If you want to stay in the know, the Week In Review is your wrap of the latest Lane Cove news, updates and community happenings.

This Week in Review is proudly sponsored by Finrose Lane Cove — a limited collection of beautifully designed two and three bedroom residences, now selling in the heart of Lane Cove. The Finrose Display Gallery is open daily from 10am to 4pm at The Village Shopping Centre, 43–45 Burns Bay Road.

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Lane Cove News

Changing Of The Guard for ITC

Some readers may not realise that after 13 incredible years, Jacky Barker officially handed over In the Cove around six weeks ago to her long-time sidekick Renee, who has been part of ITC for more than eight years.

We have a very special documentary-style tribute coming soon to properly celebrate Jacky and the enormous impact she has had on Lane Cove and local independent news.

But first… we made a reel.

Created with the legends at First of All Productions, the reel is a slightly exaggerated re-enactment of the chaos that comes with running a hyperlocal news platform — the caffeine, the breaking news, the bus cancellations, the 3am comment moderation and all the behind-the-scenes madness that keeps ITC ticking along.

The LINA Our News, Your Voice campaign has now wrapped up, but support for ITC is open all year round. Every contribution helps us continue building on the incredible foundation Jacky created and keeps independent local news alive in Lane Cove.

Watch the reel, have a laugh and, if you value having independent local news in Lane Cove, please consider supporting ITC.

 

Watch the video: Click here to watch on YouTube

Unprecedented Number Of Public Submissions Against Data Centre

The proposed Goodman Project Mars Data Centre at 12 Mars Road, Lane Cove West has received 374 public submissions. It is the highest number recorded for a NSW State Significant Data Centre application.

Of those submissions, just nine were in support.

One of the most significant responses came from Sydney Water, which has asked NSW Planning to defer its assessment until a separate servicing study is completed. Sydney Water says the site sits in the Chatswood Water Supply Zone, where the existing drinking water system has limited capacity to service the development.

Lane Cove Council has also objected, raising concerns about height, visual impact and the cumulative impact of data centres in the Lane Cove West industrial area
Local groups, residents, sporting clubs and environmental organisations also lodged objections, raising concerns about water use, noise, proximity to children’s sport and schools, diesel generators, bushland impacts and the Lane Cove River.

NSW Planning has now requested a Submissions Report from Goodman.
Read our full article here.

Players In A Bit of A Pickle At Galuwa

Outdoor pickleball players at Galuwa Recreation Centre have received notice of changed playing conditions effective from Wednesday 13 May 2026 after concerns were raised by nearby residents about noise levels.

Under the interim measures, outdoor play will only be permitted between 8 am and 7 pm, and all players must use soft pickleballs supplied by the centre.

Galuwa management said they have been working with Lane Cove Council to address the issue and are relocating some affected programs to indoor courts where possible.

Keen players who cannot accommodate the reduced hours in their schedule are being directed to try court hire at Ryde Indoor Sports Centre and Ryde Multisport + Racquets Centre.

The centre feedback should be directed to Centre Management. Customers with impacted bookings will be contacted directly.

In The Cove was very excited to try the fastest growing sport in the country when Galuwa opened in January 2026. We’ll keep you updated on any further developments

Local Groups Partner With Council To Go Solar

Three Lane Cove organisations are enjoying the benefits of new solar and battery installations through a Council-supported sustainability program.

The Longueville Tennis Club, Possums Corner Childcare Centre and Greenwich Sailing Club received funding assistance from Lane Cove Council to help install renewable energy systems at their facilities. The program, supported by the Council’s Sustainability Levy, contributed half the project costs.

Council says the installations are expected to significantly lower electricity bills while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Some groups have already reported substantial savings and greater energy independence.

The initiative forms part of Council’s wider sustainability strategy aimed at increasing renewable energy use across Lane Cove and supporting community organisations to transition to cleaner energy solutions.

Join Lane Cove Rotary’s Epic Day Of Service

As part of Rotary International’s annual Epic Day of Service, Lane Cove Rotary is bringing together locals for the first Cove Volunteers community day at the Lane Cove Toy Library.

The Epic Day of services unites volunteers around the world as they tackle projects in hundreds of communities around the world. It’s a great way to volunteer and see real-time results.

In Lane Cove the 2026 Epic Day of Service task is to clean up the rear area of the Toy Library to prepare for a new play space for local families. No special skills needed, just a bit of community spirit and an ability to get in and help out.

The event is designed to be a casual and flexible way for people to volunteer, meet others and give back to the community. Come for an hour or stay for the whole time; every bit helps.

When: Saturday 16 May
Where: Lane Cove Toy Library, 47 Burns Bay Rd (opp. Harris Farm)
Time: 1 pm – 5 pm
How: More info and registration here.

Trampolines Back At The Canopy

It’s taken a while however the replacement trampolines in The Canopy playground are now open!

Thanks to a Roving Reporter for the updated photo.

Lane Cove Council has also advised they will provide an update on the toddler playground in June 2026.

Lane Cove Theatre Presents Neighbourhood Watch

Lane Cove Theatre Company’s latest production, Neighbourhood Watch by acclaimed playwright Lally Katz, is coming to The Pottery Lane Performance Space this May and we’ve got a double pass to give away.

Funny, moving and deeply human, the play explores friendship, migration, loneliness and connection through the unlikely bond between two neighbours from very different worlds.
The production runs from Wednesday 20 to Sunday 31 May 2026.

Win a double pass to the show
To enter head over to the Facebook or Instagram post and;

1. Like the post

   

2. Comment with who you’d bring along

Competition closes at 5 pm on Friday 15 May 2026. Winner announced on 16 May 2026.

Ts&Cs apply. Read more and book tickets here.
Feeling the urge to tread the boards yourself? LCTC is holding auditions for their August 2026 production, After Dinner this Sunday 17 May and next Tuesday 19 May 2026. Details here.

Strange Cat Man Visits Lane Cove

On Thursday 7 May one of our lovely roving reporters alerted us that “Strange Catman” had been in Lane Cove! She was lucky enough to snap a few photos and share them with us.

Locals were excited to snap selfies, hear his story, and offer donations and supplies for the next leg of his journey. Another local family very generously opened their home to give this epic adventurer a place to stay for the night.

For those not familiar with Strange Catman’s journey, his mission is to walk for peace, and spread kindness and positivity along the way. His solo walking adventure began in Carnarvon Western Australia in November 2023. Since then he’s hugged the coastline as much as possible, south to Perth and then across the bottom of Australia through Adelaide, Melbourne and finally Sydney.

As if this wasn’t enough, his goal is now to travel up the east coast and eventually make it back over to Perth, all the while bringing joy to those he encounters. As you can see from the photos he’s also added a bike to make this trek a bit easier. Check out his Instagram for more photos and videos of his incredible adventure.

Not One, Not Two, But Three Exhibitions Officially Opening

Head to Gallery Lane Cove next Wednesday 20 May from 6pm to 8pm, for the launch of three brand new exhibitions with a single, big opening event.

Three very different sensibilities under the one roof, everyone is warmly invited. RSVP Here.

Find out more about the exhibitions here.

Lane Cove Library Bags

You can now get your very own Lane Cove Library bag. A great gift for the avid reader in your life – yourself or someone special! They look nice and sturdy so you can carry an old favourite or new gem to and from the library.

Purchase at Lane Cove Library, St Leonards Library or Greenwich Library.

We know Lane Cove loves to read and we love our libraries. In 2025 we published an article celebrating Lane Cove Library’s 70th birthday AND the fact that Lane Cove had the highest circulation rate per capita in NSW for the 2023/2025 year. Read it here.

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In the Media

Goodman Data Centre Development Getting Wider Attention

Questions about the proposed data centre at 12 Mars Road continue to be raised (see our story above). The Sydney Morning Herald has now profiled the issue in this article (paywalled).

The piece touches on many of the issues In the Cove has already covered around existing and proposed data centres in the LGA and nearby, and includes interviews with locals sharing their views.

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Lane Cove Council

Calling Local Artists & Designers

After the incredible energy of last year’s Lane Cove Festival and Sydney Fringe partnership, Lane Cove Council is now looking for a local artist or designer to help shape the visual identity of the 2026 festival.

The theme for 2026 is “Made in Lane Cove”, celebrating local creativity, connection and community.

The selected artwork and branding will feature across festival promotions, signage, digital campaigns and event material throughout the festival season.

It’s a fantastic opportunity for a local creative to have their work seen by thousands of people while becoming part of one of Lane Cove’s most loved annual events.

You’ll need to hurry though, expressions of interest close 18 May 2026.
All the details you need here.

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Business

Contribute Now: HelloWorld Helping Families In Vanuatu

There’s still time to help Helloworld Travel Lane Cove with donations for communities in Vanuatu.

The Ashes family of Helloworld Lane Cove are headed to Vanuatu again in late May and they need your help to make an even bigger impact than last year.

Donations of goods can be taken to the shop front in Lane Cove Village. Financial contributions can also be made and help families make their own choices about what they need most.

All the details about this long-running family mission, and how you can help are in our article.

Coming Soon: Lifeline To Open Every Second Sunday

Lifeline Lane Cove announced last week that they will soon start opening on Sundays.
The plan is to open every second Sunday, with the start date to be announced soon. We’ll keep you posted.

In the meantime trading hours remain Monday – Saturday 9.30 am – 4.30 pm.

Find Lifeline Lane Cove at 40 Burns Bay Road, opposite the Post Office.

Realise That Dream: Boutique Liquor Store For Sale

Every thought of owning your own bottle shop? Well now could be your chance. A commercial listing has gone live for a boutique store right here in Lane Cove. Check out the details here.

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Have Your Say

Draft Small Watercraft Storage Policy

Community feedback is sought on the proposed Draft Small Watercraft Storage Policy which has been developed to better manage watercraft storage across the LGA while protecting foreshores and improving access for everyone.

The draft is based on earlier community consultation in 2025 and aims to:

• Support the use of kayaks, canoes and small boats
• Reduce clutter and abandoned vessels
• Protect sensitive ecosystems
• improve public access to the foreshore

Note: If you want to have your say on the proposed fees associated with this draft policy you need to make a submission separately on the Draft 2026/27 Budget Consultation which closes June 5, 2026.

You can have your say on the draft policy: Online via link below.
OR Written submission to the General Manager quoting SU11199 by:

• Email (External link)
• Post: Lane Cove Council, PO BOX 20, LANE COVE, NSW, 1595

More information and online survey link here. Submissions close 18 June 2026.

Energy Efficiency Rental Standards

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water and NSW Fair Trading are inviting public feedback on proposed minimum energy efficiency standards for rental properties.

The proposed standards would introduce mandatory energy performance requirements that homes must meet before they can be leased. The consultation comes as renters now account for around one-third of households in New South Wales, with rental properties generally considered significantly less energy-efficient than owner-occupied homes.

More information and the draft paper here. Submissions close 31 May 2026.

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General Information / Safety Alerts

New Protective Wear Requirements For Motorcyclists

New motorcycle safety rules will come into effect across New South Wales on 1 July 2026, introducing stricter protective gear requirements for learner and provisional riders.

Under the changes, learner riders must wear an approved high-visibility vest or jacket whenever riding, improving their visibility to other motorists. In addition, all learner, P1 and P2 riders will be required to wear certified protective gloves that meet recognised international safety standards.

The NSW Government says the new measures are designed to reduce serious injuries among novice riders, who face a higher risk of crashes on the road. Riders who fail to comply with the new gear requirements may face penalties including fines and demerit points.

More information from the NSW Government about the changes here.

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Upcoming 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.

How Do I Feed My Baby?

Head along to Baby Feeding Support with Dr B.  Join Dr Bianca Blanch for this relaxed, 1-hour information session where you can ask questions and learn about all your feeding options. Topics include the difference between breastmilk and formula, how to bottle feed, starting solids, breast health, and what to do when breastfeeding doesn’t go to plan.

Come along for judgment free support. All parents and parents-to-be are welcome.

When: Saturday 16 May 2026
Time: 2 pm
Where: Lane Cove Library
How: Free. Bookings essential.

Makers Market This Sunday

Artworks, jewellery, homewares, homemade jams, crafts and more are on display and there is always a buzz to see what’s new this month.

When: Sunday 17 May 2026
Time: 9 am – 5 pm
Where: Lane Cove Plaza & The Canopy
How: Just turn up – browsing is free, but we challenge you to walk away without picking up a treasure!

Demystifying Family Law

Join experienced Family Lawyer Joshua Maloof from Tiyce & Lawyers, at Lane Cove Library this 2026 NSW Law Week. Joshua has maintained an exclusive practice in family law throughout his career. Australian family law includes issues of separation, divorce, property and financial disputes, and parenting orders.

After the presentation attendees are welcome to remain for a drop-in session with Joshua for one-on-one discussions.

When: Wednesday 20 May 2026
Time: 6.30 pm
Where: Lane Cove Library, Library Walk Lane Cove
How: Free. Registrations essential.

Girl Power Set To Take Over The Canopy – Take 2

Get ready Lane Cove, a high-energy show filled with all your favourite girl power anthems from the Nineties and Noughties is coming to the Canopy soon!

This highly anticipated show was scheduled for March to celebrate International Women’s Day but the weather had other ideas. It’s been rescheduled and will have you out of your seat, dancing and singing along to some classics.

When: Saturday 30 May 2026
Time: 6 pm – 9 pm
Where: The Canopy
How: Find out more and book tickets here.

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Local Sports

Lane Cove FC Heading Into Female Football Week Strong

Another big round of football for LCFC this past weekend with some great results. Check out some of the photos of teams celebrating wins, mums and the love of football.

Female Football Week is May 8 – 17 2026. Clubs around the country are participating through celebrations, skills sessions and special events to recognise and encourage female participation in all aspects of football.

LCFC will mark the week with a BBQ, games and activities and a chance to meet ParaMatildas, Eloise Northam & Tamsin Colley and A-League stars Kaiya & Ella Buchanan.

Aussie Rules Juniors Kicking Goals

The junior teams for Lane Cove Hunters Hill Cats AFL are making an impression as their skills and teamwork develop through the first part of the season.

New players are finding their feet on the field, showing great teamwork and having fun.

Lane Cove Netball Club Joins 2026 Hyundai Netball NSW Community Raffle

Lane Cove Netball Club is once again taking part in the Hyundai Netball NSW Community Raffle for 2026.

Last year, Lane Cove Netball Club finished as the No. 1 Metro Club, raising an impressive $5,638 through ticket sales and bonus incentives. The club is hoping to go even bigger this year, with every dollar raised going directly back to Lane Cove Netball Club.

Tickets are only $2, with the chance to win a car and other prizes. The club is encouraging the community to support the raffle and share the link with friends, family and colleagues.

Buy tickets here: Hyundai Netball NSW Community Raffle – Lane Cove Netball Club

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Got Something Local To Share?

Week in Review is one of the ways In the Cove keeps Lane Cove informed about what is happening across our community.

We welcome local updates from sporting clubs, not-for-profits, community groups, schools, residents, businesses and public bodies. This could include registrations opening, local achievements, fundraising efforts, volunteer call-outs, awards, business updates, upcoming events, safety alerts, public information or other timely Lane Cove news.

Please note that submitting an item does not guarantee publication. ITC gives priority to information that is local, useful, timely and relevant to the wider Lane Cove community.

To understand what we can usually include, and what is better suited to paid advertising or other channels, read our guide: How We Work With Our Community.

To submit something for consideration in a future Week in Review, please use this form: Submit your local update here.

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This Week in Review is proudly sponsored by Finrose Lane Cove.

Finrose is a limited collection of light-filled two and three bedroom residences, now selling in the heart of Lane Cove. Designed with generous interiors, natural light and a strong connection to greenery, Finrose has been created for those who love Lane Cove’s village feel, leafy surrounds and everyday convenience.

The Display Gallery is now open daily from 10am to 4pm at The Village Shopping Centre, 43–45 Burns Bay Road, Lane Cove. More info