Here’s your weekly wrap of what’s been happening in and around Lane Cove — from local news and council updates to events and community notices.

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

Lower Speed Limit For Lane Cove North Getting Closer

During the Council meeting in March 2026, the Lane Cove Traffic Forum there was agreement to a revised scope for the Lane Cove North speed reduction proposal. Once completed, the speed limit will be 40km/h in the area.

Works have commenced in some parts of Lane Cove North; a Roving Reporter spotted covered 40km/h speed limit signs at the corner of Parklands Avenue and Epping Road, and at the new pedestrian crossing on the corner of Karilla Avenue and Centennial Avenue.

Lane Cove Community Band Takes Gold in Canberra

The CWS Lane Cove Community Band headed to Canberra last week to compete in the Australian National Eisteddfod — and came home with a Gold award.

Despite a tough 10:30pm timeslot, the band rose to the occasion and delivered a fantastic performance. A huge effort from everyone involved. Congratulations!

Happy 30th Farran St Quality Childcare Centre

Farran Street Quality Childcare Centre reached their 30 year anniversary in 2026, and the celebrations included an Open Day on Saturday 23 May.

Despite the wet weather there was still plenty of fun — jumping castle, face painting, children’s activities, games, an ice cream van and a “Colour Our Community” colouring competition.

A lovely milestone for a centre that has been part of Lane Cove family life since 1996.

Street Paws Festival Gets Tails Wagging

The wet weather didn’t stop dog lovers and their four legged friends heading to The Canopy on Sunday to celebrate their pawsome selves.

There were plenty of stalls selling doggie treats, apparel, toys and photography, as well as services for all aspects of dog ownership and care.

ITC Business Supporters Advanced Vet Care Lane Cove and Bloomingtails Dog Grooming were also in attendance.

Local Artists Represented In 2026 Young Archie

ITC visited the Art Gallery of NSW over the weekend and was delighted to discover that four young artists from our local area are among the finalists in this year’s Young Archie competition:

• Viraj Tandon, age 14, Longueville — Reflections
• Jana Chan, age 16, Lane Cove — After a shower
• Sophia Liu, age 11, Artarmon — My grandma
• Eva Li, age 14, Hunters Hill — Practise makes perfect

Viraj Tandon is making his third appearance as a Young Archie finalist, having previously been selected in 2021 with My Grandfather’s Secret Garden (age 9) and again in 2024 with My Grandparents (age 12). What a remarkable achievement!

The Young Archie is the Art Gallery of NSW’s annual portrait competition for young artists aged 5 to 18, who are invited to submit portraits of someone special in their lives. It runs across four age categories: 5–8, 9–12, 13–15, and 16–18 year olds. 2026 saw more than 4,350 entries, producing 70 finalists and 20 honourable mentions. 

There’s still time to view the exhibition in person, it runs until 16 August 2026. The Young Archie exhibition is free to view-  you can view all the finalists’ works here.

We’d love to hear from the families of these talented artists; if that’s you, or you know who they are, please reach out via email – we’d love to know more about these young artists.

Saint Ignatius’ College Riverview Students Visit Parliament House

Year 6 students from Saint Ignatius’ College Riverview had a memorable trip to Canberra earlier this month, visiting Parliament House where they were welcomed by Jerome Laxale MP, Federal Member for Bennelong.

The students were engaged, curious and full of thoughtful questions throughout their visit. Highlights of the visit included a tour of the building and a session with Jerome where the students got to learn firsthand about how Parliament works and what life as a Federal MP looks like.

It’s the first time Mr Laxale has welcomed Riverview students to Parliament House in his capacity as Member for Bennelong, following the 2025 electoral redistribution that brought the school into the Bennelong electorate.

Lane Cove Theatre Company’s Neighbourhood Watch Now Playing

On Wednesday 20 May ITC headed along for the opening matinee performance of Lane Cove Theatre Company (LCTC)’s production of Neighbourhood Watch at The Pottery Lane Performance Space.

We were captivated by Miriam Fagueret’s and Isobel Rabbidge’s character portrayal of Ana and Catherine in the performance.  The play is Miriam’s stage debut and there’s a lot to love about the genuine connection she brings to the role.

The rest of the cast bring the neighbourhood to life with a host of characters that shape the community.

Neighbourhood Watch tackles some heavy content with warmth, humour and an Australian voice that transcends generations and highlights the importance of human connection. The play is an HSC drama text, and we were excited to have school groups from Nowra and Dubbo in attendance with us. There was an opportunity for them (and the rest of the audience) to participate in a Q&A session following the performance.

A LCTC spokesperson told us the company is “quite proud (and moved, in equal measures) that we have students travelling so far to be able to see one of their key texts come to life. I think back on when I did my HSC drama texts and it made a world of difference to be able to see how it was intended.”

The bar offers a range of beer, wine, soft drinks and snacks, including some delicious chocolate brownies. The cocktail on offer was a mix of grapefruit juice and sparkling wine, whilst it sounded delicious, ITC did not imbibe! We encourage you to head along and support this local production.

“I love Lane Cove and just feel privileged to be part of this neighbourhood. Now there is even more to like with the Lane Cove Theatre Company (at) the (Pottery Lane) performance venue.” Annette J, ITC competition winner.

We couldn’t agree more, Annette! More information + showtimes and ticket booking here.

Birrahlee Open Day Wrap Up

On Saturday 16 May Birrahlee Preschool held their Open Day. There was plenty to see and do including a sausage sizzle, cake stall, craft activities, face painting, raffle, silent auctions and a chance to explore the preschool’s play-based learning environment.

Director Peta Kordish has this message to share with the community following the event:

“Thank you to everyone who attended our Open Day. It was a beautiful community event, with so many past, current and future families coming along. It was lovely to see past teachers and to speak with grandparents whose children once attended Birrahlee.

Thank you to everyone who contributed by baking cakes, buying raffle tickets, our families and all our sponsors for donating prizes or helping on the day — your support made the event such a success. Special thanks to Karen and Beatle from the Bookery.

Thank you to our staff for giving up their weekend to be there and help make the day so welcoming and enjoyable for all our families. I still can’t believe how lucky we were with the weather!”

Lane Cove has been lucky enough to have this wonderful community preschool since 1959. 

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In the Media

Greenwich Named Southern Hemisphere Leader for CPR App Sign-Ups

7News reported this week that Greenwich, NSW has achieved the highest per capita sign-up rate for CPR responders in the Southern Hemisphere, with approximately 700 of its 13,000 residents registered on the Good Sam app. The initiative began through friendly community competition at the Greenwich Games, held every four years. Since the Good Sam app launched in NSW two years ago, 118 people have survived cardiac emergencies thanks to neighbours alerted through the platform.

Last Chance To See Gallery Lane Cove’s May Exhibitions

Three Gallery Lane Cove exhibitions that opened in May will continue into the first week of June, closing on Saturday 6 June 2026.

Catch Life and Beyond by Bruno Valente, Light Moves by Szilvia György, Chris Packer and Liz Shreeve, and Water’s Awakening by Clara Chiu before they finish. More info on May and June exhibitions here.

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Lane Cove Council

Synthetic Turf Debate at Lane Cove Council Meeting

Lane Cove Council debated two synthetic turf-related motions at its May meeting.

The first motion, put forward by Councillors Scott Bennison and Caleb Taylor, proposed that Council commence a review of the Open Space Strategy in the 2026/27 financial year. The motion was amended and debated but ultimately did not pass. This means Council will not undertake a formal review of the Open Space Strategy or related sporting field allocation framework at this stage.

A second motion, from Councillors Merri Southwood, Rochelle Flood and Helena Greenwell, was carried. Council will now develop a draft Synthetic Turf in Public Spaces Policy.

Council confirmed that the existing synthetic turf at Blackman Park will remain in place. It also reaffirmed its commitment to improving playing surface standards across all sportsfields and working with other NSROC councils on joint initiatives to address the region’s identified sportsfield capacity shortfall.

The draft policy will be guided by principles including a preference for natural turf and organic solutions in public open space, while keeping synthetic turf as an available option where appropriate. Significant public works projects proposing synthetic turf, including renewals of existing surfaces, would require approval by elected councillors.

Council staff will consider research and government guidance on issues including soil function, biodiversity, urban heat, PFAS chemicals, microplastics, bushfire risk, bacterial infections and end-of-life disposal.

The draft policy will return to a future Council meeting. If endorsed, it will be released for an extended period of community consultation before any final adoption. Council will also develop community guidance on sustainable landscaping alternatives to synthetic turf for private properties.

Wild About Lane Cove Winners 2026

Council has announced the winners of its annual Wild About Lane Cove environmental competition. See the full list of winners on the Council website.

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Business

New Business Alert: Guide Collective, Longueville

A new health and longevity space has opened at 4 Northwood Road, Longueville. Guide Collective brings together a boutique longevity-focused gym, recovery centre, hydrotherapy pool, allied health clinic and Pilates studio under one roof. Services include longevity assessments, physiotherapy, exercise physiology, Pilates, personalised strength training, hydrotherapy, sauna and ice baths. Guide Collective is also a new In the Cove Business Supporter — welcome!

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General Information / Safety Alerts

Aussie Bird Count 2025 Results 

The results of the 2025 Aussie Bird Count are in — a record-breaking 5 million birds were counted by 64,000 Australians in one week. The Australian Magpie swooped to the top spot nationally, appearing in one in every two surveys.

Rainbow Lorikeets, Australian Magpies and Noisy Miners topped the NSW list and for Lane Cove locals, the results include plenty of familiar backyard, park,  Plaza & Canopy regulars. Read ITC’s article: Look Who’s Squawking: NSW’s Most-Spotted Birds Revealed

The next Aussie Bird Count takes place 19–25 October 2026 — worth marking in the diary for bird-loving locals. Data from BirdLife Australia.

NSW Police Launches BluLink

When you call Triple Zero (000) for police assistance, you may now receive a text message from NSW Police as part of a new platform called BluLink. Tapping the link opens a secure web portal where you can share your GPS location, stream live video, or have a text conversation with police. The service is particularly useful if you’re unable to speak or unsure of your location. Use is not mandatory, consent is required, messages can be translated into 100+ languages, nothing needs to be downloaded, and the link is one-off and secure.

Apply Now To Be A 2026 Census Field Officer

The 2026 Census will be held on Tuesday 11 August 2026. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is now recruiting 16,000 Field Officers across the country. It’s a paid role that plays a vital part in ensuring every community is counted. Full details and applications 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.

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, 11am
Where: Lane Cove Library & The Yarn, 64 Gladesville Rd, Hunters Hill
How: Free. No bookings required.

POSTPONED: Children’s Voices for Reconciliation

Due to wet weather, this event has been postponed. A new date is still to be confirmed.

In Conversation: Cynthia Banham and Jane Messer

Lane Cove Library is hosting a fascinating literary evening this week, bringing together two authors whose memoirs explore maternal relationships, identity, memory and history in deeply personal ways.

Cynthia Banham’s Mother Shadow examines maternal inheritance and parenting with disability, while Jane Messer’s Raven Mother retraces her Jewish German grandmother’s story, uncovering themes of abandonment and loss that resonate with events past and present. Both are accomplished writers and the conversation between them promises to be thought-provoking and moving. Books will be available for purchase on the night.

When: Thursday 28 May 2026, 6.15pm
Where: Lane Cove Library, Library Place, Lane Cove
How: Free.

Advance Care Planning Workshop

Planning for your future health care is one of the most important and generous things you can do, both for yourself and for the people who love you. Lane Cove Council and Sydney North Health Network, together with ANDCare, are hosting a free community workshop at Lane Cove Library to help you understand why advance care planning matters, how to start those important conversations with family and loved ones, and the practical steps involved in documenting your future health care preferences.

Afternoon tea is provided, and eligible attendees can also access a free follow-up consultation appointment. Places are limited so don’t leave it too long to register.

When: Tuesday 2 June 2026, 1.30pm–3.30pm
Where: Lane Cove Library, Library Place, Lane Cove
How: Free.

First Fridays: World Environment Day

Lane Cove Council’s Bushland and Waste teams are heading to The Plaza for a special World Environment Day edition of First Fridays. The theme this year is A Global Call for Climate Action, and there will be free seedling giveaways, activities, prizes and relaxing bush sounds to help you feel connected to the natural world.

When: Friday 6 June 2026
Time: 3.30 pm – 5.30 pm
Where: The Plaza, Burns Bay Road, Lane Cove 

How: Free. Just turn up. More details here.

NSW Secondary Schools Concerto Competition Final

Six talented young musicians from schools in our wider region will perform their selected concerto with the Ku-ring-gai Philharmonic Orchestra in the 2026 competition final at The Concourse, Chatswood. Now in its 42nd year, this competition has launched many celebrated Australian musical careers. Finalists include Jeffrey Dong (15) of Willoughby and Christina Bhang (14) of Epping. Cash prizes up to $10,000. Tickets and information at kpo.org.au.
When: Sunday 28 June 2026, 3pm
Where: The Concourse, 409 Victoria Ave, Chatswood
Tickets: Standard $60 | Concession $45 | Junior/Child $30 | Family $150

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Local Sports

Hole-In-One At Lane Cove Golf Club

Congratulations to Anna Bragg who achieved a hole-in-one on the 9th hole at Lane Cove Golf Club on Sunday 17 May — while playing with her husband and son.

She’ll have Bragg-ing rights for years to come! Photo courtesy Lane Cove Golf Club.

G9 Phoenix Rising — Lane Cove FC

Lane Cove FC’s G9 Phoenix side delivered a strong performance in their (sunny!) Sunday morning match against Northbridge FC’s Under 9 Academy side. 

It was a well contested game with lots of pressure from both teams throughout, testing the emerging skills of the young footballers and keeping the scoreline very tight in the first half. This was the second time these teams have met this season and Lane Cove showed just how much they’ve improved since the first meeting. 

There were some seriously impressive goals from both teams – and equally impressive saves from the goalies. Unfortunately Northbridge took the win, however the three goals from Lane Cove was a great confidence boost heading into the next round.

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Crime, Accidents & Incidents

A number of traffic incidents were reported during a week of wet weather.

Vehicle Mounts Bollard On Longueville Rd

A Roving Reporter sent us these photos from Longueville Road on Saturday 23 May at around 10.38 pm after what appears to have been a two-vehicle crash near Sushi Maru and Advantage Pharmacy.

One of the vehicles ended up mounted on a bollard on the footpath, leaving part of the rear wheel lifted off the ground.

Another reader commented on our post at the time that the white car first rear-ended the grey VW at speed and then reversed at speed into the bollard.

Thankfully, there did not appear to be any serious injuries at the time these photos were taken, and traffic was still moving through the area.

Another Accident On Slippery River Road West Bend

Around 8.15 am on Saturday a driver lost control of their vehicle and ended up crashing into the guard rail on River Rd West between Barina and Warraroon Rds Lane Cove. The vehicle temporarily blocked the left lane heading towards Longueville/Greenwich.

This area has been the scene of multiple accidents over the years, particularly in wet weather. Vehicles traveling in both directions have been impacted.

Thankfully in this instance there were no reports of injury.

Lane Cove North Accident Impacts Friday Evening Peak Hour

On Friday 22 May there was an accident between a moped scooter and a car at the intersection of Centennial Ave and Karilla Ave in Lane Cove North. Ambulance attended the scene. Traffic flow during peak hour was reduced to one lane in each direction whilst a tow truck assisted in clearing the scene.

Online Marketplace Robbery at Roseville Station

Police have charged a 14-year-old Neutral Bay boy with robbery in company after an alleged incident at Roseville Train Station on 5 May.

Police allege a Warrawee boy had arranged to sell a Surron electric bike via a social media buy, swap and sell platform when a group of boys forcefully took the bike. Police also allege one of the unknown boys was armed with a knife.

The 14-year-old is due to face Surry Hills Children’s Court in June. Police say enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Police have reminded the community to take care when buying and selling items online, including meeting in busy locations during daylight hours.

Roseville Traffic and Drug Charges

A 43-year-old Avalon man has been charged after police allegedly detected a black Audi A5 travelling at 113km/h in an 80km/h zone on Warringah Road, Roseville on 5 May.

Police allege the man returned a positive roadside drug test for methylamphetamine, was driving while suspended and was found with a knife and prohibited drugs. He is due before Manly Local Court on 2 July.

Police Pursuit Through Lane Cove Tunnel

Police say a 46-year-old Seven Hills man allegedly led officers on a lengthy pursuit after a black Nissan Navara was detected travelling at 160km/h in a 100km/h zone on the M2 at Macquarie Park on 10 May.

Police allege the driver failed to stop in the Lane Cove Tunnel. The pursuit continued across Sydney before the vehicle was stopped after its tyres were spiked. The man was charged and is due to face Liverpool Local Court on 17 June 2026.

Optional one-liner at the end, only if you want to acknowledge the rest:

Police also reported other incidents in nearby suburbs including Crows Nest and North Sydney.

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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