Local residents in Chatswood West were left shocked after police discovered a juvenile Australian freshwater crocodile in a backyard on Hawthorne Avenue during a raid earlier this month.
North Shore Police Area Command officers attended the property on the evening of 3 January to investigate reports of a possible clandestine drug laboratory operating from the garage.
Upon arrival at 7pm, police spotted the scaly reptile in the rear yard of the residence, located less than one kilometre from the Lane Cove River.
The 44-year-old occupant of the home reportedly told officers he did not hold a licence or permit to keep the native animal. Australian freshwater crocodiles are typically found in northern regions of Queensland, the Northern Territory and Western Australia.
A North Shore Police Area Command spokesperson confirmed the crocodile was relocated by police following the discovery.
During subsequent searches of the property, officers allegedly found five replica gel-blaster firearms. These included one Glock-style gel-blaster pistol that fires small, water-filled polymer balls, along with four gel-blaster rifles.
The man has been charged with one count of dealing in, or attempting to deal in, a protected animal, four counts of possessing an unauthorised firearm, and one count of acquiring a firearm part without authority to do so.
He was granted strict conditional bail and is scheduled to appear at Hornsby Local Court on 3 February.
Police said enquiries into the alleged drug laboratory are continuing, though no drug-related charges have been laid at this stage.
“North Shore PAC would like to remind the public that it is illegal to own or possess a gel blaster gun in NSW without a valid firearms licence or permit,” the spokesperson said.
We’ve combed Chatswood and Chatswood West 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!
Ca T ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I had such a great experience at Myung Jang in Chatswood! From the moment we walked in, the staff were welcoming and attentive, making us feel right at home. The Korean BBQ was absolutely delicious — the meats were tender, perfectly marinated, and grilling them right at our table was so much fun. I especially loved the variety of banchan (side dishes) that came with our meal; each one was fresh and packed with flavor. The atmosphere was cozy and lively, perfect for catching up with friends or family. It’s definitely become one of my go-to spots for Korean food in Chatswood.
Maria T ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I’ve been to this restaurant on multiple occasions, and each time has been better than the last. From the friendly service to the fabulous array of side dishes, Myung Jang is the go to place for your K-BBQ fix.
Teddy T ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great location, close to the station!
Flora C ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We came here for dinner and loved the gentle lighting, it felt like a quiet bistro on Paris street. The vibe was relaxed with people chatting and enjoying their evening. It instantly put you at ease. We tried the bread basket, French escargots, duck confit and their signature short ribs. Everything was well done, but really the cozy atmosphere make the night special.
David ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This is a fantastic spot! Their dishes are always cooked to perfection. Great atmosphere and friendly service too. Highly recommend!
姜朦怡 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The environment is really beautiful, the boss even put flowers on each table, it really feels like a French town restaurant! The bread basket before the meal is delicious, the beef ribs are really special and paired with red wine is really amazing! (translated from Chinese)
Edie C ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Lovely and cozy dining experience. We came for an early dinner and by the time we left, the place was absolutely buzzing! Out of the meals we ordered, we would definitely come back for the mushroom risotto, sourdough with soy butter, and the fried brussel sprouts. All the dishes were so flavourful! We also tried the wagyu cheeseburger and the fries with nori seasoning which were also good. For drinks, I had the rose oolong soda which was fragrant and refreshing.
Gerilyn X ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Chanced upon this restaurant and was so happy with it! The coffee, food and service are amazing! We were even allowed to bring our puppy in 🐶 We had cold brew/ latte/ fries/ risotto and spanner crab pasta. Everything was a 10 for us! Highly recommend and all staff were so nice and friendly.
Shelly ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Yum yum yum!! I’ve been to Bistro Kai twice now and each time the food has been exceptional. I’ve pretty much had most of the menu – from the perfectly seasoned seaweed fries to the prawn pasta, miso risotto and beef and chicken Maryland- all of the dishes are bursting with flavor. When we first visited the manager was also kind enough to offer a taste of his off menu ice cream which was delicious. Can’t wait to go back
Hao W ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very nice food here. We had BBQ set with friends and it taste Super delicious. The roast duck is my favorite. Can’t Wait to come back again. Also Staff are super friendly.
Richard C ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amah located at Chatswood interchange podium level. It’s open kitchen at the center and a lounge bar at the main entrance. The dining area is spacious and no problem for wheelchair users. It provides a QR to download a menu in PDF and printed food and drinks menu. We popped up there to have a family dinner for 6 adults, 2 kids and 1 infant on Sunday night. Out of our order, I’d like to recommend Fish balls soup, Dry wonton + Cha Siu noodles, curry chicken roti set, hot black sticky rice with coconut milk & Pistachio Expresso Affogato. However, too salty for Salted duck egg prawn toast, Kangkung Belachan and Chicken Laksa. It’s convenient to park in Westfield then take a short walk to there.
Grace L ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Took my family there for dinner. Had Chilli lobster. It was so yummy. The BBQ wrap was a surprise. Had 3 different kinds of meat with the wrap. It was amazing. Dessert was great too. Had a lovely night.
주전걸 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The food was really good, the quality of the meat was amazing!! Service was also wonderful!! Def would like to visit again!
Michael L ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Our family favorites Korean restaurant. Quality of the meat served here is top notch, great atmosphere and friendly staff. Manager here really looks after us. Highly recommended!
Zhang N ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This is one of my favorites Korean bbq in Sydney!!! I would strongly recommend!!! The wagyu beef are so fresh also the chilli!!! Me and my husband had our dinner here twice in last week!! The soup are also very delicious. I would recommend to my friends as well! Also the side dish – potatoes yum yum❤️
