Pittwater Online News

Front Page Issue 639

Week Three February 2025 (February 10-16)

Non-Compliant DA For Palm Beach General Store Site: Now Supported By Council

Outraged Pittwater Community Fights To Stop Rising Costs Of Failed Merger; Renews Call To Reinstate Pittwater Council

Mackellar MP Dr. Sophie Scamps Introduces Wellbeing Of Future Generations Bill 2025

Inaugural Speech: Jacqui Scruby, MP For Pittwater

20th Anniversary Of The Bush To Beach Program: Thank You South Narrabeen SLSC

Jeffrey Quinn announced as Labor’s candidate for Mackellar

Aquatics All-star cast to converge on Pittwater for 2025 Hansa and Para Worlds by Di Pearson

Pictures: Highway One Screening for Avalon Beach SLSC 100th Year Celebrations by Roger Sayers OAM

Report from Inquiry into E-scooters and E-bikes Released: Recommends Significant and Urgent Reform 

Federal Electoral Reform Bill passed by the Labor-Liberal Alliance

Avalon Quilters 'The Sum of Us' Raffle Quilt for the Mito Foundation

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner praises boaters following reduction in January rescues

Australia Post seals new Bank@Post agreement with major banks

Pave App: to support youth off vapes while tens of thousands of illegal products removed from community

DIY Ideas DIY Repairing Sunken Paver Areas Fix

Park Bench Philosophers Want to make sure you don’t swelter in your next home? Check these 12 features before you rent or buy

_____________________

Week Two February 2025 (February  3-9)

New amenities now open at Barrenjoey Headland

Newport’s Conner Maggs wins 2024/25 Iron Series

Aquatics Pittwater Regatta 2025 by Di Pearson

New Bus Timetable Leaving Commuters Stranded Along Essential Routes, again

Australia's climate in 2024: 2nd warmest and 8th wettest year on record: BOM + It’s official: Australia’s ocean surface was the hottest on record in 2024 + Extra Recent Related reports

The King and I on the Hawkesbury (a Chris Hendrikson photo and memory confirms decades of rumours)

Vaping rates falling among young Australians: New Cancer Council 'Generation Vape' Report

Pictures: Careel Bay's Sulphur-Crested Cockatoos: February 2025 Antics

Education News February 2025: Anzac Grants for Barrenjoey High School - Terrey Hills Public School + Manly Students Experience Democracy at Parliament of NSW - 2025 Education Program Available + Out Front 2025 opens February 21 at Manly Art Gallery & Museum + Thousands of students return to new and upgraded schools + Narrabeen Sports High School Upgrade Update + Highest HSC Results for Sports High School in NSW

Park Bench Philosophers: Emergency response beacons can cut drownings at the beach – but 72% of people haven’t heard of them By Rob Brander, Professor, UNSW Beach Safety Research Group - Also available from December 2024;  New Emergency Response Beacons Now Active at North Palm Beach, Turimetta, Narrabeen + South Curl Curl, Fishermans, Shelly Beaches

_____________________

Week One February 2025 (January 27 - February 2)

Northern Beaches Council Passes Motion to Apply for a Permanent 40% Increase in Rates

Louis Tilly Crowned 2025 Australian WASZP Champion

Creative additions bolster Pantaenius Pittwater Regatta: Runs February 7 to 9 by  Di Pearson

Aquatics: Project Restore: seagrass from Palm Beach Going to Sydney Harbour - Join the Storm Squad + Environmentally Friendly Moorings – Free Trial Available

Changes coming to council meetings: NSW Government's OLG Public Consultation - closes February 28 2025

Pictures: Turimetta Moods: January 2025 by Joe Mills

Internationals combine for assault on 2025 Sydney to Auckland Ocean Race by Di Pearson

Park Bench Philosophers: Australian democracy is not dead, but needs help to ensure its survival

Out Front 2025 Opens this February at the Manly Art Gallery & Museum - stunning HSC works on display

Tilly Rose Cooper's Swimwear Drive For Fijian Youngsters - drop off swimmers to surf clubs by end of Nippers February 9

DIY Ideas: A Job For Life: Apprentice Carpenter + Commencement Tool List

Bus Timetable changes: Be ready for back to school - Reminder on articulated buses

Breeding time for Manly and Pittwater's Little Penguins: Boaters urged to stick to speed limit - First NSW Maritime Blitz for 2025 now on

Wildlife Killed by Same Roaming Dog Pair Again: 2025 Review of NSW Companion Animals Act to Commence following Dog Attack Inquests - (Dogs killing wildlife at: North Narrabeen-Elanora-Ingleside-Warriewood - January 2024; NB - the news service has received MORE of these reports since this first ran - these need to be reported to the Council to enable the Council to act on these) 

Draft Plan of Management for Dogs offleash On South Mona Vale Beach Open for feedback closes Sunday February 9 2025

Avalon Quilters 'The Sum of Us' Raffle Quilt for Mito Foundation

The Avalon Quilters have an amazing raffle quilt they have made to raise funds for the Mito Foundation. 

The quilt, appropriately named “The Sum Of Us”, was made last year by Avalon Quilter’s 25 members. It is completely handmade and totals over 4500 one-inch pieces, then finished off with hand quilting.

Details show the personal and colourful choices made by Avalon Quilters for each piece, underlining the title of this beautiful quilt.

Raffle tickets at $2 each, are available from members, who meet in the Uniting Church at Avalon every Thursday, 10-2.30,  at Patchwork on Pittwater at Mona Vale, and Avalon Fabrics and Craft, in Avalon Parade. 

The raffle will be drawn at Easter.

All tickets sales will go to the Mito Foundation, which Avalon Quilters have been supporting for over a decade through making raffle quilts. 

The Mito Foundation supports people affected by mitochondrial disease (mito), funds essential research into the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cures of mitochondrial disorders, and increases awareness and education about mito. 

Mitochondria are the power houses of the cell providing the body with over 90% of the energy it needs to sustain life. Mitochondria take in sugars and proteins from the food we eat and produce energy called ATP that our bodies use to function properly. Mitochondrial disease (mito) is a debilitating and potentially fatal disease that reduces the ability of the mitochondria to produce this energy. When the mitochondria are not working properly, cells begin to die until eventually whole organ systems fail and the patient's life itself is compromised.

The Mito Foundation was founded in 2009 by Pittwater residents Doug and Margie Lingard, their friends, and experts in the field of mitochondrial disease (mito). 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Addendum: The King on the Hawkesbury

The Hon. Rob Stokes, former Liberal MP for Pittwater, contacted the news service during the week to correct mis-hearing him or the speech transcript tape being 'blown away' by the breeze a few years back when sharing local insights at the commissioning of the new Marine Rescue Broken Bay vessel, the 'Bungaree'

Rob said this week;

''It  wasn't a minister at the church at Newport, it was a headmaster who Prince Charles would stay with. His name was Rod West, and his wife was Janet.  

Rod was a housemaster at Timbertop before becoming Principal at Trinity in Sydney. They lived in Goodwin Street Newport.  

While Rod was a Liberal, his daughter, Katherine, went to Ravenswood in Gordon and is now a Labour MP in the House of Commons!''

Thanks Rob!

The Newport church research is corrected thereby too - and that file, while growing bigger, will be the lesser without this inclusion - but it's great to be able to keep that insight accurate.

The history page for St Michael & All Angels' Anglican Church, the Lifeboat Church, should be finalised soon-ish and will run shortly thereafter.

Thanks to those who have emailed the news service this week in appreciation of Hendo's sharing of that photo and memories - Chris will be pleased so many enjoyed this, as will Mr. Bodman.

The page and record is now corrected and still available at:

The King and I on the Hawkesbury (a Chris Hendrikson photo and memory confirms decades of rumours)

Prince Charles on the Hawkesbury with Timbertop Housemaster Roderick West (1933–2016) in May 1966. Chris is in the dark top with white stripe down the side at the back

NSW SES Warringah / Pittwater Unit: From Townsville with Love

Local volunteers Michelle and Sara spent their valentines day spreading the love and care on clean up duty  in Townsville.

  

No comforts of home for these two, sharing cot beds in a huge hall with SES volunteers from around the country.

Decontamination stations run by Fire & Rescue to clean off the toxic muck from uniforms at the end of each shift. Community welfare checks and house to kerb clean ups of homes, all in the heat and humidity.

We are so proud of you both for giving up your time and working so hard.  Come home safely. The people of Townsville are in our thoughts as they start the long road to recovery.

Specialist crews from NSW were deployed to North Queensland to assist communities impacted by major flooding from February 6 on.

A second deployment of NSW emergency service personnel  landed in North Queensland to assist with flood resupply, evacuation centre support, and flood debris cleanup on February 10.

The NSW response, coordinated by the NSW State Emergency Service (SES), includes personnel from both the NSW SES and NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS).

A team of 20 field specialists and an interstate liaison officer made up the first of three planned deployments.

The crews have deployed as North Queensland communities experienced significant rain and flooding over the last week between Mackay and Cairns.

NSW Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib thanked those answering the call for help and said NSW would stand shoulder to shoulder with Queensland during this emergency. 

“Intense weather systems are something we’re all too familiar with in NSW and while our thoughts are with those in North Queensland, we are backing that up with action,” Minister Dib said. 

“I thank our emergency response teams for their selflessness, commitment and resolve. I also wish to thank their families and employers for their support of this important work.”

NSW SES Deputy Commissioner, Damien Johnston, farewelled the NSW contingent this morning as they departed Sydney.

“This weather event has left a trail of destruction in many North Queensland communities,” Deputy Commissioner Johnston said.

“These interstate deployments are an example of all emergency services working together to support communities not only in NSW, but across Australia when needed.

“The NSW crews will work alongside Queensland emergency services and residents to respond to flood rescue requests, clear debris, remove fallen trees, community engagement, resupply of essentials by boat, and help provide essential support to affected individuals and families.”

Commissioner of the RFS, Rob Rogers said NSW has a proud tradition of assisting other states during emergencies, reflecting the dedication, skill, and professionalism of all our emergency service members.

“I wish those deploying to Queensland, as well as those already on the ground, all the very best as they work to protect lives and property amid these challenging conditions,” Commissioner Rogers said.

This assistance follows other recent interstate support efforts, with a multi-agency response aiding firefighting efforts in Victoria.

A further 80 emergency management specialists from around Australia will join the NSW crews supporting Queensland on this deployment, as part of the National Resource Sharing arrangements.

Photos/insight: NSW SES Warringah / Pittwater Unit and SES NSW

Narrabeen sports High School's New outdoor seating

Narrabeen Sports High School is sharing some great news:

''Over the holidays, our wonderful P&C Committee made an incredible contribution to our school by funding a brand-new outdoor undercover seating area next to our outdoor basketball and Tennis courts.

This fantastic addition provides a great space for students to sit, enjoy lunch, and watch court games while staying cool and protected from the elements. 

We are so grateful for the ongoing support of our P&C—your generosity and commitment to our school make a huge difference!''

Clean Up Australia Day

Sunday, 2 March 2025 - 07:00 am to 08:00 pm

Community, schools and businesses can volunteer for Clean Up Australia Day to help keep our area pristine.  Now is the time to register for this year’s community event, happening on Sunday 2nd of March 2025.

Businesses are also encouraged to join the Business Clean Up Day on Tuesday 25 February 2025 and young people can get involved in the School Clean Up Day on Friday 28 February 2025.  

To register to volunteer, visit Clean Up Australia Day.

MAG&M stages Signs in the Sand

Manly Art Gallery & Museum’s (MAG&M) is partnering with contemporary artist Anna Madeleine Raupach to create an innovative approach to raising awareness for environmental issues in its latest exhibition Signs in the Sand: Anna Madaleine Raupach’s Climate Sign Archive, opening on 11 March 2025.

Signs in the Sand, an immersive augmented reality (AR) installation, is a continuation of respected artist, Anna Madeleine Raupach’s Climate Sign Project. The exhibition will form part of MAG&M’s program for Climate Action Week (10-16 March).

In mid-February the Collective for Environmental Art & Design (CEAD) Forum is being held, where participants will be asked to create climate action signs for Signs in the Sand. Raupach will digitise these signs, add them to her growing archive and place them virtually in the sand along Manly Cove.  

During the Signs in the Sand exhibition, 11 March to 11 May 2025, visitors can engage with these artworks via a QR code downloaded to their electronic device.

Northern Beaches Mayor, Sue Heins expressed enthusiasm for the premise and personal engagement of the exhibition.

“Signs in the Sand is a powerful example of how art and technology can come together to address urgent environmental issues.

“This exhibition not only highlights the creativity and innovation of our community but also encourages them to reflect on the role we all play in fostering environmental and sustainability awareness and action,” Mayor Heins said.

The exhibition will feature digitised signs from Raupach’s archive, as well as the new signs created during the CEAD (Collective for Environmental Art & Design) Forum in February. These AR installations will be displayed along Manly Cove’s beachfront and within MAG&M, providing an immersive interactive experience for visitors. QR codes placed at MAG&M will link visitors to the project’s AR platform, allowing them to engage with the artwork in a unique and meaningful way.

Signs in the Sand is part of MAG&M’s commitment to presenting art and ideas that drive real-world environmental change through the CEAD program. The exhibition aligns with MAG&M’s mission to inspire interdisciplinary creativity and meaningful dialogue about sustainability.

The exhibition is free and open to the public, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy and participate in this important conversation about the environment.

See first-hand how art and technology can work together towards environmental change.

Weekly curator’s walk-through

Thursday mornings at 11am. Please meet in the foyer of Manly Art Gallery & Museum.

FREE - No booking required 

Location: Manly Art Gallery & Museum, 1a West Esplanade, Manly 

Image courtesy Anna Madeleine Raupach

Australia Post seals new Bank@Post agreement with major banks

Photo: Australia Post

With so many branches and ATM's being closed or withdrawn locally in recent years, residents will be pleased to know their nearest bank is still their nearest post office, and with an announcement on February 11 2025, is set to expand the banks included.

Australia Post announced on Tuesday it has finalised updated in-principle Bank@Post agreements with Commonwealth Bank, National Australia Bank and Westpac. 

Australia Post also announced negotiations with ANZ are at an advanced stage with both parties agreeing to key terms which would see ANZ customers able to use Bank@Post services from 1 October 2025. 

Furthermore, Macquarie Bank and HSBC have agreed to start negotiations with Australia Post on Bank@Post services, meaning customers at Australia’s largest banks will be able to undertake essential banking transactions via Bank@Post.

This announcement provides Australian communities with greater certainty about banking services at approximately 3,400 Post Offices who provide Bank@Post services, particularly to vulnerable and rural and regional customers.

The enhanced commercial terms with the major banks will help improve the financial outlook for Bank@Post and introduce standardised services for customers across all participating banks.

Paul Graham, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Australia Post said today’s announcement was a great example of businesses working together to put customers’ needs first.

“On behalf of the millions of Australians who use Bank@Post across our Post Office network, I am very pleased to have an improved in-principle agreements and new commercial terms with the Commonwealth Bank, National Australia Bank and Westpac and to welcome ANZ to Bank@Post.

“The improved arrangements and ANZ’s membership help ensure Bank@Post is on a more sustainable financial pathway and that Australia Post can continue providing essential banking services in the many communities where there are no other banking services available.

“The new agreements will also help maintain the sustainability of thousands of Licensed Post Offices, many of which are small businesses run by families who play an essential role in servicing their local communities.

“I would like to thank the Treasurer, Dr Jim Chalmers, the Minister for Finance, Katy Gallagher, the Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland and the major bank CEOs and ABA for their support in finalising these enhanced Bank@Post agreements.

Angela Mitchell, member of Australia Post’s Licensee Representative Council said, “Bank@Post is one of many ways we support our local communities, especially in areas where there is no alternative access to cash. As Licensees, we’re small business owners ourselves, and we understand the critical role we play in delivering Bank@Post for our customers.”

You can find out more and check for your nearest Bank@Post Post Office at:  auspost.com.au/money/bills/bank-at-post

Changes coming to council meetings: NSW OLG Public Consultation- closes February 28 2025

The NSW Government stated on December 17 2024 it is continuing to progress reforms to strengthen local government, announcing changes to the way council meetings are conducted to ensure greater transparency and increase community confidence in council decision making.

All councils are required to adopt a code of meeting practice based on the Model Meeting Code issued by the Office of Local Government.

The government has now released a consultation draft of amendments to the Model Meeting Code for public comment.

The changes aim to simplify the Model Meeting Code and ensure councillors are making decisions in the full view of the communities they are elected to represent.

They also aim to increase the dignity of the council chamber and remove the general manager’s involvement in council politics.

Key changes, some of which have been recommended by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) include:

• preventing councils from holding private councillor briefing sessions
• requiring information considered at closed meetings to be made public after it ceases to be confidential
• requiring councils to give reasons when making decisions on planning matters that depart from staff recommendations
• de-politicising the role of the general manager by removing the requirement for them to prepare reports on councillors’ notices of motion
• expanding the powers of the mayor to expel councillors from meetings for acts of disorder 
• requiring councillors to stand when the mayor enters and when addressing the meeting

Changes to the Model Meeting Code were flagged in a discussion paper outlining the government’s proposed reforms to the councillor code of conduct system.

Submissions will be accepted until COB Friday, 28 February 2025. 

To learn more and provide feedback, go to:  www.olg.nsw.gov.au/reforms-to-code-of-meeting-practice

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said in December 2024:

“Council meetings are where a council’s most important decisions should be made.

“It concerns me that these decisions are increasingly being made behind closed doors in private briefings, locking out the community and protecting councils from public scrutiny.

“As a former mayor, I want to see all councils conducting their business in an open and public forum, where communities can engage with their council on issues that directly affect them.

“The current Model Meeting Code has become unwieldly and is prone to drawing the general manager into political disputes which should be left to elected councillors to resolve.

“These changes are part of the government’s commitment to restore public trust in local government which has been eroded by years of neglect and a cultural shift towards secrecy over public service.”

From that linked to webpage

Consultation on reforms to council meeting practices

The Office of Local Government is inviting feedback from the local government sector and others on proposed amendments to the Model Code of Meeting Practice for Local Councils in NSW (Model Meeting Code).

The amendments are part of the Government’s agenda to ensure that councillors are visibly in control of their councils, demonstrating to the community that decision making is genuinely local.

The reform of the code and procedures governing how councillors gather, debate and make decisions was flagged by the Minister for Local Government as part of the discussion paper issued in September, “Councillor conduct and meeting practice: a new framework”.

The feedback the Office of Local Government receives will be used to inform the amendments that are ultimately made to the Model Meeting Code.

It is anticipated that the new Model Meeting Code will be prescribed in early 2025.

The proposed amendments to the Model Meeting Code are the first tranche of reforms to the regulation of meetings. The second tranche will be legislated in 2025 as part of the measures implemented to reform the regulation of councillor conduct and will have a particular focus on behaviour at meetings.

Have your say!

The Office of Local Government has issued a consultation draft of the amended Model Meeting Code and accompanying paper to seek the views of the local government sector, key stakeholders and the community on the proposed amendments.

The proposed amendments to the Model Meeting Code are indicated in track changes in the consultation draft.

• A new model code of meeting practice – Consultation draft – PDF – 468KB
• Consultation draft of the new Model Code of Meeting Practice for Local Councils in NSW – PDF – 467KB

Submissions will be accepted until COB Friday 28 February 2025.

What are you being asked to do?

The paper outlines the key focus areas of the review. We are seeking your input on these matters through the questions asked in the paper and available in the online form.

We are also seeking your comments on the proposed amendments to the Model Meeting Code.

Feedback can be provided in 3 ways.

Using the online submission form below (HERE)

OR

By email – olg@olg.nsw.gov.au

OR

Post: Address – Office of Local Government, Locked Bag 3015, NOWRA NSW 2541

Submissions must be clearly labelled “Model Meeting Code amendments” and marked to the attention of the Office of Local Government’s Council Governance Team.

Information on privacy and confidentiality

When you give us your feedback, the Office of Local Government will be collecting some personal information about you, in particular:

• your name
• your email address
• the name of your organisation (if provided).

All feedback received through this consultation process may be made publicly available. Please do not include any personal information in your feedback that you do not want published. 

As part of the consultation process, we may need to share your information with people outside the Office of Local Government, including other public authorities and government agencies. We may also use your email contact details to send you notifications about further feedback opportunities or the outcome of the consultation. You should also be aware there may be circumstances when OLG is required by law to release information (for example, in accordance with the requirements of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009. There is also a privacy policy located on the Office of Local Government’s website that explains how some data is automatically collected (such as your internet protocol (IP) address) whenever you visit the Office of Local Government’s website.  The link to that policy is https://www.olg.nsw.gov.au/about-us/privacy-policy/.

NB: you can choose to have your details kept confidential.

2025 NSW Surf Life Saving Championships

Dates are set for the 2025 NSW Surf Life Saving Championships, proudly presented by Your local club.

Date - Event - Location

28 February – 2 March 2025

Lifesaving Championships (Champion Lifesaver & Champion Patrol)

Freshwater SLSC

8-9 March 2025

Lifesaving Championships (First Aid Competition)

Freshwater SLSC

6-9 March 2025

Age Championships

Queenscliff SLSC

12-13 March 2025

Masters Championships

Queenscliff SLSC

14-16 March 2025

Open & Surf Boat Championships

Queenscliff SLSC.

Avalon Beach SLSC turns 100 in 2025!

2025 marks 100 years of Avalon Beach Surf Lifesaving Club.

Planning is underway to celebrate the achievement of Avalon Beach SLSC's Volunteer Surf Lifesavers keeping Avalon Beach safe for residents and visitors for 100 years!

A number of celebratory events and activities spread throughout the Club's 100th year, are currently under development, and will be progressively announced through the year. 

The range of celebrations will involve past and present members, the Avalon Beach community, as well as visitors to our area.  The Surf Club is a focal point in and for the Avalon Beach community, so it is fitting that the community takes pride in this milestone.

Initially, so that our records are up to date, we invite all past members of our Club to Email the Club at 100years@avalonbeachslsc.com.au  with your updated details so we can keep you informed of what will be happening for members.

If you know of others that may be interested in the 100th Anniversary celebrations please pass the message on. 

The Club looks to the future, acknowledging and building on the legacy left from those who came before us over the past 100 years.

Avalon Beach SLSC Centenary Committee

Front Page Issue 639

Week Two February 2025 (February  3-9)

New amenities now open at Barrenjoey Headland

Newport’s Conner Maggs wins 2024/25 Iron Series

New Bus Timetable Leaving Commuters Stranded Along Essential Routes, again

Aquatics Pittwater Regatta 2025 by Di Pearson

Australia's climate in 2024: 2nd warmest and 8th wettest year on record: BOM + It’s official: Australia’s ocean surface was the hottest on record in 2024 + Extra Recent Related reports

The King and I on the Hawkesbury (a Chris Hendrikson photo and memory confirms decades of rumours)

Vaping rates falling among young Australians: New Cancer Council 'Generation Vape' Report

Pictures: Careel Bay's Sulphur-Crested Cockatoos: February 2025 Antics

Education News February 2025: Anzac Grants for Barrenjoey High School - Terrey Hills Public School + Manly Students Experience Democracy at Parliament of NSW - 2025 Education Program Available + Out Front 2025 opens February 21 at Manly Art Gallery & Museum + Thousands of students return to new and upgraded schools + Narrabeen Sports High School Upgrade Update + Highest HSC Results for Sports High School in NSW

Park Bench Philosophers: Emergency response beacons can cut drownings at the beach – but 72% of people haven’t heard of them By Rob Brander, Professor, UNSW Beach Safety Research Group - Also available from December 2024;  New Emergency Response Beacons Now Active at North Palm Beach, Turimetta, Narrabeen + South Curl Curl, Fishermans, Shelly Beaches

Environment Turimetta Beach, No Access: Badger’s graffiti glance wins Wildlife Photographer of the Year People’s Choice Award, Labor have officially abandoned the environment in stunning capitulation to mining, logging lobby: Greens, Net Zero Planning Grant: NSW businesses supported to plan for net zero emissions - applications close Friday 2 May 2025, Please Remember to leave water out for wildlife on hot days, Sacred Aboriginal site and habitat for threatened species among additions to NSW national parks, Wildlife killed by Same roaming dog Pair Again: 2025 Review of NSW Companion Animals Act to Commence following Dog Attack Inquests, Breeding time for Little Penguins: Boaters urged to stick to speed limit, Labor’s dumping of Australia’s new nature laws means the environment is shaping as a key 2025 election issue, It’s official: Australia’s ocean surface was the hottest on record in 2024, Politics with Michelle Grattan: Albanese dumps Nature Positive legislation and considers shrinking the electoral reform bill, Habitat restoration is a long-haul job; Here are 3 groups that have endured, Why personal climate action matters – according to experts, Yes, energy prices are hurting the food sector. But burning more fossil fuels is not the answer, A deadly bird flu strain is headed for Australia – and First Nations people have the know-how to tackle it, ‘Serious concerns’: national assessment reveals rivers flowing into the Great Barrier Reef are getting more polluted, The Greenland ice sheet is falling apart – new study, While plastic dominates human consumption, the global economy will remain hooked on fossil fuels, Whalesong patterns follow a universal law of human language, new research finds, Millions of animals die on roads – does this make driving morally wrong?, The world wildlife trade regulator is 50 – here’s what has worked and what needs to change, To keep your cool in a heatwave it may help to water your trees, Rare almost mythical Australian tree kangaroos can finally be studied thanks to new tech, Climate-affected produce is here to stay. Here’s what it takes for consumers to embrace it, Pet flea treatments may be harming wildlife – but owners can help, How citizen science is shaping international conservation, Electric vehicle batteries can last almost 40% longer in the real world than in lab tests, The 30-plants-a-week challenge: you’ll still see gut health benefits even if you don’t meet this goal, Breeding time for Little Penguins: Boaters urged to stick to speed limit, Caladenia callitrophila - NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee Preliminary Determination: Critically endangered + Acacia chrysotricha - NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee Preliminary Determination: Critically endangered + Caladenia rileyi - NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee Preliminary Determination: Endangered + Eucalyptus oresbia - NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee Preliminary Determination: Endangered + Tasmannia purpurascens - NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee Preliminary Determination: Endangered, Centennial Coal plan to dump millions of litres of toxic wastewater into Sydney’s water catchment every day, Plastic Bread Ties For Wheelchairs: Mona Vale drop-off point, Volunteers for Barrenjoey Lighthouse Tours needed, Stay Safe From Mosquitoes, Mountain Bike Incidents On Public Land: Survey, Report fox sightings, marine wildlife rescue group on the Central Coast, Watch out - shorebirds about, Possums In Your Roof?: do the right thing, Aviaries + Possum Release Sites Needed, Bushcare in Pittwater: where, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Activities, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Pittwater Reserves: histories + Pictorial Walks, Pittwater's Birds, + more

Inbox News Sweeping reform of the electoral laws puts democracy at risk; They shouldn’t be changed on a whim, Misleading and false election ads are legal in Australia; We need national truth in political advertising laws, Current cultural citizens: the importance of creating spaces in art galleries for young people, Central Coast program benefits breast cancer patients across NSW, ACCC sweep uncovers concerning online shopping return policies and terms and conditions, Around 3% of us will develop a brain aneurysm in our lives. So what is it and how do you treat it?, What are cooling blankets? Can they really help me sleep?, New evidence confirms our Indigenous languages have a common source but how they spread remains a mystery, Why we should all try to eat like people in rural Papua New Guinea – new study, Why the WHO has recommended switching to a healthier salt alternative, Mastercard plans to get rid of credit card numbers; We could be heading towards the end of cards, Dating apps could have negative effects on body image and mental health: new research, Some vegetables are pretty low in fibre. So which veggies are high-fibre heroes?, The King and I on the Hawkesbury, More Nurses: Removing Red Tape for Record Numbers of Nurses Moving to Australia, $18.4 million to support nursing students with clinical placements in aged care, Aged care clinical placements available to nursing students, Seniors set for laughs during free NSW Seniors Festival Comedy Shows, AvPals Term 1 2025, Avalon Beach SLSC turns 100 in 2025!, Sweeping reform of the electoral laws puts democracy at risk. They shouldn’t be changed on a whim, Improved service standards for superannuation a welcome move, Restless legs syndrome is incurable – here’s how to manage the symptoms, Is this 2025, or 1965? Grammy wins for the Beatles and the Rolling Stones keep the rock canon in the past, Bacteria in your mouth may hold clues to your brain health and dementia risk – new study, Reading Whistler’s Nocturne in Blue and Gold – Old Battersea Bridge as a piece of music, Anzac Grants for Barrenjoey High School - Terrey Hills Public School + Manly Students Experience Democracy at Parliament of NSW - 2025 Education Program Available + Out Front 2025 opens February 21 at Manly Art Gallery & Museum, No Access: Badger’s graffiti glance wins Wildlife Photographer of the Year People’s Choice Award, New Matildas mural officially unveiled at Stadium Australia, Take breaks, research your options and ditch your phone: how to take care of yourself during Year 12, School Leavers Support, $18.4 million to support nursing students with clinical placements in aged care, Aged care clinical placements available to nursing students, Word Of The Week: Pither, How we’re recovering priceless audio and lost languages from old decaying tapes, Supersonic jets are making a comeback – but despite the hype, don’t expect to book yet, Bees count from left to right just like some humans, apes and birds – new research, Beyoncé is right – music genres can force artists into conformity. But ditching them isn’t an option, Is this 2025, or 1965? Grammy wins for the Beatles and the Rolling Stones keep the rock canon in the past, This year, make a commitment to understanding your world better: practise the art of slow looking, How a Cold War satellite and Robert Menzies changed the way Australian schools are funded, Art, music and science combine at a new whale exhibition at Winchester Cathedral, This Valentine’s Day, try loving-kindness meditation, Where does black fall on the colour spectrum? A colour scientist explains, Why are rubies red and emeralds green? Their colors come from the same metal in their atomic structure,  Rare almost mythical Australian tree kangaroos can finally be studied thanks to new tech

_____________________

Week One February 2025 (January 27 - February 2)

Northern Beaches Council Passes Motion to Apply for a Permanent 40% Increase in Rates

Louis Tilly Crowned 2025 Australian WASZP Champion

Creative additions bolster Pantaenius Pittwater Regatta: Runs February 7 to 9 by  Di Pearson

Aquatics: Project Restore: seagrass from Palm Beach Going to Sydney Harbour - Join the Storm Squad + Environmentally Friendly Moorings – Free Trial Available

Changes coming to council meetings: NSW Government's OLG Public Consultation - closes February 28 2025

Pictures: Turimetta Moods: January 2025 by Joe Mills

Internationals combine for assault on 2025 Sydney to Auckland Ocean Race by Di Pearson

Park Bench Philosophers: Australian democracy is not dead, but needs help to ensure its survival

Out Front 2025 Opens this February at the Manly Art Gallery & Museum - stunning HSC works on display

Tilly Rose Cooper's Swimwear Drive For Fijian Youngsters - drop off swimmers to surf clubs by end of Nippers February 9

DIY Ideas: A Job For Life: Apprentice Carpenter + Commencement Tool List

Bus Timetable changes: Be ready for back to school - Reminder on articulated buses

Breeding time for Manly and Pittwater's Little Penguins: Boaters urged to stick to speed limit - First NSW Maritime Blitz for 2025 now on

Wildlife Killed by Same Roaming Dog Pair Again: 2025 Review of NSW Companion Animals Act to Commence following Dog Attack Inquests - (Dogs killing wildlife at: North Narrabeen-Elanora-Ingleside-Warriewood - January 2024; NB - the news service has received MORE of these reports since this first ran - these need to be reported to the Council to enable the Council to act on these) 

Draft Plan of Management for Dogs offleash On South Mona Vale Beach Open for feedback closes Sunday February 9 2025

Front Page Issue 639

Week One February 2025 (January 27 - February 2)

Northern Beaches Council Passes Motion to Apply for a Permanent 40% Increase in Rates

Louis Tilly Crowned 2025 Australian WASZP Champion

Creative additions bolster Pantaenius Pittwater Regatta: Runs February 7 to 9 by  Di Pearson

Aquatics: Project Restore: seagrass from Palm Beach Going to Sydney Harbour - Join the Storm Squad + Environmentally Friendly Moorings – Free Trial Available

Changes coming to council meetings: NSW Government's OLG Public Consultation - closes February 28 2025

Pictures: Turimetta Moods: January 2025 by Joe Mills

Internationals combine for assault on 2025 Sydney to Auckland Ocean Race by Di Pearson

Park Bench Philosophers: Australian democracy is not dead, but needs help to ensure its survival

Out Front 2025 Opens this February at the Manly Art Gallery & Museum - stunning HSC works on display

Tilly Rose Cooper's Swimwear Drive For Fijian Youngsters - drop off swimmers to surf clubs by end of Nippers February 9

DIY Ideas: A Job For Life: Apprentice Carpenter + Commencement Tool List

Bus Timetable changes: Be ready for back to school - Reminder on articulated buses

Breeding time for Manly and Pittwater's Little Penguins: Boaters urged to stick to speed limit - First NSW Maritime Blitz for 2025 now on

Wildlife Killed by Same Roaming Dog Pair Again: 2025 Review of NSW Companion Animals Act to Commence following Dog Attack Inquests - (Dogs killing wildlife at: North Narrabeen-Elanora-Ingleside-Warriewood - January 2024; NB - the news service has received MORE of these reports since this first ran - these need to be reported to the Council to enable the Council to act on these) 

Draft Plan of Management for Dogs offleash On South Mona Vale Beach Open for feedback closes Sunday February 9 2025

Inbox News Paracetamol pack sizes and availability are changing; Here’s what you need to know, NSW Public health alert: Likely case of botulism linked to unregulated anti-wrinkle injections, How the world fell in love with plastic without thinking through the consequences, Is it school reluctance or refusal? How to tell the difference and help your child, Online privacy policies can be 90,000 words long; Here are 3 ways to simplify them, The ‘singles tax’ means you often pay more for going it alone. Here’s how it works, What’s the difference between Hass and Shepard avocados?, Too many Australians miss out on essential medical care every year; Here’s how to fix ‘GP deserts’, Changing jobs is a big move but it’s worth considering if your workplace is toxic, What is the story of hongbao, the red envelopes given out at celebrations like Lunar New Year?, Off To School In 2025 A Bit Quicker Than A Hundred Years Ago, Out Front 2025 Opens this February at the Manly Art Gallery & Museum, Northern Beaches Youth Theatre Romeo and Juliet Production Opportunity: at Warriewood, Applications to join the DOVES Council are open for 2025, Word Of The Week: Translucent, Swimming in the sweet spot: how marine animals save energy on long journeys, Friday essay: Seize the day – Virginia Woolf’s Mrs Dalloway at 100, The sound of skateboarding offers skaters a therapeutic way to connect with the city, Marianne Faithfull: the singer with an inimitable voice was a Romantic poet at heart, While you sleep these insects are working hard on the night shift to keep our environment healthy, 5 games to play if you’re ‘not a gamer’ – or to introduce to the non-gamers in your life, 1975 was declared International Women’s Year; 50 years on, the ‘revolution in our heads’ is still being fought, When news is stressful how do you balance staying informed with ‘doomscrolling’?, Finding ‘Kape’: How Language Documentation helps us preserve an endangered language, How we uncovered the UK’s biggest site of dinosaur tracks in a quarry in Oxfordshire, The Brutalist: an architect’s take on a film about one man’s journey to realise his visionary building, Here’s what ‘deep listening’ can tell us about the natural world and our place in it, Seniors set for laughs during free NSW Seniors Festival Comedy Shows, Online lifestyle trial boosts cognition in older Australians: new study - CHeBA / UNSW, Great Australian artists to entertain NSW seniors at Premier’s Gala Concerts, Myth busted: Healthy habits take longer than 21 days to set in - University of South Australia, AvPals Term 1 2025, Might xenon gas be useful for treating Alzheimer’s, as a new study suggests?, Avalon Beach SLSC turns 100 in 2025!, Australia’s drama dilemma: how taxpayers foot the bill for content that ends up locked behind paywalls, Archaeologists find 'lost' site depicted in the Bayeux Tapestry, Researchers uncover new approach to predict pain sensitivity, Babies as young as 4 months can tell how the sounds of different languages are made – new research, Sydney’s Museum of Contemporary Art is now charging for entry; It’s a sign our cultural sector needs help

Environment Please Remember to leave water out for wildlife on hot days, Wildlife killed by Same roaming dog Pair Again: 2025 Review of NSW Companion Animals Act to Commence following Dog Attack Inquests, Breeding time for Little Penguins: Boaters urged to stick to speed limit - NSW Maritime Blitz 2025, Caladenia callitrophila - NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee Preliminary Determination: Critically endangered + Acacia chrysotricha - NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee Preliminary Determination: Critically endangered + Caladenia rileyi - NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee Preliminary Determination: Endangered + Eucalyptus oresbia - NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee Preliminary Determination: Endangered + Tasmannia purpurascens - NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee Preliminary Determination: Endangered, Centennial Coal plan to dump millions of litres of toxic wastewater into Sydney’s water catchment every day, A marine heatwave in northwest Australia is killing huge numbers of fish; It’s heading south, WA Government approves Woodside’s North West Shelf gas expansion, Monitoring the Common Murre Mass Mortality in Coastal Alaska: half of population now dead and not recovering after 2014-16 marine heatwave event - related; Shearwaters washing up on local beaches for third year in a row: Mass mortalities of Starving Birds attributed to Australia's Lose-Lose Policy on the Australian Environment + Bellwethers of change: population modelling of North Pacific humpback whales from 2002 through 2021 reveals shift from recovery to climate response,  As the Black Summer megafires neared, people rallied to save wildlife and domestic animals. But it came at a real cost - related;  Sydney Wildlife Mobile Clinic's Inaugural Run Into The New South Wales Firegrounds Has Been Supported By The World's Leading Wildlife Organisations And Carers: January 2020 + Gene pools are getting dangerously shallow for many species; We found 5 ways to help, Sydney Wildlife (Sydney Metropolitan Wildlife Services) Needs Volunteers: New course starts in February, An egg-cellent beach activity, Draft Plan of Management for Dogs offleash On South Mona Vale Beach Open for feedback until February 9, ‘I was shocked’: a scientist tracking koalas films startling behaviour between young males, Global wildlife trade is an enormous market – a look at the billions of animals the US imports from nearly 30,000 species, You don’t have to be a net zero hero – how focus on personal climate action can distract from systemic problems, Weighing the green cost: How nickel mining in Indonesia impacts forests and local communities, Does your school have enough trees? Here’s why they’re great for kids and their learning, Suffocating seas: low oxygen levels emerging as third major threat to tropical coral reefs, Here’s what ‘deep listening’ can tell us about the natural world and our place in it, Plastic Bread Ties For Wheelchairs: Mona Vale drop-off point, Volunteers for Barrenjoey Lighthouse Tours needed, Stay Safe From Mosquitoes, Mountain Bike Incidents On Public Land: Survey, Report fox sightings, marine wildlife rescue group on the Central Coast, Watch out - shorebirds about, Possums In Your Roof?: do the right thing, Aviaries + Possum Release Sites Needed, Bushcare in Pittwater: where, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Activities, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Pittwater Reserves: histories + Pictorial Walks, Pittwater's Birds, + more