Driving back to The Beaches the other day from The North Shore, I couldn’t help but notice the spectacular project – not everyone’s cup of tea, I know, with many environmental concerns – that is the new Mona Vale Road upgrade.
It’s been delayed, by weather and Covid, but as you crest the hill, the views of the big blue from Long Reef to Newport are spectacular. And the rock strata revealed is mesmerizing!
When finished this will absolutely enhance travel to and from the entire area and is definitely going to increase the area’s desirability.
Now, if the government can just sort out Wakehurst Parkway…an elevated road is surely the way forward (or backwards and forwards)?
For all the moaning about the Council, they are very much trying to be Green. This new initiative, to try to divert usable waste timber from landfill, as part of the Bulky Goods Collection Service, is something we could all get behind, especially given the amount of building, rebuilding, and renovation going on…
There’s been much talk of house prices falling (as the prices for pretty much everything else is going up!). But just an aside…
Year to June, unit prices in Newport were still up by a reported 43.3%, to an average $1.3m. Avalon was a little lower, but still up by an impressive 28.1%, to $1.3m.
Now, as they say, there’s lies, damned lies, and statistics, so these do need to be taken in context.
The ‘cooling’ only started earlier this year, after very strong momentum last year. I’d certainly suggest prices have steadied, and there is less activity and more cautious buying.
But our area is still very much in demand for lifestyle…
Avalon village has been buzzing lately with the sunny, dry weather, and the restaurants and bars have been enjoying the business.
Frankly, there’s still plenty of cash around, and our villages are about to head into the pre-Christmas period (always fun) after a couple of difficult years. Fingers crossed for a great holiday season this year.
Bureau of Meteorology however, predicts another La Niña…more wet weather… seriously?!
But it does yet again underline the need to keep your home ship-shape in anticipation. It’s worth spending time getting things organised well before big downfalls…
The rise in apartment prices would seem to support what we’ve suggested – that units have offered a very good way into the local market, when house prices had exploded! Read more here…
Culture. There are also a number of ‘creative’ events on this weekend, from walking tours to artists studios.
Details below…
Just a reminder, Avalon Car Boot Sale is on this Saturday from 8-2pm at Dunbar Park. See if you can find something pre-loved to re-love…
As ‘The Block’ new series has kicked off, interesting to spot contenders from last year Ronnie and Georgia around Avalon a couple of weeks ago…working on something we hear…I wonder what!
Aside – past contenders and locals Mitch & Mark’s shop is now in new digs …off Robertson Road on the main drag in Newport.
On the foodie front, the long vacant ‘Tex Mex’ site at the start of Barrenjoey Road in Mona Vale is undergoing a rejuvenation. Now called ‘Rosa’, it’s going to be a rather more upmarket Mexican by the same people as ‘Dunes’ in Palm Beach.
Looks as if Alma might be setting a trend. Well, it’s certainly perfectly located for those arriving on the B-Line!
With Lovat confirmed in the Mona Vale SLSC, and the Avalon SLSC restaurant and cafe tender still out there, it’s looking as if we’re going to be spoiled for choice once the weather warms up!
And for homesick Brits…Avalon Meats is now stocking cornish pasties, pork pies and scotch eggs – all from the Proper Pasty Co…apparently eggcellent!
And if you’re looking for a new place to nest, scroll down…