Here’s your roundup of the latest Lane Cove news, council updates, events and other community information.

Thank you xchange air for sponsoring this Week in Review

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Lane Cove News

Lane Cove Council Meeting Agenda

Lane Cove Council will meet this Thursday for the May 2026 meeting. The public forum that precedes the meeting was held on Monday 18 May.

Agenda items include opposition to parts of the NSW Government’s proposed Statewide Community Participation Plan, a potential organic food buyers hub, review of the Open Space Strategy, development of a draft synthetic turf strategy, a budget update, and more.

Read the full summary here.

The Planning Panel is also meeting this evening (Tuesday 19 May) and will discuss a change of use application for part of a property on Orion Road in Lane Cove West. Read more here.

Wadanggari Park Playground Vandalised Again

Equipment at the Wadanggari Park Playground in St Leonards South has again been vandalised. The affected area (the yellow section in the photo below) has been cordoned off while repairs are arranged.

The rest of the playground and park remains open.

This latest damage follows repeated acts of vandalism since the park opened in July 2023, the most significant of which resulted in a two and half month closure of the playground between September and late November 2025. During that extended repair phase additional remediation and improvement works were undertaken.

A Lane Cove Council spokesperson advised ITC there is CCTV coverage and lighting in place at the site and that Council continues to investigate whether further changes to the design of the site would reduce instances of vandalism.

The Canopy Garden Bed Works

Late last year, Lane Cove Council advised the community that a number of plants and trees in The Canopy garden beds had been struggling due to the challenges of the rooftop garden environment, including heat, wind exposure and reduced water retention.

Council said restoration works would include:

• upgrading irrigation systems
• improving soil conditions
• removing plants most affected

Tuesday the 19th May, crews appeared to be digging deeper into the garden bed area as part of those ongoing works. Hopefully the upgrades help revitalise the greenery in the heart of The Canopy long-term.

Local Palliative Care Volunteer Finalist In NSW Awards

Greenwich’s Kathy Hawkins has been named a finalist in the Palliative Care NSW Volunteer of the Year Award, recognising her outstanding contribution as a volunteer at HammondCare Greenwich Hospital.

For more than eight years, Kathy has supported people receiving palliative care with compassion, dignity and care. She is known for going above and beyond, including playing the reverie harp to help create a calm and reflective atmosphere for patients, families and staff.

What an incredible contribution to the Northern Sydney community. The winners are announced tomorrow, Wednesday 20 May – good luck Kathy! Read the full story here.

Rotary’s Epic Day Of Service Yields Epic Results

On Sunday 17 May volunteers from Lane Cove Rotary headed to the Lane Cove Toy Library, rolled up their sleeves and put in a solid afternoon of hard yakka clearing the rear yard.

Work included clearing hard rubbish, trimming trees, weeding, clearing gutters and washing the existing surface. All of this in preparation for the installation of a new Play Matta ground covering.

The area is being transformed so the co-located services at the site; The Lane Cove Toy Library and The Sydney Library of Things can hold events such as stay and play, playgroups, workshops and more.

The upgrade has been funded in part by a NSW Community Building Grant submitted through Anthony Roberts Member for Lane Cove, corporate sponsorship from Helloworld Travel Lane Cove and a generous donation from Lane Cove Rotary.

An amazing effort across the board for these wonderful community organisations.

In The Cove Founder Recognised In Federal Parliament

ITC has been overwhelmed by the flood of support and well wishes since we announced our Founder Jacky Barker is retiring.

This past week we were absolutely thrilled to see Jacky’s contributions to Lane Cove and the broader independent news community immortalised in Federal Government records when our Federal Member Jerome Laxale MP made mention of Jacky and ITC in Parliament. Thanks to Jerome and his team for the amazing tribute and for pulling this great reel together for us to share.

Watch it on our ITC Channels – Facebook – Instagram – TikTok

End of an Era: Central Park Tree Sculpture Comes Down

After standing in Central Park, Longueville since 2019, the much-loved natural tree sculpture has been removed. The sculpture was created from branches of the original Angophora Costata, believed to have been planted in the early 1900s, after the tree itself had to be removed due to safety concerns.

The sculpture gave the tree a second life for another six years, becoming a familiar spot for locals to sit, climb, gather and take photos. Sadly, the timber had degraded and it was no longer safe for public use. The good news is that a new tree is expected to be planted in its place.

Read more about the history of the tree, the sculpture and why it meant so much to the community.

WOW Day Is Wednesday 20 May 2026

Wear Orange Wednesday known as WOW Day. It’s a national day of recognition to say thank you to the thousands of SES volunteers who give their time to support communities during floods, storms and other emergencies. It falls annually on the Wednesday of National Volunteer Week, which this year runs from the 18th to 24th May.

Find out more about our local SES unit here.

This year, Lane Cove Council is marking WOW Day with a children’s competition; kids are invited to draw and colour in the items they’d pack in an emergency bag, with three prize packs up for grabs. Entries close Thursday 21 May.

Thanks to all our local volunteers! Don’t forget to wear orange on Wednesday and share your photos using #ThankYouSES.

It’s National Road Safety Week

National Road Safety Week runs from 17 to 24 May 2026, and this year Australians are being asked to take a simple but powerful pledge; Drive as if your loved ones are on the road ahead.

It’s a timely reminder to slow down, remove distractions, never use your phone while driving and take extra care around vulnerable road users.

Read more and take the pledge here.

Lane Cove Public School Calls For Memories & Memorabilia

Lane Cove Public School is preparing to celebrate its 150th anniversary, and the school is asking the community to help uncover memories, photos and memorabilia from across the generations.

They would love to hear from former students, former staff, past parents and long-time Lane Cove locals who may have old photographs, uniforms, badges, trophies, programs, documents, newspaper clippings or stories connected to the school.

Former students are also invited to complete the school’s dedicated alumni survey, sharing memories, photographs, school work and post-school achievements. Contributions may be featured in a slideshow and booklet displayed on the day.

Complete the Calling LCPS Alumni survey here. Read more, including where to send your memories and memorabilia, here.

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Lane Cove Council

Safety & Access Upgrades River Road & Northwood Road

Traffic and pedestrian upgrades to River Road and Northwood Road are scheduled to continue in May, however the current wet weather is slowing progress. It is hoped some movement on site will be possible later this week.

River Road traffic signal works near the Galuwa Recreation Centre will see the installation of the remaining permanent poles, replacing the temporary ones in use at the moment.

The intersection of Northwood Road/River Road will see a major upgrade to enhance safety for drivers and pedestrians. The redesign improves the left-turn slip lane out of the southern end of Northwood Rd, adds stop signs and separated exit lanes on Northwood Road, improves sight lines through vegetation clearing, and introduces high-grip asphalt and a painted median to better separate traffic around the bend.

Construction of the Fleming Street stairs, which began in March, is continuing.

Read the full update and past project updates here.

Final Stage Of Upgrades To Commence At Bob Campbell Oval

Construction of one of the final pieces of the Bob Campbell Oval masterplan, a shared user path along St Vincents Road from Gore Street to Bob Campbell Oval, is scheduled to commence this week with completion expected by mid-September, weather permitting.

The project includes a new shared path, elevated boardwalk, drainage upgrades, retaining wall, road resurfacing, and new kerb and guttering. Daytime one-way traffic control and temporary parking impacts are expected during construction, while pedestrian access to Bob Campbell Oval will be maintained throughout the works.

More details including past updates here.

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Business

A New Chapter For Judo In Lane Cove

After seven years in Lane Cove, the team behind the local judo program has disaffiliated from UTS and is now operating independently as Yamato Judo Club – Yamato meaning “harmony.”

They’re continuing their classes locally, now based at Galuwa Recreation Centre with the same coaches and community focus; just a new name and a new space.

Their programs include sessions for kids aged 5 and up and teens.

Find out more here.

New Business Alert: Reset Timed Right

ITC have just heard about Reset Timed Right. They offer support designed to help people think ahead, reset and plan for the next 10 to 20 years of life.

They focus on the big-picture things that can sometimes get pushed aside, including purpose, wellbeing, social connection, legacy, finances and getting your affairs in order. The team is keen to help you prepare and plan for the emotional and practical aspects of later life.

Reset Timed Right have come on board as an ITC Business Supporter. More details here.

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Carwash Approved For Longueville Seeks To Extend Operating Hours

In October 2025 Lane Cove Council approved a Development Application (DA76-2025) for an automatic carwash facility on Northwood Road in Longueville between Jack & Co and Trendsetter Travel. As part of the approval Council stipulated that the hours of operation would be restricted as follows;

“A.1B- Hours of Operation Approval is granted for the premise to operate Monday to Sunday: 7:00am – 9:00pm as per the NSW EPA noise guidelines for motor vehicle associated uses within residential areas. This is to ensure that the residential amenity of the area is maintained. The Approved plan of management is to be updated in accordance with this condition.

Reason: Consistent with the zonal objectives to ensure public amenity is maintained.”

Elephant Wash Longueville Pty Ltd has now lodged an application to have the operating hours extended to 5 am – Midnight Monday – Sunday arguing that;

“…. the Noise Assessment submitted as part of the DA demonstrating that the carwash could operate 24 hours whilst satisfying the relevant acoustic criteria for all assessment periods (day, evening and night) without adversely affecting residential amenity.”

A Noise Assessment report dated April 2026 has been included as part of the application.

Interested parties can have their say on the application via email before Thursday 28 May 2026.

Submissions should quote DA76/2025 and the address 5 Northwood Road LONGUEVILLE 2066. They should also include a telephone number or e-mail address should Council need to contact you in relation to the application.

If you commented on the initial application and they relate to the proposed modification, you will need to make a new submission.

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General Information / Safety Alerts

KYDS Youth Counselling Expands Services To Young Adults

KYDS Youth Counselling is now offering counselling support for young adults up to the age of 24 who have completed secondary school.

This expansion recognises that life after school can bring a lot of change, whatever path you’ve chosen; further study, work, taking time out, or still figuring things out.

The Young Adults Counselling program offers a supportive, youth-friendly space to talk things through and access ongoing support.

New clients receive a free intake appointment, ongoing, low-fee counselling offered in person or via telehealth.

Find out more 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.

Open Day To Celebrate Farran Street Turning 30

Farran Street Quality Childcare Centre is turning 30 this year.

To celebrate three decades of caring for Lane Cove kids, Farran Street Quality Child Care is inviting local families to a special Open Day.

There will be a jumping castle, face painting, children’s activities, games, an ice cream van and a “Colour Our Community” colouring competition for kids.

It will be a lovely local celebration for a childcare centre that has been part of Lane Cove family life since 1996.

What: Open Day
Where: Farran Street Quality Childcare
When: Saturday 23 May 2026
Time: 10 am – 1 pm
How: Details here.

Paws Day Festival at The Canopy

Get ready for a pawesome day out at this pet-friendly festival, featuring pet stalls, expert vet advice, grooming tips, rescue organisations, interactive activities for all ages, and much more!

When: Saturday 23 May 2026
Time: 10 am to 2 pm
Where: The Canopy
How: Just turn up. More details and scheduled event activities here.

National Simultaneous Storytime

Join Lane Cove Library for National Simultaneous Storytime, a fun annual event that sees children across Australia enjoy the same picture book at the same time. Families can enjoy stories, songs and activities designed for preschool-aged children.

This year’s book is Luna Roo: The Kangaroo Baller, written by Adam Jackson and Adrian Lloyd and illustrated by Jake A. Minton.

When: Wednesday 27 May 2026
Time: 11 am
Where: Lane Cove Library & The Yarn 64 Gladesville Rd, Hunters Hill
How: Free event. Bookings not required.

Girl Power Concert At The Canopy

A high-energy girl power concert is coming to The Canopy. Be prepared to Get the Party Started, Get Loud, Spice Up Your Life & fall Crazy In Love with your favourite 90s and 00s hits all over again.

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

Climate Fresk Workshop

Learn about the science behind climate change and explore practical solutions at this interactive Climate Fresk workshop hosted by Lane Cove Council and People for Nature. Using a collaborative card-based activity, participants will work together to understand the causes and impacts of climate change before discussing actions and solutions. Suitable for beginners through to those already engaged in climate issues. Plant-based refreshments provided.

When: Tuesday 2 June 2026
Time: 5:30pm–8:30pm
Where: Lane Cove Library
How: Free but tickets essential. More information and bookings here.

Save The Date: Child Car Seat Safety Check

Parents and carers can have their child car seats checked to make sure they are correctly fitted and meet safety requirements. Get advice on when to update the seat your child is currently using.

You can also drop off used restraints for recycling.

When: Saturday 20 June 2026
Time: 9 am to 1 pm
Where: Lane Cove Council Chambers carpark, entry Phoenix St or Little St
How: Book here or contact Council’s Road Safety Officer on 02 9911 3536 or email.

Visit the Child Car Seats website for more information about legal requirements.

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Local Sports

NSW Swifts Bring Star Power To Local Netball Training

There was some serious netball talent in Lane Cove on Monday 18 May, with NSW Swifts players Sarah Klau and Taylor Fraser visiting Lane Cove Netball Club’s training session at Galuwa Recreation Centre.

Lane Cove Netball Club President Di Payne and Vice President Karmen Karamanian welcomed the players, who took part in a Q&A with the club’s younger netballers. Sarah and Taylor shared stories about their own netball journeys, how they started out, what helped them progress and some of the experiences they have had along the way.

There were plenty of great questions from the crowd, a few laughs and lots of inspiration for the players listening on. After the session, the kids also had the chance to get signatures and have a quick one-on-one chat with the Swifts players.

It was a fantastic opportunity for local young netballers to meet two elite athletes up close, and a lovely way to start the season. A big thank you to Sarah and Taylor for taking the time to come out to Lane Cove and support the local club, and to Di, Karmen and the Lane Cove Netball Club team for helping make it happen.

Footballers Dominate With Huge Win

An amazing effort and outcome for Lane Cove FC’s WAA/3 side coming away from the round with a 6 – 0 win. What a perfect way to round out Female Football Week!

Junior Rugby Players All Smiles

Lane Cove Junior Rugby Union Club had multiple teams coming away with losses after very hard fought games. The great news is the players are all smiles and great teamwork on and off the field.

Local AFL Players Shine at NSW PSSA Championships

A huge congratulations to Joe and Mason from Lane Cove Hunters Hill CATS AFL, who represented their school sport pathway at this week’s NSW PSSA AFL Championships in Tamworth.

The boys finished an impressive third place against strong teams from across the state — a fantastic achievement and a reflection of their hard work, talent and dedication.

Lane Cove Hunters Hill CATS AFL said they were incredibly proud to have Joe and Mason representing the Cats community and look forward to seeing them back in Cats colours soon. Well done Joe and Mason — a brilliant effort.

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Crime, Accidents & Incidents

Police Seek Public’s Help In Relation To Alleged Assault

North Shore Police Area Command (NSPAC) are seeking assistance from the public to identify a male and female who may be able to assist with their enquiries into an alleged assault which occurred on Crows Nest Road, Waverton around 6.15 pm, Monday 20 April 2026.

Police are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the incident or have knowledge of the identity of the person/s depicted in the photos (below) to come forward.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000. Reference C103289624 / E 89404151.

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This Week is Sponsored by xchange air

xchange air are Sydney-based home ventilation specialists, helping households deal with damp, mould, condensation, musty smells and trapped heat.

They install subfloor ventilation, roof ventilation, positive input ventilation and whole-home airflow solutions designed to make homes healthier and more comfortable year-round.

They also offer free home assessments, so if your home feels damp, stuffy or too hot in summer, it may be worth getting in touch.

Thank you to xchange air for supporting In the Cove and helping us keep local news free for the community.

License Number 182572C. [email protected]. 02 9427 8800