the Resurrection of Christ Parish in Kogarah
experienced a truly beautiful and historic day
Thousands of faithful — young and old — gathered at the church to witness a moment of deep national and spiritual significance: the visit of the Evzones
members of the Presidential Guard of Greece
The day began with the Evzones attending the Divine Liturgy
presided over by Bishop Christodoulos of Magnesia
was filled with devout and proud Greek Orthodox faithful and members of the wider community
all eager to participate in this unique and meaningful occasion
the Evzones led an official procession to the Lemnos Memorial
where a memorial service was held in honor of the fallen ANZAC heroes of the First World War
paying tribute to their sacrifices and to the enduring bonds between Greece and Australia
Bishop Christodoulos warmly welcomed the Evzones to the Resurrection of Christ Parish
conveying the fatherly blessings of Archbishop Makarios of Australia and expressing the pride and gratitude of the parish for their presence
This was more than a ceremonial visit — it was a deep reconnection for all in attendance with their heritage
The faithful felt a renewed sense of pride and unity
deeply moved by the dignity and symbolism of the Evzones’ presence
This unforgettable day will remain a historic milestone for the Resurrection of Christ Parish in Kogarah
and national pride were beautifully united
Photos: MK Creative Photography and Designs
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But this has just been crazy.” Why a pioneering Sydney butcher is shutting after more than four decades in business
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ShareOne of eastern Sydney’s beloved butcher shops will shut within days due to extended roadworks associated with the M6 construction, according to the owners.
Almost 46 years after he opened Pino’s Dolce Vita in Kogarah, butcher Pino Tomini Foresti will close his all-Italian butchery-deli-cafe on President Avenue. The last day of trade will be Tuesday, December 31.
Since construction on the M6 motorway began three years ago, Pino’s Dolce Vita has been confined behind the dusty roadworks of a multi-lane highway, which Pino claims has deterred customers from visiting the shop. The only option now, Pia Tomini Foresti says, is to shut their doors. “We’ve overcome a lot of things that came our way. Even through COVID, we survived. But this has just been crazy,” she says. “Since the M6 works began, we’ve just been hammered.”
Construction outside Pino’s Dolce Vita.Dominic LorrimerFrom its early days, Pino’s attracted South American and Italian customers of every regional heritage, who would bring personal or family recipes. Pino, who himself is of Calabrian origin and came from a butcher’s family, hung bespoke seasonal salami while his customer base and sausage selection expanded to cater for migrants from South America, Greece, Malta, France and the Philippines.
Word got out, and the business grew to serve food-focused shoppers from across the city and interstate who were drawn to products “made the real way”, as Pino’s packaging explains. Pino used meat from the best producers, custom cuts, sustainable-farming suppliers and a natural curing and fermentation process, with no starches or preservatives.
Pino Tomini Foresti at work in 2007.Natalie BoogAfter an electrical fire destroyed the interiors in 2016, the business took the opportunity to reposition, refurb and reopen with a new in-house cafe and eatery. The fire also prompted the family to set up a separate, wholesale premises in Kingsgrove. This will continue to operate.
Pino is grateful for the support his business has received from the community over the years. “I love what I do. If something I give my customers and their families makes them happy, that’s the most beautiful thing in the world,” he says.
Daughter Carla Filipovski feels it’s time her parents took it easier, while hinting at a possible new direction for the family: “It’s not over ... We will reinvent without Dad, but the name will always be ‘Pino’. He just doesn’t have to be the front-of-house any more.”
Correction: An earlier version of this story stated that the wholesale premises were run by sons Fabiano and Marco Tomini Foresti. The correct operators are son Fabiano Tomini Foresti and son-in-law Michael Filipovski.
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The Dragons opened their 2025 Pre-Season Challenge campaign with a 26-8 win over the Sydney Roosters at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium
It marked Clint Gutherson and Damien Cook’s first opportunity to lead the side out in 2025 less than three weeks out from the club’s season opener against Canterbury
A host of rookies got the chance to stake their claims as the clash went on including Nathan Lawson and Kade Reed who combined for a superb try midway through the second forty
Lachlan Ilias made his presence known early without the ball dragging down a charging De La Salle Va’a inches short of the stripe to save a four-pointer
His display was backed up by halves partner Kyle Flanagan who came up with a show-and-go reminiscent of the effort he produced in his club debut on the Gold Coast a year ago to draw first blood for the Dragons
Valentine Holmes knocked over the extras from in front to give his side a six-point edge
Flanagan orchestrated a second try shortly after launching a fifth-tackle raid down a short left side and putting in a left-footed grubber which ricocheted into the waiting arms of Damien Cook who slammed the ball down
The hosts’ hot start continued with Gutherson sending Mathew Feagai streaking into the backfield from inside his own half before being brought down
a Cook grubber out of dummy-half ricocheted into the arms of Flanagan who lobbed a ball over the top to Sione Finau
Finau scurried over in the left corner to add to the lead with Holmes slotting the conversion from the sideline to remain a perfect three-from-three from the tee
Gutherson and Holmes left the field off the back of it having knocked out a solid
half-hour shift with youngsters Ben Rumble and Hayden Buchanan entering the action
The Roosters were able to strike back prior to the break through Dominic Young who took in a Sandon Smith face ball to place the ball down in the corner and cut the deficit back to 18-4
The first points of the second half came via Roosters winger Tyreece Tait who finished off a right side shift with Jake Elliott’s conversion attempt waved away as the score remained at 18-8
Rugby Sevens convert Lawson ignited the Kogarah crowd with a moment of brilliance in which he skied to take in a Reed bomb
and put it on the toe again for a supporting Reed who won the race to the ball to score and extend the lead back beyond a pair of converted tries
It capped off a whirlwind weekend for the teenage halfback who managed a four-pointer in Illawarra’s SG Ball outing in the nation’s capital yesterday afternoon
Match Highlights: Pre-Season Challenge v Roosters
Dylan Egan was placed on report late for a lifting tackle
but the Dragons defence was able to hold strong off it
Mikaele Ravalawa went over in the corner untouched off a Ben Rumble cut-out in the dying stages to put a bow on a clinical Dragons win
Attention now shifts to next Saturday’s Charity Shield clash against South Sydney in Mudgee for Shane Flanagan’s men
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NRL Press Conference: Magic Round v Wests Tigers
NRL Match Highlights: Magic Round v Wests Tigers
Dragons fall to Wests Tigers in Magic Round shootout
an unknown man has entered an elevator which a 28-year-old man was also.
the unknown man has made antisemitic comments towards the other man
Officers attached to St George Police Area Command were informed and commenced inquiries
The man is described as being of Caucasian appearance
detectives have released CCTV images of a man who may be able to assist with their inquiries
An image of the man is available on NSW Police Force social media sites
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au Information is managed on a confidential basis
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The St George Illawarra Dragons welcomed Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles to Netstrata Jubilee Stadium this morning for a scrimmage as both teams prepare for the 2025 NRL Pre-Season Challenge
Conditions were perfect with the sun shining on a pristine Kogarah surface just a month out from the Dragons' highly anticipated season opener against the Bulldogs
Co-captains Clint Gutherson and Damien Cook took command of the side on the pitch for the first time whilst Kyle Flanagan and Lachlan Ilias earnt an opportunity to further craft their halves combination
Recruits Valentine Holmes and Emre Guler also got some burn along with rookies Loko Pasifiki Tonga
big guns Daly Cherry-Evans and Tom Trbojevic spent an extended stint on the paddock as well as new faces Siua Taukei'aho and Jazz Tevaga
Dragons assistant coach Ryan Carr said that the players got plenty out of the hit-out
"It was really good for the boys to go through a bit of a run-through here at Kogarah," Carr said
"It's something we've done with Manly in the past and both teams get a fair bit out of it
plenty of work has been done throughout the preseason but to put that to the test a little bit in a scrimmage is pretty beneficial
"It was great to see some of our younger boys get an opportunity to go up against NRL-calibre players
The hit-out featured simulated match scenarios and match-flow periods with NRL referees on-hand to adjudicate the run of play
While no score was kept in the opposed session
the Dragons' backs enjoyed some of the attack scenarios with Mat Feagai and Christian Tuipulotu crossing for "tries" on the end of shape and Holmes touching down late in the scrimmage
Jacob Liddle (hand) and Corey Allan (knee) sat out of the scrimmage as they target a return to play in the upcoming trials
The Dragons kick off their NRL Pre-Season Challenge with a clash against the Roosters at Kogarah
Fans are urged to get in quick for next Sunday's Pre-Season Challenge opener where the Bulldogs will face the Wests Tigers before the Dragons and Roosters round out an electric double-header. Tickets are available for purchase through Ticketek
Attention then firmly shifts to the side's Round 1 face-off against the Bulldogs which is set to sell-out
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Jersey Flegg Cup Highlights: Round 9 v Wests Tigers
The Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ was celebrated in Sydney with ecclesiastical grandeur and solemnity
The centerpiece of the celebration was the Greek Orthodox Church in the suburb of Kogarah
where Archbishop Makarios of Australia presided over the Resurrection Ceremony
He was joined by Bishops Iakovos of Militoupolis and Christodoulos of Magnesia
Chief Secretary of the Holy Eparchial Synod of the Archdiocese of Australia and Hierarchical Head of the celebrating parish
the turnout of pious believers was massive and deeply moving
along with Orthodox Christians of various ethnic backgrounds
and the surrounding streets from early in the evening
singing the solemn hymns of the Resurrection
the faithful waited with patience and reverence to hear the triumphant paean: “Christ is risen from the dead
when the Archbishop proclaimed the joyful message of life’s victory over death
countless flames from the candles of the faithful formed a luminous veil that pierced the darkness of the night
the Paschal Encyclical of Archbishop Makarios was read in both Greek and English by the Bishops of Militoupolis and Magnesia
with the concelebration of the aforementioned Hierarchs and the clergy of the celebrating parish
The splendid celebration of the Resurrection in Kogarah was attended by several distinguished guests
including the Ambassador of Greece to Australia
and the Consul General of Greece in Sydney
Also present were Federal MP of the Liberal Party and Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs
David Coleman; New South Wales Minister for Multiculturalism
Stephen Kamper; State MP and Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism
Steve Kamper; Municipal Councillor of the Georges River Council
Ashvini Ambihaipahar; Liberal candidate for the seat of Barton
Fiona Dushkou; and Archon of the Great Church of Christ and Vice President of the Archdiocesan Council
Pope Francis died at the age of 88 in the early morning of 21 April
causing a coma and "irreversible" heart failure
He had made his last public appearance the day before
remembrance and thanksgiving will be held at St Patrick's in his memory and to honour his remarkable life
Entry via 143 Princess Highway or 38 Chapel Street
Covering Georges River Council, Bayside Council and general news. For news tips contact me at jgainsford@theleader.com.au
The Red V faithful turned out in their hundreds on Friday for a Members-Only Open Training Session at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium
Red V Members had the opportunity to watch on from the stands as Shane Flanagan's men were put through their paces before getting the chance to mingle with their favourite NRL players taking photos
It was the first time that co-captains Damien Cook and Clint Gutherson were able to introduce themselves to Red V Members as well as recruits Valentine Holmes and Lachlan Ilias
it proved a reintroduction of sorts with the Helensburgh junior back at the club for the first time since 2013
"It's really special to be back here and seeing all the fans again," he said
it's been a long time coming but to come back as a local junior and now as a senior player has been really good
and I know how much the boys appreciate their support
We really appreciate our Members taking time out of their busy days to come and see us here."
Dragons supporters are encouraged to 'Beat the Sell Out' for our opening two home fixtures by becoming a Member today
Breathe Fire with us in 2025 by securing a Red V Membership
Dragons team up with Squadron for Central West Blitz
The event was held over two nights (March 8-9) and drew more than 4600 people on its first night alone to Carss Bush Park
friends and strangers each carried a lantern
The globally celebrated event debuted nationally and carried personal messages of hope
people gathered in joyful and heartfelt moments to float a lantern among shared love
Designed as an environmentally sustainable event (recyclable lanterns and a strict clean-up protocol)
the festival encouraged people to decorate their lanterns with messages of empowerment and remembrance before setting them afloat
"One of my favourite things about the Water Lantern Festival is how it truly brings the community together," festival operations manager Giovanna Schmeil said
giving them a fun and rewarding fundraising opportunity while showcasing amazing local food trucks
The popular international event had high hopes the Sydney debut would attract a substantial crowd
"It's a great opportunity to go into a different market and also see if people in Australia share the same passion and excitement for the Water Lantern Festival that we do in the US and Canada," festival event coordinator Bridger Thomas said
"One thing that drives us is to make a difference
We want it to be something that people look forward to
both to enjoy the event and participate in something so special."
A highlight was the 'lantern stories' segment - an emotional part of the festival where participants were invited to share the meaning behind their lanterns
Moving stories drew applause from people gathered on blankets by the bay
we invite participants to take the stage and share their stories if they would like
It's a powerful and moving experience," Ms Schmeil said
The festival also hosts events in other capital cities across Australia until June
St George and Sutherland Shire Leader reporter covering education, health and general community news. Email: ekolimar@theleader.com.au
The Dragons are excited to bring top-tier rugby league action to the heart of the community
with the highly anticipated NRL Pre-Season Challenge double-header taking place at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium on Sunday
Game 1: Bulldogs v Wests Tigers at 5:30 PMGame 2: Dragons v Roosters at 7:30 PM
This event is an incredible opportunity for an early preview of the 2025 NRL Telstra Premiership Season
with four Sydney teams descending on Netstrata Jubilee Stadium for their first hit out of the year
Dragons CEO Ryan Webb highlighted the opportunity this event provides for fans to see their teams in action ahead of the upcoming season
all fans are excited to see how their sides are shaping up for the upcoming season
“To have four Sydney teams playing at our spiritual home on the one afternoon will be a great experience for everyone who attends.”
Georges River Council Mayor Elise Borg expressed her excitement about hosting the event at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium
“The Pre-Season Challenge marks the return of top-flight rugby league to our local area for the 2025 season
“Events like these not only showcase our region but also highlight the importance of sport in fostering community spirit and excitement.”
Dragons Head Coach Shane Flanagan shared his excitement for the trial
“We’re excited for our first trial here at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium against the Roosters
“It’s the first opportunity for our fans to see some of our new players in the Red V
and we’re looking forward to seeing our fans fill the stands for the first time this year.”
Tickets are now available for the Pre-Season Challenge double header at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium
The best way to experience the 2025 Dragons NRL season is with Red V Membership. Be there for the biggest games of the season, visit dragons.com.au/membership to find your Red V membership
When: Sunday, February 16, 2025Where: Netstrata Jubilee Stadium, KogarahGates Open: 5:00 PMTickets: Available through Ticketek here
NRL Match Preview: Magic Round v Wests Tigers
Picture suppliedFriends are mourning the loss of a young Kogarah father who died after falling on the road and hitting his head
Rodolfo Kussler Junior (Rod) was walking on the Princes Highway near Bay Street at about 9pm when he fell off a gutter and onto concrete
his heart had stopped beating for about 13 minutes
Mr Kussler had a brain bleed and was in hospital for three days
He died on April 1 after his parents arrived from Brazil and made the decision to switch off his life support
Friend Adam Regetas of Rockdale said Mr Kussler previously had heart problems
"I think that may have contributed to the fall," he said
I live near when it happened and could hear all the police coming
I got there as he was being put into the paramedic."
Mr Regetas said his friend was "the most loving
"He would jump through hoops to help someone," he said
"He lived here for a long time and worked in construction," Mr Regetas said
"He got his citizenship a few years ago and was proud of that
"He loved to fish and play basketball with his son
the first thing he did for them was buy them a soccer ball
he came to the hospital with a soccer ball
Friends have launched a fundraiser on GoFundMe to support his children and parents with travel expenses
Australian Hellenic community organisation AHEPA (Australiasian Hellenic Progressive Association) NSW has organised the visit as part of celebration of the close bonds between Australia and Greece
"We have our 91st anniversary of service to Hellenism with a very special luncheon in honour of the Hellenic Presidential Guard," a spokesperson for AHEPA NSW said
"A 15-person detachment of the Presidential Guard
their final public appearance of their 2025 visit to Sydney
"2025 marks 80 years of the end of World War Two
the conflict that reinforced the bonds Australians and Hellenes built a generation earlier on Lemnos
"Greece is the only country in the world to host both the First and Second Anzac Corps
The First Anzac Corps in 1915 and the Second in 1941," the AHEPA NSW spokesperson said
The Evzones or Evzonoi were a light infantry unit in the Hellenic Army
they are the members of the Presidential Guard
a ceremonial unit that guards the Greek Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Presidential Mansion in Athens
a memorial service will be held at the Greek Orthodox Parish and Community of Kogarah
followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Kogarah ANZAC Memorial
and Kogarah Clubhouse General Manager Grant Amer inspect construction work on the new flexible co-working space
Picture by Jim Gainsford.Kogarah Clubhouse will soon house a 120-desk flexible co-workspace after partnering with WOTSO FlexSpace to provide new jobs and opportunities in the area
The club has signed a 10 year lease agreement with WOTSO to establish its co-working business space in Tower B of the Kogarah Clubhouse development
WOTSO is an ASX-listed company and has 32 locations across Australia and New Zealand offering co-working and flexible office spaces
This will be the first WOTSO FlexSpace in the St George region
WOTSO Chief Executive Officer Jessie Glew said the company is expanding its operations in Sydney and described the opening of its Kogarah branch as a sound strategic move
"We believe southern Sydney offers significant potential for flexspace," Ms Glew said
"Kogarah has great transport links and there's been strong population growth over the past three years thanks to the increased densification of the area
the majority of whom are living in apartments
need a place to work and that is where the opportunity lies," she said
WOTSO was introduced to Kogarah RSL through disability employment service Nova Employment which works with both businesses
Kogarah RSL Chairman Chris Blaxland-Walker says the club continues to evolve and welcomed the imminent arrival of WOTSO
mixed-use development including apartments and commercial space five years ago
"We're creating a dynamic environment where business
community and social activities can co-exist," Mr Blaxland-Walker said
"We're still very much rooted in support of veterans and veterans' organisations
"So we're offering elements that build greater community cohesion and bring different types of people together
"Our WOTSO partnership is part of that strategy
The office market is very different to when we first planned this development and flexspace is
Kogarah Clubhouse General Manager Grant Amer said the club is very excited to be working with WOTSO
"The club is always seeking to diversify our revenue streams to ensure our long term future is secure," Mr Amer said
The WOTSO Flexspace branch will open in April
Police allege the 19-year-old driver of a car involved in a crash at Rockdale on Friday night
in which another man of the same age was critically injured
The driver was charged with aggravated dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm - PCA
in charge of motor vehicle and drive with high range PCA
He was refused bail to appear before Parramatta Local Court
has been charged following a crash in Rockdale on Friday night in which another man of the same age was critically injured
A police statement He was later taken to Kogarah Police Station
where he was subject to a breath analysis that returned an alleged reading of 0.203
He was refused bail to appear before Parramatta Local Court today (Saturday 19 April 2025)
A 19-year-old man is in a critical condition following a crash at Rockdale overnight
Police allege that five minutes earlier the vehicle in which the man was travelling with two other men the same age
hit a parked car at Kogarah and failed to stop
emergency services responded to reports of a vehicle being located in Clarence Street
with extensive damage and three males at the scene
"NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the men who are alleged to be occupants of the vehicle," the statement said
"Two of the passengers were taken to St George Hospital with one listed as being in a critical condition and the other as serious but stable
"The alleged driver who was uninjured was taken to the same hospital for mandatory testing
"Officers from St George Police Area Command established a crime scene that was examined by specialist police from the Crash Investigation Unit
"It will be alleged that the vehicle had been involved in a crash with a parked and unattended car along Railway Parade
about five minutes earlier where it drove from the scene without stopping."
is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
Pino's Dolce Vita is facing an uncertain future due to ongoing construction works for the M6 Stage 1
Master butcher Pino Tomini Foresti has been operating at the business with his wife Pia at 45 President Avenue
But business has dropped by 70 per cent since the start of the M6 Stage 1 road works in 2021
And following the opening of two sink holes in West Botany Street earlier this year
the completion date for the M6 construction works has been pushed back further
The M6 roadworks meant that the shops on President Avenue have lost all the parking spaces from Oakdale Avenue to Moorefield Avenue
"We lost about eight to ten spaces plus the convenience of customers being able to park outside the front the business," Pino said
"Customers used to ring us and say there was no parking and our business suffered
We went from employing 18 people to now employing six and that includes both of us," he said
"Now there are no forward bookings," she said
"Since 1978 we have overcome many other obstacles
the major being when the building caught fire after Christmas 2016 which extensively damaged the business and required a complete refurbishment
"COVID also had a serious impact but being a food business we were able to carry on
"But what is happening out there on President Avenue with the M6 has severely impacted our business
Even though we are a local business a lot of our customers travel from elsewhere
"One customer recently visited who we hadn't seen for three years
He told us he has totally avoided the whole area because of the road works and the difficulties with parking
"Since we lost the parking out the front from Oakdale Avenue to Moorfield Avenue the customer convenience has gone and our business has dropped dramatically
Originally we were told that the construction works would finish in 2025
We used to get constant updates but we haven't heard anything
"I understand what they are doing needs to happen," Pia said
"But with the news of the sink holes having delayed works we face an uncertain future
We started this shop just after we got married in 1977 so it's like our first child."
"Most of the surface road work on President Avenue in Kogarah as part of the M6 Stage 1 project is on track to be completed by early 2025
This is in line with the targeted time for completion of these works
as is construction on the five kilometres of active transport connections in and around Bicentennial Park which is on track for completion by the end of next year
"Construction and roadwork on President Avenue has been complex and disruptive
Transport is conscious of this impact and has been notifying businesses each month of upcoming work and seeking to reduce the impacts as much as possible
"We acknowledge the residents and businesses on and around President Avenue have experienced considerable construction impacts in recent years
We appreciate their patience as we enter the latter stages of this important work to prepare the road to become a key intersection point for motorists entering and exiting the M6 tunnels
"We will continue to do everything we can to reduce the impacts on nearby residents
businesses motorists and other affected members of the community as M6 Stage 1 construction continues."
Mongolian and Nepalese community groups participated in the celebrations for Harmony Week which runs from March 17 to 23
Guests were welcomed by Kogarah Storehouse General Manager
Lala Noronha and the welcome to country was given by Yama Guroo from Bourke
Special guests were Kogarah Police Superintendent Paul Dunstan
Kogarah Police Multicultural Community Liaison Officer
and Kogarah Storehouse Chairman Russell Foxe
The Kogarah Storehouse is recognised as a charity and is affiliated with Brighton-Kogarah Uniting Church
The Storehouse staff and volunteers have been providing welfare help in the St George area since 1992 and assist thousands of clients every year with emergency relief and food programs
"Harmony week is a time to embrace and promote Australia's cultural diversity
respect and sense of belonging," Ms Noronha said
"These values are at the heat of our community and align with the Kogarah Storehouse's mission
'Harmony - We all Have a Role to Play' reminds us that building an inclusive society is a shared responsibility
contributes to a more united and respectful community
and understanding in everything we do," she said
The festivities culminated in the Indonesian singing group leading everyone in a rendition of 'I am Australian'
Kogarah have raised concerns from residents of the adjacent Moorefield Estate
St Pope Kyrillos VI and Habib Girgis Coptic Orthodox Church has purchased three properties at 57-61 President Avenue to make a 1,911 square-metre site and have submitted plans to build a two-storey church
The church needs to move from its current premises in Barton Street
on the corner of President Avenue and Moorefield Avenue
is unsuitable and will create traffic snarls
Moorefield Avenue is the main entry to the Moorfield Estate which has about 300 residences
the main vehicular entry and exit to the church will be from Moorefield Avenue
The church's DA has basement parking for 27 cars and residents say many more will be needed to cater for the church's proposed 150 strong congregation
The church's main hours of operation will be Monday
Thursday and Saturday from 7am to 8.30pm; Tuesday and Friday 5.30am to 8.30pm and Sunday and public holidays from 7am to 3pm
Moorefield Estate resident Mary Elek said the council's traffic study of the area for the church's DA was done on a weekend and does not give the right indication of the parking capacity for the area
"They plan for 27 basement car spots reserved for volunteers and priests
so where are the 150 parishioners going to park?" Mrs Elek said
"We have already endured enough with the M6 construction
People attending TAFE and St George Hospital also park in the area
The services are quite early on a weekend for a resident area."
former Rockdale and Kogarah Councillor Anne Field said
"President Avenue is a very busy road particularly in morning and evening peak times
"The site is located opposite a busy intersection at West Botany Street
Moorefield Avenue is used as the entrance and exit point by many residents on the Estate
"Moorefield Avenue is itself a narrow street and when cars are parked on both sides
who has legal experience in handling serious traffic matters
"A major flaw in the traffic report is the proposed drop-off and pick-up entrance close to the corner of President Avenue and Moorefield Avenue," he said
"The northern end of Moorefield Avenue is not directly opposite West Botany Street but is off-set
vehicles travelling south in West Botany Street and intending to enter Moorefield Avenue after crossing President Avenue need to take a partial right turn in the intersection and then a sharp left turn into Moorefield Avenue
"If the development proceeds the view of vehicles before entering Moorefield Avenue will be restricted by the size and dimension of the two-storey church and its surrounding fence and vegetation
"Such a motorist may be suddenly confronted by parishioners' vehicles arriving or departing the church," he said
A spokesman for the church said that the traffic assessment for the church's Development Application has been done by professional traffic engineers
The council says it complies," the spokesman said
"Otherwise the council would not have accepted the DA
"The M6 (Stage 1) was designed before the church was even considered
"The neighbours should have been complaining about the M6 and not the location of the proposed church
Our average turnout is approximately 100 to 120 on a Sunday
We have a maximum of 150 at a special event such as Christmas or Easter
"We have given the council our schedule of services
The church won't have 150 attending services seven days a week," he said
the council has extended the deadline for submissions until Thursday
the council will assess all the submissions submitted
All the potential issues and concerns will be listed in the letter and sent to the church to address
including the issues identified from the submission letters
The applicant will be provided a chance to address the letter
Bayside Council will not make the final decision on the church's DA
The application will be ultimately determined by Bayside Local Planning Panel (BLPP)
which is an independent consent authority and make an independent decision
The application is expected to be determined next year
Residents will be provided a chance to speak in the panel meeting
Details will be sent out before the meeting date
Police have been investigating a report that antisemitic comments were directed at a 28-year-old staff member in a lift at a hospital at Kogarah about 4pm on Friday
Following inquiries by officers attached to St George Police Area Command a 24-year-old man was arrested in Arncliffe about 6.45am today (Thursday 3 April 2025)
St George detectives took the man to St George Police Station where he was charged with stalk/intimidate intend fear physical harm
and use carriage service - possess violent extremist material
The man was refused bail to appear in Sutherland Local Court today (Thursday 3 April 2025)
seized when a search warrant was executed at premises at Arncliffe
Picture by John VeageDragons supporters group R2K is calling on St George Illawarra officials to work with governments to "future-proof" the club's Kogarah connection through an upgrade of Netstrata Jubilee Stadium
welcomed head coach Shane Flanagan's statement Kogarah would continue to be "really important" in the future of the joint venture
and games and training would continue there
Flanagan made the statement on Friday at the official launch of work on the club's $65 million high performance centre at the University of Wollongong's Innovation Campus
Kogarah 'still important' as work starts on Dragons $65m 'home' in Wollongong
The project will bring the administrative and football programs together under one roof
The Dragons have been based at Kogarah Park since 1950
the Legends Walk and the Norm Provan grandstand
who was previously an independent on Kogarah Council
said Premier Chris Minns "should be the first port of call for ensuring Kogarah remains viable for future generations of St.George District sporting stars"
"We're fortunate enough to have the Premier as the Member for Kogarah and this is a window of opportunity to make sure the St.George region gets the stadium it truly deserves," he said
"Kogarah has some great facilities after receiving $37.6 million of funding since 2002
but we need to finish the job to make sure the Dragons' spiritual home keeps pace with community and NRL expectations."
"We feel let down by the previous Liberal state government under Dominic Perrottet
after it signalled a $200 million upgrade for Kogarah and then backed away."
McLean said R2K would like to see Kogarah upgraded to ensure it remains NRL compliant
but also has a vision of Kogarah becoming a female friendly sporting hub
"The St George-Illawarra NRLW team is an inspiration," he said
"Let's extend the grandstand southward and provide female friendly facilities that send an important message that every woman is encouraged to participate in their sport of choice," he said
"Let's make the ground multi-purpose for sports including soccer and rugby union
"The upgrade could also provide some great training facilities for rugby league juniors in the St George District and kids from schools such as Carlton South Public."
The St George Illawarra Dragons are pleased to confirm the club's fixtures for the 2025 NRL and NRLW seasons
Our NRL squad kicks off its season against the Bulldogs at Kogarah before hosting the Rabbitohs in Wollongong the following week in what beckons as a bumper opening fortnight for the Red V
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The first of the side's byes comes in Round 3 before a second bye in Round 12 in the lead-up to Origin I and a third bye in Round 16 in the aftermath of Origin II
Our first game away from home comes against the Eels at CommBank Stadium in Round 5 with Clint Gutherson facing his former side for the first time
We face the Roosters in our traditional Anzac Day clash in Round 8 before making the trip up to Brisbane to face the Wests Tigers in Magic Round
Magic Round kicks off a period in which the side will be in action at Suncorp on three occasions in the span of six weeks – a positive development for the Red V fans based north of the border
The NRLW season begins in early July with Nathan Cross's squad making the trip down to the nation's capital for a Round 1 showdown against the Raiders
The Red V faithful will be treated to a quartet of NRL-NRLW double-headers over a two-month period across Netstrata Jubilee and WIN
Our NRLW group meets the defending premier Roosters in Round 2 at Kogarah before an inaugural meeting against the Bulldogs at Accor Stadium
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For the past few months the knitters have been busy preparing blankets
mittens and bedsocks to be distributed to charities and hospitals.
The blankets are given to the Wrap with Love charity to distribute to those in need in across Australia and also sent overseas to countries where people are experiencing extreme poverty or natural disasters
The group also knits small cardigans and wraps for premature babies at St George Private Hospital
mittens and bedsocks for the Lamrock Committee at St George Public Hospital
The Kogarah Library Knitting Group has been making items for charity for the past 20 years
Some members knit squares at home and when they have 28 ready they bring them to the library where they are sewn up as blankets
The knitting group continues to knit together at the library twice a month - on the first Monday at 10am and the last Friday at 12 noon
"Anyone is welcome to come and join us for both times or for an hour or two," Valda said
"Everyone is valued and can sit near the person they can relate to
Valda said knitting is relaxing and therapeutic
"And when you see all the knitting laid out you think well-done," she said
"It's people's way of doing some valuable voluntary work."
"I just like to do it to help the premature babies."
Valda said that donations from the public of acrylic yarn 8-ply are very welcome
"Whatever comes into the library is used," she said
Anyone who wants to join in the activities of the Kogarah Library Knitting Group should ring the library on 9330 6111
Sumbaijai Thai Esan in Kogarah is a restaurant that serves Thai Isan or Esan food from the Northeastern region of Thailand
While their menu has all of the classics like Pad Thai
there's a separate page of items celebrating the punchy
This food from the Northeastern part of Thailand is very different from the food that you get in other parts of Thailand
The Thai food that most people are most familiar with being served in Thai restaurants in Australia is Central Thai/Bangkok food
But Northeastern Isan food is more savoury
bitter and punchy with lots of fermented items all tied together with sticky rice rather than steamed rice
There are spicy salads and fewer curries and the food is similar to Laotian food as they share a border
Isan people are an ethnic group which means Northeastern people and are majority ethnically Lao but consider themselves Lao Isan
Sumbaijai Thai Esan has a steady stream of customers this Friday evening
The name Sumbaijai translates to a relaxed or good feeling
There's a small crowd gathered outside waiting on takeaway orders and the restaurant is right next to Kogarah train station
Mr NQN and I are sitting outside with the dogs
Service is very friendly and we take a few minutes to flick through the extensive menu
beef salad etc but there's also a section for street food eats
many dishes with pictures and another section for Esan dishes
I order a green milk tea as I'm curious about what it is (it looks like pandan but the man doesn't know how to describe it but he says that it isn't pandan)
It's matcha with jasmine flavouring which is gorgeous and quite sweet
Mr NQN loves his longan juice which is super sweet and icy
I love the little fermented pork sausages made with sticky rice and served with a salad with plenty of sliced
The sausages are served piping hot and have a subtle fermented flavour to them and the ginger goes very well with them
There are two types of green papaya salad or som tum and we opt for the one without the salted crab
Ours has a chilli and lime dressing with dried shrimp
We opted for medium spicy because you should never mess with Thai people and their spice level
While I'd normally order food hot or spicy the only exception is Thai food where I order it medium hot
one with soft pork bone and one with chicken's feet
The latter is the more popular street food so we order that
It's a spicy and sour broth with lots of coriander
lemongrass and shallots with halved mushrooms and boiled chicken's feet
The soup is punchy and sour and there's enough to feed four in this pot
When we order the goi dip the man hesitated for a moment
"Medium?" I answered not knowing what to say as I've never had this before
This raw minced beef dip is seasoned with herbs
chilli flakes and a Thai dressing with roasted
While the beef is raw it isn't wet and the seasonings almost slightly cure it
The bitterness is a bit of a challenge and perhaps I should have ordered it mildly bitter
We also order some sticky rice that comes in a plastic pouch in a kratip or bamboo basket
I also order a soup that isn't an Esan or Isan selection but I really love this soup
It's the Yen Ta Fo or pink soup that is sweet and spicy with fish balls
It's given its pink hue from the fermented soybean paste that is added to the broth
I love the won ton crisps on top and the herbs and it's like a comforting
There's no dessert on the menu as it changes regularly
Tonight it's a box of custard puffs for $13 but as we're too full from our meal to have some
https://www.facebook.com/sumbaijaithaiesan/
The Dragons will meet the Bulldogs on Saturday
Kogarah in Round 23 of the 2024 Telstra Premiership
It was announced on Monday that the clash will be a sell out as both sides continue their charge towards potential postseason berths
The club's Knock-On Effect NSW Cup unit kicks off at 5:15pm before the Score Dragons meet the Score Raiders in an anticipated affair
continues to grow in popularity and is enjoyed by all involved
Show your support and continue the success of this program by donating to the Score Dragons Program today
The Dragons are partnering with Georges River Life Care for Round 23’s 50-50 Charity Raffle
community not-for-profit that’s been in operation in Peakhurst since 2007 supporting and enriching the lives of people in the Georges River community who have been impacted by domestic violence and financial hardship through caring and compassionate services
Dragons partner with Georges River Life Care for 50-50 Charity Raffle
Shane Flanagan has opted to stick with the same 17 that got the job done against the Storm at AAMI Park
Francis Molo and Jack de Belin have been named to start in the front row however after they switched with Hame Sele and Blake Lawrie prior to kick-off last week
Mathew Feagai has been named among the reserves having missed last week with a head knock
Bulldogs head coach Cameron Ciraldo has named the same squad that defeated the Raiders
Josh Curran has been named to play despite spending time on the sideline with a shoulder complaint in Round 22
The Dragons have outscored the Bulldogs 72 points to 16 over their past two meetings at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium with Flanagan's men hoping to continue that trend come Saturday night
NRL Round 23 Press Conference: Dragons vs Bulldogs
NRL Round 23 Highlights: Dragons vs Bulldogs
Dragons fall to Bulldogs in front of Kogarah sell out
LATE MAIL: Dragons finalise Round 23 NRL team list
Picture by Jim Gainsford.NSW Premier Chris Minns has put young Kogarah art students in the picture on the importance of nurturing their creative side
Mr Minns was announcing the winners of the annual Kogarah Lunar New Year Card Competition at the award ceremony in the Jubilee Room at NSW Parliament House
The competition encourages students from Kindergarten to Year 12 living in the Kogarah electorate to create an artwork celebrating the upcoming Lunar New Year of the Snake
"Artistic expression is incredibly important in talking about what it means to live in Australia in 2025," Mr Minns told the students
"In the years ahead if people want to know about what life was like In January
they are not going to read Hansard in one of these books in 50 years or 100 years time
"But they will look at the art work and listen to the poetry and read the books and they will appreciate the art that was produced and that will give them a better sense of what life was like," he said
"Whether you go on to become an artist as an adult
exploring your creative side is a fundamental part of problem solving
It could be in finance or medicine or politics or academia
Your creative side will help you untie some knotty problems."
Around 500 primary and high school students from local
and language schools based in the Kogarah electorate submitted their artworks for this year's Kogarah Lunar New Year Card Competition
Ultimately a total of 20 finalists were nominated from the primary and secondary categories
The judging panel was made up of Mr Minns; president of the St George Art Society
The winners and finalists were presented with their certificates and framed artworks at the award ceremony
Her winning artwork depicts a cheerful red snake
a symbol of the prosperity and vitality of the Year of the Snake
Coincidentally he and Sophie are brother and sister
Alvin's winning artwork is based on the theme of sending a postcard to his grandmother for Lunar New Year
"It evokes emotion as the idea of sending a postcard to Grandma puts a smile on your face and happiness in your soul
There is a sense of reaching across vast distances to share joy and happiness with your loved ones
the simple act of wishing Grandma a happy Lunar New Year," the judges said
Mr Minns congratulated all the students who participated in this year's Kogarah Lunar New Year Card Competition
it is really magnificent to see the competition's growing popularity
but also how it promotes the importance of continuing to share and pass down art and languages within such a multicultural and diverse community like St George," he said
The winning artworks will be printed on greeting cards sent throughout the St George area to celebrate the Year of the Snake
An 18,416-strong crowd packed into Netstrata Jubilee Stadium as the Dragons went down to the Bulldogs 28-10 on Saturday night
It was the club’s sixth-highest crowd at the venue as two traditional rivals fighting for postseason berths battled it out
The visitors struck first through Matt Burton who intercepted a Ben Hunt pass and raced away nearly 80 metres before converting his own try to make it 6-0 less than five minutes in
The Bulldogs added to their lead with Burton knocking over a penalty goal after the Dragons were whistled for a strip
Tyrell Sloan was placed on report a quarter of the way in before the Dragons found a response through Zac Lomax who took in a pinpoint Hunt grubber and slid over the right corner
The State of Origin star converted his own try from inches inside the chalk to cut the deficit down to two
An error off the corresponding set paved the way for the visitors to nab their second with Bronson Xerri on the end of a Toby Sexton grubber to make it 14-6
Xerri found a second off a fifth tackle Sexton face ball after the Bulldogs were awarded a piggyback penalty the following set
The hosts went close to responding after forcing an error with Sloan pouring through to ground a Dragons drop which the side claimed had been stripped out only for video officials to agree with the on-field decision of knock-on
The Dragons managed to notch a try prior to the break with Luciano Leilua sending Sloan into space with a crisp inside ball
Sloan glided past his opposite to dive over in the left corner and bring his side back within 10 points
A two-point field goal attempt off the boot of Burton came up short as the half-time siren sounded with Josh Addo-Carr going close to snaring the bouncing ball only for Sloan to bat it dead just in the nick of time
Hame Sele was unable to return for the second half
with the front rower taken to hospital as a precaution after concern from the team medicos
The Bulldogs fired in a challenge soon after in an attempt to overturn a strip call with video officials instead ruling that the ball had been raked out and knocked on with the visitors retaining their right to challenge despite possession remaining the way of the Dragons
Harry Hayes was held up over the line for the Bulldogs soon after with an urgent display of Dragons scramble all that could prevent the interchange forward from getting the ball down
The Dragons lodged a successful challenge moments later with replays showing that Ryan Couchman had forced the ball free of Stephen Crichton’s grip rather than stripping it
Hunt nearly found one for the Red V off it after toeing forward a Couchman offload only for the ricocheting ball to end up in Bulldogs arms
Kurt Mann bumped his way over for the visitors to extend their lead back beyond two converted tries entering the final quarter of the clash
Jacob Kiraz went close to adding to the visitors’ lead off a right-side set play only for Moses Suli to come up with a tremendous try-saver
Suli was assisted from the field with a knee issue as the situation worsened for the Red V before Burton added another penalty goal to the Bulldogs’ tally late
The Dragons’ Knock-On Effect NSW Cup finals hopes remain alive with Ben Woolf’s men securing a 30-6 win over the Bulldogs at Kogarah on Saturday evening
Defence proved the catalyst for the Red V’s dominant victory with the Bulldogs taking over an hour to find their first and only four-pointer
It was the young guns who sparked the Dragons' dream start with Lyhkan King-Togia and Hamish Stewart finding tries in the opening 10 minutes to open up a handy buffer
The scoring dried up for the hosts on either side of half-time but it was their defensive desperation and early attacking flair that secured the vital pair of competition points
The Dragons drew first blood through King-Togia who put Mathew Feagai into space down the left-hand corridor before following him on his inside to score
Jonah Glover knocked over the extras from next to the posts to make it 6-0 less than 10 minutes into the contest
Lachlan Vale limped off early with an injury concern for the Bulldogs leaving their forward rotation light for the remainder of the game
The hosts found another off the back of it with Stewart pouring through after being promoted into the run-on side and slamming the ball down as the lead improved to a dozen
The Dragons’ sideline-to-sideline ball movement found some inroads midway through the opening forty with wing partners Savelio Tamale and Mikaele Ravalawa making half-breaks on back-to-back plays before an error put an end to the raid
The Dragons extended their lead a little over a half-hour in after a period of stagnancy with Dylan Egan pouring into space down the right edge and hitting a supporting Glover back on the inside for the side’s third
Ravalawa poured through off the corresponding kick-off to put the Red V back on the front foot before Blake Wilson was assisted from the field for the Bulldogs as their injury toll worsened
Alec Tuitavake was denied the hosts’ fourth as the half-time siren sounded with officials ruling that he had promoted the ball
The Dragons were dealt several defensive tests early in the second stanza but held strong on each occasion to maintain an 18-point edge
Haele Finau looked to have slid over off an attacking scrum an hour in only for the officials to rule an obstruction in the lead-up
The Bulldogs found their first points soon after with Eli Clark diving over the in the left corner off a scrum win and converting his own try to cut the deficit back to a dozen
Knock-On Effect NSW Cup Highlights: Round 23
Jeral Skelton was binned late for the visitors for a dangerous tackle on King-Togia with Glover slotting a penalty goal off it to grow the lead back beyond a pair of converted tries
Fahmy Toilalo joined Vale and Wilson in the casualty ward for the visitors with Ravalawa powering his way over in the right corner moments later to ensure the result would go the way of the Dragons
The Fijian international found a second in the final stages storming his way through against the grain to put a bow on a comprehensive Red V win
Knock-On Effect NSW Cup Highlights: Round 9 v Magpies
Knock-On Effect NSW Cup: Dragons thump Wests
Knock-On Effect NSW Cup: Dragons dominate Manly at Collegians
Knock-On Effect NSW Cup: Warriors down Dragons in NZ
As often occurs the local roads were closed to traffic for the duration of the game
When we wanted to leave our home and get to the Kogarah station to catch a train to the city we were told that the road closures were still in force and we could not exit our area until the security company in charge of the event decided that it was safe to do so
We remained 'locked in ' until they allowed us to leave
We waited half-an-hour and were late for our event in the city
The roadblocks were opened enough to permit a car to exit in the past
Had we been out of the area and wanting to return home
We cannot have our liberty impinged like this I presume it is a new security firm being overly zealous
There are two ways of assessing the e-scooter trail
ignore the concerns of pedestrians and residents on footpaths
instead focus on the number of rides recorded
point to the belated State Government's effort to consider the rules of the road and footpath for e-scooter users
as if pedestrians concerns will be addressed some time in the future
Many pedestrians have pointed to accident prone situations
such as who has right of way between an e-scooter on the footpath
What can be deduced from the Kogarah trial
The e-scooters were left abandoned on the footpaths
After many calls for safety rules to be introduced for users of e-scooters
the State Government put forward a lame set of rules
There are some strict rules for pedestrians crossing streets
at traffic-light controlled pedestrian crossings
Or try travelling on public transport without a valid Opal ticket
There are no rules for e-scooter users riding on footpaths
folk walking on footpaths are dodging business A-frames near doors
added onto the footpaths are abandoned e-scooters
riders on e- scooters travelling much faster than walkers
And not forgetting the existing bikes for food delivery gig-economy workers
The dumping of shopping trolleys is a direct result of the theft of these trolleys from stores in our shopping precincts
These trolleys end up dumped throughout parklands
Councils could take action against the owners of these trolleys by impounding the trolleys
then returning them back to the owners with a hefty fine attached
That additional revenue going into the Council coffers may go a long way into solving this unsightly theft problem by employing additional rangers to resolve this growing problem
Maybe a class action lawsuit against the supermarket owners would get the attention of the supermarkets
The draw for the 2025 NRL and NRLW seasons has dropped and is chock-full of electrifying home fixtures across Kogarah and Wollongong
You'd be hard-pressed finding a more electric Round 1 fixture to sink your teeth into
18,416 packed into a sold-out Netstrata Jubilee when the Bulldogs came to town in 2024
and the expectation is for that to be replicated this time around
The Red V faithful will get their first look at prized recruits Damien Cook
and Valentine Holmes as the squad looks to open its year with a win for the fourth time on the trot
The squad rounds out a bumper opening fortnight with a Saturday afternoon showdown against the Rabbitohs at WIN Stadium
Incoming Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett returns to Wollongong whilst Cook faces his former club for the first time
The last time the Rabbitohs made the trip to WIN
they were hit with a red and white avalanche as a Mikaele Ravalawa double pushed the hosts to a 32-0 advantage less than a half-hour in
Our opening double-header of 2025 is set for Saturday
Incoming NRLW head coach Nathan Cross earns an opportunity to introduce himself to the Red V faithful as his side takes on the defending premier Roosters at 3:15pm
Attention then shifts to an NRL blockbuster against the Roosters at 5:30pm with Shane Flanagan's men looking to replicate the result of the sides' most recent clash at Jubilee in 2023
This year's local derby is set to erupt with a thrilling double-header at Kogarah as arch-rivals Cronulla make the trip across the bridge for an Indigenous Round showdown
Our NRLW outfit will be eager to knock off last year's grand finalists as the two sides meet at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium for the first time
The second leg of the double-header sees Shane Flanagan's Dragons meet Craig Fitzgibbon's Sharks with another packed crowd expected to be on hand for the clash
Defending premiers Penrith make the trip to Wollongong to round out the regular season with our NRLW squad in action against the Cowboys beforehand in the opening leg of the club's fourth double-header
18,988 crammed into WIN Stadium to welcome the Panthers in Round 21 last season
Odds are there will be plenty on the line for all four teams come September with the premiership's focus shifting to finals football soon after
Picture by John VeageSt George Illawarra Dragons will be fully based in Wollongong from mid-2026 when the club's $65 million high performance centre is completed
head coach Shane Flanagan says the club's traditional Kogarah base is "really important"
and games and training will continue at Netstrata Jubilee Oval
A sod-turning ceremony was held on Friday to mark the official start of work on the Dragons Community and High Performance Centre at the University of Wollongong's Innovation Campus
NRLW star Bobbi Law & NRLW Head Coach Nathan Cross celebrate the high performance centre project milestone
Picture Dragons MediaThe centre will include two full-sized NRL playing fields
equitable male and female player facilities
lecture theatre and meeting rooms and office space for football
Dragons chief executive Ryan Webb said the project would bring the administrative and football programs together under one roof
which would be hugely beneficial for club cohesion and unity
The hill at Netstrata Jubilee Oval during a game in 2024
Picture by John Veage"The majority of our administration are up in the St George Leagues Club
the football department are in WIN Stadium," Webb told the Illawarra Mercury
"We have some other staff at the Steelers in offices there
Dragons head coach Shane Flanagan said having a central base would also make a difference from a training perspective
given the team uses a number of different venues in the Illawarra from fields to swimming pools
"At the moment we're a bit scattered," Flanagan said
our theatres and our gym and the field is straight out there
it gives us the best quality of the building and it's great to be able to have everyone in the one space."
Flanagan said Netstrata Jubilee Oval would still be used
"We play a lot of home games there and it's a really important part of our club," he said
but you know this [the new centre] is our home
This is where all our administration and everyone will be and live."
Flanagan expects the facility to provide a boost to the club's football program
"I've seen the plans and I expect this to be one of
if not the best high performance centres across the NRL," he said
teams are so evenly matched that having the best possible facilities is crucial to give your team the best chance of success
"We've been on a steady path of improvement since I joined the club and I expect that will continue even further once we are able to move into our own purpose-built facility."
Flanagan also confirmed he had privately apologised to half-back Lachlan Ilias over comments following the 25-24 loss to the Rabbitohs
which suggested the new recruit had played very poorly
He declined to reveal what he said to Ilias
"We've just got to work harder and make sure if we're in front by 12 points
The Dragons will be seeking their first win of the season when they play the Storm at Kogarah on Saturday March 29 at 3pm
the Dragons pulled off an 18-16 upset win over the Storm in Melbourne
the Club Superintendent (centre) outside the Bexley Masonic Hall
Picture by Jim Gainsford.The Kogarah RSL Sub-branch Youth Club is closing its doors next month after more than four decades of community service
the Club Superintendent and volunteer manager for the past 35 years
has decided to wind up the Youth Club due to increasing challenges in securing coaching staff and managing day-to-day operations
the Youth Club offered a wide range of activities
and senior dance and fitness programs," Jenny said
and the club has taken immense pride in providing inclusive gymnastics classes for children with special needs," Jenny said
The club has been a beacon of affordable and accessible sports
fostering social connections while building strength and fine motor skills for its young participants
the Youth Club members have participated in the Kogarah RSL Sub-branch ANZAC Day service
and distributing ANZAC cookies to veterans and their families
The club was originally housed in Colvin Hall
Kogarah for many years but had to move out in 2016 to make way for the redevelopment of the Kogarah RSL Club
After a temporary stay at the Shopfront Arts Co-op at Carlton
the youth club has been at the Bexley Masonic Hall for the past five years
The youth club has had activities for preschoolers and a disability class for about seven children
soccer and karate over the years and even had its own band
The club has also kept its fees as low as possible so people from low socioeconomic families can come
"Leading the RSL Youth Club has been the joy of my life," Jenny said
I've dedicated myself to creating a place where all kids could learn
While this decision is incredibly emotional
I am deeply grateful to the families who have been part of our journey and to the countless committee members who volunteered their time and energy to make this club a success
and for the joy of seeing young people flourish."
To honour its rich history and celebrate its current students
the Youth Club will host its Annual Display and Presentation Day on December 1 at the Bexley Masonic Hall
The final farewell will take place on December 16 at the same venue
with a Christmas party marking the club's official closure
Two years ago the club faced closing but was able to carry on
the Youth Club acting president Denise Mitford described the club has providing local youth with social interaction
"We have got all these youth who need to be looked after and developed," Denise said
The Kogarah RSL Sub-branch Youth Club leaves behind a legacy of community spirit
and unwavering commitment to enriching the lives of young people
The NSW Government has revealed that the opening of a $3.1 billion underground motorway will be delayed until the end of 2028 following the opening of two large sinkholes on a section of the tunnel in West Botany Street earlier this year
Master butcher Pino Tomini Foresti announced this week that he will close his family business
Pino has been operating at the business with his wife Pia and their children at 45 President Avenue
"We lost about eight to ten spaces plus the convenience of customers being able to park outside the front of the business," Pino said
"The deadline of 2028 is too long for us," Pia said
"They have started to dig up the footpath outside the shop and put up orange barriers
We have been telling our very good customers that we are closing
My husband and I are a bit numb at the moment but we are fighting to keep our spirits up
We thank the community for their support but the reality of the situation has taken its toll."
Savannah Spahich has also decided to close her business Dermal Boutique several doors down from Pinos in the new year
"We have lost over 80 per cent of our clients because of the road works
They took away our parking and we lost our convenience," Savanah said
"And now they have decided to dig up the footpath outside my business and they have chosen the busiest time of the year
"I've put myself into debt hoping things would improve
People come here to relax but with jackhammers and constant heavy traffic we have lost our zen-like environment
President Avenue Fruit World owner Avtar Singh Dhaliwal said he has lost half his business since the roadworks started in 2021
across the road from Pinos and the Dermal Spa
But it is still feeling the ongoing effects of the M6 Stage 1 road works
"They took away our parking outside in 2021 and we have lost our convenience," Mr Dhaliwal said
"They put barriers up outside our shop for two years
President Avenue got down to only one lane and that just killed our weekends
We have parking for 14 spaces out the back of the shop but if they weren't there we would be gone."
Mr Dhaliwal said the road works have moved to the other side of President avenue but the traffic is still bad
"I'm not going to close but I've lost a lot of money
I am just hoping that when they finally stop I will be able to get my customers back."
Transport for NSW said it will assess a claim from any business for loss of trade as a result of M6 construction
"Transport for NSW thanks the community for its understanding and patience while important work on this major infrastructure project is completed
Most work on President Avenue will be completed in early 2025," a Transport for NSW spokesperson said
Transport and its delivery partner CGU have worked with the community to understand how to best mitigate the impacts of construction
"The project team has been liaising with businesses most impacted by construction on a monthly basis to provide updates on upcoming work and potential impacts," the spokesperson said
Inset Chris Minns leading a protest after the express service cuts
The return of peak period express train services between Kogarah and the City
remain a possibility down the track despite not being part of a major overhaul of the network timetable announced on Saturday
Premier Chris Minns and Kogarah MP Chris Minns told the Leader he was seeking to have the faster services restored in keeping with his promise when in Opposition
A state government transport spokesman said
"The focus of the new timetable is to enable Bankstown line closure and adjustments to parallel lines in the west to re-balance services"
which operates completely independently of other rail lines
was not included in the scope of the change
"The T4 line timetable will be reviewed and assessed in the next few years
including at Kogarah will be reviewed as part of that process
"The next change on T4 Eastern Suburbs & Illawarra and South Coast Lines will come before Mariyung trains are deployed to the South Coast
"The government will continue to look at ways we can tweak services to benefit the broadest number of commuters."
which is the first adjustment since since 2017
will add more than 800 new services a week on western
north shore and inner-west lines from October 20
A statement by Transport Minister Jo Haylen said the T8 Line would have two extra morning peak services
"increasing from 14 trains per hour to 16 trains per hour benefiting Revesby and stations between Holsworthy and Macarthur"
"To ensure passengers at St Peters and Erskineville continue to get the train services they need
more T8 train services will operate via Sydenham
while during the busiest morning peak hour
two fewer services will operate via the Airport Tunnel"
The T4 Line was not specifically mentioned
but the statement said there would be "some minor timing changes on other lines"
Peak period express services between Kogarah and the City were cut by the Liberal government in 2013 in a move denounced by Labor
Premier Chris Minns and Kogarah MP Chris Minns told the Leader he was seeking to have them restored in keeping with his promise when in Opposition
Mr Minns said a full review of Sydney train network timetables was being carried out
and he had given "specific advice that we have a big problem in Kogarah"
rearranging the timetable to get more express services for Kogarah," he said
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Jubilee Stadium: They cheered when Toby Couchman and Jaydn Su’a shoved Xavier Coates back into the in-goal area
They cheered when Moses Suli shaped up to Cameron Munster
They cheered their latest debutant Dylan Egan
They even cheered their team’s first penalty
which did not arrive until half an hour into the game
St George Illawarra caused an old-fashioned boilover against the Melbourne Storm in what could only be described as an old-fashioned bash-up
But the 6211 Dragons fans who braved the wet on Saturday
including former Prime Minister John Howard
The Dragons deserved credit for the way they kept turning away the Storm on their own line
and were on the wrong end of a 9-4 penalty count
Coach Shane Flanagan vowed to put his players through hell during the bye round after they dropped their first two games
He watched the second half from the sidelines
and while happy for the first two points for the season
The Dragons shocked the Storm on Saturday.Credit: Getty Images
the last 10 minutes we still had a few errors in us … we had a bit of resolve about us today
“Good sides like Melbourne and Penrith don’t put themselves under pressure
but we can’t put ourselves under pressure like we did today
We can’t make 46 tackles on our own tryline week in week out
The Dragons do not have the strongest roster
but they have plenty of blokes prepared to have a dig
which Flanagan loves – and which was on full display at Kogarah
a 20-year-old back-rower from Gerringong who grew up loving the Dragons
with one barnstorming run leading to a vital penalty
The scores were level just after the hour when Val Holmes slotted a penalty goal
Val Holmes in action against the Storm.Credit: Getty Images
whose attack truly looked clunky without the injured Jahrome Hughes
thought they hit the lead with a try to Eli Katoa
but the bunker ruled he had knocked the ball forward into the arm of Kyle Flanagan
who was joined in the box by NSW Origin coach Laurie Daley
The Storm were well down on their own lofty standards
with Bellamy suggesting they struggled on the road the first time this season
especially after enjoying the bye in round one
then the comfort of hosting two games at home
Harry Grant appeared to pick up an ankle injury midway through the second half
David Klemmer in his club debut for the Dragons.Credit: Getty Images
The Dragons head to Parramatta next Saturday afternoon where former favourite son Zac Lomax awaits
Lomax made a low-key cameo at Kogarah for the early game to cheer good friends Cody Ramsey and Blake Lawrie in the NSW Cup
The Storm travel to Brookvale next Sunday for what should be an epic against one of the competition’s few September certainties
provided they improve drastically on what they produced against the Red V
Clint Gutherson blew a captain’s challenge in the second minute
and the Storm spent what felt like an eternity parked down the southern end of the ground
only for the Storm to hit back immediately via Ryan Papenhuyzen who ran on to a lovely ball from Katoa who had been put into space by Tyran Wishart
Michael Chammas and Andrew “Joey” Johns dissect the upcoming NRL round, plus the latest footy news, results and analysis. Sign up for the Sin Bin newsletter.
Jubilee Stadium: They cheered when Toby Couchman and Jaydn Su\\u2019a shoved Xavier Coates back into the in-goal area. They cheered when Moses Suli shaped up to Cameron Munster. They cheered their latest debutant Dylan Egan.
They even cheered their team\\u2019s first penalty, which did not arrive until half an hour into the game.
St George Illawarra caused an old-fashioned boilover against the Melbourne Storm in what could only be described as an old-fashioned bash-up.
But the 6211 Dragons fans who braved the wet on Saturday, including former Prime Minister John Howard, sure made the afternoon fun.
The Dragons deserved credit for the way they kept turning away the Storm on their own line. They made 46 tackles inside their own 20m, and were on the wrong end of a 9-4 penalty count.
Coach Shane Flanagan vowed to put his players through hell during the bye round after they dropped their first two games. He watched the second half from the sidelines, and while happy for the first two points for the season, described the 80 minutes as \\u201Cvery, very stressful\\u201D.
\\u201CWe did a lot of good stuff, the last 10 minutes we still had a few errors in us \\u2026 we had a bit of resolve about us today, so it was great,\\u201D Flanagan said.
\\u201CGood sides like Melbourne and Penrith don\\u2019t put themselves under pressure. I think we\\u2019re a good footy side, but we can\\u2019t put ourselves under pressure like we did today. We can\\u2019t make 46 tackles on our own tryline week in week out. We need to be smart.\\u201D
The Dragons do not have the strongest roster, but they have plenty of blokes prepared to have a dig, which Flanagan loves \\u2013 and which was on full display at Kogarah. Egan, a 20-year-old back-rower from Gerringong who grew up loving the Dragons, was solid in his first outing, with one barnstorming run leading to a vital penalty.
The scores were level just after the hour when Val Holmes slotted a penalty goal.
Melbourne, whose attack truly looked clunky without the injured Jahrome Hughes, thought they hit the lead with a try to Eli Katoa. Katoa leapt for a Munster kick, but the bunker ruled he had knocked the ball forward into the arm of Kyle Flanagan.
Coach Craig Bellamy, who was joined in the box by NSW Origin coach Laurie Daley, only had the one look at the try, but said, \\u201CI had a bit of a different opinion\\u201D.
The Storm were well down on their own lofty standards, with Bellamy suggesting they struggled on the road the first time this season, especially after enjoying the bye in round one, then the comfort of hosting two games at home.
Harry Grant appeared to pick up an ankle injury midway through the second half, but soldiered on.
The Dragons head to Parramatta next Saturday afternoon where former favourite son Zac Lomax awaits. Lomax made a low-key cameo at Kogarah for the early game to cheer good friends Cody Ramsey and Blake Lawrie in the NSW Cup.
The Storm travel to Brookvale next Sunday for what should be an epic against one of the competition\\u2019s few September certainties, provided they improve drastically on what they produced against the Red V.
Clint Gutherson blew a captain\\u2019s challenge in the second minute, and the Storm spent what felt like an eternity parked down the southern end of the ground.
Val Holmes scored the opening try, only for the Storm to hit back immediately via Ryan Papenhuyzen who ran on to a lovely ball from Katoa who had been put into space by Tyran Wishart.
Michael Chammas and Andrew \\u201CJoey\\u201D Johns dissect the upcoming NRL round, plus the latest footy news, results and analysis. .
CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced
AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time)
to fulfil an earlier promise made - that after 154 years without a school hall
Mr Minns said the government made the commitment to build a multi-purpose hall last January
Further upgrades will include replacing ageing demountables with permanent classrooms
adding new classrooms to alleviate overcrowding
and improving play areas and learning spaces
with the upgrades slated to be delivered ahead of day 1
Mr Minns was at Kogarah Public School earlier this week to discuss updated plans for the project with school management
Concept designs are being developed and will be shared through a community information session on October 29 between 2.30pm-7pm to give students
residents and other stakeholders an opportunity to see the design and provide feedback of the new school buildings
As part of the NSW Government's commitment to rebuilding public education
the 2023-24 State Budget reviewed funding for the upgrade to address a range of urgent issues
the project scope has been updated to ensure it meets the needs of students and staff into the future
Chris Minns said the start of the project was a clear indication of public education investment
"We made a commitment to upgrade this school back in January last year
following years of campaigning by this community," he said
"I am very pleased that critical early work is starting now
for what will be a very significant upgrade to this school
"This upgrade will transform the school into a modern facility that supports the growth of our vibrant community
This project is not just about new buildings; it's about enhancing educational outcomes
"The new multipurpose hall and classrooms will provide students with the best possible learning environment
and I'm pleased to see the progress made."
NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car says the government is working closely with the school community and the P&C to ensure students at Kogarah Public School have access to high quality facilities that meet their educational needs
"These early works are an important step towards the delivery of modern
state-of-the-art facilities for Kogarah Public School students and the growing local community," she said
So many people were shocked at the situation the school was in
It was really affected by the development around
The school was really overlooked for a long time," she said
Ms Harding's child is in Year 2 at the school
She said not having a hall greatly affected children
"I'm not aware of any other school that doesn't have a hall
and that's had a really big impact on what kids can do at school and their access to things like a band," she said
"Basically everything happens on the asphalt under the outdoor landing area - assemblies and school gatherings
The school hall will make a massive difference to the opportunities that are available to the kids."
The mother of two said the limited space was also a challenge for teachers
Every square inch of that school is being used
Teachers have been so flexible in working with the limited facilities that they have
There no spare rooms for anything and teachers are incredible at making use of the situation
so I'm happy that the staff will also finally have teaching space."
Ms Harding said the Premier was supportive of the school for a long time
"He has genuinely supported it for years," she said
"It helps that he's in government now but it's not just a new thing he jumped on
Kogarah Public School Principal Nitsa Comninos said the school welcomed the start of the early works
"It's so exciting for the students and our whole school community to watch our new school buildings being built," she said
and we look forward to celebrating the completion of these works and moving into our new facilities."
The Dragons are excited to extend a special invitation to all of our Red V Members to a members-only Captain's Run at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium on June 15th
Red V Members will have the chance to watch on as the squad go through their final preparations ahead of their Round 15 showdown against the Sea Eagles at 4 Pines Park
Supporters are encouraged to stick around and meet the boys
so be ready to score an autograph and snap a selfie
We look forward to creating a memorable experience for you
Dragons Wheelchair Rugby League continue march towards finals