It’s been another busy week in Lane Cove. Here’s what you need to know.

Thank you Tier 1 Plumbing for sponsoring this Week in Review

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Lane Cove News

Nicole Kidman Has Seen Our Invitation To LCPS Anniversary

There’s been a lot of excitement this week after Channel 10 broadcast an interview with Nicole Kidman where she watched ITC and Lane Cove Public School’s (LCPS) video invitation to attend this week’s 150th anniversary celebrations. Nicole shared some memories about her time at LCPS and said that she was “trying to make the dates work”! Wow…watch this space! See the Channel 10 clip here and the full video invitation below.

Of course the 150th Anniversary celebrations for LCPS are very exciting in their own right.

On Friday 7 August the school will throw open the gates to celebrate this significant milestone of providing public education in our community. There will be musical performances, a school museum display, an official ceremony, opportunities to share your school memories and the obligatory BBQ and bake sale.

As if all that wasn’t enough, the school’s annual Express Yourself exhibition is also on this week at Gallery Lane Cove. So many amazing things to celebrate during 2026 Public Education Week.

Loneliness Awareness Week: Make Room for Connection

Loneliness Awareness Week runs 3 to 9 August, and this year’s theme is “Make Room for Connection”, the idea being that it shouldn’t be up to the person feeling lonely to make the first move. Nearly one in three Australian adults report feeling lonely, and it’s not just about being alone; you can be surrounded by people and still feel it.

Lane Cove Council is marking the week with a free drop-in at Lane Cove Plaza this Wednesday 5 August, 10am to 12pm. There will be garden games, live music and stallholders covering everything from seniors’ day trips to volunteering. Read the full story for all the ways to get involved this week and all year round.

Volunteers Of Bennelong Recognised

On Thursday 30 July volunteers from across the Bennelong electorate gathered at The Ranch in North Ryde for the Bennelong Volunteer Celebration, hosted by Federal MP Jerome Laxale MP. The event recognised the incredible contribution volunteers make to local sporting clubs, charities and community organisations, bringing together representatives from across Lane Cove, Hunters Hill, Ryde and surrounding suburbs.

Each organisation was invited to share a quick snapshot of the work they do in the community. It was wonderful to see so many familiar local faces representing the organisations that make our community such a great place to live.

From The Sideline To Saving A Life: Local Doctor Recognised

Royal North Shore Hospital emergency physician Dr Davina Julliard sprang into action after a 15-year-old footballer collapsed during a match. While watching her own child play nearby, Dr Julliard joined an off-duty paramedic and other bystanders who had already begun CPR and prepared an AED. Together, they continued life-saving treatment until NSW Ambulance arrived. The teenager has since been diagnosed with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome and is expected to make a full recovery. More here from NSW Health.

It’s an incredible reminder of the importance of CPR training, having AEDs available at sporting grounds and the difference quick-thinking bystanders can make. Congratulations to Dr Julliard on her well-deserved recognition.

For those keen to gain the skills that would help them step in during an emergency, there are two FREE sessions coming up with the Heart Foundation and Lane Cove Council that will cover the basics. Details for August and September.

Australian AFLW Team Visit Blackman Park

The Lane Cove Hunters Hill Cats AFL welcomed the Australian NAB AFLW Team to Lane Cove on Thursday 30 July ahead of the opening game of the 2026 Australia v Ireland Series. Local families and footy fans enjoyed games, giveaways, player signings and plenty of photos with the Australian squad. A fantastic community turnout and a very special night for our local Cats.

The Aussie side took to a packed North Sydney Oval on Saturday 1 August and came away with a convincing 91–41 win in the historic match.

Help People Borrow Instead Of Buy

The Sydney Library of Things relies on the generous help of volunteers. Are you over 18 and interested in volunteering? They need people with various skills to help run the library, and are always on the lookout for enthusiastic members of the community to lend a helping hand.

They’re looking for two organised and community-minded volunteers to help coordinate and keep each of their monthly Repair Hubs running smoothly (you’d be volunteering at just one of the hubs), plus help on the front desk at each branch greeting borrowers and checking items in and out. See the Sydney Library of Things volunteer page for more details.

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In the Media

Pickleball Makes Headlines On The North Shore

The fast-growing love of pickleball made the news this week, with the Daily Telegraph reporting on a local “turf war” over noise at Galuwa due to the popular paddle sport. (Paywalled.)

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Lane Cove Council

Join The Lane Cove Cultural Diversity Advisory Group

Are you passionate about celebrating cultural diversity and creating positive change? Council is looking for enthusiastic community members to join the Cultural Diversity Advisory Group, an opportunity to share your unique perspective, celebrate our diverse cultures and help shape a more inclusive and connected community. See here for more information and to register your interest.

Food Waste Caddy Liner Deliveries Coming Soon

Standalone houses will receive their 6-monthly delivery of compostable food caddy liners in early August. These will be dropped off in letterboxes, carports or at the front of houses. You can opt out of the liner delivery by filling out the form here.

And here’s a refresher on how to use them. When they first arrived in March, this ITC writer used the replacement of liners in the caddy alternately as either an exercise in mindfulness and slowing down, or a race against the clock to execute it in as few attempts as possible! We have far fewer issues these days.

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Business

New Butcher Coming To York’s Corner

There’s a new face coming to Tambourine Bay Road. The former Riverview Butcher has officially changed hands, with The Fairlight Butcher taking ownership and expanding their business. They’re giving the shop a bit of a refresh and hope to open in September.

All the best to Ray from Riverview Butcher in the next chapter.

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Have Your Say

Last Chance: Community Engagement Strategies

Council is seeking community feedback on three draft documents that guide how it engages with residents and shares information: the Community Engagement Strategy, the Community Engagement Policy, and the Digital Engagement, Marketing and Communications Strategy. Feedback can be submitted via the online survey or by email with the subject line “Community Engagement Strategies SU80”.

Consultation closes Wednesday 5 August 2026. Have your say here.

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General Information / Safety Alerts

2026 Census Is Here

Census night is Tuesday 11 August. Packs have been mailed and some have arrived already. Follow the instructions to complete this important national survey. You can also complete ahead of time if you know where you’ll be on census night.

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Upcoming Events

There is so much happening around Lane Cove. Here’s a selection of what’s coming up. For a comprehensive list check out In the Cove’s Event Calendar.

“Hello Lane Cove!” Loneliness Awareness Week

Lane Cove Council is hosting a free connection event at Lane Cove Plaza with giant garden games, music and local stallholders sharing information on art, dance, fitness, seniors’ day trips, kids and parents’ services and volunteering. A come-and-go event, drop in for as long as suits.

When: Wednesday 5 August 2026
Time: 10am to 12pm
Where: Lane Cove Plaza, Lane Cove
How: Free. Just turn up. More details here.

Cove Connect: Monthly Coffee Catch-Up

A casual drop-in coffee catch-up for Lane Cove locals, hosted by the Lane Cove Community Collective, a community initiative of Lane Cove Rotary. No set programme, no need to stay the whole time, just grab a coffee and meet your neighbours.

When: Thursday 6 August 2026
Time: 7.30am to 9.30am
Where: The Canopy, 2 Rosenthal Avenue, Lane Cove (outside the lifts)
How: Free. Just turn up. More details here.

Repair Cafe Sydney North: Second Sunday Session

Repair Cafe Sydney North volunteers are on hand to fix rather than replace, with repairs available for gadgets and electricals, sewing, simple jewellery, shoes and leather, as well as tool and knife sharpening. Queue up on arrival for a time slot. Last slot for gadget/electrical repairs is 3.30pm; other items 3.45pm. Donations welcome.

When: Sunday 9 August 2026
Time: 2pm to 4pm
Where: Living and Learning Centre, 180 Longueville Road, Lane Cove
How: Free. Just turn up. More details here.

Lane Cove Girl Guides Bake Sale — Raising Funds for the Regent Honeyeater

The Lane Cove Girl Guides are heading to the Plaza this Sunday with baked treats, face painting and a lolly jar guessing competition — all in support of the critically endangered Regent Honeyeater. With only an estimated 250–300 birds remaining in the wild, funds raised will go directly to the Taronga Foundation’s conservation efforts. Come along and treat yourself for a great cause!

When: Sunday 9 August 2026
Time: 8 am – 2 pm (or until sold out)
Where: Lane Cove Plaza, Lane Cove
How: Just turn up.

Lane Cove Music Presents Australis Harp Duo: Tales from Afar

Lane Cove Music presents the fourth concert of its 81st season, featuring Verna Lee and Azumi Lehmann performing on two harps for a beautifully distinctive evening moving through classical, romantic and traditional repertoire. Online bookings preferred as door admission is limited. Tickets $30 visitors, $10 students (cash only at the door).

When: Tuesday 11 August 2026
Time: 7.30pm to 9pm
Where: St Andrew’s Uniting Church, 47A Kenneth Street, Longueville
How: Book online at lanecovemusic.org.au. More details here.

Understanding Grief and Loss, St Leonards Library

St Leonards Library hosts a free session on grief and loss presented by Sasha MacBride, a trauma therapist, social worker and bereavement counsellor with HammondCare. The session explores common experiences of grief and offers practical guidance for supporting yourself or someone close to you through loss. Places are limited, bookings essential.

When: Wednesday 12 August 2026
Time: 11am to 12.30pm
Where: St Leonards Library, LG, 88 Christie Street, St Leonards
How: Free. Bookings essential. Register here. More details here.

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Local Sports

Sydney Swans Visit The Canopy

On Tuesday 28 July, some of the Sydney Swans AFL players and support staff came to The Canopy to meet local players and fans. The Lane Cove Hunters Hill Cats AFL said of the visit:

Ella In Her Element At Australian All Schools Championships

Congratulations to Lane Cove Netball Club’s Ella Johnston, who proudly represented NSW at the All Schools National Championships in Melbourne last week. After an outstanding tournament, NSW were crowned National Champions, taking home the gold medal. To top it off, Ella’s exceptional performances earned her selection in the Australian All Schools Team, an incredible honour and a testament to her hard work, dedication and talent. As if that wasn’t impressive enough, Ella shot 100% in her final four games.

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Crime, Accidents & Incidents

Third Person Charged Over Hunters Hill Arson Attacks

Ryde detectives have charged a third person following a series of alleged arson and attempted arson attacks at a home on Alexandra Street, Hunters Hill. Police were called to the property several times between June and July 2026. No injuries were reported, however the home and surrounding property sustained fire damage. Two teenage boys have previously been charged and remain before the courts.

Police arrested a 26-year-old man at Gladesville Police Station on Sunday. He has been charged with damaging property by fire or explosion. Police will allege the man attempted to set fire to the property on Sunday 5 July but ran from the scene after being confronted by a security guard. He was granted conditional bail and is due to appear before Burwood Local Court on Monday 31 August 2026. Investigations under Strike Force Helion are continuing.

Break-In, Lane Cove North

We received reports that a ground-floor residence on Mindarie Street was broken into sometime on Saturday 1 August 2026, while the residents were away. This is a timely reminder to be vigilant with securing your home and any property in driveways or yards.

North Shore Police Area Command July Update

North Shore Police Area Command have shared their July 2026 summary. There are some unusual ones this month!

Drug Offences: Lane Cove, 20 July 2026

A 50-year-old Haberfield man has been charged with multiple drug-related offences after police responded to reports of a suspicious vehicle in Lane Cove. About 8.30am on 20 July, police located the man sitting in a parked vehicle with a broken rear window. Police checks revealed he was subject to a Firearm Prohibition and Weapon Prohibition Order. A search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered methylamphetamine, cannabis, a liquid police suspect was GHB, and multiple bank cards belonging to other people. He was refused bail and is due before Hornsby Local Court in August. Further charges are pending laboratory results.

Assault: St Leonards, 9 July 2026

Two real estate agents (a 35-year-old from North Sydney and a 37-year-old from Northbridge) have been charged following an alleged assault of rival real estate agents in St Leonards on 9 July. Police allege one of the accused approached a victim and struck him with his elbow. A short time later, both men allegedly returned and pushed the victim before turning on a work colleague who intervened. Members of the public separated the parties before police arrived. Both men were charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm in company. The North Sydney man was additionally charged with two counts of common assault. Both are due before Hornsby Local Court in August.

Shoplifting: St Leonards, 26 July 2026

A 46-year-old Matraville woman has been charged with 13 counts of shoplifting following an alleged nine-month campaign of toothpaste theft across the North Shore. Police allege the woman stole between 27 and 120 tubes of toothpaste at multiple grocery stores across St Leonards, Chatswood, Crows Nest and Neutral Bay between March and July 2026. She was arrested on 26 July after an off-duty police officer recognised her in St Leonards. A search of a shopping trolley in her possession allegedly uncovered 68 tubes of toothpaste and other unpaid merchandise. She was refused bail and is due before Hornsby Local Court in August.

Break and Enter: Artarmon, 21 July 2026

A 37-year-old Hornsby man has been charged following an alleged break and enter at a residential property in Artarmon late on 21 July. Police attended the location and found the man inside the property allegedly placing items into a suitcase. The man claimed he had permission to be there from the owner’s family, but police confirmed no such permission had been given. He was arrested, but allegedly ran from the scene while police were arranging care for his dog. He was subsequently charged with break and enter and entering enclosed land without lawful excuse, and sentenced on 22 July to a nine-month intensive correction order at Hornsby Local Court.

Break and Enter: Crows Nest, 10 July 2026

Two teenage boys (aged 14 and 15, both from Neutral Bay) have been charged following an alleged break and enter at a Crows Nest retail store on 10 July. Police allege the 15-year-old repeatedly kicked a glass entry door until it shattered, after which both boys entered the store and took merchandise. A member of the public provided police with an image of the pair holding the allegedly stolen items on a Sydney Metro train, which led to their identification and arrest. Both boys were charged with aggravated break and enter in company and are due before Surry Hills Children’s Court in August.

Breach of Bail: North Sydney, 8 July 2026

A 34-year-old Ettalong Beach man has been charged with breaching his bail conditions after police stopped him driving along Miller Street, North Sydney, in the early hours of 8 July. Police allege the vehicle was displaying altered number plates. Checks revealed the man was subject to bail conditions including a night-time curfew and a prohibition on consuming non-prescribed drugs. Police allege he disclosed he had consumed cannabis, and a drug test returned a positive result. He was charged with breach of bail conditions, with further drug-related charges pending.

Welfare Check: Mosman, 9 July 2026

An 81-year-old man was taken to hospital on 9 July after police and emergency services found him unable to move inside his home. A real estate agent raised the alarm after being unable to reach the elderly tenant by phone. Police attended but were unable to gain entry through the front door, though they could hear the man inside. Fire and Rescue NSW gained access via the balcony, and NSW Ambulance provided immediate treatment. Police believe the man had been on the ground for several days. North Shore Police Area Command has used the incident to remind the community to regularly check on elderly neighbours and family members who live alone.

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This Week is sponsored by Tier 1 Plumbing

Tier 1 Plumbing is a Lane Cove based, family owned and operated business that has been keeping the Lower and Upper North Shore flowing since 2016. Founded by licensed plumber, gas fitter and roofer Ryan Spooner, the team brings more than 16 years of experience across residential, strata and commercial work. Whether it is a burst pipe at an awful hour, a blocked drain, a hot water emergency or a bathroom reno you have been putting off, they turn up friendly, tidy and honest about pricing. Available 24/7 Monday to Friday on 0450 223 156.

Thanks to Tier 1 Plumbing for backing independent local journalism in Lane Cove.