Paper parking permits are gone. The Waverley Resident Parking Scheme has moved entirely digital, and for Dover Heights residents already dealing with a growing influx of trade vehicles, oversized boats and trailers competing for street space, the change brings both practical relief and a sharper spotlight on a suburb under growing pressure.
The expansion of Resident Parking Schemes in neighbouring suburbs has pushed non-resident vehicles outward — and Dover Heights streets have absorbed some of that overflow.
Trade vehicles, trailers and oversized boats occupying public space are a recurring complaint, and the RPS is the mechanism residents have to push back against it.
Digital permits make enforcement sharper. Parking officers now confirm permit validity through licence plate recognition technology, removing the ambiguity of checking a faded sticker through a windscreen.
A simpler permit system
Existing permits automatically transfer to the new system — nothing is required until renewal. An email with account login details will arrive for existing permit holders who want to review their permits before that point.
New applications, renewals and vehicle registration updates are all now handled online, at any time, without visiting a service centre.
Every parking space counts
Blocked driveways attract a $600 fine and towing within three hours, report via Waverley Customer Service on 9083 8000. Illegal parking elsewhere can be flagged through the Snap Send Solve app, which routes reports directly to parking patrols.
Car share spaces across the LGA each remove up to six private vehicles from the street according to Waverley’s own data, relevant for streets where every space counts.
While planners ultimately axed a controversial $300 driveway assessment fee, the proposal itself shows how fiercely contested street spaces have become across the LGA.
For permit information and eligibility, click here.
A draft walking strategy for Waverley recognises that suburbs such as Dover Heights face different challenges from the area’s busier centres, where shops, transport and services are often closer together.
In Bondi Junction, many residents can walk to shops, public transport and services within minutes. Dover Heights is different. Steep streets, longer distances and fewer transport connections shape how people move around the suburb.
Even Waverley Council’s draft Walking Waverley strategy acknowledges that walking is not yet as practical a transport option in some parts of the local government area, including Dover Heights.
The draft strategy, currently open for public comment until 7 July 2026, examines how walking conditions could be improved across Waverley over the next decade. While much of the document focuses on busy pedestrian areas such as Bondi Junction and Bondi Beach, it also highlights the challenges facing less-connected suburbs.
A Different Experience From Waverley’s Major Centres
The strategy identifies topography as one of the biggest barriers to walking across Waverley. In Dover Heights, steep roads and greater distances between homes, transport links and local destinations create a different experience from the municipality’s more densely developed centres.
The document notes that some parts of Dover Heights currently have limited access to walking and public transport compared with other areas of Waverley. While residents in Bondi Junction can reach a wide range of services and transport options on foot, daily journeys in Dover Heights often involve longer distances and greater reliance on buses or private vehicles.
These differences are reflected throughout the draft strategy, which takes a municipality-wide approach while recognising that not every suburb faces the same transport challenges.
The strategy’s 162 identified improvement opportunities extend beyond footpath construction.
The draft document proposes a range of measures aimed at making walking safer, easier and more accessible. These include additional pedestrian crossings, improvements to intersections, accessibility upgrades, safer routes to schools and better connections to public transport.
Community feedback gathered during earlier consultation found that residents were particularly concerned about road crossing safety, vehicle speeds, footpath conditions and obstacles that make walking difficult.
The strategy also proposes working with Transport for NSW to reduce delays for pedestrians at signalised crossings in high-activity areas and improve access around transport corridors.
Focus Area
What It Covers
Slow Streets
Expansion of 40 km/h zones and other measures to reduce vehicle speeds based on local street conditions and surrounding land uses.
Right-Sizing Intersections
Changes to intersections that currently prioritise vehicle movement, with the aim of improving pedestrian access, safety and comfort.
Vehicle Entrances and Exits
Measures to reinforce pedestrian priority and improve safety where vehicles cross footpaths at driveways, car parks and access points.
Pedestrian Safety Initiatives
Infrastructure upgrades at pedestrian crash locations, combined with community education and awareness programs to improve safety outcomes.
Pedestrian Crossing Improvements
Additional crossing opportunities and treatments designed to make road crossings safer, easier and more direct for pedestrians.
Pedestrian Signal Priority
Collaboration with Transport for NSW to reduce waiting times at traffic signals, particularly in areas with high pedestrian activity.
Bus Stop Improvements
Better pedestrian access around bus stops, including safer street crossings and additional footpath space for waiting passengers and pedestrians.
Footpath Surface Improvements
Upgrades to footpaths, streetscapes and walking routes, including heavily used unpaved sections and links through parks and open spaces.
Active Travel to School
Continued engagement with schools and pursuit of external funding to improve walking routes and support safer journeys to and from school.
Continuous Travel Paths
Accessibility improvements that support the Disability Inclusion Action Plan, including continuous and accessible routes for people with mobility limitations.
Improving Connections to Public Transport
A recurring theme throughout the document is the relationship between walking and public transport. According to the strategy, walking and public transport together account for around half of all trips made within Waverley. Improving access to bus services is therefore considered an important part of improving walkability across the municipality.
Proposed measures include safer crossings near bus stops, additional space for waiting passengers and upgrades that make pedestrian routes easier to navigate.
For suburbs such as Dover Heights, where bus services often provide the main connection to larger centres and employment areas, improvements to walking routes may influence how easily residents access public transport.
The draft strategy forms part of a broader planning framework that includes Waverley’s Community Strategic Plan, People, Movement and Places plan, Environmental Action Plan and Disability Inclusion Action Plan.
A local Dover Heights café situated along Military Road has transformed into the area’s premier inclusive gathering space by successfully blending panoramic views of the Harbour Bridge with a highly adaptable menu that caters to diverse modern dietary needs.
The bustling seaside neighbourhood has found a reliable anchor in this casual dining spot, which residents frequently turn to for everything from a rapid morning caffeine fix to unhurried mid-day meals. The venue has intentionally structured its physical layout to welcome the entire community, offering expansive indoor seating alongside breezy outdoor areas that capture the coastal atmosphere.
By removing traditional barriers to dining out, the establishment functions as a social core where large families, independent remote workers, and friendly groups routinely cross paths.
Beyond the scenic backdrop, the kitchen focuses heavily on innovative presentation and broad culinary appeal. The menu provides an extensive range of plant-based and gluten-free alternatives, ensuring that vegetarian and vegan diners have just as many options as meat lovers. Patrons frequently select hearty items such as premium Wagyu beef burgers and savoury salmon toast, or lighter alternatives like vibrant acai bowls and loaded avocado toast.
For those seeking unique breakfast choices, the chefs serve up truffle-infused mushrooms on toast and crisp cauliflower bites, paired with rich mochas or chilled chocolate drinks.
Local hospitality shines through the establishment’s distinct family and pet-friendly amenities, which help tie the neighbourhood closer together. Parents can relax in the outdoor seating area while keeping an eye on their children at the nearby playground, and a dedicated children’s menu keeps the youngest diners satisfied. Dogs are equally welcome in the open-air sections, where staff provide dedicated water bowls for four-legged visitors.
Furthermore, the venue features full wheelchair accessibility across its entrances, dining spaces, and restrooms, backed by digital payment options and free street parking that make daily visits stress-free for all patrons.
Take a quick stroll at the lovely Dudley Page Reserve in Dover Heights.
Are you looking for a place to enjoy Sydney’s majestic views? Well, there is no need for you to travel far. Just take a quick drive or bus ride to what arguably is the best Sydney eastern suburb park, the Dudley Page Reserve in Dover Heights.
At the Dudley Page Reserve, you get to experience a breathtaking panoramic view of some of Australia’s favourite icons such as the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Centrepoint Tower.
This park is set on such a prime location that a number of tourists visit this area for sightseeing. In fact, during the day you will see tourists dispersed all over the park eager to capture their perfect Australia souvenir photo.
Photo credit: www.waverley.nsw.gov.au
But of course aside from tourists, locals are also fond of this park. During the holidays such as New Year’s Eve and Australia Day, expect to see heaps of families gathered around whilst enjoying the spectacular view that the park offers.
It is definitely an ideal place to visit on New Year’s Eve because of the fireworks display that can easily be spotted given the park’s vantage point and clear view of the city. The local council also organises a festive family friendly mini carnival that is set annually at this park during New Year’s Eve.
Dudley Page Reserve is also one of Sydney’s underrated yet beautiful spots for catching the sunrise and sunset.
More than just Majestic Views
Photo credit: postcardsydney.com
More than just its majestic views of the city, the park also has a children’s playground set that consist of swings, slides, seesaw, and ropes climb. However, please be advised that Dudley Page Reserve’s playground is ideal for small kids and not for toddlers.
Photo credit: www.waverley.nsw.gov.au
Another activity to do at the Dudley Page Reserve is junior cricket. Although the allotted space in the park is too small for a full-sized match, the area can still be used for team training or even a casual game of cricket with some friends and families.
Dudley Page Reserve also boasts its outdoor gym that is perfect for those who wants to get fit and active without having to pay gym membership fees. The outdoor gym in this park features different stationary machines that can be of use in your everyday workout whilst the picturesque harbour view serves as your backdrop.
Photo credit: postcardsydney.com
Please be advised that limited street parking spaces are available in the area and that pets are restricted inside the park. There are a few rubbish bins at Dudley Page Reserve, but there are no public toilets nearby.
If you are interested to book Dudley Page Reserve, book here or enquire via email at venuehire@waverley.nsw.gov.au or telephone 9083 8300.
Two young business partners who made waves with their $82.5 million Rose Bay mansion purchase late last year are preparing to sell their Dover Heights investment property.
John Angelis, 30, and Yianni Gourlas, 31, have listed their five-bedroom contemporary home at 16 Napier Street for auction on 10 March, with a price guide of $11 million to $12 million.
The former Scots College schoolmates, who are co-founders and joint chief executives of Clearlake Insurance Brokers, acquired the property in 2021 for $10.85 million, according to property records.
The three-storey residence, designed by architect Michael Folk, sits on a 662-square-metre block and showcases sweeping harbour views that take in the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House.
Raine & Horne Double Bay agent Alex Lyons, who is handling the sale, said the property offered a rare combination of features for the area.
“It’s quite unique to have your home with three full levels with lift access to all,” Mr Lyons said in comments to Domain. “It’s just the perfect balance – an entertainer’s home with all the functionality that makes it perfect for a family.”
The modern home features open-plan living spaces that flow onto an entertainer’s terrace with barbecue facilities. The first floor includes a guest suite and office space, while the upper level houses three additional bedrooms with ensuites. The main bedroom includes a dressing room and opens onto a full-width balcony shared with a second-floor retreat.
A rooftop terrace offers 270-degree views across the eastern suburbs, city skyline and harbour.
Additional features include a ground-floor media or games room, landscaped grounds with a heated pool, poolside cabana equipped with a pizza oven and television, and secure parking for seven vehicles. The property also includes a wine cellar and lift access to all three levels.
The sale follows the duo’s high-profile acquisition of 14 Tivoli Avenue in Rose Bay, a waterfront mansion purchased for $82.5 million. That property sits adjacent to Villa Tivoli, the harbourside home once owned by late entertainer Barry Humphries and now owned by Mr Angelis’s father, Jim Angelis, a former owner of Coverforce and current managing director at Elyon Capital.
A Dover Heights Year 10 student has earned one of the state’s top science awards for research that could help protect both human skin and ocean ecosystems from harmful UV radiation.
Congjing Zhu received a High Distinction Certificate at the 2025 Young Scientist Awards at the University of Technology Sydney, recognised for her project “The Effects of UV-B Stress on the UV Resistance of Plants.”
The teenager’s research explores how naturally extracted plant compounds could provide an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical-based sunscreens, which she says are contributing to rising ocean acidity levels.
Photo credit: Kampus Production/Pexels
Congjing explained that many chemical-based sunscreens are currently contributing to increased ocean acidity, noting that an estimated 14,000 tonnes of sunscreen enters waterways globally each year. However, she said that naturally extracted plant compounds offer benefits for both the environment and human health.
The research comes at a crucial time for Australia, which has one of the highest melanoma rates in the world, making sun protection a daily necessity for millions of people.
Congjing, who has long held an interest in biochemistry, is among five students from eastern suburbs schools being recognised at this year’s awards ceremony across chemistry, biology, physics and primary sciences categories.
Photo credit: Facebook/Science Teachers Association of New South Wales
The Young Scientists Awards have been presented by the Science Teachers’ Association of NSW (STANSW) since 1992, providing recognition to the state’s brightest young scientific minds. The High Distinction Certificate is awarded to students achieving a level 5 standard, representing excellence in scientific investigation and research.
Also receiving recognition on Friday is 14-year-old Kambala student Karin Iwano from the eastern suburbs, whose project developed a simple tool to measure soil acidity using liquefied red cabbage as a natural pH indicator.
Karin explained that measuring soil acidity across different locations presents challenges, yet remains critically important for agricultural purposes. Her biodegradable solution provides an easy-to-read colour change between purple and red to indicate acidity levels.
The practical application came from a school excursion to a farm, proving that real-world observations can spark innovative solutions.
The young scientist described her STEM work as both enjoyable and rewarding, adding that she hopes to study technology or engineering and eventually create new products for major tech companies.
STANSW vice president Lauren McKnight said the awards help students “see science not just as a subject, but as a way of understanding and shaping the world around them.”
The awards ceremony will also announce the coveted Young Scientist of the Year, recognising the most outstanding project among all entries.
For Dover Heights, Congjing’s achievement highlights the calibre of scientific thinking emerging from local schools, with her research addressing both environmental sustainability and public health concerns through innovative botanical chemistry.
Perched on the cliffs of Dover Heights is the Holman House, one of Australia’s most celebrated architectural masterpieces for its award-winning design and community significance.
A Modern Architectural Icon in Dover Heights
Designed by Durbach Block Jaggers and completed in 2004, Holman House gained widespread recognition after winning the Wilkinson Award from the Royal Australian Institute of Architects in 2005.
The house is famed for its dramatic cliffside placement and sweeping curves, inspired by a Picasso painting. With panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and a design that seamlessly integrates with the rugged coastline, Holman House has become a standout feature of the Dover Heights landscape.
The house’s design features bold shapes that float over the cliff edge, an engineering feat demonstrating innovation in Australian architecture. Its projected forms and utilization of natural materials establish a visual balance with the environment around it, making it a point of pride for locals and a fascination for architectural enthusiasts worldwide.
Though a private residence, Holman House has become a cultural marker for the Dover Heights community. Its striking design reflects the area’s reputation for bold, forward-thinking architecture that embraces its natural surroundings. Locals often mention the house as a source of inspiration, pointing to it as a model of how modern homes coexist with the Australian coastline’s dramatic beauty.
The house is frequently the subject of architectural tours and photography, drawing visitors to the area who come to admire its unique design. While it remains privately owned, Holman House has an almost public role in shaping Dover Heights’ identity as a hub for innovative residential design.
The Significance of the Wilkinson Award
Winning the Wilkinson Award in 2005 cemented Holman House’s place in Australian architectural history. The award, one of the highest honours for residential design in the country, is given to projects that exemplify excellence in form, function, and environmental integration. Judges praised the house’s ability to balance structural daring with a sense of home, calling it a benchmark for modern Australian housing.
Efforts to maintain such homes protect their artistic and historical value and inspire future designs in the area. Local heritage advocates have often highlighted Holman House as an example of how modern architecture can pay homage to the natural landscape while remaining functional and liveable.
Holman House also questions the balance between private property and public appreciation. While it is a family home, its prominence has made it a public interest and architectural study subject, demonstrating how residential design can transcend its original purpose.
We’ve combed Dover Heights, Hmas Watson, Rose Bay North, Vaucluse, and Watsons Bay for the best reviewed restaurants in the area where people waxed lyrical about their dining experience and what they love most about it. Here’s our list!
Lisa ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Such a cute place for high tea. Everything was tasty! We had to wait a bit to grab the bill but overall, we had a great time.
Josephine C ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ BEST WEDDING EVER! We had the time of our life at this beautiful venue in September. The food was amazing, our guests were so happy, the service was great and the venue is just stunning. We loved how intimate it was which made for a great party feel with 110 guests. Thank you Vaucluse Estate for making our day so special and memorable. It couldn’t have gone any better!
Thalyn S ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I recently had the pleasure of celebrating my baby shower here 🍼 A perfect venue for a sweet spring event surrounded by gorgeous wisteria seen from the main restaurant. The afternoon tea was very delicious (scones perfect and yummy mocktails) and a very elegant afternoon tea set up.Staff are very nice and friendly – shout out to the lovely Yimmi 🌷Thank you Amanda from events for helping me plan my baby shower – I was definitely showered with sweet treats, pretty flowers and lots of love 💛💛💛Looking forward to going back for more afternoon tea 🫖 🍰
Yong J ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good food, decoration. The service is attentive, the environment is fresh, elegant and very atmosphere. I came here for breakfast this time, and I will come for dinner next time
Rhea P ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If I could give this beautiful place a higher rating, I would! I came to celebrate my bridesmaids proposal here a few weeks ago and gosh the place was absolutely beautiful 😍 The staff members were absolutely amazing and treated my bridesmaids and I with such kindness and respect, and even offered to take photos for us!And just when we thought it couldn’t get better, the food and mimosas came out! Each of our meals were delicious and the service was super fast and responsive to our dietary requests. I highly recommend this beautiful restaurant for any event or general booking as the staff will 100% take care of you and you will be in awe of the atmosphere! Thank you so much ☺️
Nick W ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had the most incredible anniversary dinner at Botanica! This place is an absolute gem – stunning location, beautifully designed decor, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. But the real highlight? The food! Every dish was exceptional, packed with flavor and beautifully presented. It’s right up there with the best hatted restaurants, but without any unnecessary fuss. If you go, try as many dishes as possible. Highly recommend!
Ana J ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great lunch spot! Pricey but worth it, fish is fresh and of good quality. Sourdough bread was delicious as well as pasta! Staff was accommodating and well trained. The only annoying thing were seagulls and pelican who were trying to grab a bite.
Chris G ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Doyle’s has been a family favourite, since the 1930’s, when my grandparents used to go there. My Mum and I would often go to Doyle’s during our trips back to Sydney. It’s just a beautiful place, right on the water. You can see the city and the harbour bridge popping its arch over the headland. Watch the ferries chug back and forth… and eat the scrumptious seafood. The staff are amazing. I was lucky enough to meet Elizabeth Doyle, she was working to ensure everyone was enjoying their time at Doyles. Thank you to all the staff. The live music was an added bonus, thanks Heath Lincoln. 🎸
Rosie ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Booked a table for 2, literally by the water. You can’t beat the view! Food was good. Ordered the surf & turf and the salmon as our main meals. For the entree ordered salt & pepper calamari & fresh oysters. We couldn’t fit dessert. Service was good . It was a busy night so it might have taken a lil longer to get the food out. Overall .. the view was amazing, food & service good. Highly recommended .
Serena D ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Inside a stunning heritage building over looking the water this place is incredible. The food was exceptional. Service very friendly and attentive. Location perfect. This place is a must try! Loved it all here
Olivia S ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Golden moments Delicious food, stunning sunset views, and smiles all around—especially from our Goldie! Your warmth and professionalism created an atmosphere of elegance and charm. Thank you for having us—we look forward to visiting again.
Christina F ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Incredible dining experience at Dunbar by Palomas! The seafood was outstanding, especially the freshly shucked oysters with Nam JIm and flame-kissed prawns – so fresh and full of flavour. The eye fillet with pepper sauce & truffle mash was perfectly cooked and the pan-fried barramundi with clams, green olives & tomato fregola was a seafood lover’s dream. The cocktails were sensational, with the Pink Cloud Cocktail and Watermelon Margarita being the perfect sunset sips. Add in the stunning oceanfront views, attentive service and this is the ultimate spot for drinks and dinner by the water. Can’t wait to return! 🌅🍸✨
りほ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This place has some of the best sushi and sashimi in Australia. I love this place, the food is always fresh and the staff is attentive. Salmon in particular is my favorite. Once you visit, you will definitely want to visit again.
Taku M ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I enjoyed a delicious meal. The sushi and sashimi are especially fresh, and the sashimi tacos are excellent with the jalapeño sauce. The staff is friendly and very helpful.
Residents in Dover Heights have successfully petitioned to remove a line of tuckeroo trees on Myuna Road that have grown to block views of Sydney Harbour and the Opera House.
Homeowners along Myuna Road raised the issue after noticing that the tuckeroo trees, planted by authorities more than a decade ago, had grown far taller than the original street trees. Those earlier plantings stood below three metres and did not obstruct outlooks across the harbour.
Residents said the tuckeroos now range between four and eight metres high, cutting off previously open views of Sydney’s skyline. In their petition to the authorities, signed by 21 homeowners, residents included photographs taken before the current trees were planted to demonstrate the extent of the change.
Caption: A photo of a tuckeroo tree. Photo Credit: Wikipedia
Petition Leads To Near-Unanimous Vote
The matter had been revisited over several council terms, with pruning efforts undertaken to manage growth. However, trimming reduced width rather than height and failed to restore visibility. After ongoing discussions, councillors voted almost unanimously to support the residents’ petition to remove the tuckeroos.
Waverley Council confirmed it would replace them with native grevillea trees that grow no higher than about three metres. The council stated that the removal and replanting work will occur in the coming months, with staff managing the process to minimise disruption and maintain the area’s vegetation cover.
Balancing Views And Greenery
Residents described the outcome as a practical resolution to a long-running issue affecting a street known for its panoramic location. The decision aims to preserve the area’s tree-lined appearance while ensuring harbour views are no longer obstructed.
Others in the community have emphasised the value of shade and wildlife habitat provided by street trees, reflecting an ongoing discussion about balancing environmental and visual priorities in residential areas.
Waverley Council has said it will oversee the removal and replanting process and continue reviewing tree species for urban streetscapes. The aim is to ensure future plantings provide greenery without obstructing outlooks, maintaining both the environmental and visual character of Dover Heights.
Fashion designer Shona Joy Thatcher, whose popular ‘La Lune’ dress has generated over $12.5 million in sales, and her property investor husband, Marty McGrath, are offloading their redesigned Mediterranean-inspired home in Dover Heights.
The sale comes after the family’s shift to a more relaxed, sea-focused lifestyle. They bought a three-bedroom house in Byron Bay in 2021, a year after securing a hinterland acreage in Federal for $2.7 million. While the couple will retain a three-bedroom unit in North Bondi, their decision to list their primary Sydney residence marks a new chapter, embracing a life by the coast that has always influenced the Shona Joy brand.
The couple’s Dover Heights property has seen a dramatic transformation since they purchased the 618-square-metre block for $2.2 million in 2014. What was once a double red brick house has been re-imagined into a modern, luxurious five-bedroom, four-bathroom home that evokes the feeling of a Greek island holiday.
The project was a collaboration with several celebrated Australian firms, including Andrew Burges Architects, who are known for their redesign of the Parramatta Aquatic Centre, and Robert Plumb Build. The interiors were a result of a partnership with Design Daily, while the gardens were crafted by Dangar Barin Smith.
Beyond the sale of their home, Shona Joy’s fashion empire continues to thrive, celebrating its 25th year in the industry. The brand is particularly well known for its occasion dresses for weddings, a result of its appealing price points and wide range of sizes and colours.
One dress in particular, the “La Lune” lace-back maxi dress, has been a standout success, with over 38,000 sold since 2020. This single style has reportedly generated more than $12.5 million in sales, according to the designer.
The Dover Heights home, which is scheduled to go to auction on September 27, is part of a series of strategic property moves for the couple. In addition to their recent acquisitions in Byron Bay and Federal, they recently sold another two-bedroom unit in Bondi Beach for $2.05 million. The Dover Heights listing is being handled by Alex Phillips of PPD Real Estate.
