Lane Cove News Week in Review 4th March to 10th March 2026

    Welcome to our Lane Cove News Week In Review.

    Each week we bring together the most important Lane Cove news, community updates, council information, local sport highlights and upcoming events — all in one place. 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.


    Lane Cove News


    The key local stories, announcements and updates affecting our community this week.

    Stolen Car Flips in Lane Cove After Late-Night Police Pursuit

    In the early hours of Friday, 6 March 2026, North Shore Police Area Command was conducting patrols in Longueville when it identified and attempted to stop a stolen vehicle. 

    The driver failed to stop, and a pursuit was initiated, but then quickly stopped. A short time later, the car was found flipped on its roof on Sutherland Street in Lane Cove after hitting the curb and then the sandstone blocks. The driver fled the scene before police arrived.

    Read more here.

    The abandoned crashed car at Coxs Lane and Sutherland St

    Karen Neville Is The 2026 Lane Cove Woman of the Year

    Karen Neville has been recognised for her dedication and contribution to the local community due to her volunteer work with The Lane Cove Toy Library.

    The award is part of the NSW Women of the Year program, which celebrates women who inspire their communities through leadership, service and achievement. 

    Read more about Karen’s contribution to the Lane Cove community here.

    Image copyright NSW Government

    Lane Cove Local Professor Tracey O’Brien, AM Awarded the NSW Premier’s Woman of Excellence 2026

    Congratulations to Lane Cove Local Professor Tracey O’Brien, AM, who received the NSW Premier’s Woman of Excellence Award on Thursday, 5 March 2026. 

    The Woman of Excellence is a role model who has excelled in her chosen field. Our photo below is from the award ceremony event held at the International Convention Centre ahead of International Women’s Day on Sunday, 8 March 2026. Professor O’Brien is on the right. 

    Tracey is a leading Australian cancer clinician, researcher and advocate whose career has centred on one mission: improving the lives of people with cancer. A haematologist–oncologist and former Director of the Kids Cancer Centre, she has led breakthroughs in precision medicine, transplant and cellular therapies, while mentoring the next generation of clinician-researchers. 

    Now NSW Chief Cancer Officer, Tracey works across communities, government and science to ensure equitable, culturally safe cancer care for all. She is known for bringing siloed worlds together with humanity and purpose, uniting researchers, clinicians, policymakers and communities around what matters most: compassionate, life-changing outcomes for every person facing cancer.

    We will be publishing our interview with Tracey very soon.

    NSW Women of the Year Awards held at the ICC Sydney, Thursday 5th March, 2026. Picture: Toby Zerna Media

    Tradie Scam Active In The Area

    Two readers contacted ITC in the past week to advise that they have reported Aussie Roofing Specialist to the police. 

    In both instances, the readers alleged that a person knocked on the door and told them they could see their roof tiles were broken, and they could help fix them. Both readers were given an Aussie Roofing Specialist business card (see image). The card refers to the business as being fully licensed, but there is no licence number on the card. 

    In both cases, the readers alleged they paid for the work to be done, but the business did not come back to finish the job.

    Since posting a warning on the ITC Facebook page, other readers have commented that they’ve been approached in the Lane Cove North Area, and also that Willoughby residents have had similar experiences.

    Late last year, the NSW Police’s North Shore Area Command posted the following on their Facebook page. 

    WARNING: TRADIE SCAMS ACROSS THE NORTH SHORE

    North Shore Police Area Command has received reports of dodgy tradespeople targeting local residents, including tree loppers, painters and roofers. 

    Both homes said the tradesman used this flyer

    These scammers often knock on doors offering “urgent” work, pressure you into quick decisions or cash payments, leave jobs unfinished or of poor quality, and often target the elderly and other vulnerable people.

    You can protect yourself by always checking licences and insurance getting multiple written quotes, never paying the full amount upfront, using trusted tradies you’ve used before or recommended by a trusted friend or family member, and if in doubt, say NO and report suspicious activity.

    If you’ve been approached or scammed, contact NSW Fair Trading (13 32 20) or Chatswood Police Station on 02 9414 8499 or 131 444 which is the NSW Police non-emergency number.

    The Alcott Shelves Plans to Redevelop

    In May last year, The Alcott asked members to vote to reclassify The Alcott’s freehold as non-core property. This provided the legal framework for North’s Collective to either lease the premises or sell them to developers.

    It looks like Norths are no longer pursuing the development option, as the following was posted on their website:

    “Member clubs are advised that The Alcott — ABN 92000147544 — of 1 Birdwood Ave, Lane Cove, located in the Lane Cove LGA, is seeking expressions of interest from clubs with a view to exploring the possibility of an amalgamation.

    The Club has 5300 members and has played an important role in supporting the local community over many years. It is zoned B4 Mixed Use and owns the title over 2023 sqm. Facilities include an in-house restaurant, sports bar, outdoor areas, function space, 44 poker machines (with a further 11 entitlements) and 33 car spaces.

    The club is seeking to further its business and community objectives by supporting and growing another registered club.

    The Alcott is currently amalgamated with North Sydney Leagues Club. It is intended that The Alcott would be the child club in any amalgamation.”

    Read our article here about the reasons Norths Collective were seeking to reclassify The Alcott land.

    Mars Road Data Centre One Step Closer

    This week, the consultants acting for Goodman (the developer of the proposed data centre) advised that Goodman has lodged their development application with NSW Planning.

    The development application and reports are being uploaded to the Major Projects section of their website.  Once the documents are uploaded, the public will be able to lodge submissions.

    The data centre will be located in a light-industrial centre, but unlike the current Airtrunk data centre, it will be less than 100 m from homes.

    Read our background article here.

    Source: SEARS Application Documents

    Another Water Outage Affects Parts Of Lane Cove

    On Thursday, 5 March 2026, a burst water main near Pacific Highway and Longueville Road saw around 129 properties without water while urgent repairs were carried out.

    Sydney Water advised the water was off from about 7.30 pm, with supply restored around 12.30 am on Friday, 6 March 2026.

    The outage followed two significant water mains bursts the previous week.

    Tap water at a nearby residence during the outage.

    The outages offer an opportunity to refresh your knowledge of what to expect once water returns after an outage period. Sydney Water advises the following:

    • It is common to see brown or discoloured water. This can happen after repairs because the work can disturb natural sediment in water pipes, causing it to temporarily mix with the water supply.
    • While the water is generally safe, it’s best to avoid drinking discoloured water until it runs clear. Try running the cold tap for a few minutes to help flush the pipes.
    • Avoid using hot water or doing laundry until the water clears.

    If you experience low water pressure or no supply, you can first check Sydney Water’s website to see if there are works in your area that might be impacting your supply, and view any known outages. If nothing is listed, you can also report a fault via their homepage.

    Mowbray Road Bend

    The Mowbray Road Bend is near 428 Mowbray Road between Ralston Street and Roslyn Street

    It has been wet out there this week, and as we know, accidents happen on this bend when it is wet. Usually, when we post about an accident, the first thing people reply is that the person must have been speeding. Sometimes we can report on three or four accidents a day at this location.

    Lane Cove Council installed an electronic speed sign to monitor speed on this road, and they found:

    “As part of our ongoing monitoring of safety on Mowbray Road, Council has been reviewing the average speed along the road using the data from the electronic speed sign.

    The data shows that 85% of Mowbray Road users travel at 51km/h and while there were four instances where drivers clocked more than 90km/h, overall less than 1% of drivers were in excess of 60km/h.”

    So the stats show that people are not slowing down to 25 km/h.

    Below is a picture of the electronic board.

    Canopy Concerts In April Sure To Be Crowd Pleasers

    Two new shows are set to bring the streets of Lane Cove to life this April, with music, energy and plenty of dancing expected (and encouraged!)

    On Saturday, 18 April 2026, the music of Motown will fill Lane Cove. Saturday 25 April  2026 sees two shows take the stage; one bringing K-Pop hits to life with a glow disco and the other a live band with party anthems and dancefloor classics.

    All the details are in our article.

    A night out at The Canopy for live music or a show is always fun.

     


    Lane Cove In The News


    Where Lane Cove has appeared in wider media, including regional and national coverage.

    The Sydney Morning Herald published an article titled “How much does it cost to live in Sydney’s most livable neighbourhood.”

    The article noted:

    “For while the median house price in the lower north shore local government area (LGA) of Lane Cove now stands at $3,629,400 – more than twice Sydney’s average – it’s set to soar even higher.”

    Read the full article here (it is paywalled).


    Lane Cove Council


    Updates from Lane Cove Council, including decisions, consultations, works and local initiatives.

    River Road Works 

    Back in December, In the Cove reported on residents’ concerns about a section of River Road, Greenwich, where cracks had appeared in the road, and the surface seemed to be sloping towards the gully. 

    Some locals were concerned about the road’s stability and the safety of the nearby pathway used by families heading to Greenwich Public School.

    This week, we received a photo from one of our Roving Reporters, showing traffic cones and work crews right where those cracks were reported. It certainly looks like something is happening at the site now.

    Lane Cove Council has told ITC that this week’s roadwork is an investigation by the Geotech Engineer.

    Read our original article here.

     


    Have Your Say


    Opportunities for residents to provide feedback, have their voices heard and get involved.

    Closing Soon: Draft Pedestrian Access & Mobility Plan

    Birdwood Lane

    There are only a few days left to have your say on Lane Cove Council’s renewed Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan (PAMP). Feedback is sought to help shape safer, more accessible footpaths and crossings in the community. 

    View the draft PAMP and complete the online survey here. You can also submit feedback via email.

    Submissions close Sunday 15 March 2026. 

    Have Your Say: Burns Bay Reserve Masterplan

    Lane Cove Council is developing a master plan for Burns Bay Reserve, which will guide future improvements to the park while preserving much-loved features such as the sports fields and off-leash dog area. 

    Community consultation is now open, and feedback closes on 7 April 2026.

    The masterplan is particularly important for residents living near the reserve or overlooking it. If you live on Kooyong Road and Riverview Street, or in Best St or Waterview Drive apartments that overlook Burns Bay Reserve, you should take a look at the plans and have your say.

    The survey only takes about 10 minutes, and there are also pop-ups and workshops where you can speak with Council staff about the proposed upgrades. 

    Read our article for all the details and links to the plans.


    General Information


    Important safety updates, alerts and information relevant to Lane Cove and surrounding areas.

    Volunteer Grants Open for Bennelong Community Organisations

    Community groups across the Federal Electorate of Bennelong (which includes Lane Cove LGA) can now apply for the 2025–26 Bennelong Volunteer Grants.

    Grants of $1,000 to $5,000 are available for eligible not-for-profit organisations that rely on volunteers.

    Funding can be used for practical supports including:

    • Communication equipment such as laptops and mobile phones
    • Insurance for volunteers
    • Volunteer training and background checks
    • Items needed to deliver volunteer-run programs supporting vulnerable members of the community

    Local MP Jerome Laxale said volunteers play a vital role in supporting sporting clubs, cultural organisations and community services across the electorate.

    Expressions of Interest close at 5 pm on 1 April 2026.

    More information including full eligibility criteria and application details here.

    Some of the many volunteers around Lane Cove; The Lane COve Toy Library, Lane Cove Men’s Shed, SES Willoughby-Lane Cove unit.

    Create Connections With Probus

    A few weeks ago, ITC attended the Probus 50th birthday celebrations in Hunters Hill. We were so impressed with their passion for creating social connections in local communities that we thought we would tell you more about Probus.

    If you are interested in joining a Probus club (there are clubs in Longueville, Lane Cove and Hunters Hill), go to their website to find out more.

    Probus has been in Australia for 50 years, and it all started down the road in Hunters Hill.

    Special guests at the 50th celebrations included former Prime Minister the Hon John Howard, Heather Ewart from ABC Backroads (who has now handed over the presenting) and Hunters Hill Mayor Zac Miles.

    Enjoying Week in Review? Every week, In the Cove pulls together the local stories, council issues, community updates, events and sports that matter most to Lane Cove. If this helps you stay informed and connected, please support independent local journalism below

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    Business Alerts


    Notices and updates affecting local businesses, traders and services.

    Special Offer From The Chamber

    If you’re a small business, consultant or remote worker looking for a professional workspace, The Chamber in Lane Cove is currently offering 50% off Dedicated Desks at their Orion Road location (T&Cs apply).

    It’s a great opportunity to secure your own desk in a collaborative, professional environment and for a limited time you can bring a colleague for free.

    Book a tour with their team to claim the offer. See website for details.

    The Chamber is an In the Cove Business Supporter.


    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.

    In Conversation with Magistrate Debrah Maher

    Hear from Magistrate Debrah Maher as she discusses her experiences and perspectives on women’s leadership, justice and advocacy and a vision for a gender equal world.

    Date: Thursday, 12 March 2026
    Time: 6 pm – 8 pm
    Where: Lane Cove Library, Longueville Road
    How: Free. More details and booking link here. Light refreshments included. 

    Graphic credit Lane Cove Council

    Shakesperience Brings Macbeth To The Canopy

    Image credit Shakesperience Australia

    Outdoor theatre returns to The Canopy this Saturday, with Shakesperience Australia putting on a FREE production of Macbeth. Immerse yourself in this popular tale of dark magic, betrayal, and madness. Expect fast paced action, fortune telling witches, and exhilarating sword fights.

    When: Saturday 14 March
    Where: The Canopy
    Time: 6 pm – 8 pm
    How: Free. Bring low chairs or picnic rugs. Weather dependent.

    Lane Cove Rotary Car Boot Sale

    Love a good treasure hunt? The Rotary Club of Lane Cove Car Boot Sale is back this Sunday 15 March and it’s always a community favourite!

    Expect plenty of preloved goodies including clothes, toys, books, homewares, sporting gear and more. Whether you’re decluttering or on the hunt for a bargain, this is your chance to reuse, recycle and support a great local cause.

    It’s the perfect Sunday morning outing, so grab a coffee nearby and come see what treasures you can find.

    When: Sunday 15 March 2026
    Time: 9 am – 1pm
    Where: Lane Cove Civic Centre Car Park
    How: Details here.

    Watch Women’s Asian Cup Matches At The Canopy

    Catch the excitement of the AFC Women’s Asia Cup live on the big screen at The Canopy, with selected matches being screened throughout March.

    Australia is hosting the tournament, which runs from Sunday, 1st March to Saturday, 21st March. Matches are being played in Sydney, Perth and the Gold Coast.

    Scheduled Match Screenings:
    Saturday 14 March – Quarter Final at 1 pm – 3 pm
    Thursday 19 March – Semi Final at 1 pm – 3 pm
    Saturday 21 March – Final – 8 pm to 10 pm

    New Date For Girl Power Concert

    Image courtesy Lane Cove Council

    With the very wet weather last week and over the weekend, Girl Power’s 90s & 00s tribute show at The Canopy had to be postponed. 

    A new date has now been announced. Come along on Saturday, 30th May 2026 for a show packed with all your favourite hits from iconic female artists, think Beyoncé, Kylie, J.Lo, Pink, Katy Perry, Spice Girls and more! 

    When: Saturday, 30 May 2026
    Where: The Canopy
    Time: 6 pm – 9 pm
    How: Details and ticket link here.


    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’s Cricketers’ Major Milestone

    Lane Cove Cricket Club’s female players continue to go from strength to strength.

    In the 7 previous years of girls’ cricket at Lane Cove, only one girl, Lizzie Yates, had played 100 games for the club. This year, Lizzie, in the middle, is joined by Elodie Phillipson (left) and Shyamala Shankar (right) as the club’s only 100-game players.

    What a fantastic achievement for these girls and the club.

    Elodie Phillipson, Lizzie Yates & Shyamala Shankar. Supplied.

    Lane Cove Footballers Help Keep Asian Cup Officials On Their Toes

    Lane Cove West FC’s U17 and U18 teams had the privilege of assisting the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup officials (referees & ARs) at Sydney Olympic Park over the weekend.

    Their teams worked with the match referees and ARs in an 11-a-side format to create scenarios that tested decision-making and in-game VAR reviews.

    Their head coach, Cormac Begly told ITC that it was a wonderful experience for all involved.


    Crime, Accidents, Incidents


    Police, emergency services and incident updates reported in and around Lane Cove.

    Multi-vehicle Accident River Road West

    Just before 7.30 am on Tuesday, March 10 2026, there was a multi-vehicle accident on River Road West between Barina Road and Wangalla Road. 

    Drivers were advised to avoid the area, and the police diverted traffic away from the scene. Police, Fire and Ambulance crews were all in attendance.

    This section of River Road West is well known as a dangerous stretch, particularly in wet weather, where the road surface can become extremely slippery. The speed limit is reduced here due to the number of accidents that have occurred over time.

    Thank you to our Roving Reporters for sending through the photos and helping us to keep the community informed.

    Telephone Scam Alert

    Ryde Police Area Command issued a warning on their social media channels last week after they received reports of scammers posing as Australian Federal Police (AFP) employees, seeking assistance with fraud investigations.

    They said: “Victims are being contacted via phone, with the call appearing to originate from within Australia. The caller identifies themselves as AFP personnel, providing a name and a legitimate-sounding title or Strike Force name. 

    Victims are told they have been identified in a data breach and can assist with the fraud investigation by attending a police station to review evidence. 

    The caller provides a customer reference number (CRN) and asks the victim to repeat it.  If you receive a call like this – DO NOT GIVE OUT ANY PERSONAL INFORMATION. HANG UP. 

    For information on how to recognise and report scams, visit Recognise and report scams.”


    This Week in Review is sponsored by Lane Cove Rotary


    Proudly supporting independent local journalism in Lane Cove.

    This week’s Week in Review is proudly sponsored by the Rotary Club of Lane Cove, a local organisation dedicated to supporting the community through service projects, fundraising and initiatives that make a real difference both locally and globally.

    Rotary plays an important role in the Lane Cove community, supporting a wide range of causes including youth programs, local charities and community initiatives.

    One of their popular upcoming events is the Lane Cove Rotary Car Boot Sale, where locals can grab a bargain, declutter their homes or simply enjoy browsing through the many stalls. It’s a great community event and a fun way to give pre-loved items a new home.

    👉 Find out more about Rotary’s work and upcoming events online  www.lanecoverotary.org


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