lane Cove To Library’s Mega Toy Garage sale
When: Saturday 16 August 2025
Time: 2.00 pm – 5.00 pm
Where: 47 Burns Bay Road, Lane Cove (opp Harris Farm)
How: Just come along!
Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, educator or just love a good deal — don’t miss it! Support a local gem and score some goodies.
More information about the Secondhand Saturday.
Win a Trip To Fiji + Support Lane Cove Rotary
Dreaming of an island escape?
Lane Cove Rotary is participating in the It’s Time raffle, giving you the chance to win a luxurious holiday for two at Plantation Island Resort in Fiji – all while supporting projects that make a real difference both locally and internationally.
The prize includes:
- 5 nights in a Beachfront Hotel Room at Plantation Island Resort
- Daily full buffet breakfast
- Return Malolo Cat transfers
- Complimentary use of non-motorised water sports
- 2 kids under 12 stay and eat free
- A bonus night at Fiji Gateway Hotel near Nadi Airport
Funds raised will support Rotary Lane Cove’s ongoing programs – from youth and education projects to community outreach and international partnerships like the Fisherfolk Children’s Literacy Project in India.
Auskickers Practice Wet Weather Skills
A big shout out to Lane Cove Cats AFL Club’s Auskickers (and their parents) for braving the weather on Sunday. A great opportunity to hone their skills in tricky conditions.
Come & Try T-Ball & Baseball
North Ryde RSL Junior Baseball Club is hosting a come and try session for baseball and t-ball. See the flyer for details.
Lane Cove Old Ignatians’ Rugby Football Club Heritage Round
On Saturday, 26th July 2025, local rugby lovers celebrated 76 years of continuous rugby being played in Lane Cove at Tantallon Oval.
Lane Cove Old Ignatians’ Rugby Football Club’s (LCOIRFC) Heritage Day recognises and celebrates both the 70+ years of rugby history and traditions of the two Lane Cove-based foundation clubs, Lane Cove Rugby Union Club and the Old Ignatians’ Rugby Football Club, that merged in 2024. Now known as the Lane Cove Old Ignatians’ Rugby Football Club.
Heritage Day 2025 showcased rugby being played in the traditional White, Blue and Yellow “V” playing strip of Lane Cove Rugby Union Club.
The first-grade team were presented with their jerseys, some of Lane Cove’s greats;
Cliff Harvey (Patron of the club), Jacky Somerville, Graeme Oborn (captain of the 1967 and 1968 Kentwell Cup Premiership team), David Kennett-Smith, Dave Barnett (member of that 1967 and 1967 Kentwell Cup Premiership team) and Peter Notley.
Peter Notley and his brothers started the Lane Cove Rugby club in 1949 and continued playing during the 1950s and 1960s.
The club rose to the occasion with the support of a home crowd, winning three out of four games:
1st Grade – Lane Cove 15-24 (Loss) v Hornsby
2nd Grade – Lane Cove 64-0 (Win) v Hornsby
Colts – Lane Cove 53-5 (Win) v Hornsby
3rd Grade – Lane Cove 49-0 (Win) v Colleague
The next home game at Tantallon Oval will be on Saturday, 16th August 2025 against Blacktown.
Lane Cove Swim Club Metro Club of The Year
Congratulations to the Lane Cove Swim Club, which at the 2025 NSW Swimming Awards was named the Metro Club of the Year. Already recognised nationally in 2024 as Swimming Australia’s Club of the Year, Lane Cove has grown into NSW’s largest club thanks to innovative practices, strong partnerships, and a thriving club culture.
You can read more about the club here.
This Week in Review is brought to you by The Alcott
The Alcott is rolling out weekly favourites like Wednesday Night Big Screen Trivia, hosted by Quiz Meisters. It’s always free, tons of fun, and a great way to catch up with mates midweek — don’t forget to book your table early because it fills fast.
Whether you’re keen for a spritz on the terrace, Mediterranean shared plates, or just some good banter over cocktails, The Alcott always delivers. Fancy something different? They’re also hosting Messy Makers for parents and toddlers — a sensory‑play Friday morning event that’s as cute as it is clever.
Head to www.thealcott.com.au to secure your trivia team spot or RSVP for Messy Makers — support local, have fun, and stay connected right here in Lane Cove.
Help ITC to Keep Providing Free Local News in 2025
The link to support us is here.
Thank You
Thank you to the In the Cove team, our advertisers, roving reporters and everyone who stops our founder, Jacky Barker, on the street and tells her how much In the Cove has helped them learn more about where they live.
The link to support us is here.
