Pittwater Online News

Articles This Week 

Front Page Issue 327: RATS WIN SHUTE SHIELD - Avalon Bulldogs Win Premiership

Aquatics: Put On Your Sailing Shoes: Pittwater's 2017-2018 Sailing Season + some of these clubs events - Avalon Sailing Club, Bayview Yacht Racing Association, Couta Boat Club – Pittwater Chapter, Palm Beach Sailing Club, Palm Beach Yacht Club On Pittwater, Royal Motor Yacht Club Of Broken Bay (At Newport), Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, Sailability Pittwater, Woody Point Yacht Club

Residents Should Not Fear Demerger Costs - visiting Greens MLC states - de-amalgamation bill to be debated again in September, petition calling on the state government to reconstitute Pittwater Council within its former boundaries, President of Protect Pittwater Bob Grace states this community group is seeking further legal advice and 'the fact that we seceded 20-odd years ago has some significance'

Funds For Wakehurst Parkway Flood Mitigation

Bushcare Volunteers Supported By State Government Grants Produce Positive Results at Dundundra Falls and Freshwater Beach

First Ministerial Statement On Veterans And Their Families - The Hon Dan Tehan MP, Minister for Veterans' Affairs, courtesy the Office of Member for Mackellar, Jason Falinski

Spoilt For Choice: Top 10 Spring Things To Do In The Pittwater Ward by Selena Griffith

Audi Hamilton Island Race Week 2017 by Lisa Ratcliff 

Pictures: Signs of Spring 2017 - birds, flowers, fishers

Boats: No. 2  In Really Bad Poetry For Children

DIY Ideas Tips for Growing a Native Garden With Father's Day and the first day of Spring 2017 happening this week, a list of gardening tips, including cultivation, soil types, fertilising and mulching, and water-wise gardening, to make sure that your native garden is a success and you, and dad, enjoy your outdoors this coming season.

Local Government Election 2017 Candidates pages: Issue 327

Liberal Party Candidates For Pittwater - Local Government Election 2017 - Kylie Ferguson, Dale Cohen and Allan Porter

Your Northern Beaches Independent Team For The Narrabeen Ward - Local Government Election 2017 - Sue Heins, Rohan Fisher and Matt Nicholson 

Park Bench Philosopher: Australia: Place Of The Culling Fields: see a report on the burying alive of Australia's Hairy-nosed wombat in SA this week? with 'permits' still being issued to kill native fauna, mass destruction of habitat and laws changed to enable this further, continued roadkills, more killing by cats and dogs - ours will be the last generation to see/save what is left

Profile: Pittwater Baseball Club Website: www.pittwaterbaseballclub.com.au

The Season Start for 2017/2018 Pittwater Baseball Club commences Saturday, September 9th.  Their Mission: Share a community spirit through the joy of our children engaging in baseball.

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 9/8/2017 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Candidates To Speak To Electors At MV This Week

A Plastic Bag Free Northern Beaches

Draft Electoral Bill 2017

Film Screening: 'Coal- Is It Worth It?'

The film is a new documentary by veteran filmmaker and Pittwater resident, John Davis who tragically died in a helicopter crash while trying to expose damage caused by the Shenua coal-mine. His family and friends completed the film in his memory. 

Record Funding Available For Surf Club Upgrades

Hazard Burn-Offs Raising Concerns

We've had correspondence this week expressing concern over recent hazard burn-offs. One at Stapleton reserve was photographed by a resident on Thursday and then another seemed a little too strong in the smoke department among rising winds on Saturday afternoon.

Stapleton from Nth. Avalon

As these are conducted or delayed to suit conditions, and endeavour to reduce the bushfire risk prior to Bushfire Season commencing, residents are asked to keep up to date as to when these are scheduled to minimize affect to those who suffer from respiratory complaints and be vigilant as to reporting fires they suspect are not conducted by trained personnel.

Information regarding these may be viewed on the NSW Rural Fire service webpage here

Principality Of Pittwater

The wonderful Lorrie Morgan has bequeathed the patch below to us earlier this week and we would like to clarify where it came from - is it this?:

Peter Bensley has been dubbed Prince Peter of Pittwater by the Avalon Lions Club which has organised a Pittwater Principality Secession Week from September 25 to October 5 to raise funds for disabled and disadvantaged people in the Manly Waringah area. In return for his crown Peter will be handing out knighthoods and attending fund-raising functions beginning with a Royal Chinese Banquet. 

Appeared in The Sydney Morning Herald  Page 80. September 13, 1981

Please contact us if you know more

Congratulations Joshua Johnson!

C/- Harper Timber - Johnson Bros. Mitre 10 Mona Vale

Friday August 25th, 2017

On Friday the 18th of August 2017, Joshua Johnson took out the New South Wales Hardware Industry Rising Star for 2017.

Josh joined the family business in 2010 and learnt his trade by working in the Timber yard, moving quickly to the sales counter. A couple of year later saw him take on the responsibilities as the main purchaser for timber. In 2015, he again took on extra responsibility, becoming manager of the newly acquired Harper Timber and has overseen the transition of it's development into only the second dedicated Mitre 10 trade centre in Australia.

From all the family, staff and friends of Johnson Bros and Harper Timber, congratulations on this well deserved recognition. Best of luck in the national competition!

Newport Surf Life Saving Club - Building Extensions

The Newport Surf Life Saving Club has developed a concept plan for proposed extensions to the existing building and are now seeking owners consent to lodge a Development Application (DA).

The DA is for an extension to the existing building to provide additional storage areas, improve accessibility and provide additional amenity and community space.

View the Plan

Make a comment

Online

In writing 'Newport SLSC Extension' to Northern Beaches Council, 725 Pittwater Road, Dee Why, 2099

For further information contact Bernard Koon, Senior Project Officer on 9942 2535.

Comments close Sunday 10 September 2017

Candidates In Pittwater And Narrabeen 

We are running information on candidates who send it in to this News Service

Please provide:

1. Bio's on you and who is standing with you

2. What your objectives are (why should people vote for you)

3. High Res photos of you/your supporting standees - if you don't have these we can help you out - email - pittwateronlinenews@live.com.au or phone the office 

4. How people may contact you or where you may be speaking at upcoming community functions.

This information will run Issues 326, 327 and 328 - published 20th and 27th of August and September 3rd 2017 - you will need to have everything to us by the Wednesday prior to publication. 

ALL those sent in will run in that final September 3rd Issue.

Local Government Election 2017 Candidates Pages 

Disclaimer: The content of Editorials in this Publication have been provided by a number of independent sources. Any opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Pittwater Online News, and no responsibility is taken for the accuracy of the information, or any factual errors contained within items published. 

The Informal Limerick Vote

Community members have communicated their intention to make an informal vote at the upcoming Local Government Elections to simply avoid a fine or express their rebuttal of these scheduled elections validating the forced amalgamation of Pittwater through defacing the ballot papers with stylish sketches or humorous limericks.

On the opposite side of the same coin, others wish us to point out that doing so may see representatives who do not reflect your own views being in charge of your immediate future.  

In scrutinising the background of all those who seek to represent you, and reading their proposals and aims, a clearer picture of what you don't want may point to what you will tolerate in the meantime while actions to restore the council you preferred, along its original boundaries, is taking place.

Along with what Candidates have written for their pages run here, Pittwater and Narrabeen Candidates Information Sheets provided to the Electoral Commission, although sparse in detail, can provide further insights.  

Visit candidates.elections.nsw.gov.au and click on 'Local Government Area Councillor Candidates by Area' then visit the Electoral Commission Page on Pittwater Ward: Councillor Candidates or the Electoral Commission Page on Narrabeen Ward: Councillor Candidates.

A Blast from the Recent Past

COUNCIL INTEGRITY LEGISLATION PASSED

Wednesday, 22 June 2016: Media Release - The Hon. Paul Toole, Minister for Local Government 

Legislation to stop dishonest councillors from misusing their position for personal benefit and impose caps on donations to local government elections has been passed, Minister for Local Government Paul Toole said today.

“These tough new laws will crack down on dishonest councillors and restore the community’s confidence in local government,” Mr Toole said.

“Local councillors make a very important contribution to our local communities. Unfortunately this has been overshadowed by scandals involving a small number of dishonest councillors.”

Mr Toole said the Local Government and Elections Legislation Amendment (Integrity) Act 2016 would:

• prevent councillors from making decisions on planning matters in which they or a relative have a pecuniary interest, where the permissible use of land is not being altered; 
• force councillors to hand over any financial benefit they have received if they voted in a matter in which they had a pecuniary interest; 
• require candidates at Local Government elections to disclose that they are a property developer or associate of a property developer; 
• ban people convicted of a crime within the past seven years from standing for council if that crime carries a potential jail term of five years or more; 
• restrict people convicted of a court offence under the Election Funding Act from standing for council for two years; and 
• impose caps on donations to local government elections.

Under the legislation, councillors, candidates and third-party campaigners will not be able to accept more than $2,500 per year from the same donor. Registered parties and groups will not be able to accept more than $5,800 per year from the same donor.

Local government expenditure caps will be implemented as part of a broader review of the State’s election funding laws once the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters delivers its review of the Schott report on political donations.

The NSW Electoral Commission has advised that it would not be possible to implement expenditure caps in time for the September 2016 elections.

2017 Pantaenius Newport To Coffs Coast Yacht Race Update

Enter Now Pay Later!

Royal Motor Yacht Club Broken Bay announced today that yacht owners who are intending to compete in this year’s Pantaenius Newport to Coffs Coast Yacht Race can enter now and pay later… by October 31st 2017.

Rob Brown Race Director for the race said, "In an effort to provide the best possible event, getting early intention to race will assist in our preparations both here at RMYC in Newport and also up at Coffs Harbour.

We have already had contact by 26 yacht owners from around the country who have indicated that they are going to compete. What I would like to offer to all those people and other keen yacht owners to enter now and pay later.

We all know that there is a fair bit of administration work associated with compliance for a race of this nature. That can be done over time. What we would appreciate is go online www.royalmotor.com.au and enter early.

The other point also is if yacht owners have accommodation requirements in Coffs Harbour, you may need to get moving to secure the appropriate accommodation over the Xmas New Year Period.

We are expecting around 40 to 50 boats to do the race, but it could increase to more than 50 the way things are travelling."

NBI Carers Cafe: 2 Years Young

Happy birthday to our Carers Cafe, 2 years old this month. 

The Carers Cafe provides valuable support to Carers in a relaxed and informal environment. 

The Cafe is held once a month on a Friday morning, for more information please contact louise@nbi.org.au

This year’s Team NBI T-shirts are on their way!

If you register for the Pub2Pub, join Team NBI and fundraise $100 or more for NBI, we’ll give you one to wear on the day, FOR FREE.

Register today. Go to www.pub2pub.com.au, click register, in Step 3 select “Join an existing team”, then search and select “Team NBI”.

Let's paint the place in orange, blue and white!

Rotary Spring Concert Tickets Now On Sale

Rotary Club of Upper Northern Beaches

Tickets are now on sale for the Northern Beaches concert of the year!

In this, our eighth annual Northern Beaches Spring Concert, Wednesday 20 September in the Grand Theatre at United Cinemas Warriewood, we bring back the popular local symphony, The Northern Beaches Orchestra, playing for the first time with the acclaimed Australian singer/songwriter Melinda Schneider.

Presented in partnership with United Cinemas, this live show -- Melinda Schneider Sings with Strings -- is a sparkling program of enduring songs made popular by Doris Day, Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt, Dusty Springfield and many more, plus Melinda's own award-winning hits.

Proceeds go to the projects of Upper Northern Beaches Rotary, including the Palliative Care Centre at Mona Vale Hospital. Special thanks to our generous sponsors, including Ann Wilson Funerals, Johnson Bros Mitre 10 and LJ Hooker Real Estate Newport & Collaroy.

Melinda Schneider has forged a brilliant career as country singer/songwriter, earning six CMAA Golden Guitar awards and two ARIA nominations. Her sparkling live show Melinda Does Doris -- A Tribute to Doris Day, is a hit cross Australia.

For details and tickets, see our website:www.rotaryuppernorthernbeaches.org

SNB Interbranch Golf Day

Hosted by Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches

Friday, September 22 at 7 AM - 3 PM

Bayview Golf Club

1825 Pittwater Rd, Mona Vale

Raising funds for our Interbranch Team to compete in the State Interbranch Championships.

Save the date - more details to come. 

Avalon Beach Market Day 2017

Sunday, November 19 at 9 AM - 4 PM

The main streets of Avalon Beach village and Dunbar Park come alive with amazing music, a fantastic array of market stalls selling fashion, jewellery and crafts as well as gourmet food stalls. For the kids there is face painting and carnival rides

STALLHOLDER APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN - APPLY HERE!!!

Visit: www.avalonbeachmarketday.com.au

Nominations Open For NSW Carers Awards

31 Jul 2017: NSW Dept. of Family & Community Services

Minister for Disability Services Ray Williams is encouraging people across NSW to nominate an exceptional carer or employer for a NSW Carers Award.

The NSW Carers Awards aim to recognise and raise awareness of the valuable contribution unpaid carers make to the people they care for and the wider community.

“There are more than 900,000 carers in NSW, who provide unconditional support for those in their care on a daily basis,” Mr Williams said.

“I would urge anyone who knows a carer or who has witnessed best practice by an organisation in supporting carers to put forward a nomination so this tremendous work can be recognised.”

The 2017 NSW Carers Awards will coincide with Carers Week, which runs from 15 - 21 October 2017.

“This is a great opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the significant contributions of carers across NSW,” Mr Williams said.

Up to 10 awards will be presented during the award ceremony, including the 2017 NSW Carer of the Year.

To nominate a carer go to www.careforacarer.nsw.gov.au. 

Entries close on 31 August 2017.

Examples of Individual carers include:

Family carers

Young carers

Senior carers

Nomination form for individuals.

Examples of organisations include:

Carer support groups and organisations

Carer friendly employers

Carer friendly education providers

Nomination form for organisations.

eSafety Community Seminar

Too often I hear of cyberbullying and poor cyber safety practice ending in tragedy for our young people.

To help tackle this issue, the Government has established the Office of the eSafety Commissioner.

To help parents, teachers and young people learn about online safety issues such as cyberbullying, image-based abuse and exposure to inappropriate content, the eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant,  is hosting an eSafety community seminar in our area.    

The seminar is at 7pm-8:15pm on Monday, 28 August, at The Pittwater House School, 70 South Creek Rd, Collaroy.

This is a good opportunity to educate our community about these important issues.  If you would like to attend, please click here.

 

I hope to see you there.

Jason Falinski

MP for Mackellar

www.jasonfalinski.com.au

Fundraiser For Marty Campbell

Courtesy Pittwater Offshore Newsletter

Friday 6 October from 5.30-6pm

Marty has been selected again for the 2018 Special Olympics national games in Adelaide.  He needs to raise $3000 towards the cost.

Mary Romeo has very kindly offered to host another fundraising evening atThe Waterfront Restaurant on Friday 6 October from 5.30-6pm. 

Purchase own food and drinks and there will be music, dancing, auction and raffle. 

Geoff and Tina are helping with the organisation so if you can something to auction or raffle, please let them know.

All welcome. $10 for adults. Children free. 

Please put it in your diaries.

Pesticide Notification 

1080 FOX POISON (sodium fluoroacetate) FOR FOX CONTROL 1080 poison as buried baits or 1080 poison capsules in ejector devices Will be laid in a continuous and ongoing way from: 

Date: 1st August 2017 to 31st January 2018

Where: 

• Garigal National Park. 
  
• Lane Cove National Park, 
  
• Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park 
  
• Sydney Harbour National Park: 
  
• North Head including the Quarantine Station, 
  
• Dobroyd Head, 
  
• Middle Head, 
  
• Chowder Head & Bradleys Head managed by the National Parks & Wildlife Service. 
  
•  The North Head Sanctuary and Former School of Artillery managed by the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust. 
  
• The Australian Institute of Police Management, North Head
  

WARNING: 

DO NOT TOUCH BAITS OR EJECTOR DEVICES DOMESTIC ANIMALS MAY BE AFFECTED 1080 POISON IS LETHAL TO DOGS AND CATS.

Pet owners must ensure that their pets do not enter baited reserves.

Warning signs will be displayed to notify the public.

Dogs and cats are prohibited in National Parks (NPW Act 1974 & Regulations) and the North Head Sanctuary (Local Govt Act (1993) Sect 632 (2) (d). Penalties apply.

For further information please contact:

National Parks and Wildlife Service Pest Management Officer: 9472 8953 NPWS Harbour (north) Area office: 8968 6300 NPWS 

Ku-ring-gai Chase (Forestville) Area office: 9451 3479 

NPWS Ku-ring-gai Chase (Mt Colah) Area office: 9472 9323

CCNB Is On The Move!!

Nippers Registration Days 2017-2018 Season

Petition: Save Ingleside From Over-Development

Planning Alerts

Heritage Grants Program

Breakwater Ball 2017

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Pippa

AGE/SEX: 2 years / F

BREED: Staffy X Spitz

Pippa is sweet affectionate girl who is social with other dogs. She greets you with gentle gallop and nuzzles her face into your hands. She is such a gentle dog. It is hard to imagine Spitz X Staffy, as written on her chip. She is more the shape of a kelpie and has a short coat and weighs 17.8kg. She comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. Her adoption cost is $450. 

2017 Mosman Art Prize

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Stalls 2017

Go Wild Gala For Sydney Wildlife 2017

Narrabeen Boys High 1967 50 Year Reunion - 2017

Call Out For Poets - ‘Spirit Of The Land’

 Gone Fishing Gallery at Waterfront Store Church Point

Open again TODAY in the top room Waterfront Store. Open mainly weekends as an addition to the waterfront cafe. Keep up to date on theirFacebook page

New Season for Sailability Pittwater 

Sailability Pittwater is a volunteer organisation which provides sailing for people with a disability. Our main recreational sailing activities are at Rowland Reserve, Bayview, and we run competitive sailing for people with a disability out of RPAYC Newport. We are currently looking for new volunteers for our Saturday morning program at Rowland Reserve and Tuesdays at RPA. For more information at  www.sailability.org/au/pittwater or call John on 9982 5656

Articles This Week 

Front Page Issue 326: 

On-Demand Public Transport Trial In Pittwater

Funds For Pittwater Foreshore And Pedestrian Improvements: Palm Beach (South) Landscape Masterplan, Careel Bay Foreshore Masterplan (Stage 2) and extension of the Hudson Parade Footpath Project between Clareville Beach and Taylors Point

Pictures: Mermaids Of Palm Beach Pictures From The 2017 Variety The Children's Charity B To B - Report and Photos by Viktorija McDonell

Vietnam Veterans Day (Northern) 2017 Commemorative Service

NSW To Stage The First-Ever Couta Boat Nationals Outside Victoria by Lisa Ratcliff

Waratah And Flint & Steel Track Problems Quickly Addressed by NPWS

Melinda Schneider Joins Northern Beaches Orchestra For Rotary 2017 Spring Concert: Wednesday, September 20th

Step Two For Kialoa II by Lisa Ratcliff & Marina Johnson

Reflections by George Repin: AUTUMN IN NEW ENGLAND USA

Whale Beach SLSC AGM 2017 - held August 13th, 2017

Aquatics: Freemantle To Pittwater And On To Paradise With Stealth by Lisa Ratcliff

Pittwater Greens Candidate Urges Rethink On Ingleside Plans, Calls for Council to Sign Climate Action Pledge - from Northern Beaches Greens

Local Government Election 2017 Candidates pages: Issue 326

Friends Of Pittwater- Local Government Election 2017: Peter Bosley, Jenny Stone and John Lettoof

Group B Independent Team Narrabeen Ward -Local Government Election 2017: Vincent De Luca OAM, Tammy Cook and Tony Biasi

Independents For Pittwater- Local Government Election 2017: Selena Griffith, Dr Suzanne Daly, Peter Middleton, Marcia Rackham and Lorrie Morgan

Your Northern Beaches Independent Team - Local Government Election 2017: Ian White, Katinga Schroeder and Bill Gye OAM 

Local Government Election 2017 Candidates: Disclaimer: The content of Editorials in this Publication have been provided by a number of independent sources. Any opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Pittwater Online News, and no responsibility is taken for the accuracy of the information, or any factual errors contained within items published. Readers should make their own enquiries directly to any organisation prior to making any plans or taking any action. 

Profile: Roland Luke

Warringah Rats Into Shute Shield Final

Candidates To Speak To Electors 

Mona Vale SLSC AGM

Rhonda Lycett was made a Life member at the recent Mona Vale AGM held on the 30th of July.

Principality Of Pittwater

The wonderful Lorrie Morgan has bequeathed the patch below to us earlier this week and we would like to clarify where it came from - is it this?:

Peter Bensley has been dubbed Prince Peter of Pittwater by the Avalon Lions Club which has organised a Pittwater Principality Secession Week from September 25 to October 5 to raise funds for disabled and disadvantaged people in the Manly Waringah area. In return for his crown Peter will be handing out knighthoods and attending fund-raising functions beginning with a Royal Chinese Banquet. 

Appeared in The Sydney Morning Herald  Page 80. September 13, 1981

Please contact us if you know more

Newport Surf Life Saving Club - Building Extensions

The Newport Surf Life Saving Club has developed a concept plan for proposed extensions to the existing building and are now seeking owners consent to lodge a Development Application (DA).

The DA is for an extension to the existing building to provide additional storage areas, improve accessibility and provide additional amenity and community space.

View the Plan

How to get involved

A drop in session at the Newport Surf Life Saving Club, where community members can share their thoughts on this project with one of the project team, is being held: Saturday 26 August – 10am - 12noon

Make a comment

Online

In writing 'Newport SLSC Extension' to Northern Beaches Council, 725 Pittwater Road, Dee Why, 2099

For further information contact Bernard Koon, Senior Project Officer on 9942 2535.

Comments close Sunday 10 September 2017

Pittwater Greens Invitation

Are you concerned about development in Pittwater?

Do you want our council back?

Come along and have a chat to:

• Local Government and Planning spokesman for the Greens David Shoebridge  
• Pittwater Greens for Northern Beaches Council candidates Miranda Korzy, Pru Wawn and Andy McIntosh

Clareville Beach (at the BBQ area)

Thursday August 24 at 10am

Morning tea provided

Please RSVP by email or Miranda on 0416 192 602

(In case of bad weather please call for alternative location). 

Candidates In Pittwater And Narrabeen 

We are running information on candidates who send it in to this News Service

Please provide:

1. Bio's on you and who is standing with you

2. What your objectives are (why should people vote for you)

3. High Res photos of you/your supporting standees - if you don't have these we can help you out - email - pittwateronlinenews@live.com.au or phone the office 

4. How people may contact you or where you may be speaking at upcoming community functions.

This information will run Issues 326, 327 and 328 - published 20th and 27th of August and September 3rd 2017 - you will need to have everything to us by the Wednesday prior to publication. 

ALL those sent in will run in that final September 3rd Issue.

Local Government Election 2017 Candidates Pages 

Disclaimer: The content of Editorials in this Publication have been provided by a number of independent sources. Any opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Pittwater Online News, and no responsibility is taken for the accuracy of the information, or any factual errors contained within items published. 

The Informal Limerick Vote

Community members have communicated their intention to make an informal vote at these upcoming Local Government Elections to simply avoid a fine or express their rebuttal of these scheduled elections validating the forced amalgamation of Pittwater through defacing the ballot papers with stylish sketches or humorous limericks.

On the opposite side of the same coin, others wish us to point out that doing so may see representatives who do not reflect your own views being in charge of your immediate future.  

In scrutinising the background of all those who seek to represent you, and reading their proposals and aims, a clearer picture of what you don't want may point to what you will tolerate in the meantime while actions to restore the council you preferred, along its original boundaries, is taking place.

Along with what Candidates have written for their pages run here, Pittwater and Narrabeen Candidates Information Sheets provided to the Electoral Commission, although sparse in detail, can provide further insights.  

Visit candidates.elections.nsw.gov.au and click on 'Local Government Area Councillor Candidates by Area' then visit the Electoral Commission Page on Pittwater Ward: Councillor Candidates or the Electoral Commission Page on Narrabeen Ward: Councillor Candidates.

A Blast from the Recent Past

COUNCIL INTEGRITY LEGISLATION PASSED

Wednesday, 22 June 2016: Media Release - The Hon. Paul Toole, Minister for Local Government 

Legislation to stop dishonest councillors from misusing their position for personal benefit and impose caps on donations to local government elections has been passed, Minister for Local Government Paul Toole said today.

“These tough new laws will crack down on dishonest councillors and restore the community’s confidence in local government,” Mr Toole said.

“Local councillors make a very important contribution to our local communities. Unfortunately this has been overshadowed by scandals involving a small number of dishonest councillors.”

Mr Toole said the Local Government and Elections Legislation Amendment (Integrity) Act 2016 would:

• prevent councillors from making decisions on planning matters in which they or a relative have a pecuniary interest, where the permissible use of land is not being altered; 
• force councillors to hand over any financial benefit they have received if they voted in a matter in which they had a pecuniary interest; 
• require candidates at Local Government elections to disclose that they are a property developer or associate of a property developer; 
• ban people convicted of a crime within the past seven years from standing for council if that crime carries a potential jail term of five years or more; 
• restrict people convicted of a court offence under the Election Funding Act from standing for council for two years; and 
• impose caps on donations to local government elections.

Under the legislation, councillors, candidates and third-party campaigners will not be able to accept more than $2,500 per year from the same donor. Registered parties and groups will not be able to accept more than $5,800 per year from the same donor.

Local government expenditure caps will be implemented as part of a broader review of the State’s election funding laws once the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters delivers its review of the Schott report on political donations.

The NSW Electoral Commission has advised that it would not be possible to implement expenditure caps in time for the September 2016 elections.

2017 Pantaenius Newport To Coffs Coast Yacht Race Update

Enter Now Pay Later!

Royal Motor Yacht Club Broken Bay announced today that yacht owners who are intending to compete in this year’s Pantaenius Newport to Coffs Coast Yacht Race can enter now and pay later… by October 31st 2017.

Rob Brown Race Director for the race said, "In an effort to provide the best possible event, getting early intention to race will assist in our preparations both here at RMYC in Newport and also up at Coffs Harbour.

We have already had contact by 26 yacht owners from around the country who have indicated that they are going to compete. What I would like to offer to all those people and other keen yacht owners to enter now and pay later.

We all know that there is a fair bit of administration work associated with compliance for a race of this nature. That can be done over time. What we would appreciate is go online www.royalmotor.com.au and enter early.

The other point also is if yacht owners have accommodation requirements in Coffs Harbour, you may need to get moving to secure the appropriate accommodation over the Xmas New Year Period.

We are expecting around 40 to 50 boats to do the race, but it could increase to more than 50 the way things are travelling."

NBI Carers Cafe: 2 Years Young

Happy birthday to our Carers Cafe, 2 years old this month. 

The Carers Cafe provides valuable support to Carers in a relaxed and informal environment. 

The Cafe is held once a month on a Friday morning, for more information please contact louise@nbi.org.au

This year’s Team NBI T-shirts are on their way!

If you register for the Pub2Pub, join Team NBI and fundraise $100 or more for NBI, we’ll give you one to wear on the day, FOR FREE.

Register today. Go to www.pub2pub.com.au, click register, in Step 3 select “Join an existing team”, then search and select “Team NBI”.

Let's paint the place in orange, blue and white!

Nippers Registration Days 2017-2018 Season

Manly - 3rd & 10th September  

North Steyne - 3rd & 10th September  

Queenscliff- 3rd & 10th September  

Freshwater - 10th September 

South Curl Curl - 17th September 

North Curl Curl

Dee Why  - 10th & 17th September

Long Reef

Collaroy; 3rd & 17th September  

South Narrabeen  10th & 17th September   

Narrabeen Beach  10th & 17th September   

North Narrabeen - 10th & 17th September  

Warriewood - 10th & 17th September  

Mona Vale - 10th September  

Newport - 

Bilgola 2nd & 10th September; 

Avalon Beach- 3rd, 8th, 10th September  

Please note Bungan Beach, Whale Beach, Palm Beach and North Palm Beach do not run Nipper Programs.

Book A Mini-Bus On Demand

August 16, 2017: NSW Government

A trial of On Demand Transport services will start in October 2017.

Public transport trials in parts of Sydney and the Central Coast will allow customers to book transport from or near their home to a local transport hub or landmark.

Areas included in the first series of trials

• Bankstown: An on demand bus service for visitors, patients and employees of Bankstown Hospital that operates 18 hours a day.
  
• Edmondson Park: A service to pick customers up from home or nearby location and drop them at the train station.
  
• Manly: A service to pick customers up at home or a nearby location and take them to ferries at Manly.
  
• Northern Beaches: A service that connects customers from Palm Beach to North Narrabeen to bus stops on the Northern Beaches B-Line.
  
• Sutherland Shire: A service to pick customers up from home or a nearby location in Jannali West, Sylvania, Caringbah and Gymea and take them to transport hubs or local shops.
  
• Eastern Suburbs: A service to pick customers up at home or a nearby location and take them to Edgecliff and Bondi Junction stations or Rose Bay wharves.
  
• Wetherill Park and Greystanes: A service to connect employment precincts to T-Way interchanges.
  
• Central Coast: A service to take customers to Woy Woy station from locations on the Woy Woy peninsula.
  
• Macquarie Park will use mini-buses and mini-vans during the trial to transport workers living within 15 kilometres of the precinct from early 2018.
  

Standard trips for the on-demand service will range from $2.60 to $5.60, and customers will be able to book online, by phone or via an app.

Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance said the trials would transform the daily commute for people across Sydney.

“We have on-demand movies, on-demand food, and finally – NSW will have on-demand transport,” Mr Constance said

Transport for NSW will use data from the trials to plan future public transport improvements across all areas of Sydney.

Learn more about the future of NSW transport

Submariner Memorial Dedication And 50 Years Of Submarines

18 August 2017

Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Marise Payne, joined Rear Admiral Mike Noonan, Deputy Chief of the Navy, and veterans to dedicate a memorial on the site of ex-HMAS Platypus, Australia’s decommissioned east coast submarine base, honouring all who have died while serving in Australian submarines.

The ceremony also marked 50 years since the re-establishment of the Australian submarine capability in 1967.

“For the past 50 years, since we re-established the Australian Submarine Squadron, the silent service has been dedicated to duty,” Minister Payne said.

“Australia’s submariners who served in the Oberon class of boats and at Platypus contributed greatly to Australia’s defence and national security.”

“The new memorial reminds all Australians of the unique and dangerous nature of the work submariners undertake for our nation.”

Minister Payne said submarines play a key role in protecting Australia’s prosperity and in ensuring maritime security.

“Our entire economy is dependent on secure and open sea lanes, and submarines are critical in keeping these lanes available for all nations to freely navigate the oceans and conduct maritime trade,” Minister Payne said.

“Submarines are a key asset in our efforts to enhance the stability and reinforce the rules-based order in our region; as well as reducing the risk of regional disputes or armed conflict.

“Our submariners’ legacy continues with the Collins class submarine capability and into the future as we design and build a new class of 12 regionally superior submarines.”

The Submariners’ Memorial is part of an urban renewal project at the Platypus site. HMAS Platypus and the Torpedo workshops were closed in 1999 and are being transformed into a public space following $20 million in funding from the Commonwealth Government and $3.8 million from the Sydney Harbour Trust Fund.

The site will have improved access, new open spaces, and the former workshops will be adapted for a range of recreational, community, and commercial activities. For more information on the Platypus Renewal Project and to view the Platypus Management Plan, visitwww.harbourtrust.gov.au.

Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Marise Payne at Submariners’ Memorial on Friday.

Rotary Spring Concert Tickets Now On Sale

Rotary Club of Upper Northern Beaches

Tickets are now on sale for the Northern Beaches concert of the year!

In this, our eighth annual Northern Beaches Spring Concert, Wednesday 20 September in the Grand Theatre at United Cinemas Warriewood, we bring back the popular local symphony, The Northern Beaches Orchestra, playing for the first time with the acclaimed Australian singer/songwriter Melinda Schneider.

Presented in partnership with United Cinemas, this live show -- Melinda Schneider Sings with Strings -- is a sparkling program of enduring songs made popular by Doris Day, Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt, Dusty Springfield and many more, plus Melinda's own award-winning hits.

Proceeds go to the projects of Upper Northern Beaches Rotary, including the Palliative Care Centre at Mona Vale Hospital. Special thanks to our generous sponsors, including Ann Wilson Funerals, Johnson Bros Mitre 10 and LJ Hooker Real Estate Newport & Collaroy.

Melinda Schneider has forged a brilliant career as country singer/songwriter, earning six CMAA Golden Guitar awards and two ARIA nominations. Her sparkling live show Melinda Does Doris -- A Tribute to Doris Day, is a hit cross Australia.

For details and tickets, see our website:www.rotaryuppernorthernbeaches.org

Turimetta Headland, Warriewood Proposed New Walkway 

Comments close Sun 20 Aug 2017

NBC are seeking feedback on the preliminary design plans for a new footpath at Turimetta Headland.

Comment online HERE 

Mona Vale Cemetery Conservation Management Plan 

Submissions close 27 Aug 2017

NBC are seeking feedback on the Draft Conservation Management Plan for Mona Vale Cemetery.

Residents are welcome to attend an information session:

Tues 15 Aug, 10am-12pm – Mona Vale Cemetery Site Office

Comment online HERE  

SNB Interbranch Golf Day

Hosted by Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches

Friday, September 22 at 7 AM - 3 PM

Bayview Golf Club

1825 Pittwater Rd, Mona Vale

Raising funds for our Interbranch Team to compete in the State Interbranch Championships.

Save the date - more details to come. 

Avalon Beach Market Day 2017

Sunday, November 19 at 9 AM - 4 PM

The main streets of Avalon Beach village and Dunbar Park come alive with amazing music, a fantastic array of market stalls selling fashion, jewellery and crafts as well as gourmet food stalls. For the kids there is face painting and carnival rides

STALLHOLDER APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN - APPLY HERE!!!

Visit: www.avalonbeachmarketday.com.au

Apology: Alrema Becke Is Next

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 9/8/2017 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Record Funding Available For Surf Club Upgrades

CCNB Is On The Move!!

Petition: Save Ingleside From Over-Development

Planning Alerts

Heritage Grants Program

Breakwater Ball 2017

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Onyx

AGE/SEX: 4 years / M

BREED: Wolfhound X

Onyx is a sweet happy dog who is very social with other dogs. He is easy to handle and affectionate with people, though he prefers women  and he just loves kids! He has a scruffy coat and weighs 28.8kg. He comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. His adoption cost is $400.

$65 Million To Champion Community Cohesion

2017 Mosman Art Prize

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Stalls 2017

Articles This Week 

Front Page Issue 325: 

Park Bench Philosophers: Avalon Beach North Headland Indian Face 'Falls': An Everchanging Coastline

Warriewood SLSC's 2017 AGM - Warriewood's First Female President- extracts from Annual Report

Leopard Seal On Bungan Beach: Please Maintain At Least 40 Metres From Seals That Come Ashore At This Time Of Year

Funding To Return Pasadena Site To Public Ownership: Once was Crown Land (1941) - 76 years later...

Mona Vale Performance Space: Northern Beaches Performing Arts Venue First Steps Under Shared Use Deal

Narani, Captain Cook Celebrations At MVPS And Elvina Bay Memories - 1970s from and by Kathyrn Ryan

Nautical Treasure In Suburbia by Roger Wickins - is there a better place for the housing of this artwork celebrating Claude Chouls?, last of the last of our WWI Veterans

Aquatics: PLYMOUTH REVISITED FOR OWNERS OF THE CLASSIC 1963 BUILT KIALOA II 

Pictures: Avalon Bulldogs A Grade Match - Bulldogs get Semi-Finals Fever

Helmets: No 1 in Really Bad Poetry for Children

Lunch in the Garden: Come Along to Coomalong for Cambodian charity, ‘Build Your Future Today’ - food by Leang and Touch Khun, Mona Vale Bakery, known for their traditional Cambodian fare, Bikes 4 Life Brookvale collect second-hand bikes and ship them to Cambodia - attending event, also renowned children’s author, Louise Park, will be discussing her Cambodian Literacy Project at the lunch - Sunday September 24th

Artist of the Month:  August  2017: Adriaan van der Wallen  Most people know Adriaan as a great surfer on short or long boards or logs, or even one of his numerous collectors boards inherited from legends such as Midget Farrelly or Jack McCoy, or as the gentleman who teaches their Nippers as a Member of Avalon Beach SLSC or a part of the Masters Team at Palm Beach SLSC, or as the teacher who educates their children. Others will have seen his great photographic skills featured here as one of our regular contributors.

Apology: Alrema Becke Is Next

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 9/8/2017 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Mermaids Go Pink

Funds For Scotland Island Wastewater Study

The Friends Of Mona Vale August 2017 Meeting Report

A brief REPORT of a public meeting convened by The Friends of Mona Vale and held at the M.V. Golf Club, 8th August 2017.

Chaired by former Premier of NSW Mr. Barrie Unsworth, 51 people attended to hear a wide range of speakers from local election candidates and organisations.

Mr. Bob Grace of Protect Pittwater Association reported on the crowd funding and progress of its campaign seeking the return of Pittwater Council in a speech that was well received.

Mr. Peter Bosley, Independent candidate for Friends of Pittwaterstated its opposition to the over-development now proposed for Mona Vale and Pittwater generally. One of his major points was a demand for the de-amalgamation of Northern Beaches Council.

Mr. John Ward and Mr. Richard Pearse PhD, both ALP candidates, together expressed support for the principle that local councils should not be forced to amalgamate and that local communities should have the opportunity to vote for de-amalgamation. They stated that a Labour government when elected is pledged to provide this opportunity.

Ms. Selena Griffiths, Independent candidate of Elanora Heights offered

advocacy and activism should she gain election.

Ms. Miranda Korzy, The Greens candidate emphasised that her party’s local government policy bound councillors to community consultation. The Greens opposition to over-development was well known, she said.

Ms. Jenny Stone, Independent, Friends of Pittwater candidate read her detailed speech in which she called for a limit to building heights to a maximum of 4 storeys when seeking support for a community based alternative to the “Mona Vale Place Plan”. She rejected any development of Pittwater’s wildlife corridors, including on Bayview Golf Course.

Mr. John Lettoof, Independent, candidate for Friends of Pittwater is very interested to see Pittwater’s waterways are properly cared for. He is also concerned that having one party in control of Federal, State and Local government can lead to a diminution of the benefits of democracy.

RESOLUTION OF MEETING. 

Proposed by Mark Edwards and seconded by Mr. Bob Grace the attached Resolution was adopted 49 for and 2 against !

MOTION.

This meeting of residents of Pittwater expresses its strong disappointment with the Government of NSW at its refusal to de-amalgamate the Northern Beaches Council. It gives notice of its intention to continue a campaign to ensure the return of Pittwater Council as a singular entity.

Considering the already choked roads on this narrow peninsular, with only two roads in or out of it, the Meeting further states its rejection of the Government’s ill-considered plans to grossly increase the population of Narrabeen and Pittwater Wards and so to increase building heights in those Wards from 4 storeys (13 metres) to 6 and 7 storeys, (23 metres).

This Motion is endorsed by The Friends of Pittwater.

CABRA Meeting Report

For those who couldn't make it to the CABPRA - Clareville and Bilgola Plateau Residents' Association meeting last Monday, here is coverage of the speech by Corinne Fisher:

"We do not have the luxury to do nothing. Work together to focus on what you love."

So says Corinne Fisher, a campaigner from the Total Environment Centre (TEC), who spoke at the CABPRA meeting last Monday night.

Corinne had a sobering assessment of the state government's agenda for development throughout Sydney - including Pittwater.

Changes to help drive that agenda since 2014 include:

- council amalgamations;

- a change to the Crown Lands Act (enacted late last year), that will permit the state govt to transfer Crown Land to Local Govt, allowing it to be sold off;

- the Bio-diversity Conservation Act, which even allows cash payments by developers as offsets for degraded land;

- tree clearing laws;

- and planning by the Greater Sydney Commission, and the bulldozing of whole Sydney suburbs.

Corinne condemned the role of developers in driving the development agenda and described the oft-quoted theory that house prices in Sydney are so high as "a myth propagated by development lobbyists".

However, she urged everyone to stand up for what we value in Pittwater, describing community groups like CABPRA as "the last line of defence" in protecting our green space. 

Corinne Fisher also encourages everyone to sign an open letter to the NSW Premier to Protect Sydney's Green Spaces:

"A powerful network of community, planning and health organisations have called on the Premier of NSW to protect and enhance the lungs of Sydney in an open letter organised by TEC.

Join major organisations, such as the Heart Foundation, National Trust and the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects: sign the letter and share it to amplify its impact.

The joint letter urges better protection of green spaces and trees from development and raises serious concerns about the proposed Biodiversity Offsets Scheme, which will lead to the widespread clearing of remnant bushland in the Greater Sydney area, in return for developers' cash payments.

Other ways you could help is sharing the link to the letter on your Facebook page and/or Twitter account.

Only by working together can we protect our precious green spaces. We hope you will join us in supporting this important initiative." - Corinne Fisher

_____________________

The CABPRA Cuppa Club is on the first Wednesday of each month, weather permitting. The next club is Wednesday 6 September at Clareville Beach BBQ area 10:30 am

Zonta Club Of NB Birth Kit Packing Day HUGE Success

What a great community day of packing birthing kits. 150+ members of our community packed kits at Barrenjoey High School. 2000 birthing kits successfully packed and ready to send to the Birthing Kit Foundation Australia for distribution. 

These ones are heading to the Congo with the 300 packed at Freshwater and the hospital - making a difference in the lives of 2300 women. 

Thanks to everyone - including those who donated to our raffle which raised $810 towards the cost of the kits. A very special 'thank you' to the Trefoil Guild of Retired Girl Guide Leaders for their fundraising and support. They have donated $810 towards next year's packing day costs.

A very big 'thank you' to the students and staff at Barrenjoey High School. Huge Thanks to everyone.

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches - August 6, 2017

Candidates In Pittwater And Narrabeen 

We will be running information on candidates who send it in to this News Service

Please provide:

1. Bio's on you and who is standing with you

2. What your objectives are (why should people vote for you)

3. High Res photos of you/your supporting standees - if you don't have these we can help you out - email - pittwateronlinenews@live.com.au or phone the office 

4. How people may contact you or where you may be speaking at upcoming community functions.

This information will run Issues 326, 327 and 328 - published 20th and 27th of August and September 3rd 2017 - you will need to have everything to us by the Wednesday prior to publication. 

ALL those sent in will run in that final September 3rd Issue.

We do not run:

a) Political advertisements.

b) Rude or defamatory comments towards others.

Ferry Problems

Commuters and visitors to Ettalong from the Palm Beach Ferry wharf have spoken of a  growing problem with sand buildup causing delays and even cancellation of some services after one ferry ran aground just over a week ago at Box Head despite recent dredging of the Ettalong Channel.

The emergency dredging completed during the parliamentary break has been described as ‘inadequate’ by stakeholders and, as predicted by them, the ferry was grounded and a wave broke over the back of the ferry.

The important commuter and tourist ferry was then cancelled with ferry drivers reluctant to take the risk on our dangerous local route. The ferry was translocated to Patonga due to low tides making the mouth to the Brisbane Water inaccessible and dangerous for the ferry to cross. 

Matt Wales, President of the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, states that the recently completed dredging is not a solution and all parties need to come to the table to settle on a satisfactory long-term plan.

Residents who regularly use the service to visit relatives have advised that commuters can sign up for a message advice from the ferry Service so that if a scheduled trip is delayed or cancelled they will receive a notice on their phone prior to leaving for the Palm Beach Ferry wharf.

Visit: www.fantasea.com.au/palmbeachferries-sms-alerts

NBI Carers Cafe: 2 Years Young

Happy birthday to our Carers Cafe, 2 years old this month. 

The Carers Cafe provides valuable support to Carers in a relaxed and informal environment. 

The Cafe is held once a month on a Friday morning, for more information please contact louise@nbi.org.au

This year’s Team NBI T-shirts are on their way!

If you register for the Pub2Pub, join Team NBI and fundraise $100 or more for NBI, we’ll give you one to wear on the day, FOR FREE.

Register today. Go to www.pub2pub.com.au, click register, in Step 3 select “Join an existing team”, then search and select “Team NBI”.

Let's paint the place in orange, blue and white!

Funding For Councils To Reduce Flooding 

August 10, 2017: NSW Government

NSW councils will receive $5.9 million in funding to better understand and manage their flood risks. 

he Floodplain Grants Scheme will fund 28 projects to help councils across the state make informed decisions on the best way to invest in flood mitigation and better manage the risk posed by floods.

Projects receiving funding include flood studies, floodplain risk management plans and flood mitigation works investigation and design.

In 2016, $4.59 million in funding was awarded to local councils and other authorities to undertake 43 priority projects to assess and reduce flooding.

Minister for Emergency Services Troy Grant stressed the importance of the role councils play in understanding and managing the flood risk in their local government areas.

“By enabling councils to better understand and manage flood risks we can help minimise some of the devastation caused by flooding,” Mr Grant said.

View a full list of the projects on the Office of Environment and Heritage website

Northern Beaches Council

Greendale Creek Flood Study

Council will undertake a catchment wide flood study for Greendale Creek to replace the previous localised flood study. Parts of the catchment, including the suburb of Brookvale, are under increasing pressure for an intensification of development, with major flagship developments either planned or already underway. Contemporary and accurate flood information for the catchment is important to ensure that proposed rezoning and future developments are designed to minimise the flood risk to future occupants.

McCarrs Creek, Mona Vale and Bayview Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan

The McCarrs Creek, Mona Vale and Bayview Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan will provide strategic direction for managing flooding in the suburbs of Mona Vale, Bayview, Church Point and parts of Ingleside and Newport on Sydney's Northern Beaches. This project will involve assessing the risk to life and proposing suitable flood response modification management options. It will include an assessment of the impact of structural integrity of dwellings, duration of inundation, potential evacuation routes and evacuation capability for both mainstream and overland flow flooding. The study will also identify any flood modification management options and assess their feasibility, effectiveness and impacts.

Aussies Out In Force At 2017 Aarhus Sailing Week

By Australian Sailing, August 8, 2017 

A strong contingent from the Australian Sailing Team have been competing at this week’s 2017 Aarhus Sailing Week in Denmark, the test event for the 2018 Sailing World Championships to be held in Aarhus next August.

Heading the charge for the Aussies will be the 49er crews, who have had early success competing in Europe.  David Gilmour and Joel Turner will be looking to put their boat through its paces after winning Kiel Week, and then finishing second at the 49er Europeans last week.

“This event is a good chance to start learning about the race course for next year’s world championships,” said Gilmour ahead of racing.  “However for us, this regatta is not so much about the results, but getting in some good practice ahead of this year’s  world championships in Portugal.”

Lachy Gilmour and Ryan Donaldson of WA will also compete at this event, alongside Will and Sam Phillips of Victoria.  A fleet of 36 49ers will take to the water tonight (AEST time) for the first three races of the series.

Meanwhile Australia will also be well represented in the 49erFX, with four Aussies crews competing in Aarhus.  Victoria’s Tess Lloyd and Eliza Solly will be looking to improve on their 11th position at last week’s European Championships in Kiel.  Haylee Outteridge and London 2012 Silver Medallist, Nina Curtis of NSW will also line up in tonight’s first three races, alongside Caitlin Elks and Hayley Clark of WA and the NSW/WA combo of Amelia Stabback & Ella Clark.  25 boats will compete in the 49erFX.

In the Laser Radial, Ashley Stoddart will compete at her first major overseas event since the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.  35 boats will contest this class, with Stoddart lining up with three other young Aussies.  Fellow Queenslander, Mara Stransky; Marlena Berzins of NSW and WA’s Elyse Ainsworth will all compete.

“This is very much a training regatta for us in preparation for the upcoming Worlds in Medemblik,” said Laser Radial coach, Jared West.  “The squad was here in May for a training camp and it's another good chance to keep working on our racing and fitness while continuing to get to know Aarhus in preparation for our Worlds here in 2018.

“The quality of the (Laser Radial) fleet is good, with five of Rio's top ten here, including the gold medalist.”

Meanwhile in the Laser class, three Aussies are in Aarhus this week.  Rio 2016 Olympic Gold Medallist Tom Burton continues his path to Tokyo 2020, but he’ll face some stiff competition from West Australian Matt Wearn and Victoria’s Jeremy O’Connell.  Sydney 2000 Bronze Medallist Michael Blackburn continues to coach the Laser class and continues to build a strong squad of both experienced and ‘up-and-coming’ sailors to develop the team ahead of Tokyo.

In the Nacra 17 foiling class, Jason Waterhouse hopes to be fit to compete this week, after a recurring injury limited his sailing at last week’s European Championship.  Teaming up with cousin Lisa Darmanin, the Silver Medallists only raced two races together last week, with Darmanin sailing the bulk of the regatta with coach Darren Bundock.  However, the signs were good for Waterhouse and Darmanin in the two races they did complete, with some great boat speed and a win in one of those races.  The Aussies also have their eye on the Nacra 17 World Championship in France at the start of September, and having Waterhouse fit for this event will be of paramount importance.

In the Finn class, Rio 2016 Olympian Jake Lilley will return to Olympic class sailing at this event, after his involvement in the America’s Cup.  Lilley will line up in a fleet of 34 boats, including two other Aussies - Jock Calvert of Tasmania and fellow-Queenslander, Lewis Brake.  Oli Twedell of Victoria has withdrawn from the event due to injury.

In the 470 class, no Australians will compete in the Men’s event, while Rio 2016 Olympians Carrie Smith and Jaime Ryan will fly the flag for the Aussies in the women’s event.

No Australians will compete in the RSX Mens or Womens events. Racing commences in Denmark this evening (AEST) and concludes with medal races over the weekend.

The Aarhus 2018 Test Event allows sailors to acclimatize with the local waters, race courses and sailing conditions.

It also provides an opportunity for Race Officials to test key processes one year in advance of the Championships. From testing the Race Management teams, the Field of Play, formats, equipment, technology and the overall management structure.

The test event is being held out of the Egå Marina just outside of the city of Aarhus. However, the Aarhus 2018 World Championships will be centred around the brand-new Aarhus International Sailing Centre. This will be a compact competition venue, in walking distance from downtown Aarhus.

Racing for all 10 Olympic Classes commences on Tuesday 8 August and runs through to Sunday 13 August with Medal Races held on the Saturday and Sunday.

 

About the World Championships

The Sailing World Championship is held every four years and are the largest gathering of Olympic class sailors. The Sailing World Championships are the principal qualification event for the Olympic Games.

 

Aarhus 2018 is the first and most significant qualification event for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, with 40% of the nation quotas places available across the ten Olympic events. Men's and Women's Kiteboarding will also be held across the duration of the 2018 World Championships.

 

Santander, Spain, hosted the 2014 World Championship in September 2014. The 2014 Worlds served as the first Rio 2016 Olympic Sailing Competition qualifier with 50% of Rio 2016 places awarded.

 

About Aarhus

Aarhus is a lively and young city, bustling with energy and innovation, as well as a sense of history. A rich and multifaceted cultural life flourishes, with small experimental theatre groups, art galleries, offbeat shops and trendy cafes. The scale of the city makes it quick and easy to get around, and the atmosphere will make you feel welcome.

All the latest news and reports will be available throughout the week here -http://www.sailing.org/news/index.php

Nippers Registration Days 2017-2018 Season

Manly - 3rd & 10th September  

North Steyne - 3rd & 10th September  

Queenscliff- 3rd & 10th September  

Freshwater - 10th September 

South Curl Curl - 17th September 

North Curl Curl

Dee Why  - 10th & 17th September

Long Reef

Collaroy; 3rd & 17th September  

South Narrabeen  10th & 17th September   

Narrabeen Beach  10th & 17th September   

North Narrabeen - 10th & 17th September  

Warriewood - 10th & 17th September  

Mona Vale - 10th September  

Newport - 

Bilgola 2nd & 10th September; 

Avalon Beach- 3rd, 8th, 10th September  

Please note Bungan Beach, Whale Beach, Palm Beach and North Palm Beach do not run Nipper Programs.

Rotary Spring Concert Tickets Now On Sale

Rotary Club of Upper Northern Beaches

Tickets are now on sale for the Northern Beaches concert of the year!

In this, our eighth annual Northern Beaches Spring Concert, Wednesday 20 September in the Grand Theatre at United Cinemas Warriewood, we bring back the popular local symphony, The Northern Beaches Orchestra, playing for the first time with the acclaimed Australian singer/songwriter Melinda Schneider.

Presented in partnership with United Cinemas, this live show -- Melinda Schneider Sings with Strings -- is a sparkling program of enduring songs made popular by Doris Day, Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt, Dusty Springfield and many more, plus Melinda's own award-winning hits.

Proceeds go to the projects of Upper Northern Beaches Rotary, including the Palliative Care Centre at Mona Vale Hospital. Special thanks to our generous sponsors, including Ann Wilson Funerals, Johnson Bros Mitre 10 and LJ Hooker Real Estate Newport & Collaroy.

Melinda Schneider has forged a brilliant career as country singer/songwriter, earning six CMAA Golden Guitar awards and two ARIA nominations. Her sparkling live show Melinda Does Doris -- A Tribute to Doris Day, is a hit cross Australia.

For details and tickets, see our website:www.rotaryuppernorthernbeaches.org

Turimetta Headland, Warriewood Proposed New Walkway 

Comments close Sun 20 Aug 2017

NBC are seeking feedback on the preliminary design plans for a new footpath at Turimetta Headland.

Comment online HERE 

Mona Vale Cemetery Conservation Management Plan 

Submissions close 27 Aug 2017

NBC are seeking feedback on the Draft Conservation Management Plan for Mona Vale Cemetery.

Residents are welcome to attend an information session:

Tues 15 Aug, 10am-12pm – Mona Vale Cemetery Site Office

Comment online HERE  

SNB Interbranch Golf Day

Hosted by Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches

Friday, September 22 at 7 AM - 3 PM

Bayview Golf Club

1825 Pittwater Rd, Mona Vale

Raising funds for our Interbranch Team to compete in the State Interbranch Championships.

Save the date - more details to come. 

Avalon Beach Market Day 2017

Sunday, November 19 at 9 AM - 4 PM

The main streets of Avalon Beach village and Dunbar Park come alive with amazing music, a fantastic array of market stalls selling fashion, jewellery and crafts as well as gourmet food stalls. For the kids there is face painting and carnival rides

STALLHOLDER APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN - APPLY HERE!!!

Visit: www.avalonbeachmarketday.com.au

Update On Baleen 2D HR Seismic Survey 

(The survey comprises 46 2D lines of total length 208km.) - 

NOPSEMA 'Not reasonably satisfied – opportunity to modify EP'

Decision date: 03/08/2017 

Titleholder action Resubmission due date: 02/09/2017

Visit: Seismic Testing Proposal Slated For During Whale Migration Season Off Our Coast

And NOPSEMA page Baleen 2D HR Seismic Survey: Asset Energy Pty Ltd - also: Decision notification (PDF 137 KB)

From Decision notification:

Basis of decision 

NOPSEMA has assessed the environment plan in accordance with its assessment policies and procedures. 

On completion of assessment, NOPSEMA has decided that it is not reasonably satisfied that the environment plan meets the criteria below as set out in regulation 10A of the Environment Regulations: 

(a) is appropriate for the nature and scale of the activity 

(b) demonstrates that the environmental impacts and risks of the activity will be reduced to as low as reasonably practicable 

(c) demonstrates that the environmental impacts and risks of the activity will be of an acceptable level 

(d) provides for appropriate environmental performance outcomes, environmental performance standards and measurement criteria 

(e) includes an appropriate implementation strategy and monitoring, recording and reporting arrangements 

(g) demonstrates that: 

(i) the titleholder has carried out the consultations required by Division 2.2A 

(ii) the measures (if any) that the titleholder has adopted, or proposes to adopt, because of the consultations are appropriate 

Titleholder requirements 

For OMR decision In accordance with regulation 10, the titleholder is required to modify and resubmit the environment plan. Upon resubmission of the plan, NOPSEMA will continue to assess the submission in 

accordance with its assessment policies and make a decision under regulation 10. After a titleholder has been provided with reasonable opportunity to modify and resubmit an environment plan, NOPSEMA will 

make a final decision on whether to accept or refuse to accept the environment plan. 

A Stronger Anti-Corruption Agency

7th August, 2017: Office of the NSW Premier, The Hon. Gladys Berejiklian

The restructured Independent Commission Against Corruption has now commenced operations, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said today.

The Hon Peter Hall QC was appointed as the inaugural Chief Commissioner of the ICAC, with Patricia McDonald SC and Stephen Rushton SC both appointed as Commissioners.

Bruce McClintock SC was appointed as Inspector of the ICAC on 1 July.

“The NSW Government has zero tolerance for corruption, and today marks the beginning of a new era for NSW’s anti-corruption agency,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“The reconstituted ICAC will have stronger powers to investigate, expose and prevent corruption.”

The restructure of the ICAC was one of a number of recommendations made by a bipartisan and unanimous report of the Parliamentary Committee on the ICAC.

In order to implement these changes and form the new ICAC, amendments were made to the Independent Commission Against Corruption Act 1988. 

These include:

• The ICAC will be restructured as a three-member Commission with a Chief Commissioner and two part-time Commissioners;
  
• The ICAC’s power to conduct public inquiries must be authorised by the Chief Commissioner and at least one other Commissioner;
  
• A CEO will manage the day to day operations of ICAC;
  
• The new Commission will be required to publish guidelines relating to public inquiries that ICAC staff and Counsel Assisting the ICAC, must follow;
  
• Before making an adverse finding about a person in a report, the ICAC and ICAC Inspector must give affected persons a reasonable opportunity to respond and, include a summary of this response in the report where requested; and
  
• The ICAC will be able to gather evidence that may be admissible in a criminal prosecution after the completion of its investigations where requested.
  

The Premier thanked Acting Commissioner, the Hon Reginald Blanch AM QC, for his outstanding leadership of the ICAC following the announced restructure.

Nominations Open For NSW Carers Awards

31 Jul 2017: NSW Dept. of Family & Community Services

Minister for Disability Services Ray Williams is encouraging people across NSW to nominate an exceptional carer or employer for a NSW Carers Award.

The NSW Carers Awards aim to recognise and raise awareness of the valuable contribution unpaid carers make to the people they care for and the wider community.

“There are more than 900,000 carers in NSW, who provide unconditional support for those in their care on a daily basis,” Mr Williams said.

“I would urge anyone who knows a carer or who has witnessed best practice by an organisation in supporting carers to put forward a nomination so this tremendous work can be recognised.”

The 2017 NSW Carers Awards will coincide with Carers Week, which runs from 15 - 21 October 2017.

“This is a great opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the significant contributions of carers across NSW,” Mr Williams said.

Up to 10 awards will be presented during the award ceremony, including the 2017 NSW Carer of the Year.

To nominate a carer go to www.careforacarer.nsw.gov.au. 

Entries close on 31 August 2017.

Examples of Individual carers include:

Family carers

Young carers

Senior carers

Nomination form for individuals.

Examples of organisations include:

Carer support groups and organisations

Carer friendly employers

Carer friendly education providers

Nomination form for organisations.

eSafety Community Seminar

Too often I hear of cyberbullying and poor cyber safety practice ending in tragedy for our young people.

To help tackle this issue, the Government has established the Office of the eSafety Commissioner.

To help parents, teachers and young people learn about online safety issues such as cyberbullying, image-based abuse and exposure to inappropriate content, the eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant,  is hosting an eSafety community seminar in our area.    

The seminar is at 7pm-8:15pm on Monday, 28 August, at The Pittwater House School, 70 South Creek Rd, Collaroy.

This is a good opportunity to educate our community about these important issues.  If you would like to attend, please click here.

 

I hope to see you there.

Jason Falinski

MP for Mackellar

www.jasonfalinski.com.au

Fundraiser For Marty Campbell

Courtesy Pittwater Offshore Newsletter

Friday 6 October from 5.30-6pm

Marty has been selected again for the 2018 Special Olympics national games in Adelaide.  He needs to raise $3000 towards the cost.

Mary Romeo has very kindly offered to host another fundraising evening atThe Waterfront Restaurant on Friday 6 October from 5.30-6pm. 

Purchase own food and drinks and there will be music, dancing, auction and raffle. 

Geoff and Tina are helping with the organisation so if you can something to auction or raffle, please let them know.

All welcome. $10 for adults. Children free. 

Please put it in your diaries.

A Better Deal For Australian Families

09 August 2017

Prime Minister of Australia, The Hon. Malcolm Turnbull

Treasurer, The Hon. Scott Morrison

Minister for Energy, The Hon Joshua Frydenberg

The Turnbull Government is taking decisive action to reduce energy prices for Australian families and businesses.

It is simply not good enough that some consumers cannot always afford to turn on their lights, heating and equipment. This must stop.

Too many families are not on the best power deal. That is why today we took further action.

We are pleased to have secured agreement from retailers on immediate measures and ongoing changes, to be backed by law, to put families and small business first.

The commitments include:

• Contacting all the customers now who are on expired discounts and telling them how much they can save on a better deal.
  
• Requiring companies report to the Government and ACCC what they are doing to get families on to a better deal and how many families remain on expired deals.
  
• Developing simple, plain English, fact sheets with understandable comparison rates.
  
• Support a change to the electricity rules requiring companies to inform customers when their discount benefits end, setting out the dollar impact of doing nothing.
  
• Ensuring families and individuals on hardship programs will not lose any benefit or discount for late payment.
  

These are the immediate actions we have secured to help ensure families are not paying more for their power than they should.

The industry and government will continue to work together over the coming months to make more changes that will ensure families do not have to pay a cent more for electricity than they need to.

These significant reforms build on those already achieved by the Turnbull Government to drive a more affordable and reliable energy system.

We are already:

• Driving down gas prices through our export licensing regime and reforms to pipelines.
  
• Stopping energy companies gaming the system, restricting appeals that lead to higher prices.
  
• Directing the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to forensically examine energy companies’ behaviour.
  
• Encouraging innovation and new technology, including the development of the game-changing Snowy Hydro 2.0.
  

Pesticide Notification 

1080 FOX POISON (sodium fluoroacetate) FOR FOX CONTROL 1080 poison as buried baits or 1080 poison capsules in ejector devices Will be laid in a continuous and ongoing way from: 

Date: 1st August 2017 to 31st January 2018

Where: 

• Garigal National Park. 
  
• Lane Cove National Park, 
  
• Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park 
  
• Sydney Harbour National Park: 
  
• North Head including the Quarantine Station, 
  
• Dobroyd Head, 
  
• Middle Head, 
  
• Chowder Head & Bradleys Head managed by the National Parks & Wildlife Service. 
  
•  The North Head Sanctuary and Former School of Artillery managed by the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust. 
  
• The Australian Institute of Police Management, North Head
  

WARNING: 

DO NOT TOUCH BAITS OR EJECTOR DEVICES DOMESTIC ANIMALS MAY BE AFFECTED 1080 POISON IS LETHAL TO DOGS AND CATS.

Pet owners must ensure that their pets do not enter baited reserves.

Warning signs will be displayed to notify the public.

Dogs and cats are prohibited in National Parks (NPW Act 1974 & Regulations) and the North Head Sanctuary (Local Govt Act (1993) Sect 632 (2) (d). Penalties apply.

For further information please contact:

National Parks and Wildlife Service Pest Management Officer: 9472 8953 NPWS Harbour (north) Area office: 8968 6300 NPWS 

Ku-ring-gai Chase (Forestville) Area office: 9451 3479 

NPWS Ku-ring-gai Chase (Mt Colah) Area office: 9472 9323

Harbour Trust Appoints Architects For HMAS Platypus Site

Thursday, 27 July 2017: Media Release - Sydney Harbour Federation Trust

The Sydney Harbour Federation Trust has engaged award winning architectural firm Lahznimmo Architects to undertake the Design Development phase of the former HMAS Platypus site at North Sydney.

Lahznimmo Architects specialise in public projects working across a number of spheres including education, local government and government authorities to deliver innovative and quality public spaces. They are well versed in the adaptive reuse of heritage buildings to create appealing public spaces having delivered St James Station Café in Hyde Park, City of Sydney Council’s Easy Sydney Community Art Centre and the Armory Wharf at Blaxland Park, Sydney Olympic Park.

They are joined by award winning landscape architectural firm Aspect Studios, responsible for the highly successful Goods Line in Ultimo.

“It’s an exciting phase for the project following a significant period of planning and community consultation and the remediation works,” said Mary Darwell, Sydney Harbour Trust CEO. “The Design Development phase will now see the outcomes of the Platypus Management Plan start to come to life,” she said.

“While the industrial heritage values of the buildings will be retained, the buildings and public spaces will be adapted and opened up to suit new uses with a mix of cultural, community and commercial uses expected,” she said.

The Platypus site, located on Neutral Bay in North Sydney, has been closed to the public for more than 150 years. The Harbour Trust is working to revitalise the site with new open space and urban parkland as well as adaptively reusing the buildings to create commercial and public spaces. New access and site links will allow pedestrian access into and across the site, and a new over water pedestrian link will provide access to Kesterton Park and High St Wharf.

“This brings us a step closer to opening up the area to the public,” said Josh Frydenberg, Minister for the Environment and Energy. “Importantly, the final design will balance community access with maintaining the significant heritage values of the site,” he said.

Andrew Nimmo, Director at Lahznimmo Architects said they are honoured to be involved in this landmark project.

“This is an exciting opportunity to be involved in the creation of a new public space for all of the community to enjoy,” said Mr Nimmo. “The Platypus site is a unique place. It has a fascinating history with industrial buildings that lend themselves to creative and innovative reuse. Once complete the site is sure to be a landmark destination on the harbour for the people of North Sydney,” he said.

The Detailed Design phase will be completed by late 2017 and works are scheduled to start in the second half of 2017. The Harbour Trust is exhibiting the Platypus Renewal Project for public comment until 16 August 2017.

The Harbour Trust was provided funding of $20M by the Federal Government in 2015 in order to open up the site to the public following remediation. The Harbour Trust has contributed an additional $3.8 million.

Visit Invitation for Public Comment – Platypus Renewal Project

Free Workshop In Mona Vale On NDIS Disability Funding 

My Choice Matters works with people with disability and their families to live life their way and get the most out of the changing disability system. Our goal is to help you learn and practice new ways of doing things and develop and grow your skills in Choice, Voice and Control.

We have a free, fully accessible workshop coming up for people with a disability, their families/carers, and people working in the sector so make sure you register now!

• Hear about changes to the disability support system and what it will mean for you

• Talk about planning and things to consider for your life

• See what some people are already doing

Where: Pittwater RSL

82 Mona Vale Road, Mona Vale

When:  Wednesday 23 August

Time: 10.00am – 2.30pm

Book now

Northern Beaches Veterans And Community Day 

When: Sunday 12th November 2017

Where: Dunbar Park Avalon Beach 10am – 4pm

The Inaugural Northern Beaches Veterans and Community Day will be held on 12 November 2017 in Dunbar Park Avalon Beach. This new event evolved due to the success of the Avalon Military Tattoo over the last 10 years, the enhanced relationship between local RSL sub-Branches and the community, and to carry on the legacy of past Avalon RSL Sub Branch President CDRE Graham Sloper AM RAN (Rtd).

Awareness of veteran’s issues is increasing within the community, and the ANZAC Spirit is flourishing on the Northern Beaches. Crowds at ceremonies have been increasing steadily in recent years. This will be an opportunity for the younger generations to learn more about past and current conflicts and to meet veterans and serving members of the Australian Defence Force.

Our mission is to instil a greater awareness and enduring compassion for veterans and the community in general.

Our objectives are: 

• Highlight concerns for veterans and the community;

• Create an opportunity for interaction;

• Acknowledge service and sacrifice;

• Create harmony;

• Reflect on history;

• Enhance awareness of Defence career opportunities;

• Address veterans issues of reintegration into civilian society, homelessness and suicide; 

• Profile veterans success stories

This will be a free of charge, non-profit event with participation on a voluntary basis. Any funds raised will be donated to Veterans Organisations and primarily the Veterans Centre Sydney Northern Beaches. There will be an emphasis on youth activities and careers. The primary market is the geographical area from Narrabeen to Palm Beach.

It is intended that local schools and community groups will have an arena to showcase their talents through music, drama and artwork with an Australian veterans theme. Over the coming months these groups will have the opportunity for input to shape the programme for the day. There will be a children’s art exhibition, a quilting display, ANZAC biscuit baking competition and many interactive displays and activities. Veterans Support Agencies are welcome to have a display and marquee in the park. There will be a stage with live music and performances throughout the day.

For further information, to book a stall or offer sponsorship, or VOLUNTEER to help, please contact the coordinators Lynn Murphy on 9883 9815 and Tamara Sloper Harding on 9883 9814 or emailsubbranch@avalonrsl.com.au.

Mark Ferguson 

President Palm Beach RSL Sub-Branch

Chairman Northern Beaches Veterans and Community Day Committee

A collaboration between Avalon, Palm Beach & Pittwater RSL Sub-branches.

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Stalls 2017

August:

August  12th: 8am to 3pm Bunnings, Narrabeen Sausage sizzle

August 18th:   9am to 3pm  Stall, foyer Mona Vale Hospital Baking, knitting, craft, books, sewing

September:

September 1st: 9am to 4pm   Stall, outside ANZ Bank, Avalon ParadeKnitting, sewing, craft, jam

September 2nd: 9am to 3pm Stall, Pittwater Place, Mona Vale Sewing, knitting, craft, books

September 9th: 8am to 3pm Bunnings, Narrabeen  Sausage sizzle

8am to 4pm 

September 15th: 9am to 3pm Stall, foyer Mona Vale Hospital Baking, knitting, craft, books, sewing     

October:

October 7th: 9am to 3pm Stall, Pittwater Place, Mona Vale Sewing, knitting, craft, books

October 14th: 8am to 3pm Bunnings, Narrabeen Sausage sizzle

October 20th: 9am to 3pm Stall, foyer Mona Vale Hospital Baking, knitting, craft, books, sewing

October 24th: 10.30 am Fashion Parade, Newport Bowling Club,                   Palm Road, Newport

November:

November 4th:  9am to 3pm  Stall, Pittwater Place, Mona Vale Knitting, sewing, craft

November 11th: 9am to 3pm Bunnings, Narrabeen Sausage sizzle 

December:

8am to 4pm

Sydney Wildlife: Critters Of The Month - August 2017

What Makes Echidnas So Unique?

Photo by Lisa Wynn (Sydney Wildlife)

At Sydney Wildlife, we don’t discriminate between species. We love them all. We love birds, mammals and reptiles equally. They are all special in their own ways.

Birds are amazing because of their enviable ability to fly. Reptiles are special in so many ways - especially in their ability to cope with temperature extremes. Mammals are so diverse and we have a good 360-odd species of mammals here in Australia. But the most interesting and unique of our mammals is the echidna.

In appearance, the echidna resembles a pin-cushion waddling about. They are covered in spines and have a long beak used to forage for invertebrates. The spines are modified hairs – spongy inside with a hard covering of keratin. They don’t have visible ears - just slits which are hidden by the spines. The feet have long claws which are perfect for digging.

Why Are Echidnas So Unique?

• Did you know that they are named after a monster in Greek mythology called ‘Echidna’ who was part-woman, part-snake? They were so named due to their part-mammal, part-reptile qualities.

They are warm-blooded and have coarse fur - like mammals, but they also have a low metabolic rate like reptiles. Their average body temperature is about 31 °C which is considerably lower than the average 37 °C for placental mammals. In times of extreme cold or drought, echidnas can use torpor to cope. Torpor is an energy-saving mechanism whereby they lower their metabolic rate - often used by reptiles over the winter period.

• Echidnas are a type of mammal called a monotreme. Monotremes lay eggs instead of bearing live young. The mothers still suckle their young, but not in the ordinary manner. Like all mammals, they lactate, but they have no defined teats. Instead, they excrete milk through openings in their skin. The baby echidna, known as a puggle, suckles the milk from the mother’s skin where the milk appears in ‘patches’.

• Have you heard of the Love Train? It’s a bit like the Love Boat but with echidnas instead of humans! The female heads up the train and is followed by up to 10 males during breeding season. This begins in late June and continues through to the beginning of September. The female will be trailed like this for many weeks and she will eventually choose a partner and they will mate. The unlucky suitors will beetle off. Three weeks after mating, a single egg is implanted in the female’s rear-facing pouch. The pouch only appears when the egg is ready to be implanted. Ten days later a tiny puggle (baby echidna) emerges from the egg. It is only the size of a 5c coin. Which, incidentally, is why the Australian 5c piece bears the image of an echidna.

• After 3 months in the ‘pouch’ the puggle is deposited into an underground den/burrow. The mother leaves the puggle for up to 5 days alone in the burrow while she forages for food. When she returns, the puggle gorges itself on milk until it resembles a spiny balloon! The milk lasts the 5 days that the mother is away from the burrow.

• Slightly x-rated fact: the males have a 4-headed penis!

• Echidnas have no teeth. When consuming beetles or other insects, they grind the food between their sticky tongue and the bottom of their mouth.

• Echidnas are incredibly strong and can escape from baskets, cages and containers with ease.

Having them in care requires a special type of escape-proof box - made either of plastic or metal.

Photo by Lisa Wynn (Sydney Wildlife)

If you find an injured echidna or one in an undesirable location, please call
Sydney Wildlife on 9413 4300 for advice.
www.sydneywildlife.org.au

By Lynleigh Greig
Sydney Wildlife

The purpose of  www.westpittwater.com.au  - is best defined by the vision of the West Pittwater Community Association.

To be a supportive community, encouraging and promoting civic pride, interest in community affairs and goodwill amongst residents.

To protect local fauna and flora and generally preserve West Pittwater and its environs.

To secure essential facilities including public wharves and reserves and to protect private and public property.

To speak with one voice and represent the interests of the Western Foreshore community when in discussion with Pittwater Council and other relevant government bodies. The WPCA website provides a forum for the better realisation of these objectives. Visit: www.westpittwater.com.au

CCNB Is On The Move!!

Congratulations To Oma Hill

PBWBA August Newsletter

UPCOMING DATES AND EVENTS:

Mandatory Panels Erode Local Democracy

IHAPs To Be Introduced For All Sydney Councils 

Sydneysiders Want Experts To Decide On Big Development 

Petition: Save Ingleside From Over-Development

Planning Alerts

New Legislation To Imrove Air Quality

Heritage Grants Program

Church Point Ferry Service Connected

Breakwater Ball 2017

Record Funding Available For Surf Club Upgrades

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Marley

AGE/SEX: 5-6 years / M

BREED: Staffy X Lab

Marley is a gentle calm dog who came as a stray and was saved from a vet clinic. He is a very friendly boy, who is crate trained, and is very polite on a lead. He has been fine around other dogs in a busy clinic environment. He is also good with kids and would suit a family with older children. He seems social with other dogs. Marley has calluses on his elbows and hocks suggesting he was had a life of living on concrete. He has occasional partial seizures, more facial twitching and head shaking than your conventional seizuring. He is on inexpensive medication for this which is working well. He has a smooth coat and weighs 26.2kg. He comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. His adoption cost is $400.

$65 Million To Champion Community Cohesion

2017 Mosman Art Prize

Candidates To Speak To Electors 

Go Wild Gala For Sydney Wildlife 2017

Narrabeen Boys High 1967 50 Year Reunion - 2017

Call Out For Poets - ‘Spirit Of The Land’

 Gone Fishing Gallery at Waterfront Store Church Point

Open again TODAY in the top room Waterfront Store. Open mainly weekends as an addition to the waterfront cafe. Keep up to date on theirFacebook page

Click on logo above to visit their website.

How To Request To Address Council

Articles This Week 

Front Page Issue 324: Quite a bit...

2017 Surf Life Saving NSW Awards of Excellence: Surf Lifesaver of the Year - Lara Boyle Whale Beach SLSC, Initiative of the Year - Mona Vale SLSC, Athlete of the Year - Jake Lynch, Newport SLSC, Junior Lifesaver of the Year - Elliott Prasad Narrabeen Beach SLSC, and Sport Team of the Year - Open First Aid Team, Freshwater SLSC

Pittwater Locals Disappointed by Delay in Plebiscite Bill

Newport SLSC 108th Annual General Meeting - Three new Life Members

Bilgola SLSC 68th Annual General Meeting from Romilly Madew, President

Avalon Beach SLSC 2017 Annual General Meeting - Two new Life Members by Rogers Sayers, ABSLSC Publicity Officer

RPAYC Named Club of the Year! - Marina Industry Association Award

What Makes Echidnas So Unique? by Lynleigh Greig

Aboriginal Engravings Vandalised At The Basin: NPWS Undertakes Program Of ‘Highlighting’ Engravings To Protect Them

Pittwater Yachting Legend Jack Gale Passes - Obituary written by Peter Kennett.

Aquatics: Kialoa II’s Revival At 47th Rolex Fastnet Race by Lisa Ratcliff - Elvina Bay resident Paddy Broughton and a superlative crew are racing in this prestigious old race, starts Sunday August 6th

Reflections by George Repin: BONIFACIO, CORSICA

2017 Youth Match Racing World Championship: RPAYC's All Women Crew: ran August 1-5 at Balboa Yacht Club, Newport Beach, California

Pictures: 2017 Masters And 1967 A Grade Reunion; Belrose Eagles invited Narrabeen Sharks from Brian Friend

DIY Ideas: DIY Bathroom Refresh: Zing For Spring - a few simple things you can do to make your bathroom all brand new and on a budget!

Retracing Governor Phillip's Footsteps Around Pittwater: The Mystery Of The Cove On The East Side by Roger Sayers and Geoff Searl - Do Not Miss this Readers!

Lunch in the Garden: Come Along to Coomalong for Cambodian charity, ‘Build Your Future Today’ - food by Leang and Touch Khun, Mona Vale Bakery, known for their traditional Cambodian fare, Bikes 4 Life Brookvale collect second-hand bikes and ship them to Cambodia - attending event, also renowned children’s author, Louise Park, will be discussing her Cambodian Literacy Project at the lunch - Sunday September 24th

Palm Beach Sailing Club (PBSC) Open Day: Saturday the 12th of August from 12 p.m.

Park Bench Philosopher Patrick Edward Quinn: A Manly Prose writer who gave us A Run To Pittwater (1889) and Songs for the Federation of Australia - as well as standing for a seat after being a NSW Poet/Politician

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 1/8/2017 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Congratulations West Pittwater RFB

Congratulations Maddie Spencer

Update On Baleen 2D HR Seismic Survey 

2 Macpherson Street, Warriewood (22 Dwellings) 

Mermaids Of Palm Beach - Snapshots From The Road

Day 1 leaving from St Mary's, Sydney. Beautiful send off by the Indigenous Choir. First stop Wellington for lunch. Then onward through rain and a sunshiny sunset to Bourke. 718kms done!

Day 2 Tennis Mermaids in action.

Photos/reports Courtesy Viktorija McDonell (the tall one).

Important Change To Frenchs Forest Priority Precinct: Information Session

Pittwater Mens Probus Club August 2017 Speaker

Tuesday 8th August 2017 at 11AM

RPAYC 2017 AGM

Pittwater Yachting Legend Passes

VALE JOHN LINCOLN (JACK) GALE

1926- 2017

Pittwater Yachting Legend

Yachting on Pittwater and Sydney has lost a pioneer with the recent death of Jack Gale at the age of 91. Coincidentally, Jack died exactly two years after his beloved wife, Joan. Jack is survived by his two sons Geoff and Rob.

The youngest of five children, Jack had an idyllic childhood growing up in North Narrabeen and it was at this time he developed his love of the water. Following his education Jack was employed as a telegraph operator. He enlisted during WWII at the age of eighteen and was posted to the Z force in communications.

Following his war service, Jack worked as a delivery driver until 1956 when he accepted a position as caretaker and boatyard manager at The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (Pittwater Division). At that time the Club facilities at Pittwater were quite basic, consisting of a boatshed, rudimentary slipway and the two bedroom cottage which the Club erected for Jack, Joan and their young son Geoff to occupy.

Jack was dedicated to the Club, taking part enthusiastically, methodically and comprehensively in the many and varied building programmes and other projects which shaped the current wonderful facilities enjoyed to-day by The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club.

Over the years Jack held many positions with the Club including Boatyard Manager, Yachting Secretary and, ultimately, Secretary/Manager.

It was during his years as Yachting Manager that Jack achieved a reputation not first in Sydney but in Australia and world-wide as an innovative, dedicated and skillful yacht race manager and administrator.

Jack pioneered the use of what became known as the Barrenjoey Circle racecourse which gained a reputation for its challenging sea conditions, its fair winds, and relative lack of tidal influence. A winning crew on the Barrenjoey Circle could justly be proud of their efforts!!

Jack's skill and competence as a race manager resulted in the Club gaining a stellar reputation for conducting yachting championships. Assisted by his wonderful team, Jack and the Club conducted many World, Australian and State Championships on "the Circle" in 5.5's, Solings, E22's, 6 metres and other classes.

In addition, Jack conducted the Club's busy schedule of inshore and offshore yachting. It was not unusual for Jack to start an offshore race at 8.00pm on a Friday night and then be out laying the offshore marks for the Saturday events at 6.00am.

Prior to his assuming the position of Yachting Manager Jack sailed with the late Tony Carr in the 5.5 "Altair", finishing runner up to Sir William Northam in the 1964 Olympic Trials. Jack also sailed several Montague Island races on various boats but he never professed a love for offshore sailing, preferring one design racing.

Jack also sailed aboard Gretel II in the 1977 Americas Cup challenger trials. He had previously commentated on radio at earlier Americas Cup events and did so again in 1983 at which time he resumed his on-air rivalry with American Yachting commentator Norrie Hoyt. Their on-air banter was legendary for its critical insights and humour.

After retiring from The RPAYC in 1988, Jack continued running RPAYC races and regattas as the Club's race officer and in 1994 was made a Life Member of the Club. In 2014 the Club named its new training facility The Jack Gale Centre, in honour of Jack and the significant contributions he made to the Club and the sport on Pittwater.

Jack at 2017 RPAYC Old Timers Race

Jack enjoyed life, especially yacht racing and golf. He possessed a wonderful sense of humour and was a great raconteur with an encyclopaedic knowledge of sail numbers, yachts, their skippers and crews.

Jack and Joan were extremely hospitable and visitors to their home were genuinely most welcome. Following Joan's passing Jack liked nothing better than providing advice to anyone who asked provided that he could indulge in a glass of his favourite Sauvignon Blanc.

He will be sadly missed by The RPAYC, its members, the entire yachting community and all those who remember him.

Obituary for Jack Gale written by Peter Kennett.

Ferry Problems

Commuters and visitors to Ettalong from the Palm Beach Ferry wharf have spoken of a  growing problem with sand buildup causing delays and even cancellation of some services after one ferry ran aground just over a week ago at Box Head despite recent dredging of the Ettalong Channel.

The emergency dredging completed during the parliamentary break has been described as ‘inadequate’ by stakeholders and, as predicted by them, the ferry was grounded and a wave broke over the back of the ferry.

The important commuter and tourist ferry was then cancelled with ferry drivers reluctant to take the risk on our dangerous local route. The ferry was translocated to Patonga due to low tides making the mouth to the Brisbane Water inaccessible and dangerous for the ferry to cross. 

Matt Wales, President of the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, states that the recently completed dredging is not a solution and all parties need to come to the table to settle on a satisfactory long-term plan.

Residents who regularly use the service to visit relatives have advised that commuters can sign up for a message advice from the ferry Service so that if a scheduled trip is delayed or cancelled they will receive a notice on their phone prior to leaving for the Palm Beach Ferry wharf.

Visit: www.fantasea.com.au/palmbeachferries-sms-alerts

Invitation To Attend The Friends Of Mona Vale Monthly Meeting 

Tuesday, 8th August, 6.30-8pm,

Mona Vale Golf Club. All welcome.

Golf Avenue in Mona Vale

NSW Government has dropped its policy of council mergers !

Following the NSW Government’s announcement of its now dropped

policy of Council Amalgamation, a MOTION will be put to the meeting

seeking the prompt DE-MERGER OF THE NORTHERN BEACHES

COUNCIL AND THE RESTORATION OF PITTWATER COUNCIL and

further that the scheduled council elections be immediately cancelled.

DON’T MISS THIS DEBATE!

To be CHAIRED by Former NSW PREMIER, BARRIE UNSWORTH

“Mona Vale Master Plan” workshop, a community alternative to the “Place Plan”.

Meet the FRIENDS OF PTTWATER independent candidates

Peter Bosley, Jenny Stone and John Latoof.

Other speakers include, Bob Grace and Selena Griffith.

A report on the Friends of Pittwater meeting with the GREATER SYDNEY

COMMISSION and GENERAL BUSINESS will follow if time permits.

Friends of Mona Vale

Email: friendsofmonavale@gmail.com

On Facebook

Website: friendsofmonavale.weebly.com

CABRA AGM 2017

Paradise Beach follow-up

CABPRA met with representatives of Northern Beaches Council on July 17th to go over the draft landscape plans for the refurbishment of Paradise Beach. The storms of last year had caused considerable damage to the seawall and associated structures.

The new landscape plans include:

• Replacement of the temporary rock wall by a sandstone block wall

• A dinghy ramp

• A sandstone rock storm drain/culvert

• Resurfacing of the car parking area

The works which are subject to final comment from the neighbours should commence in early August.

CABPRA General Meeting

The Theme is Protecting Pittwater with special guests:

• Corinne Fisher - Total Environment Centre (TEC)

• Bob Grace - President Protect Pittwater

Time & date: 7.30pm Monday 7th August 2017

Place: Avalon Sailing Club, Hudson Parade, Clareville

Clareville & Bilgola Plateau Residents' Association (CABPRA).

At: https://cabpra.wordpress.com/

2017 Community Building Partnership Applications Closing Soon

August 2nd, 2017

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes is reminding local community and sporting groups to apply for funds under the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership Program.

 

The NSW Government has allocated $300,000 to the Pittwater community as part of this highly successful program which provides financial assistance to projects that will deliver wide-reaching community benefits.

 

Applications for the program close on Wednesday 9 August 2017.

 

“This is a hugely popular initiative which provides plenty of opportunities,” Rob Stokes said today.

 

“There’s dozens of projects throughout Pittwater which are a direct result of this program and are providing real benefits to our community.

 

“Projects providing long-term infrastructure improvements and supported by leveraged funds have been particularly successful in past years.

 

“Applications for this year’s program are closing soon - so it’s really important for those groups looking to submit an application to do so quickly.

 

“Further details on the program and information on how to apply is available by visiting the program’s websitewww.communitybuildingpartnership.nsw.gov.au .

 

“I encourage all eligible community groups to take advantage of this great opportunity,” Rob Stokes said.

 

Local projects that have been supported by this program over recent years include Narrabeen Sports High’s synthetic sports field, Marine Rescue’s new wharf at Cottage Point, Avalon Beach Surf Club’s major renovations, Pittwater High School’s security fencing upgrade, renovations within Mona Vale Hospital’s Assessment and Rehabilitation Unit and the expansion of the Northern Beaches Indoor Sports Centre at Warriewood.

Lucy Brogden Appointed Chair Of National Mental Health Commission

Joint media release:

The Hon. Malcolm Turnbull MP

Prime Minister

The Hon. Greg Hunt MP

Minister for Health

Minister for Sport

2 August 2017

Distinguished businesswomen and psychologist Lucy Brogden will be the next Chair of the Australian Government’s National Mental Health Commission.

Mrs Brogden has been a highly-skilled Commissioner for the Government’s peak mental health body for three years and her energy, passion and contribution to the mental health sector has been immense.

We look forward to Mrs Brogden continuing this leadership in her new role and advising the Government on tangible ways to improve the lives of people living with mental health issues.

Lucy Brogden, photo courtesy Bilgola SLSC

To ensure strengthened accountability the Commission will now report directly to the Health Minister and will provide six-monthly updates to the Prime Minister on the Government’s mental health reform agenda. The Commission will also include additional members on the new board to provide broad expertise and experience from across our health system.

The commissioners will oversee the Government’s mental health reforms and the implementation of the Fifth National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan following final agreement by the Council of Australian Governments Health Council on Friday. 

We look forward to working with the new Commissioners to deliver better support and care to those facing the challenge of a mental health disorder. 

Dr Peggy Brown, the Commission’s CEO, has been appointed a Commissioner, along with the following new appointees:

Professor Harvey Whiteford

Professor Ngiare Brown

Professor Wendy Cross

Professor Helen Milroy

Mr Samuel Hockey.

Current members Professor Allan Fels AO, Professor Ian Hickie AM and Ms Jackie Crowe have been reappointed.

Mrs Brogden will work as Co-Chair of the advisory board alongside current Chair, Professor Allan Fels AO, for six months until he steps down from the role. Mrs Brodgen will then continue as sole Chair.

These new and returning members bring their diverse expertise and stakeholder perspectives that will help the Commission further advance mental health policy and practice.

An additional $2 million in funding has been allocated to the Commission for this financial year to ensure it has the staffing and skills needed to support a stronger mental health sector. The first task of the new Commission will be to develop a revised work plan that encapsulates the strengthened and clarified role of the agency.

We extend our thanks to the outgoing board members – the Hon Rob Knowles AO, Professor Pat Dudgeon and Ms Nicole Gibson – for their insights, passion and hard work. Their work advising Government has helped to elevate the importance of mental health and suicide prevention.

We want to especially thank Professor Allan Fels for his unwavering commitment to this vitally important issue.

The Turnbull Government is committed to delivering important mental health reforms that provide better support to those living with a mental illness, and has backed this commitment by investing an additional $365 million for mental health support, treatment and research in the past 12 months.

Nippers Registration Days 2017-2018 Season

Manly - 3rd & 10th September  

North Steyne - 3rd & 10th September  

Queenscliff- 3rd & 10th September  

Freshwater - 10th September 

South Curl Curl - 17th September 

North Curl Curl

Dee Why  - 10th & 17th September

Long Reef

Collaroy; 3rd & 17th September  

South Narrabeen  10th & 17th September   

Narrabeen Beach  10th & 17th September   

North Narrabeen - 10th & 17th September  

Warriewood - 10th & 17th September  

Mona Vale - 10th September  

Newport - 

Bilgola 2nd & 10th September; 

Avalon Beach- 3rd, 8th, 10th September  

Please note Bungan Beach, Whale Beach, Palm Beach and North Palm Beach do not run Nipper Programs.

Rotary Spring Concert Tickets Now On Sale

Rotary Club of Upper Northern Beaches

Tickets are now on sale for the Northern Beaches concert of the year!

In this, our eighth annual Northern Beaches Spring Concert, Wednesday 20 September in the Grand Theatre at United Cinemas Warriewood, we bring back the popular local symphony, The Northern Beaches Orchestra, playing for the first time with the acclaimed Australian singer/songwriter Melinda Schneider.

Presented in partnership with United Cinemas, this live show -- Melinda Schneider Sings with Strings -- is a sparkling program of enduring songs made popular by Doris Day, Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt, Dusty Springfield and many more, plus Melinda's own award-winning hits.

Proceeds go to the projects of Upper Northern Beaches Rotary, including the Palliative Care Centre at Mona Vale Hospital. Special thanks to our generous sponsors, including Ann Wilson Funerals, Johnson Bros Mitre 10 and LJ Hooker Real Estate Newport & Collaroy.

Melinda Schneider has forged a brilliant career as country singer/songwriter, earning six CMAA Golden Guitar awards and two ARIA nominations. Her sparkling live show Melinda Does Doris -- A Tribute to Doris Day, is a hit cross Australia.

For details and tickets, see our website:www.rotaryuppernorthernbeaches.org

Turimetta Headland, Warriewood Proposed New Walkway 

Comments close Sun 20 Aug 2017

NBC are seeking feedback on the preliminary design plans for a new footpath at Turimetta Headland.

Comment online HERE 

Mona Vale Cemetery Conservation Management Plan 

Submissions close 27 Aug 2017

NBC are seeking feedback on the Draft Conservation Management Plan for Mona Vale Cemetery.

Residents are welcome to attend an information session:

Tues 15 Aug, 10am-12pm – Mona Vale Cemetery Site Office

Comment online HERE  

SNB Interbranch Golf Day

Hosted by Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches

Friday, September 22 at 7 AM - 3 PM

Bayview Golf Club

1825 Pittwater Rd, Mona Vale

Raising funds for our Interbranch Team to compete in the State Interbranch Championships.

Save the date - more details to come. 

Pittwater Preview
UNDER THE LINO

The Life & Art of Bruce Goold

A film by Bill Leimbach, with a score by LIME CORDIALE

Long time Pittwater resident Bruce Goold is one of Australia's greatest living artists. UNDER THE LINO tracks down some of the finest pieces of his art, woven through some wonderful conversations and archival images of great times and exotic people.

Full of humour, eccentric art and a score by Louis Leimbach & LIME CORDIALE.

Bruce will introduce the Film - preceeded by a lively set by LIME CORDIALE

Thu, September 14, 2017

7:00 PM – 11:00 PM AEST

AT: Avalon Bowlo

Bowling Green Lane, Avalon

Tickets ($18.34): HERE

Avalon Beach Market Day 2017

Sunday, November 19 at 9 AM - 4 PM

The main streets of Avalon Beach village and Dunbar Park come alive with amazing music, a fantastic array of market stalls selling fashion, jewellery and crafts as well as gourmet food stalls. For the kids there is face painting and carnival rides

STALLHOLDER APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN - APPLY HERE!!!

Visit: www.avalonbeachmarketday.com.au

Writers Live - Phil Jarratt Introduces Life Of Brine

Wednesday, August 16 at 6:30 PM - 8 PM

Berkelouw Books Mona Vale

12-14 Park St, Mona Vale

Tickets here: General admission is $ 14.00, $ 5.00 of which will be credited against any purchases made on the evening.

You are invited to meet Phil Jarratt when he introduces his new book Life of Brine: A Surfer's Journey.

As one of the world's best-known chroniclers of the surfing culture for more than 40 years, Australian writer Phil Jarratt is an absolute legend. In his memoir Life of Brine: A Surfer's Journey he rides the wave of nostalgia seamlessly from the 1960s to recent times, from one side of the Pacific to the other, from the cold Southern Ocean to the warm Java Sea, from Bali to Biarritz and many points in between.

Starting with the innocence of Jarratt's early days learning to surf in the 60s, and moving through encounters with surfing greats, he shares experiences at the world's hottest surfing spots and wild times. 

Jarratt pulls no punches and spares no reputations as he interprets surfing's journey from slightly spooky sidebar cult to billion dollar sport and industry - but it is also the reflections of a lifelong surfer whose pursuit of the waves has governed much of his life.

Planning Alerts

Planning applications: Pittwater

Find out what's happening in your area. Get alerts of new applications near here straight in your email. It's free!

Taronga Zoo: ProposalAfrican Savannah And Congo Exhibits

The proposal includes partial demolition of the existing African Safari and Orangutan Rainforest exhibits; construction of a new African Savannah exhibit for Giraffe, Zebra, Lions, Ostrich, Meerkats and Fennec Fox species and a new Congo Forest exhibit for Gorillas and Okapi; Cliff Edge Village visitor amenities; new visitor viewing shelters, decks and pathways; interpretative and directional signage and relocation, upgrade and augmentation of services as required. The exhibits will include landscaping, holding dens and back-of-house facilities.

Exhibition Start       04/08/2017

Exhibition End  04/09/2017

Documents here

Have your say here

Nominations Open For NSW Carers Awards

31 Jul 2017: NSW Dept. of Family & Community Services

Minister for Disability Services Ray Williams is encouraging people across NSW to nominate an exceptional carer or employer for a NSW Carers Award.

The NSW Carers Awards aim to recognise and raise awareness of the valuable contribution unpaid carers make to the people they care for and the wider community.

“There are more than 900,000 carers in NSW, who provide unconditional support for those in their care on a daily basis,” Mr Williams said.

“I would urge anyone who knows a carer or who has witnessed best practice by an organisation in supporting carers to put forward a nomination so this tremendous work can be recognised.”

The 2017 NSW Carers Awards will coincide with Carers Week, which runs from 15 - 21 October 2017.

“This is a great opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the significant contributions of carers across NSW,” Mr Williams said.

Up to 10 awards will be presented during the award ceremony, including the 2017 NSW Carer of the Year.

To nominate a carer go to www.careforacarer.nsw.gov.au. 

Entries close on 31 August 2017.

Examples of Individual carers include:

Family carers

Young carers

Senior carers

Nomination form for individuals.

Examples of organisations include:

Carer support groups and organisations

Carer friendly employers

Carer friendly education providers

Nomination form for organisations.

Blacktown Council Named Inaugural Leo Kelly Award Winner At LGNSW Local Government Week Awards

August 4th, 2017: LGNSW

Blacktown City Council's innovative Australian Hip Hop history project has taken out the inaugural Leo Kelly OAM Arts and Culture Award handed out by Local Government NSW (LGNSW) overnight. 

 

The Award - introduced to honour the late Councillor Leo Kelly OAM, a passionate and dedicated LGNSW Board member from 1983 to January 2017 - celebrates outstanding achievement in the strategic planning and delivery of arts and culture to local communities.

 

LGNSW President Keith Rhoades said it was fantastic the independent judges selected Blacktown City Council as the award winner in the 70,000-plus council population category.

 

"Leo was a long-serving councillor on Blacktown City Council, and was instrumental in creating the Blacktown Arts Centre," Clr Rhoades said.

 

"He continued to support the arts throughout his life, through the Blacktown City Art Prize and scholarships for local artists.

 

"I know he would be very proud that the council he served so faithfully has won the very first Leo Kelly OAM Award."

 

Leo Kelly Award winners in the remaining two population categories were Wagga Wagga City Council, for We Are Here - LGBTIQ Stories of the Riverina exhibition, program and collection; and Griffith City Council, for their Centenary of Spears project.

 

Also announced at the Sydney ceremony overnight were winners of the RH Dougherty Awards for Excellence in Communication.

 

RH Dougherty Winners and Highly Commended councils included Central Coast Council, the City of Parramatta, Liverpool City Council, Northern Beaches Council, the City of Ryde, Camden Council, Upper Lachlan Shire Council, Cessnock City Council, Tweed Shire Council, Parkes Shire Council, and Wagga Wagga City Council.

 

"This year's Local Government Week theme - Discovery, Diversity, Democracy- reflects the incredible breadth of activities undertaken by councils," LGNSW President Keith Rhoades said.

 

"Councillors are not only the democratically-elected representatives of their local communities, but individuals working within a board-like structure to help govern multi-million-dollar businesses.

 

"Local Government employs almost 50,000 staff across the state, and has an annual spend of $10 billion - as a sector we're active almost every sphere of daily life.

 

Also awarded at the Sydney ceremony were the:

• NSW Disability Inclusion Award, with population-based categories won by Cobar Shire Council, Wollondilly Shire Council and Wollongong City Council 
  
• Heart Foundation Local Government Awards, won by Kiama Municipal Council
  
• Youth Week Local Government Awards, with category winners including Fairfield City Council, Newcastle City Council, Shoalhaven City Council, Walgett Shire Council, Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, and Dubbo Regional Council.

eSafety Community Seminar

Too often I hear of cyberbullying and poor cyber safety practice ending in tragedy for our young people.

To help tackle this issue, the Government has established the Office of the eSafety Commissioner.

To help parents, teachers and young people learn about online safety issues such as cyberbullying, image-based abuse and exposure to inappropriate content, the eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant,  is hosting an eSafety community seminar in our area.    

The seminar is at 7pm-8:15pm on Monday, 28 August, at The Pittwater House School, 70 South Creek Rd, Collaroy.

This is a good opportunity to educate our community about these important issues.  If you would like to attend, please click here.

 

I hope to see you there.

Jason Falinski

MP for Mackellar

www.jasonfalinski.com.au

Fundraiser For Marty Campbell

Courtesy Pittwater Offshore Newsletter

Friday 6 October from 5.30-6pm

Marty has been selected again for the 2018 Special Olympics national games in Adelaide.  He needs to raise $3000 towards the cost.

Mary Romeo has very kindly offered to host another fundraising evening atThe Waterfront Restaurant on Friday 6 October from 5.30-6pm. 

Purchase own food and drinks and there will be music, dancing, auction and raffle. 

Geoff and Tina are helping with the organisation so if you can something to auction or raffle, please let them know.

All welcome. $10 for adults. Children free. 

Please put it in your diaries.

Pesticide Notification 

1080 FOX POISON (sodium fluoroacetate) FOR FOX CONTROL 1080 poison as buried baits or 1080 poison capsules in ejector devices Will be laid in a continuous and ongoing way from: 

Date: 1st August 2017 to 31st January 2018

Where: 

• Garigal National Park. 
  
• Lane Cove National Park, 
  
• Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park 
  
• Sydney Harbour National Park: 
  
• North Head including the Quarantine Station, 
  
• Dobroyd Head, 
  
• Middle Head, 
  
• Chowder Head & Bradleys Head managed by the National Parks & Wildlife Service. 
  
•  The North Head Sanctuary and Former School of Artillery managed by the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust. 
  
• The Australian Institute of Police Management, North Head
  

WARNING: 

DO NOT TOUCH BAITS OR EJECTOR DEVICES DOMESTIC ANIMALS MAY BE AFFECTED 1080 POISON IS LETHAL TO DOGS AND CATS.

Pet owners must ensure that their pets do not enter baited reserves.

Warning signs will be displayed to notify the public.

Dogs and cats are prohibited in National Parks (NPW Act 1974 & Regulations) and the North Head Sanctuary (Local Govt Act (1993) Sect 632 (2) (d). Penalties apply.

For further information please contact:

National Parks and Wildlife Service Pest Management Officer: 9472 8953 NPWS Harbour (north) Area office: 8968 6300 NPWS 

Ku-ring-gai Chase (Forestville) Area office: 9451 3479 

NPWS Ku-ring-gai Chase (Mt Colah) Area office: 9472 9323

Ten-Point Plan For Fire Safety Reforms

July 31st, 2017: NSW Government

Responding to the issues around London’s Grenfell Tower fire, the 10-point plan will ensure unsafe building products are taken off the shelves, buildings with cladding are identified and notified and that only people with the right skills and experience can certify buildings and sign off on fire safety.

The plan includes:

1. a comprehensive building product safety scheme that would prevent the use of dangerous products on buildings
   
2. identifying buildings that might have aluminium or other cladding
   
3. writing to the building/strata managers or owners of those buildings to encourage them to inspect the cladding and installation of cladding, if it exists
   
4. NSW Fire and Rescue visiting all buildings on the list, as part of a fire safety education program, to gather information to prepare for a potential fire at that building and provide additional information to building owners
   
5. creating a new fire safety declaration that will require high-rise residential buildings to inform state and local governments as well as NSW Fire and Rescue if their building has cladding on it
   
6. speeding up reforms to toughen the regulation of building certifiers
   
7. creating an industry-based accreditation to ensure only skilled and experienced people can carry out fire safety inspections
   
8. establishing a whole-of-government taskforce to coordinate and roll out the reforms
   
9. instructing all government departments to audit their buildings and determine if they have aluminium cladding, with an initial focus on social housing
   
10. following up with local councils on correspondence they received in 2016 from the NSW Government after Melbourne’s Lacrosse Tower fire.
    

Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean said it was the government’s priority to put consumers first and keep them as safe as possible in their homes.

“This package will protect consumers from building products that are inherently dangerous or that are being advertised for use in a way that makes them dangerous,” Mr Kean said.

Find out more about building fire safety

Harbour Trust Appoints Architects For HMAS Platypus Site

Thursday, 27 July 2017: Media Release - Sydney Harbour Federation Trust

The Sydney Harbour Federation Trust has engaged award winning architectural firm Lahznimmo Architects to undertake the Design Development phase of the former HMAS Platypus site at North Sydney.

Lahznimmo Architects specialise in public projects working across a number of spheres including education, local government and government authorities to deliver innovative and quality public spaces. They are well versed in the adaptive reuse of heritage buildings to create appealing public spaces having delivered St James Station Café in Hyde Park, City of Sydney Council’s Easy Sydney Community Art Centre and the Armory Wharf at Blaxland Park, Sydney Olympic Park.

They are joined by award winning landscape architectural firm Aspect Studios, responsible for the highly successful Goods Line in Ultimo.

“It’s an exciting phase for the project following a significant period of planning and community consultation and the remediation works,” said Mary Darwell, Sydney Harbour Trust CEO. “The Design Development phase will now see the outcomes of the Platypus Management Plan start to come to life,” she said.

“While the industrial heritage values of the buildings will be retained, the buildings and public spaces will be adapted and opened up to suit new uses with a mix of cultural, community and commercial uses expected,” she said.

The Platypus site, located on Neutral Bay in North Sydney, has been closed to the public for more than 150 years. The Harbour Trust is working to revitalise the site with new open space and urban parkland as well as adaptively reusing the buildings to create commercial and public spaces. New access and site links will allow pedestrian access into and across the site, and a new over water pedestrian link will provide access to Kesterton Park and High St Wharf.

“This brings us a step closer to opening up the area to the public,” said Josh Frydenberg, Minister for the Environment and Energy. “Importantly, the final design will balance community access with maintaining the significant heritage values of the site,” he said.

Andrew Nimmo, Director at Lahznimmo Architects said they are honoured to be involved in this landmark project.

“This is an exciting opportunity to be involved in the creation of a new public space for all of the community to enjoy,” said Mr Nimmo. “The Platypus site is a unique place. It has a fascinating history with industrial buildings that lend themselves to creative and innovative reuse. Once complete the site is sure to be a landmark destination on the harbour for the people of North Sydney,” he said.

The Detailed Design phase will be completed by late 2017 and works are scheduled to start in the second half of 2017. The Harbour Trust is exhibiting the Platypus Renewal Project for public comment until 16 August 2017.

The Harbour Trust was provided funding of $20M by the Federal Government in 2015 in order to open up the site to the public following remediation. The Harbour Trust has contributed an additional $3.8 million.

Visit Invitation for Public Comment – Platypus Renewal Project

Free Workshop In Mona Vale On NDIS Disability Funding 

My Choice Matters works with people with disability and their families to live life their way and get the most out of the changing disability system. Our goal is to help you learn and practice new ways of doing things and develop and grow your skills in Choice, Voice and Control.

We have a free, fully accessible workshop coming up for people with a disability, their families/carers, and people working in the sector so make sure you register now!

• Hear about changes to the disability support system and what it will mean for you

• Talk about planning and things to consider for your life

• See what some people are already doing

Where: Pittwater RSL

82 Mona Vale Road, Mona Vale

When:  Wednesday 23 August

Time: 10.00am – 2.30pm

Book now

Northern Beaches Veterans And Community Day 

When: Sunday 12th November 2017

Where: Dunbar Park Avalon Beach 10am – 4pm

The Inaugural Northern Beaches Veterans and Community Day will be held on 12 November 2017 in Dunbar Park Avalon Beach. This new event evolved due to the success of the Avalon Military Tattoo over the last 10 years, the enhanced relationship between local RSL sub-Branches and the community, and to carry on the legacy of past Avalon RSL Sub Branch President CDRE Graham Sloper AM RAN (Rtd).

Awareness of veteran’s issues is increasing within the community, and the ANZAC Spirit is flourishing on the Northern Beaches. Crowds at ceremonies have been increasing steadily in recent years. This will be an opportunity for the younger generations to learn more about past and current conflicts and to meet veterans and serving members of the Australian Defence Force.

Our mission is to instil a greater awareness and enduring compassion for veterans and the community in general.

Our objectives are: 

• Highlight concerns for veterans and the community;

• Create an opportunity for interaction;

• Acknowledge service and sacrifice;

• Create harmony;

• Reflect on history;

• Enhance awareness of Defence career opportunities;

• Address veterans issues of reintegration into civilian society, homelessness and suicide; 

• Profile veterans success stories

This will be a free of charge, non-profit event with participation on a voluntary basis. Any funds raised will be donated to Veterans Organisations and primarily the Veterans Centre Sydney Northern Beaches. There will be an emphasis on youth activities and careers. The primary market is the geographical area from Narrabeen to Palm Beach.

It is intended that local schools and community groups will have an arena to showcase their talents through music, drama and artwork with an Australian veterans theme. Over the coming months these groups will have the opportunity for input to shape the programme for the day. There will be a children’s art exhibition, a quilting display, ANZAC biscuit baking competition and many interactive displays and activities. Veterans Support Agencies are welcome to have a display and marquee in the park. There will be a stage with live music and performances throughout the day.

For further information, to book a stall or offer sponsorship, or VOLUNTEER to help, please contact the coordinators Lynn Murphy on 9883 9815 and Tamara Sloper Harding on 9883 9814 or emailsubbranch@avalonrsl.com.au.

Mark Ferguson 

President Palm Beach RSL Sub-Branch

Chairman Northern Beaches Veterans and Community Day Committee

A collaboration between Avalon, Palm Beach & Pittwater RSL Sub-branches.

Digital Literacy School Grants - Round Two

Digital Literacy School Grants is an initiative under the Inspiring all Australians in Digital Literacy and STEM measure of the National Innovation and Science Agenda.

Grants of between $10,000 and $50,000 are available for schools and other organisations to encourage and facilitate implementation of the new Australian Curriculum: Digital Technologies. Grants will be awarded for project proposals that demonstrate innovative methods for driving enhanced digital literacy in schools. Grants of amounts greater than $50,000 may also be made where a project has demonstrated capacity to reach regional, national or sectoral scalabilities such as projects involving clusters of schools and/or peak bodies/professional associations.

Eligibility:

For education entities that meet the program guidelines and parameters

Grant Activity Timeframe:

Outcomes for this grant application process are expected to be announced by 9 February 2018.

Total Amount Available (AUD): $2,000,000.00

Estimated Grant Value (AUD):From $10,000.00 to $50,000.00

Instructions for Lodgement:

Applications must be submitted to the Australian Government Department of Education and Training by 12 noon Canberra local time, 11 August 2017.

Other Instructions:

To apply for a grant, applicants must complete the online ‘Grant Application Form’ via the Department of Education and Training’s website.

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Stalls 2017

August:

August  12th: 8am to 3pm Bunnings, Narrabeen Sausage sizzle

August 18th:   9am to 3pm  Stall, foyer Mona Vale Hospital Baking, knitting, craft, books, sewing

September:

September 1st: 9am to 4pm   Stall, outside ANZ Bank, Avalon ParadeKnitting, sewing, craft, jam

September 2nd: 9am to 3pm Stall, Pittwater Place, Mona Vale Sewing, knitting, craft, books

September 9th: 8am to 3pm Bunnings, Narrabeen  Sausage sizzle

8am to 4pm 

September 15th: 9am to 3pm Stall, foyer Mona Vale Hospital Baking, knitting, craft, books, sewing     

October:

October 7th: 9am to 3pm Stall, Pittwater Place, Mona Vale Sewing, knitting, craft, books

October 14th: 8am to 3pm Bunnings, Narrabeen Sausage sizzle

October 20th: 9am to 3pm Stall, foyer Mona Vale Hospital Baking, knitting, craft, books, sewing

October 24th: 10.30 am Fashion Parade, Newport Bowling Club,                   Palm Road, Newport

November:

November 4th:  9am to 3pm  Stall, Pittwater Place, Mona Vale Knitting, sewing, craft

November 11th: 9am to 3pm Bunnings, Narrabeen Sausage sizzle 

December:

8am to 4pm

Sydney Wildlife: Critters Of The Month - August 2017

What Makes Echidnas So Unique?

Photo by Lisa Wynn (Sydney Wildlife)

At Sydney Wildlife, we don’t discriminate between species. We love them all. We love birds, mammals and reptiles equally. They are all special in their own ways.

Birds are amazing because of their enviable ability to fly. Reptiles are special in so many ways - especially in their ability to cope with temperature extremes. Mammals are so diverse and we have a good 360-odd species of mammals here in Australia. But the most interesting and unique of our mammals is the echidna.

In appearance, the echidna resembles a pin-cushion waddling about. They are covered in spines and have a long beak used to forage for invertebrates. The spines are modified hairs – spongy inside with a hard covering of keratin. They don’t have visible ears - just slits which are hidden by the spines. The feet have long claws which are perfect for digging.

Why Are Echidnas So Unique?

• Did you know that they are named after a monster in Greek mythology called ‘Echidna’ who was part-woman, part-snake? They were so named due to their part-mammal, part-reptile qualities.

They are warm-blooded and have coarse fur - like mammals, but they also have a low metabolic rate like reptiles. Their average body temperature is about 31 °C which is considerably lower than the average 37 °C for placental mammals. In times of extreme cold or drought, echidnas can use torpor to cope. Torpor is an energy-saving mechanism whereby they lower their metabolic rate - often used by reptiles over the winter period.

• Echidnas are a type of mammal called a monotreme. Monotremes lay eggs instead of bearing live young. The mothers still suckle their young, but not in the ordinary manner. Like all mammals, they lactate, but they have no defined teats. Instead, they excrete milk through openings in their skin. The baby echidna, known as a puggle, suckles the milk from the mother’s skin where the milk appears in ‘patches’.

• Have you heard of the Love Train? It’s a bit like the Love Boat but with echidnas instead of humans! The female heads up the train and is followed by up to 10 males during breeding season. This begins in late June and continues through to the beginning of September. The female will be trailed like this for many weeks and she will eventually choose a partner and they will mate. The unlucky suitors will beetle off. Three weeks after mating, a single egg is implanted in the female’s rear-facing pouch. The pouch only appears when the egg is ready to be implanted. Ten days later a tiny puggle (baby echidna) emerges from the egg. It is only the size of a 5c coin. Which, incidentally, is why the Australian 5c piece bears the image of an echidna.

• After 3 months in the ‘pouch’ the puggle is deposited into an underground den/burrow. The mother leaves the puggle for up to 5 days alone in the burrow while she forages for food. When she returns, the puggle gorges itself on milk until it resembles a spiny balloon! The milk lasts the 5 days that the mother is away from the burrow.

• Slightly x-rated fact: the males have a 4-headed penis!

• Echidnas have no teeth. When consuming beetles or other insects, they grind the food between their sticky tongue and the bottom of their mouth.

• Echidnas are incredibly strong and can escape from baskets, cages and containers with ease.

Having them in care requires a special type of escape-proof box - made either of plastic or metal.

Photo by Lisa Wynn (Sydney Wildlife)

If you find an injured echidna or one in an undesirable location, please call
Sydney Wildlife on 9413 4300 for advice.
www.sydneywildlife.org.au

By Lynleigh Greig
Sydney Wildlife

Go Wild Gala For Sydney Wildlife 2017

When: Sat. 11 November 2017, 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm 

Where: The Cardinal's Palace (ICMS), 151 Darley Road, Manly

Tickets: $200 plus booking fee

It’s time to GO WILD for WILDLIFE at Sydney Wildlife's Inaugural Gala Event at the iconic Cardinal's Palace in Manly! Enjoy canapés and our custom-created cocktails on the balcony, followed by a delicious 3-course meal and drinks in the Great Hall. There will be live music, dancing, and lots of opportunities to make a difference - including both a live and silent auction with amazing prizes. Bring your credit cards and get that Christmas shopping done early!

At the gala, we will be raising funds for a Sydney Wildlife Mobile Clinic which will be dedicated to treating injured and sick wildlife and ensuring that they remain protected for generations. The clinic may also be able to be deployed to areas affected by natural disasters to assist with treatment and pain alleviation.

There has never been a more crucial time to invest in our natural world and the protection of our glorious wildlife!

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

What should I wear?

Attire is black tie.

How do I get there?

Take the ferry (the Manly Ferry Wharf is a 3-minute cab ride from ICMS) or catch a cab. Additonally, there is free car parking onsite at ICMS (International College of Management).

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

No, we will have a guest list at the door.

How do I become a sponsor?

We have VIP sponsor tables available for purchase. Please email us atgowildgala@gmail.com for more information.

How can I contact the organiser with any questions?

Please feel free to email us at gowildgala@gmail.com

Where can I learn more about Sydney Wildlife?

Please go to our website: www.sydneywildlife.org.au

The purpose of  www.westpittwater.com.au  - is best defined by the vision of the West Pittwater Community Association.

To be a supportive community, encouraging and promoting civic pride, interest in community affairs and goodwill amongst residents.

To protect local fauna and flora and generally preserve West Pittwater and its environs.

To secure essential facilities including public wharves and reserves and to protect private and public property.

To speak with one voice and represent the interests of the Western Foreshore community when in discussion with Pittwater Council and other relevant government bodies. The WPCA website provides a forum for the better realisation of these objectives. Visit: www.westpittwater.com.au

Heritage Near Me Incentives Program

NSW Office of Environment & Heritage

The Heritage Near Me incentives program has been developed to complement current State Heritage funding programs. It provides funding opportunities and support directly to owners and managers of local heritage items.

Three new funding opportunities

The Heritage Near Me incentives program runs from 2016 to 2019. There is $16 million available in funding over the life of the program. The three grant stream opportunities are: Heritage Activation Grants, Heritage Green Energy Grants and Local Heritage Strategic Projects Grants.

The program is supported by a dedicated Heritage Near Me Roadshow team.  For information about NSW Heritage Council grant opportunities for items listed on the State Heritage Register, please visit the Heritage grants page.

Please also see the Heritage Near Me Logo use guidelines.

Heritage Activation Grants 

Heritage Green Energy Grants 

Local Heritage Strategic Projects

Heritage Grants Program

Pittwater Sailors Results In Land Rover Sydney To Gold Coast Yacht Race 2017

Church Point Ferry Service Connected

Winter Fire Safety Message

Nominations Open For NSW Council Elections

Palm Beach Sailing Club (PBSC) Open Day

PBSC is predominantly a family orientated sailing club offering great opportunities for young and older sailors to get the feel of fast “off the beach” multihulls. 

Breakwater Ball 2017

New Service To Improve Safety For Rock Fishers, Boaters And Swimmers

Record Funding Available For Surf Club Upgrades

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Oreo

AGE/SEX: 3 years / M

BREED: Kelpie X

Oreo is a happy, bouncy boy. He is social with other dogs and loves people. Out walking he is on loose lead and ignores cars but does seen scared of dogs. Enjoys cuddles, pats and licking volunteers faces. He loves jogging and knows "sit". He has a short coat and weighs 21.1kg. He comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. His adoption cost is $400.

$65 Million To Champion Community Cohesion

2017 Mosman Art Prize

Candidates To Speak To Electors 

Narrabeen Boys High 1967 50 Year Reunion - 2017

Call Out For Poets - ‘Spirit Of The Land’

 Gone Fishing Gallery at Waterfront Store Church Point

Open again TODAY in the top room Waterfront Store. Open mainly weekends as an addition to the waterfront cafe. Keep up to date on theirFacebook page

Click on logo above to visit their website.

How To Request To Address Council

New Season for Sailability Pittwater 

Sailability Pittwater is a volunteer organisation which provides sailing for people with a disability. Our main recreational sailing activities are at Rowland Reserve, Bayview, and we run competitive sailing for people with a disability out of RPAYC Newport. We are currently looking for new volunteers for our Saturday morning program at Rowland Reserve and Tuesdays at RPA. For more information at  www.sailability.org/au/pittwater or call John on 9982 5656

Articles This Week 

Front Page Issue 323: heaps!

2017 Pittwater Community Service Award: Jenny Harris

Pittwater Calls For Pittwater To Be Restored: We're Not Backing Down - Not Going Away, after NSW Premier's Announcement amalgamations of councils fighting in court against forced mergers will not proceed

B-Line Terminating At Newport Won’t Work: Community Residents Groups Alternative - Residents Groups Meeting with Project Team notes there will be no community feedback sought prior to new timetable being published, no through city services covering the ‘Newport Loop’ during peak hours, Newport Surf Club carpark to be used as commuter carpark, proposed L90 cuts during peak hour 

Mermaids Of Palm Beach Ready To Rock And Roll In 2017 Belmore To Buffalo Creek  Variety - The Children's Charity Bash

Retracing Governor Phillip's Footsteps Around Pittwater: The Mystery Of The Cove On The East Side by Roger Sayers and Geoff Searl - Do Not Miss this Readers!

Twelve racers ready for the Youth Match Racing World Championship 2017 by Daniel Smith, World Sailing + 2017 Governor's Cup by Tom Spithill, RPAYC Coach

NSW Governor Launches New Name For Easy Transport As ‘Easylink’ - Transport With Care

Lunch in the Garden: Come Along to Coomalong for Cambodian charity, ‘Build Your Future Today’ - food by Leang and Touch Khun, Mona Vale Bakery, known for their traditional Cambodian fare, Bikes 4 Life Brookvale collect second-hand bikes and ship them to Cambodia - attending event, also renowned children’s author, Louise Park, will be discussing her Cambodian Literacy Project at the lunch - Sunday September 24th

Aquatics: 2017 Pantaenius Newport To Coffs Coast Yacht Race Entries Now Open by RMYC BB

Pictures: Out And About: local heroes just being themselves at littlies rugby games, the annual RMYC Vintage Car Show raising funds for Bear Cottage, a good swell for confident surfers, Palm Beach Mermaids raising funds for Variety the Children's Charity, Rob Stokes, our local MP recognising another outstanding Pittwater Volunteer and a local transport provider that clearly cares refreshing and relaunching courtesy of a gentleman held in high esteem on the peninsula - the NSW Governor

Park Bench Philosopher Patrick Edward Quinn: A Manly Prose writer who gave us A Run To Pittwater (1889) and Songs for the Federation of Australia - as well as standing for a seat after being a NSW Poet/Politician

Congratulations

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 1/8/2017 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Pittwater Sailors In Land Rover Sydney To Gold Coast Yacht Race

Church Point Ferry Service Connected

Mona Vale SLSC Initiative Recognition

Sydney Wildlife Mobile Clinic Update

Winter Fire Safety Message

Nominations Open For NSW Council Elections

Infrastructure Grants For Community Projects

Breakwater Ball 2017

New Service To Improve Safety For Rock Fishers, Boaters And Swimmers