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), the Week In Review is your go-to wrap.
Lane Cove News
ITC At LINA Conference
Last week the In the Cove team attended the LINA – Local & Independent News Association Summit in Murray Bridge, South Australia. It was a three-day gathering of independent publishers from across Australia.
Around 120 people including publishers, journalists and industry stakeholders came together to share ideas, challenges and opportunities facing local news.
LINA plays a critical role in supporting independent newsrooms like In The Cove, helping local publishers stay sustainable, adapt to changing technology and continue delivering trusted, community-focused journalism.
At a time when many local news outlets are disappearing, organisations like LINA are working to ensure communities like Lane Cove continue to have access to reliable, independent news that keeps people informed, connected and engaged.
The summit was a chance to learn, share and bring back ideas that will help us continue to grow and better serve our community.
We’ve come back inspired, energised and even more committed to what we do.
Thank you to LINA for bringing everyone together and to you, our community, for continuing to support local, independent news.
You can learn more about LINA here. ITC’s Founder Jacky Barker is a founding Board Member of LINA.
Easter Trading Hours + Daylight Savings Ending
The Easter long weekend is almost here and we have all you need to know about local trading hours in our article here.
Don’t forget Daylight Saving ends on Easter Sunday 5 April 2026. Clocks go back 1 hr at 3 am. If only someone would convince the excited children to stay in bed that extra hour – but we doubt they can wait a minute longer for the Big Bunny!
Double Demerit points are also in force from 12.01 am Thursday 2 April until 11.59 pm Monday 6 April. Offences that attract double demerits during this time include; speeding, using a mobile phone illegally, riding without a helmet, not wearing or incorrectly wearing a seatbelt or carrying passengers not wearing or incorrectly wearing a seatbelt or restraint.
School Zones are in operation until 4 pm this Thursday 2 April.
Wild About Lane Cove
On Sunday 29 March we got Wild About Lane Cove at Mindarie Park with the Stringybark Creek Residents’ Association (SCRA) supported by Lane Cove Council and Bushcare.
Andrew from Live Reptile Displays wowed everyone with his talk about reptiles and their importance to biodiversity. Some lucky locals got to get really close to the reptiles he brought along. Check out the photos below and watch our reel.
The morning was also a great chance to learn about the wonderful support SBCRA and Bushcare provide to our local bushland areas. They were on hand to share information about identifying native plants vs. their lookalike weeds, where to enjoy local bushwalks, and how to support our local habitats. They also provided short guided bushwalks and a delicious sausage sizzle.
ArtXtra! 2026 Shines Spotlight On Local Artists
ArtXtra!, the Lane Cove Art Society members’ exhibition, opening night event and award presentation was held at Gallery Lane Cove + Creative Studios on Friday 27 March 2026.
The event saw around 100 art lovers and art makers gather to meet local artists and hear about their artwork, and even purchase pieces to take home once the exhibition ends.
The Lloyd Rees Prize and Guy Warren Prize are given to the two best in the show pieces with the winning artist receiving $2000 for each award as well as being added to an honour board displayed in Lane Cove Library.
The 2026 Lloyd Rees prize winner is Fangmin Wu for “Way Home from Oberon”
The 2026 Guy Warren Prize was awarded to Ania Zmijewska for “Finding My Place”
Find out more about the exhibition, its history and other prizes here. ArtXtra! runs until Saturday 11 April 2026.
Fuel Supply Issues Affecting Some Lane Cove Petrol Stations
Last Wednesday, 25 March, an ITC follower let us know that diesel was unavailable at both of the local 7-Eleven service stations.
The 7-Eleven on Pacific Highway in Artarmon was out of all fuel except gas, and staff advised they had been out since Tuesday, 23rd, with no confirmed timeframe for resupply.
We also checked a number of nearby service stations, with most operating normally, a few with 1-3 hoses out of action.
Since then, we’ve had messages reporting intermittent low or no supply available for short periods.
Current advice from State and Federal Governments is for motorists to monitor individual usage and reduce fuel consumption where possible.
With the shortage and uncertainty about when the supply will be improved, it’s a good time to remember the handy Fuel Watch tool from Service NSW. You can download the app or use the desktop site to find the best value fuel near you.
Sydney Swans Players Help Launch Local Season
On Thursday, 26 March, two Sydney Swans players, William Edwards and Riley Bice, joined the Lane Cove Hunters Hill Cats AFL Club at Blackman Park to celebrate the season launch.
Attendees enjoyed skills and a run around and waited patiently to meet the players and have their items signed.
Lane Cove In The News
Scott Yung Still Making Headlines
The fallout from the last Federal election continues for Scott Yung, with this SMH article (paywalled) revealing claims from Liberal party insiders that he owes around $400k to the party after his failed tilt for the seat of Bennelong. The article also discusses other electorates where candidates have accumulated debts.
Lane Cove Council and Willoughby City Council
Wild About Lane Cove Photo Competition
The “Wild about Lane Cove” Photo Challenge is back this April to encourage locals to get out and about and start snapping photos of local bushland habitats.
Running from 1 – 30 April, the challenge encourages participants to photograph wildlife habitats within the Lane Cove Council local government area. Entries aren’t limited to animals, photos might feature plants, landscapes, or homes for wildlife such as nests or webs, with a focus on how the environment supports native species.
To enter, participants must submit a photo taken in bushland along with a brief explanation (25 words or less) describing its value as habitat. Entries can be shared via Instagram or Facebook using the tag @lanecovecouncil and the hashtag #WildAboutLaneCove26, or emailed directly to Council.
Two winners will each receive a $100 Lane Cove gift card. Full T&Cs here.
Artarmon Bowling Clubhouse Now Artarmon Parklands Pavilion
The site of the former Artarmon Bowling Club on Burra Rd, Artarmon, has undergone significant redevelopment in the past few years. Initially, a new playground (Artarmon Reserve Playground) was developed along with the Artarmon Parklands and Community Garden.
The former clubhouse has been refurbished and is now a council venue for hire. The space can accommodate group activities, meetings, and social events. Find out more here.
You can see photos of the official opening event on the Willoughby Council’s Facebook page
General Information
Temporary Changes To 265 Bus Service & Stops This April
Due to Sydney Water works in the area, 265 bus services and stops around Ronald Avenue and Dorritt Street will temporarily change.
There will be temporary bus stop closures and route diversions via River Road and Longueville Road.
The works and transport changes will happen throughout most of April:
Ronald Avenue, Greenwich roadworks: 12 am Tuesday 7 April to midnight Friday 24 April 2026
Ronald Avenue and Dorritt Street roadworks: 12 am Monday 13 April to midnight Friday 17 April 2026
If you normally use stops in these areas, allow extra travel time and check updated routes before heading out.
More details on Council’s website.
For more information about the works contact Sydney Water on 1800 943 119.
Marine Rescue NSW Implores Boaties and Rock Fishers To Stay Safe This Easter
Marine Rescue NSW is urging boaters to be aware of conditions, maintain their watercraft, take responsibility for all on board, and, importantly, log on with Marine Rescue when out on the water this Easter.
Marine Rescue NSW is urging boaters to take extra care on the water this Easter long weekend, with more than 3,500 volunteers on standby across the state.
Commissioner Todd Andrews said Easter is typically one of the busiest periods for rescues, though higher fuel costs may lead fewer people to head out this year. Despite that, demand has already been strong in 2026, with almost 1,400 search-and-rescue missions completed since January.
Boaters are being reminded to plan ahead, check weather and conditions, carry safety equipment including lifejackets, and ensure they have enough clean fuel on board, particularly as fuel-related incidents account for around eight per cent of rescues.
Last Easter, volunteers carried out 119 missions and safely returned 271 people to shore.
Marine Rescue NSW is also encouraging skippers to use its free app or marine radio to “Log On” before heading out, allowing crews to monitor their safe return.
Volunteers, including over 700 from 7 units in the Greater Sydney region, will be on call throughout the long weekend, with authorities stressing that changing conditions and unfamiliar waterways can increase risks if proper precautions aren’t taken.
Read more about Marine Rescue in our October 2025 article.
Business Alerts
The Depot Brewery Turns 1
Sunday marked a major milestone for Depot Brewery at HomeHQ Artarmon, celebrating one year since they officially began brewing onsite.
The venue was buzzing throughout the day, with a great mix of regulars and new faces coming together to mark the occasion.
To thank the community for their support, Depot shouted more than 100 free schooners — a generous gesture that certainly added to the festive atmosphere.
A fantastic local success story and a great reminder of the growing food and drink scene just around the corner from Lane Cove.
More about Depot Brewery: https://depot.beer
New ITC Business Supporter: Count Your Blessings Bookkeeping
ITC welcomes Count Your Blessings Bookkeeping (CYBB) as a new ITC Business Supporter.
CYBB was established in 2009 and supports businesses with all things bookkeeping; BAS/IAS, payroll, set up and consulting for MYOB, Xero, Quickbooks and more. So whether you’re just starting out or your business has reached a point where you need a professional to take over the bookkeeping so you can stay on track, reach out to Louise to see how she can help.
New ITC Business Supporter: Monsta Media Lane Cove
ITC welcomes Monsta Media Lane Cove as a new ITC Business Supporter.
Monsta is a digital marketing agency that can help you with your website, socials, search engine optimisation and more. They’re committed to working with you to create a strategy to grow your business sustainably and set you up to maintain it.
LJ Hooker Lane Cove Bought by The Cavill Group
You might have noticed some refurbishment works happening to a shopfront on Longueville Road. LJ Hooker Lane Cove have recently joined with The Cavill Group.
The LJ Hooker team, under Principal Steward Kirkby will continue to service their clients in and around Lane Cove from their soon-to-be ready refurbished office.
Read more about the merger in this Elite Agent article.
Lane Cove Holiday Park Now Discovery Parks Lane Cove
Just down the road at Macquarie Park you will find Discovery Parks Lane Cove which was formerly Lane Cove Holiday Park. It gets its name by being adjacent to the national park. It’s so close but it feels a world away and is a great option for a staycation (a couple of ITC families have been in recent years), or if you have visitors you can’t (or won’t!) host at home.
Since the change of ownership there’s been significant upgrades. You can read more in this SMH article (paywalled).
New Preschool Opens in Lane Cove North
A new preschool has opened its doors in Lane Cove North, with PLC Sydney launching its Lane Cove campus at 41 Farran Street.
State Member for Lane Cove, Anthony Roberts, marked the opening, highlighting the addition as a welcome boost to early learning options for local families.
Set amongst a leafy setting, the centre offers a purpose-built environment designed to support early learning and development.
The opening adds to the growing number of childcare and preschool options in the Lane Cove area.
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.
Repair Cafe Open Easter Sunday
Head along to the Repair Cafe Sydney North and get something repaired this Easter. Note there is no jewellery or ceramics for the Easter Sunday session. They will also open Sunday 12 April.
When: Sunday 5 & 12 April 2026
Time: 2 pm – 4 pm
Where: 180 Longueville Road, Lane Cove
How: Details here.
Easter Craft Lane Cove & St Leonards Libraries
Continue your Easter celebrations by making some cute decorations to take home.
When: Tuesday 7 April (Lane Cove) & Wednesday 8 April (St Leonards)
Time: 2 pm – 3 pm
Where: Lane Cove Library & St Leonards Library
How: Free. Ages 6-13. Limited places. Tickets are available 30 minutes before the session from the front desk.
First Fridays In The Plaza
First Fridays is a Lane Cove Council initiative bringing fun and creativity to the Lane Cove Plaza on the first Friday of the month. For April’s event, design and create your own bookmark using natural materials and fabrics.
When: Friday 10 April 2026
Time: 3 pm – 4.30 pm
Where: Lane Cove Plaza
How: Details 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.
Local Rowers Compete In Marathon Event In Windsor
Congratulations to James Harrington and Naomi Johnson who had standout performances in the 14 March Paddle NSW marathon race held at Windsor. The Paddle NSW Marathon Series caters for paddlers of all ages and skills, allowing paddlers to choose from race distances of 5, 10, 15 or 20kms and sees participants travel around the state to different courses.
Read more about the epic Windsor event in this article from the Hawkesbury Gazette.
Lane Cove River Kayakers hosted the latest event on Lane Cove River this past weekend. You may have seen competitors navigating the up to 7.5km down and back course between the Rotary Athletics Field and Linley Point.
Come and Try AFL At The Canopy
The Lane Cove Hunters Hill Cats are hosting a special Come & Try Session at The Canopy during the holidays. You can drop in anytime to meet our coaches, have a kick, try some fun drills, and experience what Cats AFL is all about.
When: Thursday, 9 April 2026
Time: 9 am – 2 pm
Where: The Canopy, Lane Cove
How: Free. Just turn up. Open to new players of all ages and experience levels
St Michael’s Football Club Seeking More U14s and U16 players
One of Lane Cove’s long-standing Football Clubs, St Michael’s FC, has told ITC that they are urgently seeking additional players in the Under 14 and Under 16 age groups. If you have boys (or girls that are happy to play with and against boys) who would be interested in playing Football this winter and are yet to sign up with a club, then please contact Aled Morris on 0415 420 899 or Jonathan Hughes at [email protected].
Crime, Accidents, Incidents
Police Seek Public Assistance Over Alleged Thefts
Police are appealing for public assistance to help identify a man who may be able to assist with inquiries into a series of alleged thefts across Sydney’s Lower North Shore.
The incidents are reported to have occurred at:
- Chemist Warehouse, Military Road, Neutral Bay
- Chemist Warehouse, Victoria Avenue, Chatswood
- Officeworks, Mosman
Police say the incidents took place across multiple dates in March 2026.
Anyone who may have witnessed the incidents or has information about the identity of the person is urged to come forward.
Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit nsw.crimestoppers.com.au
All information is treated in strict confidence. Please do not report information via NSW Police social media pages.
Reference: E87850663
Lane Cove Crime Update: What’s Really Happening?
The latest BOCSAR data shows a mixed picture for Lane Cove, and it’s worth a closer look.
Our overall crime is stable (-1.2%), assault and fraud are down, but shoplifting, stalking and sexual offences are trending upward.
While some increases reflect broader NSW trends (and in some cases better reporting), one thing remains clear: Lane Cove is still one of the safest areas on the Lower North Shore.
So what’s changing beneath the surface and what should locals be aware of? Read the full breakdown and analysis in our article.
This Week in Review is Sponsored by NorthShore Nature Works
This Week in Review is proudly brought to you by NorthShore Nature Works — the team transforming ordinary outdoor spaces into stunning, nature-inspired environments where children can learn, explore and thrive.
Certified with a Working With Children Certificate, NorthShore Nature Works works closely with schools, early learning centres, and families to design and build beautiful natural playgrounds and gardens using native planting and natural materials.
They even involve the kids in the process — from design through to digging and planting — making it a truly memorable experience for everyone. Whether you’re looking to reimagine a tired playground or create a green sanctuary from scratch, NorthShore Nature Works will bring your vision to life.
Visit them at northshorenatureworks.com or call 0474 102 671 to book your free consultation today.
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.
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