Each week we bring together the most important Lane Cove news, community updates, council information, local sport highlights and upcoming events. If you want to know what’s been happening in and around Lane Cove (and what’s coming up next), this is your go-to wrap.
Quick Jump
Lane Cove News
Lane Cove In The News
Have Your Say
General Safety Information
Business Alerts
Upcoming Events
Local Sports
Crime, Accidents & Incidents
Lane Cove News
The key local stories, announcements and updates affecting our community this week.
Man Critical After Pedestrian And Car Accident
About 7.50 pm on Sunday, 8 February 2026, emergency services were called to the intersection of Longueville Road and Kimberley Avenue, Lane Cove, following reports of a crash.
Officers attached to North Shore Police Area Command attended and found that a vehicle had struck a pedestrian. In the Cove, a resident near the crash site reported that a taxi was involved, but we have not been able to confirm this.
The pedestrian, a 31-year-old man, was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being taken to the hospital in a critical condition.
The driver, a 64-year-old man, was arrested and taken to the hospital for mandatory testing.
Upon release from the hospital, he was taken to Chatswood Police Station, where he was released pending further investigation.
A crime scene was established, and investigations commenced into the circumstances of the crash.
Investigations are ongoing. Police are urging anyone with information, dashcam footage or any witnesses to contact police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Galuwa Recreation Centre Open Day
Galuwa Recreation Centre held a community open day on Sunday, 8th February 2026. Locals came along to see what sports are on offer at Galuwa, grabbed a snag and spoke to Lane Cove Council about bushcare, food waste and more.
On Friday night, 6 February 2026, Lane Cove Council held the Galuwa Recreation Centre official opening ceremony, where Lane Cove Mayor Merri Southwood thanked those involved in the construction of the centre and specifically noted the work of the Lane Cove Council project team.
State Member for Lane Cove, Anthony Roberts MP, presented the centre with an NSW Flag and noted the centre’s accessibility features, making it a centre for athletes of all abilities.
Scott Riley, Founder and Chairman of Sydney Sports Group Management, said he was pleased to continue his partnership with the Lane Cove Council after having built and operated the original tennis centre for 40 years. He noted that as part of SSMG’s commitment to environmental sustainability, they will gradually provide electronic vehicle (EV Bus) transport to the Galuwa for lunchtime, social sport and holiday camps throughout the Local Government Area.
Repair Cafe Sydney North Celebrates 10 Years of Fixing Things for Free
The Repair Cafe Sydney North welcomed volunteers both past and present as they celebrated 10 years on Sunday 8 February 2025.
The Repair Cafe first started in the hall at the Chatswood South Uniting Church Hall on the Pacific Highway. They had to relocate when the Church was scheduled for demolition to make way for an apartment development. This plan did not come to fruition, but it enabled the Repair Cafe to relocate to the Living and Learning Centre on Longueville Road.
Volunteers repair items for free on the first two Sundays of each month.
The repair cafe opened on 10 January 2016, and over the first year, ten volunteers completed an average of 20 repairs per session. They now have 32 volunteers, and the first repair session in February 2026 repaired 98 of the 112 items presented.
In 2025, the average was 71 repairs per session.
Congratulations to The Repair Cafe Sydney North.
Brittany Festival in North Sydney
On Sunday, 8 February 2025, Brittany came to North Sydney with the second annual Brittany Festival.
Brittany Down Under, held at Sub Base Platypus, is the largest festival celebrating Brittany outside France, showcasing music, dance, gastronomy, and Breton culture. It also celebrates Brittany’s connection to the Celtic countries. There was, of course, Celtic music, Beginner-friendly Breton dance classes Crêpes, Galettes, and other Brittany specialties and traditional drinks, including classic Breton cider
The festival was officially opened by French Ambassador to Australia Pierre-André Imbert, who noted the irony of holding it at a former Australian submarine base.
One of the main sponsors was Four Frogs Creperies.
Lane Cove Market Square Toilet Closures
The long-awaited toilet upgrades at Lane Cove Market Square are finally underway, but they are causing headaches for tenants and their staff.
All centre toilets have been closed simultaneously, forcing workers and visitors to use facilities at The Canopy and putting some local businesses in a tricky spot regarding workplace health & safety requirements.
Questions remain about access, safety and planning. Why close everything at once? Could temporary facilities have eased the pain? And with other upgrades like air conditioning issues – portable air conditioners in the middle of summer and the lift and travellator saga, locals are staying away from Market Square.
More information in our article.
So Fresh Party Brings The Hits To The Canopy
On Saturday, 7th February 2026, there was another fun concert at The Canopy Lane Cove. So Fresh Party brought a night of fun and nostalgic music. Check out our event video here.
School’s Back And So Are Swimming Carnivals
Term 1 is a busy time for school swimming carnivals at the Lane Cove Aquatic Leisure Centre.
Users of the outdoor 50m pool at the centre should note that there are carnivals scheduled on most school days throughout February and March 2026.
On these days, the outdoor pool is unavailable to the public between 8.30 am and 2.30 pm. In addition, on Thursday, 19 February 2026, it is also booked between 3.30 pm and 6.30 pm.
Check the website for a full list of dates and times.
Photos from Monday, 9th February’s rainy day carnival for Lane Cove Public School.
Lane Cove Toy Library Seeks Youth Volunteers
Are you a Year 10 or older student who needs to complete community service for school or the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award?
The Lane Cove Toy Library is seeking volunteers to work on Saturday mornings for two–hour shifts: 9.00 am to 11.00 am and 11.00 am to 1.00 pm. You must commit to a whole term and be available for an induction session.
If you are interested, scan the QR code below or click this link and sign up as a volunteer (bonus: you get to lend out some really cool board games for free).
Lane Cove In The News
Where Lane Cove has appeared in wider media, including regional and national coverage.
Last week, the Australian Bureau of Statistics released the top 10 areas with the highest median personal income for 2022-23. Ashburton (WA) was first on the list with $112,88.00.
The Lane Cove Local Government Area was 8th on the list, with the top five spots all mining towns.
The ABS collates information from the ATO and other sources; therefore, the information is based on 2022/2023 data.
ABS data show the current median weekly earnings are $1,436 per week before tax, ($74,672 per year).
Have Your Say
Opportunities for residents to provide feedback, have their voices heard and get involved.
Proposed Speed Hump For Mindarie Street
Lane Cove Council, under direction from Transport for NSW, proposes to install a speed hump on Mindarie Street about 20 m from Mowbray Road as part of the broader Lane Cove North Speed Reduction project.
Transport for NSW has specified that a speed hump is required to implement the 40 km/h speed limit on this street in the 2025/2026 Financial year (without it, the limit would remain 50 km/h).
The original recommendation was for a raised pedestrian crossing on Mindarie Street at Mowbray Road, the Lane Cove Council budget does not allow for that investment at this time. The Lane Cove Council has noted it remains the preferred option for when funding becomes available.
The proposal does not change on-street parking arrangements.
Have your say by completing an online survey by Wednesday, 25th February.
View further details and complete the survey here.
Proposed Extended Line Markings For Karilla Avenue
Lane Cove Council, under the direction of Transport for NSW, is proposing new line marking on Karilla Avenue between Kurri Street and the cul-de-sac to support the planned 40 km/h speed limit reduction for the Lane Cove North area (as part of the broader speed reduction initiative with Transport for NSW).
This includes installing a continuous centreline and parking lanes on both sides of the road to help create a lower-speed environment. If these markings are not implemented, Transport for NSW will not permit a reduction in the speed limit to 50 km/h.
How to have your say:
- You can complete an online survey
- Alternatively, email your feedback quoting ‘SU1326 – Karilla Avenue Line marking’.
More details and link to survey here.
The deadline for submitting community suggestions is Tuesday, 24 February 2026.
General Safety Information
Important safety updates, alerts and information relevant to Lane Cove and the surrounding areas.
Child Car Seat Safety Check Clinic
The next free Lane Cove Council car seat safety check clinic will be held in late March 2026.
Two out of every three child seats are not fitted or used correctly.
At the clinic, trained fitters can install new child restraints, check your existing car seats, advise on switching from rear- to forward-facing or booster seats, and outline key steps to ensure correct use of the seats.
The clinic is free and for residents of the Lane Cove LGA only. Bookings essential.
Bone Health Study
Would you like to be involved in a research programme that combines exercise with medication to improve bone and muscle strength in women?
This study has been approved by the Northern Sydney Local Health District (2022/ETH01794), and site-specific approval has been obtained at Royal North Shore Hospital (2023/STE01005).
You can email for more information or To register, fill out this form.
Business Alerts
Notices and updates affecting local businesses, traders and services.
Seven Spices Awarded Chef’s Hat For Second Year Running
Lane Cove’s very own Seven Spices has been awarded an AGFG Chef Hat for the second year in a row! That’s two consecutive years of recognition from the prestigious Australian Good Food Guide.
Seven Spices focuses on modern Indian flavours. Chef Srinivas Velpuri told ITC that their best-selling dishes are Tandoori Lamb Chops, Purane Delhi Style Butter Chicken and Ghewar (for dessert)
The Seven Spices team are not resting on their laurels; a new menu is coming out soon.
Learn more about this local favourite here.
New Business Alert: Join the Flock
Created by a Lane Cove local, Carly, Join the Flock designs daytime experiences for mums to reconnect with themselves (and other mums) while bringing their babies along.
Why it’s different: Join the Flock is for the mums, not just another baby-focused class. These events are about you and the joy of community, with thoughtful details like baby-friendly spaces, snacks and even nanny support so you can relax and enjoy the day.
This vibrant project creates daytime social events, activities and experiences where mums can:
- mix, mingle and make new friends
- share laughs and learn something fun
- enjoy activities from creative workshops to laid-back catch-ups all while little ones are welcome (typically 0–2 yo, with siblings up to 5 invited where appropriate).
Whether it’s a casual Flamingle, a creative Flock Laugh & Learn or a bigger Flock Experience, there’s something for mums looking to feel supported, connected and seen beyond the everyday routine of motherhood.
Carly is hosting a Flock Experience event next week. Expect a room full of fun singing along to your 90’s favourites during musical bingo. Details and booking link here.
Upcoming Lane Cove Events
There is so much happening around Lane Cove. See below for a selection of what’s coming up. For a comprehensive list, check out In The Cove’s Event Calendar.
Free Live Music For Valentine’s Day
This Saturday, 14 February, is Valentine’s Day.
Dr Gumbo will be bringing their smooth, feel-good sounds to The Canopy to serenade your romantic picnic dinner or special meal at one of the Eat Street restaurants. Check out here what the local eateries have planned for Valentine’s Day.
You’ll be swept away by the soulful rhythms and toe-tapping tunes of this charming four-piece jazz band, making for a truly unforgettable date night.
When: Saturday 14th February
Time: 6.30 pm to 8.30 pm
Where: The Canopy
How: FREE. Just turn up and enjoy
Celebrate The Year Of The Horse In & Around Lane Cove
The Lunar New Year will be celebrated in 2026 from Tuesday, February 17th, to Friday 27th February. 2026 is the year of the horse.
There are plenty of ways to celebrate Lunar New Year across the Lane Cove Council area, including cultural performances like the lion dance and food markets, to family-friendly activities like movie night at The Canopy.
All you need to know to plan your celebrations is in our article is here.
Road to 28 for Nicolette Donofrio (with Special Guest Sally Pearson)
Get ready for an inspiring and unforgettable evening at Hunters Hill Club.
On Saturday, 21st February 2026 head along to ‘Road to 28 for Nicolette Donofrio’, a special fundraising night celebrating local athletic talent and community spirit. This event brings together great food, delicious drinks, and the incredible presence of Olympic legend Sally Pearson OAM as the special guest speaker.
Nicolette Donofrio is a rising sprint hurdler, gearing up for her next chapter on the international stage, and this night is all about supporting her Road to 28. Enjoy live auction excitement, connect with fellow supporters, and be part of an empowering journey as Nicolette shares her goals, dreams and the dedication it takes to compete at the highest level.
Details and booking link here.
Bushcare Discovery Day at Lane Cove Golf Course
Have you heard of Bushcare but aren’t sure what it’s about or whether it’s right for you? Join a beginner-friendly experience to learn about Bushcare, help protect local wildlife habitat, and get outdoors!
When: Sunday 1 March
Time: 9 am – 12 pm
Where: Gamma Road, Lane Cove
This event is a great way to connect with the community, learn practical bush regeneration skills, and make a positive impact on our local environment. All tools, training and lunch provided, just bring your enthusiasm!
Find out more and register here.
Clean Up Australia Day – Stringy Bark Creek Residents Association
Join the Stringybark Creek Residents Association for Clean Up Australia Day to help keep our local bushland beautiful and enjoy a BBQ courtesy of Lane Cove Council.
Meet opposite 66 Johnston Crescent, Lane Cove North.
Registration is from 8 am to midday.
What to Bring:
Gloves, hats, sunglasses, sun protection, enclosed shoes, as well of lots of energy and enthusiasm!
Please bring water in a refillable container – the SBCRA will provide top-ups.
Local Sports
In the Cove is a massive supporter of local sport for young and old. If you have something you’d like us to mention about your local club’s events or achievements, check out our contact details at the bottom of the article.
Lane Cove Cockatoos Fly High in Wheelchair Basketball League Debut
The Lane Cove Cockatoos have announced themselves as a serious new force in wheelchair basketball, delivering an outstanding debut performance in the opening round of the 2026 NSW/ACT Wheelchair Basketball League.
Competing for the first time as a club, the Cockatoos recorded five wins from seven games, finishing top of the league table after the opening weekend, an exceptional result for a team that had limited preparation.
Head Coach Gerry Hewson said the performance exceeded expectations.
“As a new club, we are extremely proud of what the group achieved,” Hewson said. “To win five of seven games and sit on top of the table after the first weekend is a huge result, especially given how little time we’ve had to train together. The teamwork, attitude and effort were outstanding.”
The Cockatoos faced strong competition from established teams representing Sydney, Macarthur, Illawarra, the Central Coast, and Orange, demonstrating depth and composure throughout the weekend.
The team was spearheaded by promising young player Luke Greco, who led the competition in scoring for the opening round and played a key role in several tight matches.
The next Sydney round of the NSW/ACT Wheelchair Basketball League will be held on Saturday, 21 February 2026, at Concord Oval Recreation Centre, with games running from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Further details are available here.
Off the court, the Lane Cove Cockatoos are focused on growing wheelchair basketball in the local community. The club offers open training every Tuesday at Galuwa Recreation Centre in Lane Cove, welcoming players of all ages and experience levels, with or without a disability.
5 pm – Juniors and beginners
6.30 pm – Experienced players
New players, families and supporters are encouraged to come along and watch or get involved.
With a strong start to the season and an open-door approach to participation, the Lane Cove Cockatoos are quickly building momentum as they pursue their long-term goal of competing at the highest levels of Australian wheelchair basketball.
Further information: Gerry Hewson (0448 726 365) or Michael King (0414 766 271).
Crime, Accidents, Incidents
Police, emergency services and incident updates reported in and around Lane Cove.
Attempted Break In Riverview
Lane Cove locals are being urged to stay alert following an attempted break-in and a confirmed break-in on Romani Avenue, Riverview, overnight (11th February 2026).
Offenders reportedly enter a property, stole keys, and attempt to enter a neighbouring property. The individuals were captured on a Ring camera, but their faces were covered.
This is a timely reminder to:
- Lock doors and windows
- Turn on exterior lighting
- Check cameras are working
- Avoid leaving keys near doors or visible from outside
Probationary Constable Caught Drink Driving
North Shore Police Highway and Traffic Patrol regularly set up random breath testing on the Pacific Highway in Lane Cove North. On Saturday, 7 February 2026, they stopped one of their off-duty probationary officers who returned a positive reading.
NSW Police Media Unit issued the following statement:
“About 1.40 am (Saturday 7 February 2026), officers attached to North Shore Highway and Traffic Patrol were conducting stationary testing on the Pacific Highway, at Lane Cove North, where they directed a Mazda SUV to stop.
The driver of the vehicle, a 24-year-old woman, was arrested after returning a positive reading.
She was taken to Chatswood Police Station for secondary testing, which allegedly returned a breath analysis reading of 0.079.
The off-duty probationary constable, attached to a North West Metropolitan Region Command, was issued a Traffic Infringement Notice for driving with low-range PCA.
Her driver’s license was suspended, and her employment status is under review.”
Another Mowbray Road Accident During Wet Weather
Another accident on Mowbray Road was reported to In The Cove around 11 am, Monday, 9 February, by an ITC follower.
Mowbray Rd is unfortunately known for incidents in wet conditions and Monday’s weather likely made stopping and steering more difficult.
Here are some wet weather driving tips (NSW Govt):
- Slow down and drive for the conditions — wet roads can significantly increase stopping distances.
- Keep a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. This should be a greater distance than in dry conditions.
- Turn on your headlights or daytime running lights so others can see you.
- If conditions worsen, pull over safely and wait until it’s safer to continue.
- Allow a bit of extra time for your trip.
You may have noticed new signs have been installed at the Mowbray Road Bend in Lane Cove North.
At the October 2025 Lane Cove Council Meeting, it was agreed that a Vehicle Activated Sign (VAS) at this location would provide real-time speed feedback and encourage compliance with the posted limit.
At the meeting the following was noted:
VAS units have proven effective in reducing speeding by providing immediate visual feedback to drivers. They are particularly valuable in high-risk areas such as bends and road sections with a documented crash history. Council has received multiple representations regarding speeding along Mowbray Road West, highlighting the need for a targeted safety intervention.”
In the Cove took this video the other day to show you the sign (please enjoy the highly technical commentary).
This Week in Review is sponsored by Apple Dental
A big thank you to Apple Dental for sponsoring this week’s Week in Review and for their continued support of our local community.
Located in the heart of Lane Cove, Apple Dental is a modern, family-friendly dental practice offering comprehensive care for adults and children, from general check-ups and preventative dentistry through to cosmetic and restorative treatments. Their experienced team is known for taking a calm, personalised approach, helping patients feel comfortable and confident at every visit.
If you’ve been putting off a visit, now could be the perfect time. Apple Dental currently offers special payment plans and promotions, making it easier to prioritise your oral health without financial stress.
👉 Take a look at their latest offers and payment options online.
🌐 Visit: appledental.com.au/payment-plans-and-offers
Our Cover Photo showcases the Galuwa Recreation Centre public art.
Why Local News Matters
In the Cove delivers independent Lane Cove news every day — 100% free, with no paywall and no media owners influencing what we publish.
We write for the community, from within the community.
We are a proud member of LINA – the Local & Independent News Association, supporting small, independent publishers committed to accountable local journalism.
Why local news matters:
Local news strengthens community connection, keeps residents informed, spotlights issues bigger outlets overlook, and holds local decision-makers accountable. Your support helps ensure Lane Cove continues to have a strong, independent voice.
Independent reporting takes time, resources and a huge commitment to our community. Every contribution helps us continue covering the stories no one else does.
Support Independent Community News
☕ Shout ITC a Coffee (one-off):
buymeacoffee.com/inthecove
💛 Contribute Any Amount:
inthecove.presspatron.com
📣 Advertise with Us:
inthecove.com.au/advertise
