Community News: January 2025

January 1 - 31, 2025: Issue 638

Week One February 2025 (January 27 - February 2)

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

Profile of the Week Newport SLSC's 'Stingers' are 2025 Trans-Tasman Australian representatives 

On December 6 2025 Surf Life Saving Australia announced the Australian Surf Boat Team and the Australian Development Surf Boat Team, selected to represent Australia in the upcoming Trans-Tasman Surf Boat Test Series in New Zealand. 

Fifty-nine surf boat crews from Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales competed at the National Team Selection Event (NTSE) at Ocean Beach, NSW, with the top crews earning the honour of representing Australia at Waihi Beach, New Zealand in 2025. 

The Australian Surf Boat Team will be represented by back-to-back representatives, Currumbin Cockatoos (Open Women) and Bulli Gold (Open Men), who were successful in the Open Women and Open Male competitions at the NTSE. Both Open crews were victorious in seven out of eight races. 

The Australian Development Surf Boat Team will be represented by Newport Stingers (U23 Women), who were undefeated in all eight races, and South Curl Curl Burley (U23 Men). 

Newport's U23 Female team, the 'Stingers', are Alani Barros, Zoe Ellis, Ella Gale, April McCarney and Michael King – Sweep.

This is the second time in recent years a crew from Newport SLSC has represented Australia in the Trans Tasman in New Zealand and on the waters off Waihi Beach. In 2017 the Newport 'Pistol Shrimps', which included Michael's then 19 year old daughter Zoe, along with Under 23 2017 Trans-Tasman Representatives Celestine May, Katy Hulton, Piret May and Michael King.


    The news service always gets requests for some of these past insights into our earliest schools at this time of year to be the History Feature for the first full week of school - as you head back to school a few insights (longer version) into the school that started in a little chapel at Church Point is run for you once more - we hope you enjoy it.

    Pittwater Offshore Newsletter

    Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

    To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

    Louis Tilly Crowned 2025 Australian WASZP Champion

    In what was a testing week for all competitors, Louis Tilly from NSW (RPAYC Member and Pittwater sailor) has taken the title of 2025 Australian WASZP Champion. 


    In a true display of his consistency over the week, Tilly took out 6 of the 8 races as first over the line, and finished the regatta on an impressive net score of 6 points. Following behind in 2nd place was Victorian Conall Green (Turbo), with a net score of 17, followed closely by Nicholas Dunne (The Sting) from QLD on a net score of 19 points. It certainly was tight competition out on the water.

    As stated by Class President (and Super Master Australian Champion) Jervis Tilly, it was those who have come out on top that always were able to be at the front of the fleet regardless of the type of conditions, which is a true display of their skill. Racing over the 4 days brought a huge range of conditions, and tested all sailors including the locals.

    Divisional winners:
    🏆1st Female: Bridget Conrad
    🏆1st Small Rig: Ed Steedman
    🏆1st Master: Richard Steedman
    🏆1st Super Master: Jervis Tilly
    🏆1st Youth: Louis Tilly
    🏆1st Apprentice: Conall Green
    🏆1st Junior: Ashton Rawstron

    Thank you to all who were involved in the event. This regatta had almost the same amount of volunteers each days as competitors, and the effort that that our local, and visiting class volunteers put in was truly amazing. We thankyou so much for your efforts. 

    A special thankyou to our PRO Ian Ross for getting 8 races in what was truly challenging winds to get a course in, Will Allison from SBSC for his event organisation, and the Derwent Sailing Squadron as always for their support with resourcing. 
    We could not run event like this without you all!


    Photo: Amy Potter
    Report: Sandy Bay Sailing Club (Tasmania; near Hobart) January 26, 2025

    Federal MP's head back to Canberra this week

    Warringah MP Zali Steggall and Mackellar MP Dr. Sophie Scamps have to leave the cooling sea breezes this week and head down that long hot road to Canberra. The BOM has forecast temperatures in the mid 30's and a fair amount of humidity for the nation's capital.

    Ms Steggall states the Government has listed the Scams Prevention Framework Bill 2024 for debate during the first week back – much needed reform as e-commerce grows and matures. 

    ''Whilst not yet providing full compensation to victims, I’m pleased to say the government has agreed to support my amendment, to place a reverse onus on institutions to provide important information to scam victims to help them seek redress or compensation.'' Warringah's MP said in her latest update
     
    ''I’ll be watching out for the 'Nature Positive' laws return from the Senate.  An Environmental Protection Agency and the additional supports this legislation will set up are vital to protect our precious and unique environment.''
     
    I will also be pushing for the government to bring on debate and a vote for the Electoral Legislation Amendment (Electoral Communications) Bill 2024 as it is still perfectly legal to lie in a political advertisement. 

    This new bill addresses many of the protections I have proposed in my Voter Protections Bill, so I encourage the government to get on with it and bring integrity to political advertising. 

    Regardless, even if passed, it is not intended to apply to the upcoming election so it is important to be wary of lies in political advertising.'' the MP for Warringah said

    Community Battery for Cammeray
    On January 21, Warringah MP Zali Steggall attended the opening of Ausgrid’s Cammeray Community Battery with North Sydney MP Kylea Tink, Minister for Climate Change Chris Bowen and Senator for NSW, Tony Sheldon. 

    Around 350 locals in Cammeray (which is new to the Warringah electorate) will enjoy energy savings of around $200 a year from this Community Battery.

    The battery absorbs excess rooftop solar during the day and feeds it back to the network during peak times. 

    If you live in the Cammeray area, and would like to benefit from the Cammeray community battery and lower your household energy bills, find out more here: Energy Storage as a Service (ESaaS) - Ausgrid. 

    ''These savings will be a welcome relief to the Cammeray locals, and I will continue to advocate for more community batteries within the expanded Warringah electorate.'' Zali said

    North Sydney MP Kylea Tink, whose seat has been subsumed into Warringah and Bradfield after the 2024 AEC unanimously accepted the Redistribution Committee's proposed abolition of the Division of North Sydney, said;

    ''Community batteries provide affordable, reliable renewable energy for all, reducing the need for costly network upgrades and lowering local energy costs. Initiatives like this help lower power prices and reduce reliance on coal and gas.

    Thank you to Chris Bowen MP for making this a reality, and to our incredible Powering To Net Zero team for continuing to drive our community towards a greener future!''


    North Sydney MP Kylea Tink, Warringah MP Zali Steggall and Senator for NSW, Tony Sheldon. Pic: supplied

    North Sydney MP Kylea Tink and Minister for Climate Change and Energy, the Hon. Chris Bowen. Pic; supplied

    Avalon Beach SLSC's Volunteers on Patrol: January Long Weekend

    A huge 3 day long-weekend.
    I think the busiest 3 day period I can recall and certainly since Covid.
     
    Sat 
    200 - 300 on the beach morning and afternoon patrols with a few board rescues on the afternoon patrol
     
    Sun
    500 - 600 on the beach morning and afternoon patrols and over 50 bluebottle stings requiring treatment on afternoon patrol from 2pm onwards with the wind change.

    Drone patrol took place at Av courtesy of Remo who organised that with SLSNSW. Remo has advanced UAV credentials and does all sorts of drone operations for the ALS. It was set up in a small seclusion zone behind the patrol tent under Max's.. You'll be pleased to hear there were no sharks sighted. The club advertised this event via social media on the day. 
     
    Mon
    500 - 600 on the beach morning and afternoon patrols until about 4pm with the approaching storm front and 8 rescue tube and 3 board rescues 
     
    Not the most ideal swimming conditions all long-weekend with messy choppy waves and sand banks creating tricky rips close to shore. Tide rushing in/out with low tides just after lunch created the most hazard along with the stiff NE that brought in a gazillion blueys on Sunday afternoon.
     
    Rescue causes mainly related to inexperienced visitors/swimmers unable to swim competently (to be expected).
     
    No major incidents during patrols over the entire school holiday period during patrol.

    Report from Andrew Clark Director of Surf Lifesaving (Club Captain) Avalon Beach SLSC

    Photo: Avalon Beach SLSC Director of Life Saving (Club Captain) Andrew Clark (centre), with two other Patrol 8 Members, Remo and Alexandra Adoncello, who are both also UAV Pilots - photo taken on Avalon Beach on Australia Day 2024. Photo: AJG/PON

    Assault at Curl Curl: Appeal for information


    North Bilgola Directional Marker: Do you have a photo of the surface? 

    Avalon resident Richard Jeffery is asking residents to look through their old albums and see if they have a clear photo of the surface of the brass directional marker that once graced the plinth on North Bilgola headland, as a project has been launched to replace this.

    Richard explains:
    ‘’I have a long-time passion for the place and usually spend a couple of hours a day there picking up garbage, talking to visitors, and generally enjoying this beautiful spot. 

    You are probably aware that the Directional Indicator was installed in 1988 as part of the 1988 Australian Bicentenary celebrations. I recently found a few photos of the event. 

    The Rotary Club of Pittwater and Warringah Council Direction indicator at Bilgola Headland being unveiled, June, 1988. Pic: NBC

    The original (and I believe a replacement) has been stolen over the years, probably because of their brass content. 

    Many residents are very keen to see a new Directional Indicator installed. I have approached the Northern Beaches Council and received a generally positive response. 

    The next stage is to get hold of a plan or a clear photo of the actual indicator so that the new one will be similar.

    Could I use your excellent publication to ask your readers if they have access to such a photo or plan?''
     
    I am promoting the headland on HERE
    I can be contacted at pittwaterplayground@outlook.com 

    Thank you
    Richard Jeffery

    Breeding time for Little Penguins: Boaters urged to stick to speed limit

    Say hello to Manly's newest (and cutest) residents - Little Penguins! 

    It's breeding season for these endangered guys, so boaters lets keep them safe by:
    • Keep speed to under four knots when entering North Harbour, Manly
    • Be extra careful at dawn and dusk
    • Don’t anchor in seagrass beds
    • Don’t bring dogs or cats onto beaches
    To learn more visit: https://bit.ly/4g0HUbg

    NSW Maritime 
    January 16, 2025

    NB: there is also a colony of Little Penguins on Lion Island and a colony of seals at Barrenjoey - please do not speed on the estuary. AJG- Ed./PON

    Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week

    Gin and Tonic 

    12 mths Staffy X Whippet

    Gin and Tonic are sisters who came from the pound in emaciated condition. They are both sweet gentle girls with a ravenous appetite. They have been on a poor diet resulting a lot of tartar on their teeth. They have been on a 3 meals per day plus puppy milk to slowly build their condition. Now their ribs are no longer showing. Tonic came in weighing 9kg and Gin was only 6.6kg. We will delay desexing her until she is in good condition. They have not experienced much in their lives. They do not know what toys are but they are learning to play with other small dogs and are getting some idea of routine and home living. They suit a house with garden and suit PT working hours. They are desexed, vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Their adoption fee together is $900. 

    Dobby 

    12mths Pug X Staffy

    Dobby is a friendly happy energetic boy. He is slightly smaller than an English Staffy. He is social with dogs around his size and energy level. Out walking he mostly walks on loose lead. He can lunge playfully at some dogs, and he walks at a good pace. He enjoys being patted and really enjoys back rubs. He has a smooth coat and weighs 15.6kg. He comes desexed , vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. His adoption cost is $400. 

    For further details call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133  or email  Monika@DoggieRescue.com.  RON R251000024

    Newport Surf Life Saving Club: Get your Bronze

    Upcoming Bronze Medallion course!
    Thursdays 7pm-9pm, Saturdays 11am-1pm, starting February 23rd 11am.

    Email director-education@newportsurfclub.com.au for more information.

    Warringah Rats Sevens by the Sea 2025

    It's almost time for our annual SEVENS BY THE SEA Tournament! 🏉🌊

    Get ready for an action-packed day from 11am to 8pm on Saturday 15th of February, all finishing under the lights!
    • 🎶 DJ and live music to keep the vibe going
    • 🍹 Pop-up bars serving your favourite drinks
    • 🎭 Dress to impress on HillBilly Hill
    • 🏃‍♂️ Fastest On-Field Race – will you take the crown?
    • 🎁 Raffles and epic prize giveaways you won’t want to miss!
    Don’t miss out on the excitement – it’s going to be an unforgettable event!

    2025 SLSSNB Branch Championships: Dates

    The 2025 Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Branch Championships will be held in February and March 2025. All event circulars and additional important event information are posted and updated on this SLSSNB page – see below.

    Information relating to the events will be also communicated in real time via the SLSSNB Surf Sports Team App 

    Time Table & Locations Summary
    Champion Lifesaver Championships
    (Resus and Theory Only) Branch Office, Warriewood (Evening) Wed, Feb 5th 2025

    Patrol Competition Championships
    (Resus and Theory Only) Branch Office | Warriewood (Evening) | Thurs, Feb 6th 2025

    Following events will be held at Newport Beach on Sat, Feb 8th 2025 –
    • Champion Lifesaver Championships  
    • Patrol Competition Championships
    • Open Championships (Beach Events Only)
    • Masters Championships (Beach Events Only)
    • March Past Championships
    • Rescue & Resuscitation Championships
    Following events will be held at Newport Beach on Sun, Feb 9th 2025 –
    • Junior Championships (Beach Events Only)  
    Following events will be held at Newport Beach on Sat, Feb 15th 2025 –
    • Open Championships (Water Events Only)  
    • Masters Championships (Water Events Only)
    • First Aid Championships (U17’s & U19’s) 
    Following events will be held at Newport Beach on Sun, Feb 16th 2025 –
    • Junior Championships (Water Events Only)  
    • First Aid Championships (U14/15’s & Opens)
    The Surf Boats Championships will be held at Palm Beach on Sat, Mar 1st 2025.

    Paddle out to honour Guy “Creature” Haymes


    Day of respect and celebration of life 

    Official: Guy’s Paddle-Out. final date is Saturday the 15th February at 2pm.  at North Avalon.

    If you could let as many people as possible know it would be very much.

    A paddle out and farewell to Guy.
    It’s not often we are able to get the family together in one place at the same time. 

    To all our Family and Friends you are invited on Saturday the 15th of February at 2.pm, at North Avalon for a paddle-out for Guy “Creature” Haymes to celebrate his life and his love of The North Av Rocks. It was the place were he learnt to surf. 

    In later years whenever it got big he was often the first one out. Guy would never let size get in the way of a good surf, the bigger the better was his motto.
    John Haymes

    Purple Poppy Day Service 2025

    When: Monday 24 February 2025
    Where: Pittwater RSL Cenotaph

    Our fourth Purple Poppy Day Service will be held on Monday 24 February 2025.

    Purple Poppy Day Service honours all Animals currently serving, or served and died, in all conflicts.  “They had no choice”.

    The Service will commence at 11:00 am, at the Lower Cenotaph at the Pittwater RSL Club.  Everyone should be seated by 10:45 am.
    In the event of rain, we will be under cover.

    We ask members of the community NOT to bring their pets to our service!

    Pittwater RSL Club
    82 Mona Vale Road, Mona Vale.

    Zonta Club's 2025 Birthing Kit Pack Day

    Please join us for our Clean Birthing Kits Packing Day on Saturday 15th March. 

    If you can’t attend, please consider making a donation, details are shown below or please visit: www.zonta-northernbeaches.org

    Council invites EOI for Pittwater Golf Centre

    Council invites expressions of interest (EOI) for the lease, development and operation of Pittwater Golf Centre, located at 1500 Pittwater Road, Warriewood. The EOI opens on 27 November 2024, with submissions required by 2pm on Thursday 27 February 2025.

    Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins highlighted the exciting opportunities this prominent and much loved venue offers for the right operator.

    “Council is looking for an imaginative, experienced operator to revitalise the Pittwater Golf Centre into a vibrant, high-quality golf and entertainment destination that will attract and engage the community.

    “The Centre boasts a high-profile location with driving range, mini-golf, teaching academy, pro-shop and café providing an ideal opportunity for a revitalised and profitable operation.

    “The Northern Beaches community loves an active, outdoor lifestyle. Situated almost at the centre of the peninsula, the site is perfectly positioned to cater to our golf-loving residents and visitors alike.” said Mayor Heins.

    For those interested in applying, a site briefing and inspection will be held on Wednesday 11 December at 11am at the Pittwater Golf Centre. Bookings are required to attend.

    For further information or submit interest, visit here.

    The property can be viewed here.

    Basin Transport this Summer

    Your Basin Camping Adventure Starts Here! 👉 Barrenjoey Boating Services is your gateway to The Basin and the stunning Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. 

    Our convenient water taxi and barge ferry service make getting to your Basin campsite a breeze. 

    Phone: +02 9974 4229 to book!


    JP Public Register

    You can find a Justice of the Peace (JP) using the online Public Register. You can search by postcode, name of a JP, day of availability, language spoken and JP registration number. The register lists a JP’s location, availability and telephone number. Please note that JPs are volunteers and may not be available at all times. ​Click here to access the JP Public Register.  NB: There are  3 J.P’s working in Pittwater RSL Sub-Branch office, we work every Monday (10:30am to 15:30)except on public holidays:
    1. Terry Jones J.P.
    2. Robert (Bob) Wood J.P.
    3. Deborah Hendy(Carter) J.P

    Slow Down: Wildlife Crossing

    Please contact Sydney Wildlife Rescue on (02) 9413 4300 for advice if you hit a native animal or come across an injured one while driving. It is helpful if you can provide an accurate location or landmark to assist our rescuers who will pouch check marsupials for joeys, so little lives like Phoebe can be saved. 


     
    Photo: Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby by Jane Notice
    _________________________________________________________________________________________________________

    Tilly Rose Cooper's Swimwear Drive For Fijian Youngsters

    Anyone interested in having a clean out of children’s outgrown swimwear, rashies and wetsuits in the next few weeks, please bring them along to your local surf club and put them in the special bin for a clothing drive for youngsters in Fiji. Community surf clubs from Palm Beach to Collaroy are supporting Tilly Rose Cooper, a 13-year-old Mona Vale SLSC SRC member, who is collecting these items for the community of Tagaqe Village in Fiji. 

    Tilly explained during the week her family had gone to Fiji as her grandparents were renewing their vows. 

    ‘’Tagaqe Village in Fiji is a very special place, you have to be invited to be allowed to go there. I started talking with the other kids there – they asked if I played football – and then we went for a swim.’’ Tilly told the news service this week

    ‘’I noticed then they didn’t have any swimmers – they were going in in their everyday gear or their school uniforms because they didn’t have swimmers. With Christmas, and so many of us getting new swimmers because we have outgrown our other ones, I thought it would be good to repurpose these so they could have swimgear too.

    ‘’This would allow them to go swimming in swimgear instead of their clothes, which is a drowning hazard. We’d also be saving them from landfill by repurposing them.’’ Tilly said

    How much gear do you need Tilly?

    ‘’As much as possible and whatever people can give. We need swimmers, rashies, t-shirts, shorts, hats, thongs, sunblock in ages from littlies through to teenagers. Everything really, and gently used or new would be great. We’re hoping to collect around 20 boxes of swimgear to send over. ‘’

    ‘’The surf clubs from Palm Beach to Collaroy will have a box with this sign people can drop it off to – that way our community will be helping this community.’’

    Tilly is also looking for a sponsor to help her ship the swim wear over. If you want to be the sponsor for this, or can help out in another way, please email her mum Allison: allison@steamit.com.au 

    Details of the Fijian Clothes Drive for Youngsters

    • What to Donate: Gently used or new swimwear, rashies, board shorts, and t-shirts.
    • When: Now until February 9th.
    • Where: Donation boxes will be placed at participating Surf Life Saving Clubs, including during nippers and other club activities, from Palm Beach SLSC to Collaroy SLSC.

    More via Instagram at:  www.instagram.com/myfijianclothesdrive

    Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby said this week; ‘‘There aren’t many 13-year-olds who come back from a holiday in Fiji with a mission to give back to the community they have visited. Tilly is a changemaker and embodies the Spirit of Pittwater, making a difference in our community as a member of Mona Vale Surf Lifesaving Club and beyond. 

    ‘’I encourage everyone to donate swimwear for this wonderful cause. I look forward to recognising Tilly in parliament with a Community Recognition Statement in the upcoming sitting weeks.’’

    120th Year Celebration Regatta: Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club

    Our 2025 sailing season commences on Sunday 2nd February. 
    As we are now in our 120th year of presence on the lake, a day of celebration is planned - Morning tea from 11am, Regatta briefing:- 12pm,  Anniversary regatta: - 1pm.

    We are inviting past members and anyone interested in sailing with us to come and join in the celebrations. See attached flyer - the photo is one of the students being briefed during the sailing school.

    We are also hoping that this will be the year when our new clubhouse comes to fruition!

    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.

    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.

    funding for community groups: Griffin

    Community groups, sporting clubs and other not-for-profit organisations are being encouraged to prepare their applications for funding under the popular Community Building Partnerships program.

    Member for Manly, James Griffin said the hugely popular program guarantees $450,000 will be spent in the Manly electorate.

    “The Community Building Partnership is one of the best funding programs on offer because it guarantees funding will go to some of our hard-working, dedicated community groups and organisations,” Mr Griffin said.

    “The program invests in projects that matter and make a difference, particularly to volunteers who go above and beyond on skin-tight budgets to provide a service to our local community.

    “Over past rounds of the fund, we have seen some outstanding community-led projects receive grants that have led to real, tangible benefits for our electorate”, Mr Griffin said.

    Successful applications under the Community Building Partnership program include:
    • $30,000 for six air conditioners at Harbord Public School
    • $14,344 to Seaforth Football Club towards equipment for staging games
    • $25,000 to NBSC Manly Campus for outdoor seating and shade
    • $48,618 for a power wall battery storage, utilising 82 existing solar panels
    Mr Griffin said, “I am always pushing to ensure that our community benefits from these grant opportunities, and I am proud that the Community Building Partnership fund has invested significant funds into our electorate.

    “Applications open in just a few days’ time so I encourage interested community groups to visit the website and begin preparing their applications for funding.”

    The Community Building Partnership Fund opens on the 28th of January 2025 and applications close on February 21st.

    For more information, visit the NSW Government website: https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/community-building-partnership-2025

    Bus changes: Be ready for back to school

    Bus passengers are being urged to check for route changes and plan their trips with the first school term of the year beginning soon.

    Services across Sydney have had changes to their routes and timetables in a shake-up designed to improve frequency and reliability, as well as provide passengers with better connections to the broader transport network, Transport for NSW states

    Transport for NSW Coordinator-General Howard Collins said passengers should look out for tweaks to both their routes and timetables as the summer holidays draw to a close and families prepare for the new school year.

    “We don’t want students being late to their first day back so we’re reminding students and mums, dads and carers, please check your routes as they may have changed,” Mr Collins said. 

    “Just before and over the holiday period, there were a number of bus timetable changes designed to make Greater Sydney more connected.

    “A number of services across the Northern Beaches and lower North Shore have had their timetables tweaked to improve on-time running and reflect changing traffic patterns, while minor timetable changes will also be made to services in the Eastern Suburbs to improve capacity and on-time running, largely around the Randwick area.''

    Mr Collins said that the changes to the bus network would ultimately deliver a better-connected transport system for the whole city.

    “I want to thank everyone for their patience as we continue to invest in, better integrate transport options and manage disruption,” Mr Collins said.

    “We encourage passengers to always check the Trip Planner at transportnsw.info/trip before they travel and get the latest information on network changes.”

    Students and their families should also note that dedicated school bus routes will return to full operation on January 31, in line with the Department of Education’s school calendar for 2025.

    Please check Trip Planner if your school returns before 31 January for available services.

    Reminder on articulated buses
    In September 2024 Transport for NSW (Transport) withdrew 83 articulated buses from service after cracking was identified on some buses.

    Transport continues to work with bus operators to limit impacts on passengers, including prioritising school services, timetable adjustments, routes most affected and maximising allocation of high-capacity fleet to services of greatest need.

    Commuters on some routes may see more crowding or queuing, and it may take a bit longer to get to your destination where articulated buses have been replaced with standard buses. 

    On these routes please allow extra travel time and visit Trip Planner at transportnsw.info to plan your trip:

    Northern Beaches
    100, 114, 144, 166, 167, 178, 179, 180, 194, 199, 246, 270, 271, 280, 160X, 165X, 168X, 170X, 172X, 173X, 174X, 176X, 177X, 180X, 194X, B1

    Lower North Shore and Lane Cove
    115, 119, 120, 206, 207, 209, 288, 292

    Changes to Public transport Timetables

    On 19 January 2025, Transport for NSW (Transport) will introduce changes to some bus services across the northern beaches.

    These changes include timetable and minor route changes to support demand, and to improve reliability and connections to Sydney Metro services.

    What’s changing?
    • Improved all-night services, including new all-night services on 144 between Manly and Chatswood (replacing route 144N) and extension of existing all-night services on route 199 to and from Palm Beach.  
    • Timetable adjustments to improve reliability.
    • Changed route 114 for westbound services via Pacific Highway to improve connection to Sydney Metro at Crows Nest Station.
    • Improved frequencies on routes B1, 100 and 230.
    • Timetable changes to 111, 228, 229 and 246.
    • All-night services on 199 now extended to and from Palm Beach. 
    • Timetable changes to 155, 191 and 192 to better reflect demand and availability of On Demand Transport services (Keoride).
    • Timetable changes to 177, 177X, 179, 180 and 180X to better reflect demand.
    Minor changes will be made to some dedicated school services to improve reliability. Most dedicated school services will however remain the same.

    Changes to regular bus services that students catch to and from school may also impact a small number of students.

    Transport and our bus operators are working closely with schools that may be impacted by these changes, to ensure students and their communities are aware of the changes, and how they need to adjust their journeys.

    Transport for NSW encourages students to plan before they travel at the start of Term 1, 2025. 

    Affected routes
    B1, 100, 111, 114, 142, 144, 144N, 145, 150X, 154X, 155, 160X, 162, 165X, 166, 168X, 170X, 171X, 172X, 173X, 174X, 176X, 177, 177X, 178, 179, 180, 180X, 181X, 182, 185, 190X, 191, 192, 199, 201, 228, 229, 230, 238, 243, 246, 249, 263, 280

    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.

    Spanish Moss killing critically endangered local trees

    The spread of environment weeds in Pittwater is becoming of greater concern to residents and the bushcarers who work to remove them. A recent pictorial by Joe Mills showed there is widespread masses of all types of weeds at Warriewood's perimeter and wetlands and this week the spread of Spanish Moss, with quite a bit now growing on trees beside the path into Toongari Reserve off Avalon Parade, next to the kindergarten, is yet another invader.

    Spanish Moss has been found to spread over mature trees across the Sydney Basin and in doing so, prevent photosynthesis, killing the trees. 

    A recent study by STEP, over Cowan to Marrickville, ascertained what tree species it grew on and found the critically endangered  Turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera) is the most severely affected of all the 76+ species of plants STEP recorded Spanish Moss growing in. 

    Fragments carried by birds to line nests in bushland have spread this weed into more and more areas, but the tips can also be blown by the wind to another plant.

    See: https://www.step.org.au/index.php/item/702-spanish-moss-a-serious-environmental-weed

    STEP is a community-based environmental organisation with over 500 members from Ku-ring-gai, Hornsby and surrounding suburbs. Our primary aim is to work for the conservation of bushland in northern Sydney.

    Many of these are termed 'garden escapees'.

    STEP's Recommendations:

    • Gardeners remove all moss they can reach, put it in their green bin and prevent spread.
    • Local authorities such as local councils and NPWS remove it from all public places, including trees on nature strips.
    • Add Spanish Moss to the next iteration of the Greater Sydney Regional Strategic Weed Management Plan and all other relevant regional strategic weed management plans.
    • Classify Spanish Moss at a level that enables its eradication and containment, prohibition of sale and distribution, e.g. as a regional priority weed.
    • Undertake research into why Turpentines are a favoured host and the ecological effects of Spanish Moss on bushland.
    • Undertake research into control methods.

    Swaying veils of grey in dead or dying trees and simplified bushland is not something to look forward to. Let’s not risk it.

    Read STEP's full report.

    Spanish Moss infestation killing Australian trees: STEP photo

    Sydney Wildlife (Sydney Metropolitan Wildlife Services) Needs Volunteers

    January  7, 2025
    As you know our work doesn't stop. 
    We had the introduction of our new computer system which we all had to learn and get used to during a very busy time of the year! And everyone nailed it.

    Now down to business; We need you!! Our next Rescue and Care Course is starting in February and we are desperate for members all over Sydney. Wouldn't it look great on your resume if you are looking for a job? ‘Volunteer at Sydney Metropolitan Wildlife Services’ the skills you learn are endless! 

    I could write a list as long as my arm the suburbs we need members in. So if this is something you have ever thought about, dreamt about or even had a discussion with your neighbour about now is the time! 

    Follow the link and sign up: 

    Maybe you cant have animals in your residence but have a car. We also need transporters to transport animals to carers from vets email info@sydneywildlife.org.au

    Don't have a car, can't keep animals at home? Sign up for our volunteer rescue line. This is run 24/7 by volunteers. One overnight shift a week (5pm-9am) could be your volunteer hours if Centrelink require you to volunteer. 

    These shifts can be done from your own home so you can still feed the kids, pop them to bed, jump in to bed yourself and just answer the phone if it rings between those times or do set hours a week during the day. Contact Carolyn for a chat at 

    NSW residents urged to take care this mosquito season

    NSW Health is reminding people to take measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites this summer season.

    NSW Health's Executive Director of Health Protection Dr Jeremy McAnulty said mosquitoes thrive in warm conditions, increasing the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses such as Murray Valley encephalitis, Japanese encephalitis, Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses in parts of NSW.

    “Each year, NSW Health undertakes mosquito surveillance across NSW from November to April each year, which provides important information about when mosquito-borne disease risk is elevated," Dr McAnulty said.

    “As part of this routine surveillance Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus has been recently detected in a mosquito sample in Lake Wyangan collected on 3 December.

    “This is a timely reminder, both to Griffith residents, and to anyone planning to spend time enjoying the outdoors, to take protective measures this summer against mosquitoes," he said.

    Information on eligibility for a free JE vaccine is available on Japanese encephalitis vaccination.

    JE vaccine is available through local General Practitioners (GPs), Aboriginal health services and pharmacists. People who meet the above criteria should make an appointment ahead of time and let them know it is for the JE vaccine. These providers may require a few days' notice so they can order the vaccine.

    There have been no human cases of JEV in NSW since October 2022.

    Mosquitos in NSW can potentially carry a range of other viruses for which there are no vaccines including Murray Valley encephalitis, Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses.

    Actions to prevent mosquito bites include:
    • Applying repellent to exposed skin. Use repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Check the label for reapplication times
    • Wearing light, loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts, long pants and covered footwear. and socks
    • Avoiding going outdoors during peak mosquito times, especially dawn and dusk
    • Using insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing units and mosquito coils to repel mosquitoes (mosquito coils should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas)
    • Covering windows and doors with insect screens and checking there are no gaps
    • Removing items that may collect water such as old tyres and empty pots from around your home to reduce the places where mosquitoes can breed
    • Using repellents that are safe for children. Most skin repellents are safe for use on children aged three months and older. Always check the label for instructions
    • Protecting infants aged less than three months by using an infant carrier draped with mosquito netting, secured along the edges
    • While camping, use a tent that has fly screens to prevent mosquitoes entering or sleep under a mosquito net
    For further information on JE virus and ways to protect yourself visit Mosquito borne diseases.​​

    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

    Week Three: 20-26 January, 2025

    Front Page Issue 638

    Week Three January 2025 (20-26, 2025):

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

    Pictures: Woody Point Yacht Club's 2025 Wooden Putt Putt & Gentleman's Launch Regatta by Michael Mannington OAM

    Avalon Beach TAFE NSW graduate Talia Dunning building the career of her dreams as a shipwright: Reminder - Applications close February 2nd 2025 for Semester 1

    Warriewood Community Centre Build: January 2025 Update by Joe Mills

    Funding to assist Mackerel Beach Wharf upgrade  from Australian Government’s Thriving Suburbs Program 

    Council rolls out fishing tackle bins at Ten high use spots

    Pittwater starting to look ‘patched up‘ residents state: Avalon Beach shared space cracking up – already; Newport Beach Exercise Soft-fall area has multiplying Holes

    Changes to Council Parking Permits and On-street Parking proposed by NSW Government: Do You Have a 'spare pen'?

    Aquatics: Double handers Henry and O’Shea claim inaugural Australian Ocean Racing Championship by Di Pearson

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

    Park Bench Philosophers: The world’s second largest freshwater crayfish was once plentiful in Australia’s longest river – we’re bringing it back

    Environment Council rolls out fishing tackle bins at Ten high use spots, 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, One of Australia's rarest reptiles needs landowners help: Have you seen the Bathurst Grassland Earless Dragon, Emergency action to prevent the extinction of Warrumbungle Brush-tailed Rock-wallabies, NSW Threatened Species Scientific Committee Provisional listing on an emergency basis: Pterostylis pedina (D.L.Jones) Janes & Duretto, PNHA Newsletter 102: Summer 2024-2025 - Station Beach seagrass meadow, New project, what's in Avalon's ponds?, Pelican singing in the rain at McCarrs creek + More, New fire protection projects to help protect southern NSW plantation forests, 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: closes Feb. 9, Garigal National Park: ‘1080 pest management’, To save Australia’s animals, scientists must count how many are left. But what if they’re getting it wrong?, 1080 baits are used to kill foxes, cats and dingoes – but other animals can be more likely to eat them, From securing pets to building ‘insect hotels’ – here are 7 ways to attract birds to your garden, Climate misinformation is rife on social media – and poised to get worse, The red flowering gum: a perennial favourite and a summer stunner, The last time it was legal, exports of sea sand destroyed dozens of Indonesian islands. Now, the ban is being lifted, We built an AI model that analysed millions of images of retreating glaciers – what it found is alarming, 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 Fake podcast clips are misleading millions of people on social media; Here’s how to spot them, Don’t rely on social media users for fact-checking; Many don’t care much about the common good, Making aluminium uses 10% of Australia’s electricity; Will tax incentives help smelters go green?, First Look: New Metro for Western Sydney Airport, Why do some young people use Xanax recreationally? What are the risks?, ‘Should I let my kid play Roblox?’; New safety features reduce risks – but more are needed, It’s science, not fiction: high-tech drones may soon be fighting bushfires in Australia, Can philosophy help us manage anxiety?; A new book suggests reading the great thinkers can calm our minds, What are plyometric exercises?; How all that hopping and jumping builds strength, speed and power, What’s the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke? One’s a medical emergency, Oyster ‘blood’ holds promise for combating drug-resistant superbugs: new research, AvPals Term 1 2025, Great Australian artists to entertain NSW seniors at Premier’s Gala Concerts,  Motor neurone disease campaigner and former AFL champion Neale Daniher is 2025 Australian of the Year, History under the floorboards: decoding the diets of institutionalised women in 19th century Sydney, Avalon Beach SLSC turns 100 in 2025!, Sleeping on beaches and staying social: how Australians kept cool in heatwaves before modern technology, Processed red meat isn’t just bad for your heart, it’s also associated with dementia, Carol Jerrems captured Melbourne and Sydney of the 1970s, understanding photography as a collaboration, Superannuation is complicated. A guaranteed government income in retirement would be simpler, ‘Shoddy dropping’: how the 1920s cost-of-living crisis fuelled a black market in menswear, Avalon Beach TAFE NSW graduate building the career of her dreams as a shipwright, Out Front 2025 Opens this February at the Manly Art Gallery & Museum, 2025 Pre-Election Announcements: 10k for Construction Apprentices, Applications open for 2025 Tertiary Health Study Subsidies, Applications to join the DOVES Council are open for 2025, School Leavers Support, Word Of The Week: Fashion, ‘Shoddy dropping’: how the 1920s cost-of-living crisis fuelled a black market in menswear, Don’t rely on social media users for fact-checking; Many don’t care much about the common good, Fake podcast clips are misleading millions of people on social media; Here’s how to spot them, History under the floorboards: decoding the diets of institutionalised women in 19th century Sydney, Carol Jerrems captured Melbourne and Sydney of the 1970s; understanding photography as a collaboration, Sleeping on beaches and staying social: how Australians kept cool in heatwaves before modern technology, Spin has transformed modern-day tennis; Here’s the physics behind it, Mozzies may be carrying Japanese encephalitis this summer; Here’s what to know if you’re spending time outdoors, Social media rewires young minds – here’s how, Women were at the centre of iron age Britain – new find reminds us how misogyny has shaped our view of the past, A Passage to India: how global pandemics shaped E.M. Forster’s final novel, Saturday night fever: the health risks you need to watch out for on the weekend, Saving lives and limbs on the high seas: the extraordinary world of early modern ship’s surgeons

    __________________________________

    Week Two January 2025 (13-19, 2025):

    PEP-11 Officially Refused by Federal Government: the Whales May Now Migrate free of Seismic or Drilling risk

    Tilly Rose Cooper's Swimwear Drive For Fijian Youngsters

    Bilgola SLSC’s Billy Swims 2025 swum and won: part Pittwater Ocean Swims Series

    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)

    Local NSW SES Volunteers Busy During First Big Storm for 2025

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

    Ball shaped debris washes up on Local Beaches: Call for Sydney Water to 'Come Clean' on How Much Sewerage is Leaking Into Environment

    Aquatics Marine Rescue NSW completes another demanding year returning more than 10,500 people safely to shore in 2024

    Community rallies against accelerated logging in Great Koala National Park: Scruby Not backing Down Until GKNP Formalised - Higginson Calls for Labor to Honour its Election promise - Loggers want $300 Million compensation, state $1.3 Billion is the Price Tag to Cease Logging GKNP Trees

    Wildlife In Our Midst by Huang Zhi-Wei aka Reg Wong

    Pictures: A Mid-Summer Irrawong Falls Walk by Joe Mills




    __________________________________

    Week One January 2025 (1-12, 2025):

    Front Page Week One January 2025

    Are Turtles not Safe in the Estuary? Green Turtle Killed in Pittwater Prompts Renewed Calls for Boaters to slow down, adhere to the speed limit

    Palm Beach SLSC Hosts the 2025 Adrian Curlewis Twilight Masters Carnival + PBSLSC's Within Club BBB's Carnival 

    Newport SLSC's 2025 Pool to Peak Ocean Swims

    Avalon Beach Surf Lifesaving Club's 100 Years: some January Reflections of past events + January to February 2025 Centenary Events

    Strike Force established to investigate brawl at Manly: image of two witnesses released

    Pictures: Summer in Pittwater: First Week of January 2025 Means Crowded Beaches, Lifesavers on Patrol, Surf Lifesaving Carnivals, First Pittwater Ocean Swims

    Aquatics: Pittwater Ocean Swims Series 2025: great opportunities to dive on in 

    Transition to Net Zero accelerates with purchase of 319 Zero Emission buses: 276 for North Shore + Manly to Barrenjoey Peninsula - Brookvale, Mona Vale Bus Depots being Converted to Service same

    New Emergency Response Beacons Now Active at North Palm Beach, Turimetta, Narrabeen + South Curl Curl, Fishermans, Shelly Beaches

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

    Retirement Villages owner Aveo to Develop Manly Hospital site 

    Park Bench Philosophers: Beach shacks are an iconic part of Australian summer. Yet, they have also have a hidden, more complex history by Anna Clark, Professor in Public History, University of Technology Sydney

    DIY Ideas DIY A Summer-Autumn Salad Garden for a Balcony or at Waist-height

    Profile of the Week Australia Day 2025 Honours List

    Australian Honours: Dr Cameron John Bell of Ingleside (AM), Deborah Killelea of Newport (AM), Lisa Blair of Warriewood (OAM), Lynette Foley of Collaroy (OAM), Martin Meredith of Collaroy (OAM, Peter Owens of Terrey Hills (OAM).

    Council's Recognitions: Kevin Lee of Belrose, Ian Hocking of Bilgola Plateau, Saskia Rundle Trowbridge of Narrabeen, Chris Turnbull of Clontarf, Glenn and Clare Wysman of The Link Church, Lifeline Northern Beaches Book Fair Volunteers

    Council's Outstanding Community Service Awards 2025: Nicholas Chambers of Cromer, Roland Davies of North Manly, Bruce Davis of Curl Curl, Vipul Jajal of Dee Why, Laurelei Moore and sister, Gay McLindin of Dee Why, Leanne Shanahan of Warriewood, and Mel Thomas of Clontarf.


      The Summer cottage or holiday house was one of main reasons the paddocks and pristine bush covered hills running down to the estuary and beaches began to have the small lighter dots of constructions appearing on them – and this happened way before many of the local subdivisions took place. Some were little more than sheds, others could even have this and camped on their block of land, but they were all about getting away from the humid built-up areas further inland around Sydney for a breath of fresh cool salty air and having some relaxation.

      These weekend year round visitors and their guests introduced the commerce of construction for local residents and supplemented what was then a fishing and farming existence, generating the need for new skills and knowledge, and bringing, during Summer, thousands more people to Pittwater with the subsequent need for feeding them providing income for local Butchers, Bakers and Water Carriers and entertaining them growing other industries – Caretakers, Gardeners.

      One such Summer House was ''Cooinoo'' on Bungan Beach-Mona Vale verge.

      Pittwater Offshore Newsletter

      Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

      To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

      Appeal for information after house fire in Mona Vale - SF Gatcombe

      Friday, 24 January 2025 
      Police have released CCTV footage in an appeal for a public assistance after a property was damaged by fire late last year.

      In November 2024, officers attached to Northern Beaches Police Area Command established Strike Force Gatcombe to investigate a suspicious fire at a home on Harkeith Street, Mona Vale, on Sunday 3 November 2024.

      The occupant – a 45-year-old woman – was able to extinguish the blaze before emergency services were called, however, the home received significant damage to the front veranda and roof.

      She was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics with burns to her arms before being taken to hospital for further treatment.

      A crime scene was established, and detectives commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

      As a part of ongoing investigation, police are appealing for public assistance to identify two men who they believe can assist with their inquiries.

      One man is depicted wearing a dark hooded jumper, dark long pants, and dark coloured shoes.

      The other man is depicted wearing a dark hooded jumper with a white graphic on the front, dark pants, and white shoes.

      Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au

      Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

      Tilly Rose Cooper's Swimwear Drive For Fijian Youngsters

      Anyone interested in having a clean out of children’s outgrown swimwear, rashies and wetsuits in the next few weeks, please bring them along to your local surf club and put them in the special bin for a clothing drive for youngsters in Fiji. Community surf clubs from Palm Beach to Collaroy are supporting Tilly Rose Cooper, a 13-year-old Mona Vale SLSC SRC member, who is collecting these items for the community of Tagaqe Village in Fiji. 

      Tilly explained during the week her family had gone to Fiji as her grandparents were renewing their vows. 

      ‘’Tagaqe Village in Fiji is a very special place, you have to be invited to be allowed to go there. I started talking with the other kids there – they asked if I played football – and then we went for a swim.’’ Tilly told the news service this week

      ‘’I noticed then they didn’t have any swimmers – they were going in in their everyday gear or their school uniforms because they didn’t have swimmers. With Christmas, and so many of us getting new swimmers because we have outgrown our other ones, I thought it would be good to repurpose these so they could have swimgear too.

      ‘’This would allow them to go swimming in swimgear instead of their clothes, which is a drowning hazard. We’d also be saving them from landfill by repurposing them.’’ Tilly said

      How much gear do you need Tilly?

      ‘’As much as possible and whatever people can give. We need swimmers, rashies, t-shirts, shorts, hats, thongs, sunblock in ages from littlies through to teenagers. Everything really, and gently used or new would be great. We’re hoping to collect around 20 boxes of swimgear to send over. ‘’

      ‘’The surf clubs from Palm Beach to Collaroy will have a box with this sign people can drop it off to – that way our community will be helping this community.’’

      Tilly is also looking for a sponsor to help her ship the swim wear over. If you want to be the sponsor for this, or can help out in another way, please email her mum Allison: allison@steamit.com.au 

      Details of the Fijian Clothes Drive for Youngsters

      • What to Donate: Gently used or new swimwear, rashies, board shorts, and t-shirts.
      • When: Now until February 9th.
      • Where: Donation boxes will be placed at participating Surf Life Saving Clubs, including during nippers and other club activities, from Palm Beach SLSC to Collaroy SLSC.

      More via Instagram at:  www.instagram.com/myfijianclothesdrive

      Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby said this week; ‘‘There aren’t many 13-year-olds who come back from a holiday in Fiji with a mission to give back to the community they have visited. Tilly is a changemaker and embodies the Spirit of Pittwater, making a difference in our community as a member of Mona Vale Surf Lifesaving Club and beyond. 

      ‘’I encourage everyone to donate swimwear for this wonderful cause. I look forward to recognising Tilly in parliament with a Community Recognition Statement in the upcoming sitting weeks.’’

      120th Year Celebration Regatta: Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club

      Despite the inclement weather towards the end of last week,  our summer holiday sailing school was well attended and highly successful. The participants were very keen and enjoyed the experience of learning to sail under  the care of our expert instructors.

      Our 2025 sailing season commences on Sunday 2nd February. 
      As we are now in our 120th year of presence on the lake, a day of celebration is planned - Morning tea from 11am, Regatta briefing:- 12pm,  Anniversary regatta: - 1pm.

      We are inviting past members and anyone interested in sailing with us to come and join in the celebrations. See attached flyer - the photo is one of the students being briefed during the sailing school.

      We are also hoping that this will be the year when our new clubhouse comes to fruition!

      Council provided further test results to EPA following pollution incident

      Tuesday January 21 2025
      Council states it has provided the latest results of the samples of pollution balls collected last week to the EPA for further analysis to support efforts to locate the source of the pollution incident.

      Most of the mysterious greyish balls that appeared were the size and shape of a marble. (Supplied: Northern Beaches Council)

      In addition to the hydrocarbons identified in the preliminary test results last week, the latest results indicate the presence of saturated fatty acids, along with faecal coliforms and E-coli.   

      Council understands the EPA have taken their own samples for analysis and comparison with those Council collected.  

      Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins said she hoped the source could be identified.  

      “Northern Beaches Council is hoping that the EPA analysis will identify the source so that they can stop this from happening at other beaches.

      “We are continuing to conduct regular inspections of our beaches and encourage the community to report any sightings.”  

      A small number of marble-sized balls mixed in with pumice have also been cleaned up from harbour beaches this week including at Little Manly and West Esplanade, and Council continues to monitor and clean up as needed.  

      If people find more of the debris on beaches in our area, they are advised not to handle it but to report it to Council Lifeguards, the EPA’s Environment Line on 131 555 or Council’s Customer Service team on 1300 434 434.  


      funding for community groups: Griffin

      Community groups, sporting clubs and other not-for-profit organisations are being encouraged to prepare their applications for funding under the popular Community Building Partnerships program.

      Member for Manly, James Griffin said the hugely popular program guarantees $450,000 will be spent in the Manly electorate.

      “The Community Building Partnership is one of the best funding programs on offer because it guarantees funding will go to some of our hard-working, dedicated community groups and organisations,” Mr Griffin said.

      “The program invests in projects that matter and make a difference, particularly to volunteers who go above and beyond on skin-tight budgets to provide a service to our local community.

      “Over past rounds of the fund, we have seen some outstanding community-led projects receive grants that have led to real, tangible benefits for our electorate”, Mr Griffin said.

      Successful applications under the Community Building Partnership program include:
      • $30,000 for six air conditioners at Harbord Public School
      • $14,344 to Seaforth Football Club towards equipment for staging games
      • $25,000 to NBSC Manly Campus for outdoor seating and shade
      • $48,618 for a power wall battery storage, utilising 82 existing solar panels
      Mr Griffin said, “I am always pushing to ensure that our community benefits from these grant opportunities, and I am proud that the Community Building Partnership fund has invested significant funds into our electorate.

      “Applications open in just a few days’ time so I encourage interested community groups to visit the website and begin preparing their applications for funding.”

      The Community Building Partnership Fund opens on the 28th of January 2025 and applications close on February 21st.

      For more information, visit the NSW Government website: https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/community-building-partnership-2025

      Bus changes: Be ready for back to school

      Bus passengers are being urged to check for route changes and plan their trips with the first school term of the year beginning soon.

      Services across Sydney have had changes to their routes and timetables in a shake-up designed to improve frequency and reliability, as well as provide passengers with better connections to the broader transport network, Transport for NSW states

      Transport for NSW Coordinator-General Howard Collins said passengers should look out for tweaks to both their routes and timetables as the summer holidays draw to a close and families prepare for the new school year.

      “We don’t want students being late to their first day back so we’re reminding students and mums, dads and carers, please check your routes as they may have changed,” Mr Collins said. 

      “Just before and over the holiday period, there were a number of bus timetable changes designed to make Greater Sydney more connected.

      “A number of services across the Northern Beaches and lower North Shore have had their timetables tweaked to improve on-time running and reflect changing traffic patterns, while minor timetable changes will also be made to services in the Eastern Suburbs to improve capacity and on-time running, largely around the Randwick area.''

      Mr Collins said that the changes to the bus network would ultimately deliver a better-connected transport system for the whole city.

      “I want to thank everyone for their patience as we continue to invest in, better integrate transport options and manage disruption,” Mr Collins said.

      “We encourage passengers to always check the Trip Planner at transportnsw.info/trip before they travel and get the latest information on network changes.”

      Students and their families should also note that dedicated school bus routes will return to full operation on January 31, in line with the Department of Education’s school calendar for 2025.

      Please check Trip Planner if your school returns before 31 January for available services.

      Reminder on articulated buses
      In September 2024 Transport for NSW (Transport) withdrew 83 articulated buses from service after cracking was identified on some buses.

      Transport continues to work with bus operators to limit impacts on passengers, including prioritising school services, timetable adjustments, routes most affected and maximising allocation of high-capacity fleet to services of greatest need.

      Commuters on some routes may see more crowding or queuing, and it may take a bit longer to get to your destination where articulated buses have been replaced with standard buses. 

      On these routes please allow extra travel time and visit Trip Planner at transportnsw.info to plan your trip:

      Northern Beaches
      100, 114, 144, 166, 167, 178, 179, 180, 194, 199, 246, 270, 271, 280, 160X, 165X, 168X, 170X, 172X, 173X, 174X, 176X, 177X, 180X, 194X, B1

      Lower North Shore and Lane Cove
      115, 119, 120, 206, 207, 209, 288, 292

      Changes to Public transport Timetables

      On 19 January 2025, Transport for NSW (Transport) will introduce changes to some bus services across the northern beaches.

      These changes include timetable and minor route changes to support demand, and to improve reliability and connections to Sydney Metro services.

      What’s changing?
      • Improved all-night services, including new all-night services on 144 between Manly and Chatswood (replacing route 144N) and extension of existing all-night services on route 199 to and from Palm Beach.  
      • Timetable adjustments to improve reliability.
      • Changed route 114 for westbound services via Pacific Highway to improve connection to Sydney Metro at Crows Nest Station.
      • Improved frequencies on routes B1, 100 and 230.
      • Timetable changes to 111, 228, 229 and 246.
      • All-night services on 199 now extended to and from Palm Beach. 
      • Timetable changes to 155, 191 and 192 to better reflect demand and availability of On Demand Transport services (Keoride).
      • Timetable changes to 177, 177X, 179, 180 and 180X to better reflect demand.
      Minor changes will be made to some dedicated school services to improve reliability. Most dedicated school services will however remain the same.

      Changes to regular bus services that students catch to and from school may also impact a small number of students.

      Transport and our bus operators are working closely with schools that may be impacted by these changes, to ensure students and their communities are aware of the changes, and how they need to adjust their journeys.

      Transport for NSW encourages students to plan before they travel at the start of Term 1, 2025. 

      Affected routes
      B1, 100, 111, 114, 142, 144, 144N, 145, 150X, 154X, 155, 160X, 162, 165X, 166, 168X, 170X, 171X, 172X, 173X, 174X, 176X, 177, 177X, 178, 179, 180, 180X, 181X, 182, 185, 190X, 191, 192, 199, 201, 228, 229, 230, 238, 243, 246, 249, 263, 280

      Avalon Beach SLSC: Bronze starts feb 2

      Ready to make a difference? 
      Get your Bronze Medallion and become a Surf Lifesaver! 
      • ✅ Learn lifesaving skills
      • ✅ Build fitness & confidence
      • ✅ Join a supportive Club
      It’s never too late to learn how to save lives. Register your interest here https://www.trybooking.com/CPQSX

      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.

      Spanish Moss killing critically endangered local trees

      The spread of environment weeds in Pittwater is becoming of greater concern to residents and the bushcarers who work to remove them. A recent pictorial by Joe Mills showed there is widespread masses of all types of weeds at Warriewood's perimeter and wetlands and this week the spread of Spanish Moss, with quite a bit now growing on trees beside the path into Toongari Reserve off Avalon Parade, next to the kindergarten, is yet another invader.

      Spanish Moss has been found to spread over mature trees across the Sydney Basin and in doing so, prevent photosynthesis, killing the trees. 

      A recent study by STEP, over Cowan to Marrickville, ascertained what tree species it grew on and found the critically endangered  Turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera) is the most severely affected of all the 76+ species of plants STEP recorded Spanish Moss growing in. 

      Fragments carried by birds to line nests in bushland have spread this weed into more and more areas, but the tips can also be blown by the wind to another plant.

      See: https://www.step.org.au/index.php/item/702-spanish-moss-a-serious-environmental-weed

      STEP is a community-based environmental organisation with over 500 members from Ku-ring-gai, Hornsby and surrounding suburbs. Our primary aim is to work for the conservation of bushland in northern Sydney.

      Many of these are termed 'garden escapees'.

      STEP's Recommendations:

      • Gardeners remove all moss they can reach, put it in their green bin and prevent spread.
      • Local authorities such as local councils and NPWS remove it from all public places, including trees on nature strips.
      • Add Spanish Moss to the next iteration of the Greater Sydney Regional Strategic Weed Management Plan and all other relevant regional strategic weed management plans.
      • Classify Spanish Moss at a level that enables its eradication and containment, prohibition of sale and distribution, e.g. as a regional priority weed.
      • Undertake research into why Turpentines are a favoured host and the ecological effects of Spanish Moss on bushland.
      • Undertake research into control methods.

      Swaying veils of grey in dead or dying trees and simplified bushland is not something to look forward to. Let’s not risk it.

      Read STEP's full report.

      Spanish Moss infestation killing Australian trees: STEP photo

      Sydney Wildlife (Sydney Metropolitan Wildlife Services) Needs Volunteers

      January  7, 2025
      As you know our work doesn't stop. 
      We had the introduction of our new computer system which we all had to learn and get used to during a very busy time of the year! And everyone nailed it.

      Now down to business; We need you!! Our next Rescue and Care Course is starting in February and we are desperate for members all over Sydney. Wouldn't it look great on your resume if you are looking for a job? ‘Volunteer at Sydney Metropolitan Wildlife Services’ the skills you learn are endless! 

      I could write a list as long as my arm the suburbs we need members in. So if this is something you have ever thought about, dreamt about or even had a discussion with your neighbour about now is the time! 

      Follow the link and sign up: 

      Maybe you cant have animals in your residence but have a car. We also need transporters to transport animals to carers from vets email info@sydneywildlife.org.au

      Don't have a car, can't keep animals at home? Sign up for our volunteer rescue line. This is run 24/7 by volunteers. One overnight shift a week (5pm-9am) could be your volunteer hours if Centrelink require you to volunteer. 

      These shifts can be done from your own home so you can still feed the kids, pop them to bed, jump in to bed yourself and just answer the phone if it rings between those times or do set hours a week during the day. Contact Carolyn for a chat at 

      NSW residents urged to take care this mosquito season

      NSW Health is reminding people to take measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites this summer season.

      NSW Health's Executive Director of Health Protection Dr Jeremy McAnulty said mosquitoes thrive in warm conditions, increasing the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses such as Murray Valley encephalitis, Japanese encephalitis, Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses in parts of NSW.

      “Each year, NSW Health undertakes mosquito surveillance across NSW from November to April each year, which provides important information about when mosquito-borne disease risk is elevated," Dr McAnulty said.

      “As part of this routine surveillance Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus has been recently detected in a mosquito sample in Lake Wyangan collected on 3 December.

      “This is a timely reminder, both to Griffith residents, and to anyone planning to spend time enjoying the outdoors, to take protective measures this summer against mosquitoes," he said.

      Information on eligibility for a free JE vaccine is available on Japanese encephalitis vaccination.

      JE vaccine is available through local General Practitioners (GPs), Aboriginal health services and pharmacists. People who meet the above criteria should make an appointment ahead of time and let them know it is for the JE vaccine. These providers may require a few days' notice so they can order the vaccine.

      There have been no human cases of JEV in NSW since October 2022.

      Mosquitos in NSW can potentially carry a range of other viruses for which there are no vaccines including Murray Valley encephalitis, Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses.

      Actions to prevent mosquito bites include:
      • Applying repellent to exposed skin. Use repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Check the label for reapplication times
      • Wearing light, loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts, long pants and covered footwear. and socks
      • Avoiding going outdoors during peak mosquito times, especially dawn and dusk
      • Using insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing units and mosquito coils to repel mosquitoes (mosquito coils should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas)
      • Covering windows and doors with insect screens and checking there are no gaps
      • Removing items that may collect water such as old tyres and empty pots from around your home to reduce the places where mosquitoes can breed
      • Using repellents that are safe for children. Most skin repellents are safe for use on children aged three months and older. Always check the label for instructions
      • Protecting infants aged less than three months by using an infant carrier draped with mosquito netting, secured along the edges
      • While camping, use a tent that has fly screens to prevent mosquitoes entering or sleep under a mosquito net
      For further information on JE virus and ways to protect yourself visit Mosquito borne diseases.​​

      Pittwater Outriggers: join us for a free trial

      Adults of all ages and all fitness levels welcome. No experience necessary, paddle & instruction provided. Spots open in race & social teams. 

      Book in now for 8.45 am on Sat 25 January or 1 February OR join us on Sunday 2 February at 9.15 am. 

      Registration essential! Book via an email to paddle@pittwateroutriggers.com.au

      Narrabeen Dragonboat Club Open Day

      When: Sunday Feb 2nd 2025: 8am to 10am
      Where: Jamieson Park Narrabeen
      Have you made a New Year’s resolution? Do you want to try something new?

      Come join us for our Dragonboat Open Day which is a great opportunity to have an introduction to new activities and new people in a friendly and welcoming environment.

      Paddles and social bbq brekkie provided.

      Wear clothes that can get splashed, and bring a water bottle.

      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

      $4.25 million In grants for community-led programs to prevent domestic violence

      Up to $4.25 million in grant funding is on offer to local organisations statewide, including regional and rural, for proposals that address the drivers of domestic, family and sexual violence in our community.

      Proposals that align with the Pathways to Prevention strategy will be given priority consideration, including gender-based violence prevention programs that:
      • Focus on high-impact settings such as schools, workplaces and sporting clubs
      • Engage men and boys in prevention initiatives
      • Align with the ’Change the Story’ framework, including related frameworks ‘Changing the Picture’, ‘Changing the Landscape’ and ‘Pride in Prevention’
      • Support LGBTQIA+ communities through inclusive programming
      • Support migrant and refugee communities
      • Explore innovative approaches, including the use of digital spaces such as social media.
      Successful projects will run over a three-year period.

      Following the EOI, eligible organisations will be invited to submit detailed proposals for funding consideration.

      The full grant application process for the Primary Prevention Multi-Year Partnership Grants Program will be run in early 2025.

      The NSW Government has committed $38 million over four years to roll out the state’s first dedicated primary prevention strategy, to partner with local organisations on addressing the drivers of domestic, family and sexual violence.

      For more information and to apply, go to: HERE 

      Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said:

      “Violence against women and girls can and must be prevented.

      “Our government’s first dedicated primary prevention strategy provides a roadmap of the work we need to do to address the drivers of violence against women and stop the violence before it starts.

      “We want to partner with local organisations and the community on programs that disrupt the drivers of gendered violence, promote healthy and respectful relationships, and change attitudes towards women. That will be the key to ending violence against women and girls.”

      Support:

      If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero / 000.

      If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, call the NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63 for free counselling and referrals, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

      For confidential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800 RESPECT or 13 YARN on 13 92 76.

       

      Click on logo above to visit their website.

      ______________________________________________________________________________________________

      North Bilgola Directional Marker: Do you have a photo of the surface? 

      Avalon resident Richard Jeffery is asking residents to look through their old albums and see if they have a clear photo of the surface of the brass directional marker that once graced the plinth on North Bilgola headland, as a project has been launched to replace this.

      Richard explains:
      ‘’I have a long-time passion for the place and usually spend a couple of hours a day there picking up garbage, talking to visitors, and generally enjoying this beautiful spot. 

      You are probably aware that the Directional Indicator was installed in 1988 as part of the 1988 Australian Bicentenary celebrations. I recently found a few photos of the event. 

      The Rotary Club of Pittwater and Warringah Council Direction indicator at Bilgola Headland being unveiled, June, 1988. Pic: NBC

      The original (and I believe a replacement) has been stolen over the years, probably because of their brass content. 

      Many residents are very keen to see a new Directional Indicator installed. I have approached the Northern Beaches Council and received a generally positive response. 

      The next stage is to get hold of a plan or a clear photo of the actual indicator so that the new one will be similar.

      Could I use your excellent publication to ask your readers if they have access to such a photo or plan?''
       
      I am promoting the headland on HERE
      I can be contacted at pittwaterplayground@outlook.com 

      Thank you
      Richard Jeffery

      Breeding time for Little Penguins: Boaters urged to stick to speed limit

      Say hello to Manly's newest (and cutest) residents - Little Penguins! 

      It's breeding season for these endangered guys, so boaters lets keep them safe by:
      • Keep speed to under four knots when entering North Harbour, Manly
      • Be extra careful at dawn and dusk
      • Don’t anchor in seagrass beds
      • Don’t bring dogs or cats onto beaches
      To learn more visit: https://bit.ly/4g0HUbg

      NSW Maritime 
      January 16, 2025

      NB: there is also a colony of Little Penguins on Lion Island and a colony of seals at Barrenjoey - please do not speed on the estuary. AJG- Ed./PON

      Mackellar wants an end to gambling advertising

      I’ve heard from young men and women across the Northern Beaches that it’s not uncommon to have lost the equivalent of a house deposit on gambling.

      I have heard from worried parents and concerned partners. I have heard from those who struggle with gambling themselves.

      Right now, you just can’t escape gambling ads. They are relentless. They are everywhere. Even our children know the language of gambling.

      Enough is enough. I’m calling for an end to gambling advertising online and on TV. If you care about this too, then sign my petition below:


      Dr. Sophie Scamps
      MP for Mackellar

      Warringah Rats Sevens by the Sea 2025

      It's almost time for our annual SEVENS BY THE SEA Tournament! 🏉🌊

      Get ready for an action-packed day from 11am to 8pm on Saturday 15th of February, all finishing under the lights!
      • 🎶 DJ and live music to keep the vibe going
      • 🍹 Pop-up bars serving your favourite drinks
      • 🎭 Dress to impress on HillBilly Hill
      • 🏃‍♂️ Fastest On-Field Race – will you take the crown?
      • 🎁 Raffles and epic prize giveaways you won’t want to miss!
      Don’t miss out on the excitement – it’s going to be an unforgettable event!

      2025 SLSSNB Branch Championships: Dates

      The 2025 Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Branch Championships will be held in February and March 2025. All event circulars and additional important event information are posted and updated on this SLSSNB page – see below.

      Information relating to the events will be also communicated in real time via the SLSSNB Surf Sports Team App 

      Time Table & Locations Summary
      Champion Lifesaver Championships
      (Resus and Theory Only) Branch Office, Warriewood (Evening) Wed, Feb 5th 2025

      Patrol Competition Championships
      (Resus and Theory Only) Branch Office | Warriewood (Evening) | Thurs, Feb 6th 2025

      Following events will be held at Newport Beach on Sat, Feb 8th 2025 –
      • Champion Lifesaver Championships  
      • Patrol Competition Championships
      • Open Championships (Beach Events Only)
      • Masters Championships (Beach Events Only)
      • March Past Championships
      • Rescue & Resuscitation Championships

      Following events will be held at Newport Beach on Sun, Feb 9th 2025 –
      • Junior Championships (Beach Events Only)  
      Following events will be held at Newport Beach on Sat, Feb 15th 2025 –
      • Open Championships (Water Events Only)  
      • Masters Championships (Water Events Only)
      • First Aid Championships (U17’s & U19’s) 
      Following events will be held at Newport Beach on Sun, Feb 16th 2025 –
      • Junior Championships (Water Events Only)  
      • First Aid Championships (U14/15’s & Opens)
      The Surf Boats Championships will be held at Palm Beach on Sat, Mar 1st 2025.

      Australia Day Breakfast at Newport Beach

      Enjoy an Aussie Breakfast at Newport Beach on Friday 26th of January, with fun and games for everyone from 7:30am to 11:30am!
      Five local community organisations have teamed up to present a fabulous event for all ages to enjoy this Australia day.

      There will be bacon and egg rolls, sausage and egg rolls, pancakes, gelato and coffee available for sale while you enjoy the music performed by local groups. The event is kid friendly, with face painting, rides and games for them to enjoy. If you fancy yourself a bit of a big kid, there will also be our annual thong throwing competition (open to all ages, of course).

      Come down and support Northern Beaches Rotary Club, Northern Beaches Zonta Club, Warringah/Pittwater SES and NSW RFS Northern Beaches Headquarters and Mackerel Beach Brigades and enjoy the atmosphere down at Bert Payne Park!

      189th Australia Day Regatta (Yachts) on Pittwater hosted by Avalon Sailing Club

      Registration for this event closes at Sun 26 Jan 2025 11:00.

      The Regatta will be held in Pittwater, the country of the Garigal clan, they are part of the oldest culture in the world.

      Avalon Sailing Club acknowledges and recognises the Strength, Resilience, and Courage of the traditional custodians.

      Guests are welcome anytime in the afternoon. The presentation will take place once all sailors have returned to the club which is expected between 3:30pm - 4:30pm. Drinks and snacks will be available from the bar, tables and chairs available with guests encouraged to bring a picnic and something to put on the BBQ.

      Expected divisions, and prizes, are as follows:
      • MJ Novice/Optimist Novice/Nippa Novice/Open BIC Novice 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap (a novice is described as a competitor that has never raced in a state or national championship)
      • Optimist 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
      • Manly Junior 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
      • Open BIC 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
      • Laser Radial 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
      • Spiral 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
      • Laser 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
      • Open Centerboard 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
      • Yachts – Multihulls 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
      • Yachts – Non Spinnaker 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
      • Yachts – Spinnaker 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
      • Wooden yachts 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
      • Couta Boats 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap

      Paddle out to honour Guy “Creature” Haymes


      Day of respect and celebration of life 

      Official: Guy’s Paddle-Out. final date is Saturday the 15th February at 2pm.  at North Avalon.

      If you could let as many people as possible know it would be very much.

      A paddle out and farewell to Guy.
      It’s not often we are able to get the family together in one place at the same time. 

      To all our Family and Friends you are invited on Saturday the 15th of February at 2.pm, at North Avalon for a paddle-out for Guy “Creature” Haymes to celebrate his life and his love of The North Av Rocks. It was the place were he learnt to surf. 

      In later years whenever it got big he was often the first one out. Guy would never let size get in the way of a good surf, the bigger the better was his motto.
      John Haymes

      Purple Poppy Day Service 2025

      When: Monday 24 February 2025
      Where: Pittwater RSL Cenotaph

      Our fourth Purple Poppy Day Service will be held on Monday 24 February 2025.

      Purple Poppy Day Service honours all Animals currently serving, or served and died, in all conflicts.  “They had no choice”.

      The Service will commence at 11:00 am, at the Lower Cenotaph at the Pittwater RSL Club.  Everyone should be seated by 10:45 am.
      In the event of rain, we will be under cover.

      We ask members of the community NOT to bring their pets to our service!

      Pittwater RSL Club
      82 Mona Vale Road, Mona Vale.

      Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week

      Barney 

      13 weeks Staffy X

      Fred and Barney, named after the Flintstones are sweet energetic brothers who came from the pound. Barney is the smaller of the two and has a quieter gentler nature. These pups have loads of energy and are looking for an active sporty family who will train him and involve him in family activities. Fred is social with other young medium dogs and just loves to play with them. Barney has a short coat and weighed 6.9kg at 13 weeks. It is likely he will grow to 25-30kg when fully grown. Barney is looking for a home with a garden and home based workers as he is just a baby. 

      He comes with desexing, puppy vaccinations, heartworm free and chipped. His adoption cost is $800.

      Rose and Blanche 

      13yo Toy Cavoodles

      These little cuties Rose and Blanche came from the pound after they was surrendered when their owner was not expected to live. They are sweet affectionate girls who just want to cuddle up on your lap. They are calm sweet dogs who are easy to wash and groom. They are social with other dogs. Rose has heart murmur and we have started her on heart medication. They both have non-shedding coats and Rose weighs 3.7kg and Blanche is 4.7kg. They might be sisters. They suit apartment living and FT working hours. They are desexed, vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Their adoption fee together is $1400. 


      For further details call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133  or email  Monika@DoggieRescue.com.  RON R251000024

      Council invites EOI for Pittwater Golf Centre

      Council invites expressions of interest (EOI) for the lease, development and operation of Pittwater Golf Centre, located at 1500 Pittwater Road, Warriewood. The EOI opens on 27 November 2024, with submissions required by 2pm on Thursday 27 February 2025.

      Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins highlighted the exciting opportunities this prominent and much loved venue offers for the right operator.

      “Council is looking for an imaginative, experienced operator to revitalise the Pittwater Golf Centre into a vibrant, high-quality golf and entertainment destination that will attract and engage the community.

      “The Centre boasts a high-profile location with driving range, mini-golf, teaching academy, pro-shop and café providing an ideal opportunity for a revitalised and profitable operation.

      “The Northern Beaches community loves an active, outdoor lifestyle. Situated almost at the centre of the peninsula, the site is perfectly positioned to cater to our golf-loving residents and visitors alike.” said Mayor Heins.

      For those interested in applying, a site briefing and inspection will be held on Wednesday 11 December at 11am at the Pittwater Golf Centre. Bookings are required to attend.

      For further information or submit interest, visit here.

      The property can be viewed here.

      Basin Transport this Summer

      Your Basin Camping Adventure Starts Here! 👉 Barrenjoey Boating Services is your gateway to The Basin and the stunning Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. 

      Our convenient water taxi and barge ferry service make getting to your Basin campsite a breeze. 

      Phone: +02 9974 4229 to book!


      JP Public Register

      You can find a Justice of the Peace (JP) using the online Public Register. You can search by postcode, name of a JP, day of availability, language spoken and JP registration number. The register lists a JP’s location, availability and telephone number. Please note that JPs are volunteers and may not be available at all times. ​Click here to access the JP Public Register.  NB: There are  3 J.P’s working in Pittwater RSL Sub-Branch office, we work every Monday (10:30am to 15:30)except on public holidays:
      1. Terry Jones J.P.
      2. Robert (Bob) Wood J.P.
      3. Deborah Hendy(Carter) J.P

      Slow Down: Wildlife Crossing

      Please contact Sydney Wildlife Rescue on (02) 9413 4300 for advice if you hit a native animal or come across an injured one while driving. It is helpful if you can provide an accurate location or landmark to assist our rescuers who will pouch check marsupials for joeys, so little lives like Phoebe can be saved. 


       
      Photo: Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby by Jane Notice

      Week Two: 13-19 January, 2025

      Front Page Issue 638

      Week Two January 2025 (13-19, 2025):

      PEP-11 Officially Refused by Federal Government: the Whales May Now Migrate free of Seismic or Drilling risk

      Tilly Rose Cooper's Swimwear Drive For Fijian Youngsters

      Bilgola SLSC’s Billy Swims 2025 swum and won: part Pittwater Ocean Swims Series

      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)

      Local NSW SES Volunteers Busy During First Big Storm for 2025

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

      Ball shaped debris washes up on Local Beaches: Call for Sydney Water to 'Come Clean' on How Much Sewerage is Leaking Into Environment

      Aquatics Marine Rescue NSW completes another demanding year returning more than 10,500 people safely to shore in 2024

      Community rallies against accelerated logging in Great Koala National Park: Scruby Not backing Down Until GKNP Formalised - Higginson Calls for Labor to Honour its Election promise - Loggers want $300 Million compensation, state $1.3 Billion is the Price Tag to Cease Logging GKNP Trees

      Wildlife In Our Midst by Huang Zhi-Wei aka Reg Wong

      Pictures: A Mid-Summer Irrawong Falls Walk by Joe Mills




      Environment Wildlife killed by Same roaming dog Pair Again: Elanora-Ingleside-Warriewood, Breeding time for Little Penguins: Boaters urged to stick to speed limit - NSW Maritime Blitz 2025, Ball shaped debris washes up on Local Beaches: Call for Sydney Water to 'Come Clean' on How much Sewerage is leaking into environment, Community rallies against accelerated logging in Great Koala National Park: Scruby Not backing Down Until GKNP Formalised - Higginson Calls for Labor to Honour its Election promise, PNHA Newsletter 102: Summer 2024-2025 - Station Beach seagrass meadow, New project, what's in Avalon's ponds?, Pelican singing in the rain at McCarrs creek + More, 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: closes Feb. 9, Garigal National Park: ‘1080 pest management’, 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 + when, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Activities, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, NSW marine life – the importance of seagrass, Study shows hot leaves can’t catch carbon from the air. It’s bad news for rainforests – and Earth, We tracked the Tasmanian boobook as it flew a remarkable 250 kilometres non-stop across Bass Strait, Nothing new under the sun: Australia’s long history of missed chances to build sustainable homes, Cabana drama: 5 expert tips on how not to be branded a twit when using a beach tent, This summer please leave the sea shells by the seashore, How is Antarctica melting, exactly? Crucial details are beginning to come into focus, Arctic has changed dramatically in just a couple of decades – 2024 report card shows worrying trends in snow, ice, wildfire and more, Trees ‘remember’ wetter times − never having known abundant rain could buffer today’s young forests against climate change, Property developers installing as few as half of promised ecological features – new report, How the world’s tallest bridge saves thousands of tonnes of carbon emissions, Pittwater Reserves: histories + Pictorial Walks, Pittwater's Birds, + more

      Inbox News New study challenges a major theory on why some kangaroos mysteriously went extinct, A deadly brain-eating amoeba lurks in freshwater swimming holes – here’s what you need to know, Children with traumatic experiences have a higher risk of obesity – but this can be turned around, Australia has a new autism strategy but questions remain for those who don’t get NDIS support, Aboriginal message sticks are a fascinating insight into a complex system of written communication, A bright ‘Sun-skirting’ comet will grace southern skies this week; Here’s how to see it, LA is on fire; How will Australia cope when bushfires hit Sydney, Melbourne or another major city?, Ecology of Fear: Mike Davis’ history of LA and natural disaster is re-read whenever fire rages in California, Blinking radio pulses from space hint at a cosmic object that ‘shouldn’t exist’, ‘Solar shepherds’ earn big by grazing sheep on solar farms — and they benefit everyone involved, Ground-breaking work in geriatric pharmacology: NSLHD News, Why some people deserve an age pension before others: new Australian research, Household spending rises with Black Friday sales: ABS, Assistive Tech and Home Modifications List now available, Avalon Beach SLSC turns 100 in 2025!, Going for a bushwalk? 3 handy foods to have in your backpack (including muesli bars), Remembering Simon Townsend as a conscientious objector and fearless anti-Vietnam War activist, How we diagnose and define obesity is set to change – here’s why, and what it means for treatment, 50 years of Triple J: challenging censorship, supporting Australian artists, and ‘no dope in the studio!’, ‘AI agents’ promise to arrange your finances, do your taxes, book your holidays – and put us all at risk, The history of women cyclists – an uphill climb to equality, Congratulations Joel!, Applications open for 2025 Tertiary Health Study Subsidies, Applications to join the DOVES Council are open for 2025, Hottest 100 Voting now open, TAFE Fee-free* courses - semester 1 2025 enrol now, The Rions - Physical Medicine (Official Music Video), School Leavers Support, Word Of The Week: psithurism, 50 years of Triple J: challenging censorship, supporting Australian artists, and ‘no dope in the studio!’, Going for a bushwalk? 3 handy foods to have in your backpack (including muesli bars), No, you don’t need the ‘Barbie drug’ to tan, whatever TikTok says; Here’s why melanotan-II is so risky,  Behind the viral selfie location of Saint Ignatius is a 350-year-old story of an optical illusion, Staring blankly at your screen? You probably have post holiday blues; The good news is you can get through it, Beware of bad customers – and 3 other ways small and medium businesses can thrive in 2025, Looking for a summer or longer-term job? Here’s how to find one and avoid being exploited, Research suggests those who use buy-now-pay-later services end up spending more, A bright ‘Sun-skirting’ comet will grace southern skies this week; Here’s how to see it, This summer please leave the sea shells by the seashore, The history of women cyclists – an uphill climb to equality, How Sydney’s cultural festivals cultivate a sense of hope and optimism for Australia’s future, If Greenland were for sale, what would it be worth? How to put a ‘price tag’ on a territory, Fruit and veg, exercise, frequent bloodletting and more tips on staying healthy from medieval travellers, These 16 nuns were guillotined in the French Revolution. Now the Pope has declared them saints

      __________________________________

      Week One January 2025 (1-12, 2025):

      Front Page Week One January 2025

      Are Turtles not Safe in the Estuary? Green Turtle Killed in Pittwater Prompts Renewed Calls for Boaters to slow down, adhere to the speed limit

      Palm Beach SLSC Hosts the 2025 Adrian Curlewis Twilight Masters Carnival + PBSLSC's Within Club BBB's Carnival 

      Newport SLSC's 2025 Pool to Peak Ocean Swims

      Avalon Beach Surf Lifesaving Club's 100 Years: some January Reflections of past events + January to February 2025 Centenary Events

      Strike Force established to investigate brawl at Manly: image of two witnesses released

      Pictures: Summer in Pittwater: First Week of January 2025 Means Crowded Beaches, Lifesavers on Patrol, Surf Lifesaving Carnivals, First Pittwater Ocean Swims

      Aquatics: Pittwater Ocean Swims Series 2025: great opportunities to dive on in 

      Transition to Net Zero accelerates with purchase of 319 Zero Emission buses: 276 for North Shore + Manly to Barrenjoey Peninsula - Brookvale, Mona Vale Bus Depots being Converted to Service same

      New Emergency Response Beacons Now Active at North Palm Beach, Turimetta, Narrabeen + South Curl Curl, Fishermans, Shelly Beaches

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

      Retirement Villages owner Aveo to Develop Manly Hospital site 

      Park Bench Philosophers: Beach shacks are an iconic part of Australian summer. Yet, they have also have a hidden, more complex history by Anna Clark, Professor in Public History, University of Technology Sydney

      DIY Ideas DIY A Summer-Autumn Salad Garden for a Balcony or at Waist-height

      Profile of the Week Rebecca Capell: Vice President of Newport SLSC

      As the proud mum of two boys and a girl 'Bec' Capell has long been focussed on equipping her by no young adults with everything and anything they need to become all they want to be.

      Her focus has been on keeping it real and relative. After joining Newport SLSC as a Nippers mum, Bec has undertaken various roles in the club - everything from womanning the shop to looking after the littlies and now looking after members across the club structure as VP of Newport surf club.

      Bec introduced  'The Top 5' at Newport, a newsletter featuring the top five stories for club members, when her role was Member Protection Information Officer, contributing a story for the first edition on Tips for Schoolies and how to stay safe if attending. The other 4 stories for that edition were about Newport athletes excelling at surf sports, a working bee on the garden at the front of the club, and the Return and Earn scheme for bottles the club had recently signed up to and Bec again penned an update on Taking 3 for the Sea the Nippers were involved in, setting up the under 7s, 8s and 9s to be current and future custodians of their own and any other beach they find themselves on.

      Bec is also an athlete - especially in water sports; a love and passion that commenced when she was young and has been renewed through the opportunities being a member of a surf club provides for all ages and all genders.

      Bec won Gold in the 2022 Aussies in the Champion Lifesaver event. That had been preceded by a Silver in the same event at the NSW State Championships in 2020. Bec also takes part in the Patrol Competition team event, again with great team results from Newport SLSC's volunteers working as one crew.

      However, getting in the swim of things runs in the family with her daughter Abigail part of the next generation of athletes coming out of the club that sees commentators at Branch, State and National carnivals calling out 'Newport!, Newport!, Newport!' as competitors cross the finish line.

      Surf sports have their grounding in honing the skills that enable surf lifesaver volunteers to save lives on the beach and in the water; everything from sprinting on the sand to being able to successfully complete a surf rescue via a range of equipment, and should that be needed, complete first aid and resuscitation once a patient is brought back to the shore.

      The carnivals held locally and across Australia also bring together old friends and continue to foster the camaraderie of one team all working together to look after each other and the hundreds of thousands of people who visit our beaches each Season. This, in essence, creates an extended family centred in every surf club - a foundation available for all Bec says gives everyone a place to belong to because all are welcome as all belong - there is something you can do in your local surf club to help your community, help complete strangers, even if you are not an athlete.

      This week a few insights into a Season at Newport SLSC from a lady who has undertaken 'Vigilance and Service' for over two decades on glorious Newport Beach.

        Once a three storey sandstone home, now a four-storey beachside mansion, the block of land for this building was purchased by Laurence Gallagher when Palm Beach was being sold as the ‘Palm Beach’ of Australia. 

        To attract buyers, the Barrenjoey Land Company likened this Pittwater beach to the Palm Beach in Florida, USA. Naming the house, 'Florida House’, on Florida road, was in keeping with the intentions of those selling land at 'Palm Beach' and made it easy to locate for those not familiar with the area. 

        Stated by some sources to have been built early in 1916, when Lawrence was actually serving with the AIF overseas, Mr. Gallagher may have already been working for one of the main builders of premises in this hilly area after the initial 1912 land sales, Albert Verrills.

        Laurie, sometimes spelt ‘Lawrie’, was employed building roads and structures around Palm Beach and would later win the contract to build a section of Ocean road Palm Beach. 

        Family records of the Verrills state it was Albert Verrills who helped in the construction of Florida House, one of the first of many homes he built in the area, and Laurie Gallagher, who completed the stone works.

        Later on he bought the Lot beside Florida House where 'Kookaburra' stands today. 

        The Certificate of Titles recorded show the Florida House Lot was transferred to him in December 1915, just months after he had enlisted to serve in WWI. He is listed on the Certificate of Title as being 'of Barrenjoey' as this end of the peninsula was then known, so must have been living and working in the area already.

        As the Barrenjoey Land Company was offering generous terms for these first 1912 land sales, with a small deposit and no requirement to settle your mortgage with someone or other for a few years, Laurie must have been among the initial buyers of lots in 1912 when the first and second subdivisions took place and possibly working at Barrenjoey Lighthouse under David Gow, then head light keeper, and older brother of Carl Gow.

        A mortgage taken out in August 1922 with a relative 'John Gallagher' lists John as being a 'Carter of Barrenjoey'.

        Laurie Gallagher was born in Linlithgow Scotland, 1891. He enlisted in the AIF in August 1915, aged 24 years and two months and left Australia on board HMAT A32 Themistocles on 5 October 1915. His occupation is listed as 'stonemason'.

        Pittwater Offshore Newsletter:  December 2024

        Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

        To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

        North Bilgola Directional Marker: Do you have a photo of the surface? 

        Avalon resident Richard Jeffery is asking residents to look through their old albums and see if they have a clear photo of the surface of the brass directional marker that once graced the plinth on North Bilgola headland, as a project has been launched to replace this.

        Richard explains:
        ‘’I have a long-time passion for the place and usually spend a couple of hours a day there picking up garbage, talking to visitors, and generally enjoying this beautiful spot. 

        You are probably aware that the Directional Indicator was installed in 1988 as part of the 1988 Australian Bicentenary celebrations. I recently found a few photos of the event. 

        The Rotary Club of Pittwater and Warringah Council Direction indicator at Bilgola Headland being unveiled, June, 1988. Pic: NBC

        The original (and I believe a replacement) has been stolen over the years, probably because of their brass content. 

        Many residents are very keen to see a new Directional Indicator installed. I have approached the Northern Beaches Council and received a generally positive response. 

        The next stage is to get hold of a plan or a clear photo of the actual indicator so that the new one will be similar.

        Could I use your excellent publication to ask your readers if they have access to such a photo or plan?''
         
        I am promoting the headland on HERE
        I can be contacted at pittwaterplayground@outlook.com 

        Thank you
        Richard Jeffery

        Tilly Rose Cooper's Swimwear Drive For Fijian Youngsters

        Anyone interested in having a clean out of children’s outgrown swimwear, rashies and wetsuits in the next few weeks, please bring them along to your local surf club and put them in the special bin for a clothing drive for youngsters in Fiji. Community surf clubs from Palm Beach to Collaroy are supporting Tilly Rose Cooper, a 13-year-old Mona Vale SLSC SRC member, who is collecting these items for the community of Tagaqe Village in Fiji. 

        Tilly explained during the week her family had gone to Fiji as her grandparents were renewing their vows. 

        ‘’Tagaqe Village in Fiji is a very special place, you have to be invited to be allowed to go there. I started talking with the other kids there – they asked if I played football – and then we went for a swim.’’ Tilly told the news service this week

        ‘’I noticed then they didn’t have any swimmers – they were going in in their everyday gear or their school uniforms because they didn’t have swimmers. With Christmas, and so many of us getting new swimmers because we have outgrown our other ones, I thought it would be good to repurpose these so they could have swimgear too.

        ‘’This would allow them to go swimming in swimgear instead of their clothes, which is a drowning hazard. We’d also be saving them from landfill by repurposing them.’’ Tilly said

        How much gear do you need Tilly?

        ‘’As much as possible and whatever people can give. We need swimmers, rashies, t-shirts, shorts, hats, thongs, sunblock in ages from littlies through to teenagers. Everything really, and gently used or new would be great. We’re hoping to collect around 20 boxes of swimgear to send over. ‘’

        ‘’The surf clubs from Palm Beach to Collaroy will have a box with this sign people can drop it off to – that way our community will be helping this community.’’

        Tilly is also looking for a sponsor to help her ship the swim wear over. If you want to be the sponsor for this, or can help out in another way, please email her mum Allison: allison@steamit.com.au 

        Details of the Fijian Clothes Drive for Youngsters

        • What to Donate: Gently used or new swimwear, rashies, board shorts, and t-shirts.
        • When: Now until February 9th.
        • Where: Donation boxes will be placed at participating Surf Life Saving Clubs, including during nippers and other club activities, from Palm Beach SLSC to Collaroy SLSC.

        More via Instagram at:  www.instagram.com/myfijianclothesdrive

        Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby said this week; ‘‘There aren’t many 13-year-olds who come back from a holiday in Fiji with a mission to give back to the community they have visited. Tilly is a changemaker and embodies the Spirit of Pittwater, making a difference in our community as a member of Mona Vale Surf Lifesaving Club and beyond. 

        ‘’I encourage everyone to donate swimwear for this wonderful cause. I look forward to recognising Tilly in parliament with a Community Recognition Statement in the upcoming sitting weeks.’’

        Ministry changes

        Media statement; Thursday 16 January 2025
        By: The Hon Anthony Albanese MP, Prime Minister of Australia

        Today I announce updates to the Cabinet and the Ministry, following the foreshadowed resignation of Bill Shorten MP as Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme and Minister for Government Services.

        I intend to recommend to the Governor-General, Her Excellency Ms Sam Mostyn AC, that she make the following changes to the Ministry:
        • Amanda Rishworth MP – to become the Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme
        • Senator Katy Gallagher – to become the Minister for Government Services
        • Dr Anne Aly MP – to become the Minister Assisting the Minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme
        I once again pay tribute to Bill Shorten for his decades of service and the tangible positive difference he’s made to the lives of Australians all over the country and to the NDIS.

        These positions will be in addition to the ministerial responsibilities already held by Ministers Rishworth, Gallagher and Aly.

        In addition to the above changes, Anika Wells MP, Minister for Aged Care and Minister for Sport, has been promoted to the Cabinet.

        I am proud to lead a strong, united and stable cabinet government focussed on delivering for Australians now, while building Australia’s future.

        A swearing-in ceremony is scheduled to occur at Government House, Canberra, on Monday, 20 January 2025, at 9.30am.

        New Fire Truck for Ingleside Rural Fire Brigade

        Friday January 10, 2025
        Ingleside Rural Fire Brigade took delivery of a brand new fire truck today. Our Captain Laura Marsh, received the keys & formal handover of the RFS Category 10 Pumper, from Northern Beaches RFS A/District Manager, Supt. Peter Marshall. 

        Laura said, "This brand new RFS Pumper, will support the Ingleside area and surrounding suburbs during Structural and Bush fires, and during responses to Vehicle accidents and fires. Its a great addition to our Brigade and the Northern Beaches District and our volunteers are looking forward to putting it to use."

        The truck is two-wheel drive, weighs 15t, carries 2000L of water. It can be set up as a designated pumping unit at small and large structural fires. With better lighting on a truck mounted light pole, it will ensure better safety during night time incidents. 

        The RFS Pumper is now in service at Ingleside, along with our heavy 3400L bushfire tanker. The new 'Cat 10' replaces our old 'Cat 11' 4WD Pumper, which struggled with older age and some later in life sickness. The old Cat 11 Pumper was the very first prototype of that style of Pumper for the RFS back in 2007, which served in the District as the Districts 'Flyer' for most of its life, before moving to the Ingleside area a few years ago. 


        Photos: Ingleside Rural Fire Brigade

        funding for community groups: Griffin

        Community groups, sporting clubs and other not-for-profit organisations are being encouraged to prepare their applications for funding under the popular Community Building Partnerships program.

        Member for Manly, James Griffin said the hugely popular program guarantees $450,000 will be spent in the Manly electorate.

        “The Community Building Partnership is one of the best funding programs on offer because it guarantees funding will go to some of our hard-working, dedicated community groups and organisations,” Mr Griffin said.

        “The program invests in projects that matter and make a difference, particularly to volunteers who go above and beyond on skin-tight budgets to provide a service to our local community.

        “Over past rounds of the fund, we have seen some outstanding community-led projects receive grants that have led to real, tangible benefits for our electorate”, Mr Griffin said.

        Successful applications under the Community Building Partnership program include:
        • $30,000 for six air conditioners at Harbord Public School
        • $14,344 to Seaforth Football Club towards equipment for staging games
        • $25,000 to NBSC Manly Campus for outdoor seating and shade
        • $48,618 for a power wall battery storage, utilising 82 existing solar panels
        Mr Griffin said, “I am always pushing to ensure that our community benefits from these grant opportunities, and I am proud that the Community Building Partnership fund has invested significant funds into our electorate.

        “Applications open in just a few days’ time so I encourage interested community groups to visit the website and begin preparing their applications for funding.”

        The Community Building Partnership Fund opens on the 28th of January 2025 and applications close on February 21st.

        For more information, visit the NSW Government website: https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/community-building-partnership-2025

        Strike Force Arrests - Assault at Manly: Update

        On Friday, 10 January 2025 NSW Police announced it has established a strike force as investigations continue into offences committed during a brawl at Manly earlier in the week.

        Shortly after 9pm on Monday 6 January 2025, officers attached to Northern Beaches Police Area Command were called to Manly Wharf on The Esplanade, following reports of a large brawl.

        Numerous police crews arrived at the scene within minutes to find about 40 people – many of whom were believed to be juveniles – fighting in the street.

        Those involved fled upon the arrival of officers and police assisted in dispersing the remaining crowd. A knife was found discarded on the ground and seized.

        Police identified and spoke with a number of witnesses who went to the aid of a teenage male being assaulted by a number of people on the roadway. 

        The witnesses were also assaulted while attempting to intervene.

        Strike Force Crookhaven has been established to investigate the brawl and investigators have obtained and reviewed extensive CCTV footage, identifying several people depicted in the vision.

        Since then 3 arrests have been conducted by NSW Police officers and charges laid. 

        Following inquiries, an 18-year-old man was arrested at Bonnyrigg about 7.30pm last Friday (10 January 2025), police stated on Monday January 13.

        He was taken to Fairfield Police Station where he was charged with one count each of riot and affray. He’s been granted conditional bail to appear in Manly Local Court on 29 January 2025.

        On Tuesday January 14 the Northern Beaches Police Area Command (NBPAC) advised a 15-year old boy has been charged with affray, riot and assault. Investigations led detectives to an address on the northern beaches and the subsequent arrest and charging of the boy.

        He was bailed to appear in February at Surry Hills children's court.

        On Thursday January 16 NBPAC stated a 20-year-old Wyong man has been charged with affray, riot and assault by police investigating  the attack at Manly wharf. 

        He was arrested on January 15 and refused bail pending an appearance at Gosford Court on the 16th.

        Police Investigations under Strike Force Crookhaven continue.

        Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com

        Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

        Three charged over alleged property and traffic offences - Central Coast

        Thursday, 16 January 2025: NSW Police
        Three teens will face court today charged following an investigation into property crime on the Central Coast.

        Since the beginning of December 2024, officers attached to Brisbane Water Police District and Tuggerah Lakes Police District investigated several property and traffic offences they believed were linked.

        The incidents are alleged to have occurred in the North Avoca, Terrigal and Forresters Beach areas.

        Following extensive inquiries by both PDs, officers arrested three teens at The Entrance about 1.30pm on Wednesday 15 January 2025.

        The three boys – all aged 16 – were taken to Wyong Police Station where they were charged.

        The first boy was charged with:
        • Take and drive conveyance without consent of owner (two counts),
        • Armed with intent to commit indictable offence (two counts),
        • Aggravated break and enter and commit serious indictable offence,
        • Aggravated break and enter with intent to steal,
        • Attempt aggravated break and enter with intent to steal,
        • Break and enter house etc steal,
        • Attempt break and enter house etc steal,
        • Be carried in conveyance taken without consent of owner,
        • Police pursuit - not stop - drive dangerously,
        • Never licensed person drive vehicle on road,
        • Dishonestly obtain property by deception,
        • Possess prohibited drug, and
        • Commit s 154A offence and disseminate.
        The second boy was charged with two counts of larceny, aggravated break and enter dwelling etc in company steal, be carried in conveyance without consent of owner and dishonestly obtain property by deception.

        The third boy was charged with aggravated break and enter with intent, steal motor vehicle, and possess prohibited drug.

        All three were refused bail to appear before a children’s court on Thursday 16 January 2025.

        Inquiries into property crime on the Central Coast are ongoing by Brisbane Water Police District and Tuggerah Lakes Police District.

        VALE Bruce Collings (Dr.)

        09.03.1924 - 02.01.2025
        Aged 100 years
        Late of Bayview and formerly of Goulburn.

        Beloved husband of Joan (dec). Loving father of Sue, Peter (dec) and David. Father-in-law of Ric and Debra, Grandfather of Jacqui and David, Grandfather-in-law of Lee and Rachel. Great grandfather of James, Oliver and Sophie.

        Privately cremated.

        Dr Collings took over the x-ray practices of Goulburn Hospital in 1956, establishing an extensive radiology practice consisting of Goulburn, Bowral, Yass, Cooma and Crookwell.

        Part of this was in partnership with Dr.s Pinner and Hoy in Canberra. Dr Collings continued to practice in Goulburn until 1993 when he retired to Pittwater.

        He was active in community life, in Rotary and the Goulburn City Council. He was also Official Visitor to Kenmore Hospital for 20 years.

        He oversaw the introduction of new technology into medical imaging services available in Goulburn, including ultrasound and CT scanning.

        He established the Medical Alumni at the University of Sydney in the 1940's.

        Graduated University of Sydney
        Year: 1955. Degree: Graduate Diploma Diagnostic Radiology
        Year: 1948. Degree: Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery

        A memorial service will be held in the Ann Wilson Chapel, Cnr. Barrenjoey Rd and Darley St, Mona Vale, on Friday 28th February 2025, commencing at 1.30pm.

        We would like to thank all the staff at Manly House at Elizabeth Jenkins Place, Collaroy, for their care of Bruce.

        McAulay, Beverley

        20.09.1935 - 5.01.2025
        Late of Manly. 
        Beloved wife of Cam McAulay (dec). Loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother.

        Privately Cremated. 

        Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Beverley's Memorial Service to be held Wednesday 22nd January 2025 at the Gregory & Carr Chapel, 14 Delhi Road, North Ryde at 11.00am. Please enter the car park via Plassey Road, opposite the cemetery entrance.

        GREGORY & CARR
        Traditional
        Funeral Directors
        Gordon 9498 4455
        ______________________________

        O'Gorman, Dr John Francis

        1.06.1936 - 23.12.2024
        Aged 88 years
        Wallaby #462
        Loving father of Jeremy and JC. Adored grand-father of Zac, Xander, Antonia and Summer.

        Forever Missed.

        Family and friends are warmly invited to attend John's Memorial Service to be held on Wednesday 29th January, 2025 at St Matthews Church, 1 Darley Rd, Manly at 2.00pm.

        GREGORY & CARR
        Traditional Funeral Directors
        Gordon 9498 4455

        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.

        Spanish Moss killing critically endangered local trees

        The spread of environment weeds in Pittwater is becoming of greater concern to residents and the bushcarers who work to remove them. A recent pictorial by Joe Mills showed there is widespread masses of all types of weeds at Warriewood's perimeter and wetlands and this week the spread of Spanish Moss, with quite a bit now growing on trees beside the path into Toongari Reserve off Avalon Parade, next to the kindergarten, is yet another invader.

        Spanish Moss has been found to spread over mature trees across the Sydney Basin and in doing so, prevent photosynthesis, killing the trees. 

        A recent study by STEP, over Cowan to Marrickville, ascertained what tree species it grew on and found the critically endangered  Turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera) is the most severely affected of all the 76+ species of plants STEP recorded Spanish Moss growing in. 

        Fragments carried by birds to line nests in bushland have spread this weed into more and more areas, but the tips can also be blown by the wind to another plant.

        See: https://www.step.org.au/index.php/item/702-spanish-moss-a-serious-environmental-weed

        STEP is a community-based environmental organisation with over 500 members from Ku-ring-gai, Hornsby and surrounding suburbs. Our primary aim is to work for the conservation of bushland in northern Sydney.

        Many of these are termed 'garden escapees'.

        STEP's Recommendations:

        • Gardeners remove all moss they can reach, put it in their green bin and prevent spread.
        • Local authorities such as local councils and NPWS remove it from all public places, including trees on nature strips.
        • Add Spanish Moss to the next iteration of the Greater Sydney Regional Strategic Weed Management Plan and all other relevant regional strategic weed management plans.
        • Classify Spanish Moss at a level that enables its eradication and containment, prohibition of sale and distribution, e.g. as a regional priority weed.
        • Undertake research into why Turpentines are a favoured host and the ecological effects of Spanish Moss on bushland.
        • Undertake research into control methods.

        Swaying veils of grey in dead or dying trees and simplified bushland is not something to look forward to. Let’s not risk it.

        Read STEP's full report.

        Spanish Moss infestation killing Australian trees: STEP photo

        Sydney Wildlife (Sydney Metropolitan Wildlife Services) Needs Volunteers

        January  7, 2025
        As you know our work doesn't stop. 
        We had the introduction of our new computer system which we all had to learn and get used to during a very busy time of the year! And everyone nailed it.

        Now down to business; We need you!! Our next Rescue and Care Course is starting in February and we are desperate for members all over Sydney. Wouldn't it look great on your resume if you are looking for a job? ‘Volunteer at Sydney Metropolitan Wildlife Services’ the skills you learn are endless! 

        I could write a list as long as my arm the suburbs we need members in. So if this is something you have ever thought about, dreamt about or even had a discussion with your neighbour about now is the time! 

        Follow the link and sign up: 

        Maybe you cant have animals in your residence but have a car. We also need transporters to transport animals to carers from vets email info@sydneywildlife.org.au

        Don't have a car, can't keep animals at home? Sign up for our volunteer rescue line. This is run 24/7 by volunteers. One overnight shift a week (5pm-9am) could be your volunteer hours if Centrelink require you to volunteer. 

        These shifts can be done from your own home so you can still feed the kids, pop them to bed, jump in to bed yourself and just answer the phone if it rings between those times or do set hours a week during the day. Contact Carolyn for a chat at 

        NSW residents urged to take care this mosquito season

        NSW Health is reminding people to take measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites this summer season.

        NSW Health's Executive Director of Health Protection Dr Jeremy McAnulty said mosquitoes thrive in warm conditions, increasing the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses such as Murray Valley encephalitis, Japanese encephalitis, Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses in parts of NSW.

        “Each year, NSW Health undertakes mosquito surveillance across NSW from November to April each year, which provides important information about when mosquito-borne disease risk is elevated," Dr McAnulty said.

        “As part of this routine surveillance Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus has been recently detected in a mosquito sample in Lake Wyangan collected on 3 December.

        “This is a timely reminder, both to Griffith residents, and to anyone planning to spend time enjoying the outdoors, to take protective measures this summer against mosquitoes," he said.

        Information on eligibility for a free JE vaccine is available on Japanese encephalitis vaccination.

        JE vaccine is available through local General Practitioners (GPs), Aboriginal health services and pharmacists. People who meet the above criteria should make an appointment ahead of time and let them know it is for the JE vaccine. These providers may require a few days' notice so they can order the vaccine.

        There have been no human cases of JEV in NSW since October 2022.

        Mosquitos in NSW can potentially carry a range of other viruses for which there are no vaccines including Murray Valley encephalitis, Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses.

        Actions to prevent mosquito bites include:
        • Applying repellent to exposed skin. Use repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Check the label for reapplication times
        • Wearing light, loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts, long pants and covered footwear. and socks
        • Avoiding going outdoors during peak mosquito times, especially dawn and dusk
        • Using insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing units and mosquito coils to repel mosquitoes (mosquito coils should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas)
        • Covering windows and doors with insect screens and checking there are no gaps
        • Removing items that may collect water such as old tyres and empty pots from around your home to reduce the places where mosquitoes can breed
        • Using repellents that are safe for children. Most skin repellents are safe for use on children aged three months and older. Always check the label for instructions
        • Protecting infants aged less than three months by using an infant carrier draped with mosquito netting, secured along the edges
        • While camping, use a tent that has fly screens to prevent mosquitoes entering or sleep under a mosquito net
        For further information on JE virus and ways to protect yourself visit Mosquito borne diseases.​​

        Changes to Public transport Timetables

        On 19 January 2025, Transport for NSW (Transport) will introduce changes to some bus services across the northern beaches.

        These changes include timetable and minor route changes to support demand, and to improve reliability and connections to Sydney Metro services.

        What’s changing?
        • Improved all-night services, including new all-night services on 144 between Manly and Chatswood (replacing route 144N) and extension of existing all-night services on route 199 to and from Palm Beach.  
        • Timetable adjustments to improve reliability.
        • Changed route 114 for westbound services via Pacific Highway to improve connection to Sydney Metro at Crows Nest Station.
        • Improved frequencies on routes B1, 100 and 230.
        • Timetable changes to 111, 228, 229 and 246.
        • All-night services on 199 now extended to and from Palm Beach. 
        • Timetable changes to 155, 191 and 192 to better reflect demand and availability of On Demand Transport services (Keoride).
        • Timetable changes to 177, 177X, 179, 180 and 180X to better reflect demand.
        Minor changes will be made to some dedicated school services to improve reliability. Most dedicated school services will however remain the same.

        Changes to regular bus services that students catch to and from school may also impact a small number of students.

        Transport and our bus operators are working closely with schools that may be impacted by these changes, to ensure students and their communities are aware of the changes, and how they need to adjust their journeys.

        Transport for NSW encourages students to plan before they travel at the start of Term 1, 2025. 

        Affected routes
        B1, 100, 111, 114, 142, 144, 144N, 145, 150X, 154X, 155, 160X, 162, 165X, 166, 168X, 170X, 171X, 172X, 173X, 174X, 176X, 177, 177X, 178, 179, 180, 180X, 181X, 182, 185, 190X, 191, 192, 199, 201, 228, 229, 230, 238, 243, 246, 249, 263, 280

        Pittwater Outriggers: join us for a free trial

        Adults of all ages and all fitness levels welcome. No experience necessary, paddle & instruction provided. Spots open in race & social teams. 

        Book in now for 8.45 am on Sat 25 January or 1 February OR join us on Sunday 2 February at 9.15 am. 

        Registration essential! Book via an email to paddle@pittwateroutriggers.com.au

        Narrabeen Dragonboat Club Open Day

        When: Sunday Feb 2nd 2025: 8am to 10am
        Where: Jamieson Park Narrabeen
        Have you made a New Year’s resolution? Do you want to try something new?

        Come join us for our Dragonboat Open Day which is a great opportunity to have an introduction to new activities and new people in a friendly and welcoming environment.

        Paddles and social bbq brekkie provided.

        Wear clothes that can get splashed, and bring a water bottle.


        Breeding time for Little Penguins: Boaters urged to stick to speed limit

        Say hello to Manly's newest (and cutest) residents - Little Penguins! 

        It's breeding season for these endangered guys, so boaters lets keep them safe by:
        • Keep speed to under four knots when entering North Harbour, Manly
        • Be extra careful at dawn and dusk
        • Don’t anchor in seagrass beds
        • Don’t bring dogs or cats onto beaches
        To learn more visit: https://bit.ly/4g0HUbg

        NSW Maritime 
        January 16, 2025

        NB: there is also a colony of Little Penguins on Lion Island and a colony of seals at Barrenjoey - please do not speed on the estuary. AJG- Ed./PON

        Mackellar wants an end to gambling advertising

        I’ve heard from young men and women across the Northern Beaches that it’s not uncommon to have lost the equivalent of a house deposit on gambling.

        I have heard from worried parents and concerned partners. I have heard from those who struggle with gambling themselves.

        Right now, you just can’t escape gambling ads. They are relentless. They are everywhere. Even our children know the language of gambling.

        Enough is enough. I’m calling for an end to gambling advertising online and on TV. If you care about this too, then sign my petition below:


        Dr. Sophie Scamps
        MP for Mackellar

        Woody Point Yacht Club's 2025 Wooden Putt Putt & Gentleman's Launch Regatta

        Entry forms are on the website now for this signature event to be held on Saturday 25th January.

        Start and finish: Treharne Cove – Saturday January 25th, 2025
        • Putt Putt start – 11:00 am
        • Gent’s Launch start – 12:00 noon
        FREE ENTRY
        • BBQ sausage sandwiches & salads provided on the beach before the presentation
        • BYO drinks.
        • Prizes for best dressed boats and crew.
        The on water action will commence when the fleet assembles about 30 minutes before the first start.


        Warriewood To Mona Vale Swim Cancelled

        Was to be held on Sunday January 19 2025: Event Cancelled
        Due to the dangerous conditions forecast for Sunday and into next week, this event has been cancelled. Those who have entered will be contacted with details about their entry.


        Includes: Janice Mason Family Fun Swim at Mona Vale and Don Jenkin Memorial Swim.

        Roadwork - Utilities: Wakehurst Parkway

        North Narrabeen on Wakehurst Parkway between Caleyi Trail and Palm Terrace
        Sun 19 Jan 2025 to Tue 21 Jan 2025, work times: 9:00pm to 5:00am - Traffic affected both directions.

        Reduced speed limit (40km/h), check signage, allow extra travel time. Alternating (stop/slow) traffic conditions will be in place to allow motorists to pass in one direction at a time.

        Transport for NSW

        Warringah Rats Sevens by the Sea 2025

        It's almost time for our annual SEVENS BY THE SEA Tournament! 🏉🌊

        Get ready for an action-packed day from 11am to 8pm on Saturday 15th of February, all finishing under the lights!
        • 🎶 DJ and live music to keep the vibe going
        • 🍹 Pop-up bars serving your favourite drinks
        • 🎭 Dress to impress on HillBilly Hill
        • 🏃‍♂️ Fastest On-Field Race – will you take the crown?
        • 🎁 Raffles and epic prize giveaways you won’t want to miss!
        Don’t miss out on the excitement – it’s going to be an unforgettable event!

        2025 SLSSNB Branch Championships: Dates

        The 2025 Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Branch Championships will be held in February and March 2025. All event circulars and additional important event information are posted and updated on this SLSSNB page – see below.

        Information relating to the events will be also communicated in real time via the SLSSNB Surf Sports Team App 

        Time Table & Locations Summary
        Champion Lifesaver Championships
        (Resus and Theory Only) Branch Office, Warriewood (Evening) Wed, Feb 5th 2025

        Patrol Competition Championships
        (Resus and Theory Only) Branch Office | Warriewood (Evening) | Thurs, Feb 6th 2025

        Following events will be held at Newport Beach on Sat, Feb 8th 2025 –
        • Champion Lifesaver Championships  
        • Patrol Competition Championships
        • Open Championships (Beach Events Only)
        • Masters Championships (Beach Events Only)
        • March Past Championships
        • Rescue & Resuscitation Championships

        Following events will be held at Newport Beach on Sun, Feb 9th 2025 –
        • Junior Championships (Beach Events Only)  
        Following events will be held at Newport Beach on Sat, Feb 15th 2025 –
        • Open Championships (Water Events Only)  
        • Masters Championships (Water Events Only)
        • First Aid Championships (U17’s & U19’s) 
        Following events will be held at Newport Beach on Sun, Feb 16th 2025 –
        • Junior Championships (Water Events Only)  
        • First Aid Championships (U14/15’s & Opens)
        The Surf Boats Championships will be held at Palm Beach on Sat, Mar 1st 2025.

        Australia Day Breakfast at Newport Beach

        Enjoy an Aussie Breakfast at Newport Beach on Friday 26th of January, with fun and games for everyone from 7:30am to 11:30am!
        Five local community organisations have teamed up to present a fabulous event for all ages to enjoy this Australia day.

        There will be bacon and egg rolls, sausage and egg rolls, pancakes, gelato and coffee available for sale while you enjoy the music performed by local groups. The event is kid friendly, with face painting, rides and games for them to enjoy. If you fancy yourself a bit of a big kid, there will also be our annual thong throwing competition (open to all ages, of course).

        Come down and support Northern Beaches Rotary Club, Northern Beaches Zonta Club, Warringah/Pittwater SES and NSW RFS Northern Beaches Headquarters and Mackerel Beach Brigades and enjoy the atmosphere down at Bert Payne Park!

        189th Australia Day Regatta (Yachts) on Pittwater hosted by Avalon Sailing Club

        Registration for this event closes at Sun 26 Jan 2025 11:00.

        The Regatta will be held in Pittwater, the country of the Garigal clan, they are part of the oldest culture in the world.

        Avalon Sailing Club acknowledges and recognises the Strength, Resilience, and Courage of the traditional custodians.

        Guests are welcome anytime in the afternoon. The presentation will take place once all sailors have returned to the club which is expected between 3:30pm - 4:30pm. Drinks and snacks will be available from the bar, tables and chairs available with guests encouraged to bring a picnic and something to put on the BBQ.

        Expected divisions, and prizes, are as follows:
        • MJ Novice/Optimist Novice/Nippa Novice/Open BIC Novice 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap (a novice is described as a competitor that has never raced in a state or national championship)
        • Optimist 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
        • Manly Junior 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
        • Open BIC 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
        • Laser Radial 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
        • Spiral 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
        • Laser 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
        • Open Centerboard 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
        • Yachts – Multihulls 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
        • Yachts – Non Spinnaker 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
        • Yachts – Spinnaker 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
        • Wooden yachts 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
        • Couta Boats 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap

        Paddle out to honour Guy “Creature” Haymes


        Day of respect and celebration of life 

        Official: Guy’s Paddle-Out. final date is Saturday the 15th February at 2pm.  at North Avalon.

        If you could let as many people as possible know it would be very much.

        A paddle out and farewell to Guy.
        It’s not often we are able to get the family together in one place at the same time. 

        To all our Family and Friends you are invited on Saturday the 15th of February at 2.pm, at North Avalon for a paddle-out for Guy “Creature” Haymes to celebrate his life and his love of The North Av Rocks. It was the place were he learnt to surf. 

        In later years whenever it got big he was often the first one out. Guy would never let size get in the way of a good surf, the bigger the better was his motto.
        John Haymes

        Purple Poppy Day Service 2025

        When: Monday 24 February 2025
        Where: Pittwater RSL Cenotaph

        Our fourth Purple Poppy Day Service will be held on Monday 24 February 2025.

        Purple Poppy Day Service honours all Animals currently serving, or served and died, in all conflicts.  “They had no choice”.

        The Service will commence at 11:00 am, at the Lower Cenotaph at the Pittwater RSL Club.  Everyone should be seated by 10:45 am.
        In the event of rain, we will be under cover.

        We ask members of the community NOT to bring their pets to our service!

        Pittwater RSL Club
        82 Mona Vale Road, Mona Vale.

        Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week

        Missy 

        13yrs Chihuahua X Mini Foxy

        Missy is a sweet but timid lady who had lived with Pudding in the past. Since arrival they have not shown any signs of hanging out together. Missy is a gentle quiet girl who would be best suited to a quiet adult household. Her former Mum needed to go into care. Missy is social with other small dogs. She is easy to handle and cuddle if you give her the time to trust you. She has a heart murmur but is not currently on any medications. She has a short coat and currently a little overweight at 4.5kg. She would suit apartment living and FT working hours and be best with a family who have had a rescue dog. She comes desexed , vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. Her adoption cost is $600. 

        Buzz and Woody 

        2yo Netherland Dwarf Rabbits

        Buzz and Woody might be brothers and have happily lived together. They are friendly bunnies, though they can be a little flighty until they get to know you. They would like to stay together. They both weigh 1.1kg. They are desexed, vaccinated and microchipped. Their adoption fee together is $300. 

        For further details call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133  or email  Monika@DoggieRescue.com.  RON R251000024

        Council invites EOI for Pittwater Golf Centre

        Council invites expressions of interest (EOI) for the lease, development and operation of Pittwater Golf Centre, located at 1500 Pittwater Road, Warriewood. The EOI opens on 27 November 2024, with submissions required by 2pm on Thursday 27 February 2025.

        Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins highlighted the exciting opportunities this prominent and much loved venue offers for the right operator.

        “Council is looking for an imaginative, experienced operator to revitalise the Pittwater Golf Centre into a vibrant, high-quality golf and entertainment destination that will attract and engage the community.

        “The Centre boasts a high-profile location with driving range, mini-golf, teaching academy, pro-shop and café providing an ideal opportunity for a revitalised and profitable operation.

        “The Northern Beaches community loves an active, outdoor lifestyle. Situated almost at the centre of the peninsula, the site is perfectly positioned to cater to our golf-loving residents and visitors alike.” said Mayor Heins.

        For those interested in applying, a site briefing and inspection will be held on Wednesday 11 December at 11am at the Pittwater Golf Centre. Bookings are required to attend.

        For further information or submit interest, visit here.

        The property can be viewed here.

        Basin Transport this Summer

        Your Basin Camping Adventure Starts Here! 👉 Barrenjoey Boating Services is your gateway to The Basin and the stunning Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. 

        Our convenient water taxi and barge ferry service make getting to your Basin campsite a breeze. 

        Phone: +02 9974 4229 to book!


        JP Public Register

        You can find a Justice of the Peace (JP) using the online Public Register. You can search by postcode, name of a JP, day of availability, language spoken and JP registration number. The register lists a JP’s location, availability and telephone number. Please note that JPs are volunteers and may not be available at all times. ​Click here to access the JP Public Register.  NB: There are  3 J.P’s working in Pittwater RSL Sub-Branch office, we work every Monday (10:30am to 15:30)except on public holidays:
        1. Terry Jones J.P.
        2. Robert (Bob) Wood J.P.
        3. Deborah Hendy(Carter) J.P

        Slow Down: Wildlife Crossing

        Please contact Sydney Wildlife Rescue on (02) 9413 4300 for advice if you hit a native animal or come across an injured one while driving. It is helpful if you can provide an accurate location or landmark to assist our rescuers who will pouch check marsupials for joeys, so little lives like Phoebe can be saved. 


         
        Photo: Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby by Jane Notice

        Week One: January 1 - 12, 2025

        Front Page Issue 638

        Are Turtles not Safe in the Estuary? Green Turtle Killed in Pittwater Prompts Renewed Calls for Boaters to slow down, adhere to the speed limit

        Palm Beach SLSC Hosts the 2025 Adrian Curlewis Twilight Masters Carnival + PBSLSC's Within Club BBB's Carnival 

        Avalon Beach Surf Lifesaving Club's 100 Years: some January Reflections of past events + January to February 2025 Centenary Events

        Strike Force established to investigate brawl at Manly: image of two witnesses released

        Pictures: Summer in Pittwater: First Week of January 2025 Means Crowded Beaches, Lifesavers on Patrol, Surf Lifesaving Carnivals, First Pittwater Ocean Swims

        Newport SLSC's 2025 Pool to Peak Ocean Swims

        Aquatics: Pittwater Ocean Swims Series 2025: great opportunities to dive on in 

        Transition to Net Zero accelerates with purchase of 319 Zero Emission buses: 276 for North Shore + Manly to Barrenjoey Peninsula - Brookvale, Mona Vale Bus Depots being Converted to Service same

        New Emergency Response Beacons Now Active at North Palm Beach, Turimetta, Narrabeen + South Curl Curl, Fishermans, Shelly Beaches

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

        Retirement Villages owner Aveo to Develop Manly Hospital site 

        Park Bench Philosophers: Beach shacks are an iconic part of Australian summer. Yet, they have also have a hidden, more complex history by Anna Clark, Professor in Public History, University of Technology Sydney

        DIY Ideas DIY A Summer-Autumn Salad Garden for a Balcony or at Waist-height

        Environment Summer's New Pittwater Bubs, Fully recovering Australia’s threatened species would cost 25% of GDP; We can’t do it all at once – so let’s start here, Sydney Wildlife (Sydney Metropolitan Wildlife Services) Needs Volunteers, Albanese Government Approves Four more coal mines: one until 2088 - Destroying Habitat; robbing today's + future generations of climate safety to benefit the greedy, NSW Forestry Corporation Cost NSW Taxpayers $29 Million in 2023-2024, much more in loss of Habitat and Wildlife - 'State Government can’t see the forest for the trees': Greens, Developer-State Government Koala slaughter continuing in Western Sydney, Draft Plan of Management for Dogs offleash On South Mona Vale Beach Open for feedback, Preliminary summary of Australia's climate in 2024: second warmest year since records began - BOM, Garigal National Park: ‘1080 pest management’, Science To Revive Our Oceans: SIM's has a PHD Opportunity - operation Crayweed, I Built a Wildlife Pond... and so Many Animals Came: Wildlife Habitats by Robert E Fuller, In 2025 let’s make it game on – not game over – for our precious natural world, La Niña back this summer?; Not likely – and unofficial declarations are jumping the gun, Monarch butterflies are in decline in NZ and Australia – they need your help to track where they gather, Australia needs better ways of storing renewable electricity for later; That’s where ‘flow batteries’ can help, Relentless warming is driving the water cycle to new extremes the 2024 global water report shows, Shrinking wings, bigger beaks: birds are reshaping themselves in a warming world, Don’t go chasing waterfalls: slippery rocks, currents and daredevil jumpers make Australia’s waterways surprisingly deadly, Whales can live way longer than scientists had thought with potential lifespans as much as double previous estimates, Heatwaves and bushfires can be a dangerous mix for the electricity grid; Here’s how to shore up your supplies this summer, A push to cool Australian cities may inadvertently increase our skin cancer risk, Spiders ‘smell’ with their legs – new research, Repression of climate and environmental protest is intensifying across the world, Travelling in 2025?; Here’s how to become a ‘regenerative’ tourist, How China’s appetite for salmon could reshape global seafood markets – new research, Plastic Bread Ties 4 Wheelchairs, 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 + when, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Activities, Gardens, Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Pittwater Reserves: histories + Pictorial Walks, Pittwater's Birds, + more

        Inbox News New excavation of ‘rings of mystery’ in Victoria reveals rich Aboriginal history, NSW Public Health Warning: Severe overdoses after using drugs thought to be cocaine, The surprising ways ‘swimming off’ a hangover can be risky even if alcohol has left your system, NSW Government welcomes Engineered Stone importation ban, Do natural fabrics really keep us cooler in summer? Here’s the science, Businesses can’t escape the AI revolution – so here’s how to build a culture of safe and responsible use, A total eclipse of the Moon, Saturn’s rings ‘disappear’, meteors and more: your guide to the southern sky in 2025, Most adults will gain half a kilo this year – and every year. Here’s how to stop ‘weight creep’, Dreading the school or daycare drop-off? How to handle it when your child doesn’t want you to go, How do mosquito repellents work? Even calm people can fly into a rage behind the wheel. Here’s how to curb your road rage – before it’s too late, At Palm Beach SLSC: 96 Years Young, Assistive Technology and Home Modifications List now available, 2025 Heralds New Era of Quality Aged Care, AHPC Statement – Appreciation Statement for Professor Paul Kelly, Cheaper medicines stay cheaper as Australians save $1.1 billion, $440M investment welcome but more is needed for thousands of older Australians who will be kept waiting for support, Energy protections?, Avalon Beach SLSC turns 100 in 2025!, Bob Dylan and the creative leap that transformed modern music, Hidden women of history: the Australian children’s author who captured the bush – before May Gibbs’ Australiana empire, Pompeii comes to Australia, and ancient and contemporary stories of disaster and loss converge, What is reformer Pilates? And is it worth the cost?, ‘Cold violence’ – a hidden form of elder abuse in New Zealand’s Chinese community, The Elephants of Avalon Beach, School’s out for 2024 as record 70,000 students celebrate completing their HSC, Applications to join the DOVES Council are open for 2025, Hottest 100 Voting now open, Interstate Glory up for grabs, TAFE Fee-free* courses - semester 1 2025 enrol now, Science To Revive Our Oceans: SIM's has a PHD Opportunity - operation Crayweed, Study subsidies: NSW’s health workforce, First 'Word of the Week' for 2025; Spell, A total eclipse of the Moon, Saturn’s rings ‘disappear’, meteors and more: your guide to the southern sky in 2025, Hidden women of history: the Australian children’s author who captured the bush – before May Gibbs’ Australiana empire, 2025 will see huge advances in quantum computing. So what is a quantum chip and how does it work?, Guide to the classics: written more than 2000 years ago, Cicero’s On Old Age debunks stereotypes that persist today, Nobleman, soldier, revolutionary, humanist – who was Tadeusz Kościuszko, the man behind the mountain?, Cane toads on the barbie? How eating invasive species might help manage them, The closest thing Australian cartooning had to a prophet: the sometimes celebrated, sometimes controversial Michael Leunig, Gabrielle Chanel: the untold story of a pioneering self-made woman, What fashion enthusiasts can learn from older, dapper gentlemen, Summer holidays haven’t changed much since ancient Greece and Rome (except maybe the sand wrestling), Sunglasses reflect more than the light: a brief history of shades from Ancient Rome to Hollywood, The surprising ways ‘swimming off’ a hangover can be risky, even if alcohol has left your system, 5 tips to ace a job interview – including how to prepare for the question they’ll definitely ask, Bob Dylan and the creative leap that transformed modern music, Pompeii comes to Australia and ancient and contemporary stories of disaster and loss converge,  Can animals make ‘art’? These examples from nature suggest so, Is it important to read the explanatory labels next to artworks? We asked 5 experts, The multi-billion dollar startup sector is bouncing back – 8 big trends will shape 2025, The discovery of a rare new fossil sheds light on NZ’s extinct dolphin-like reptiles, Isidore of Seville: the patron saint of the internet who shaped knowledge for generations

        Profile of the Week Virginia Head: Tribute

        On Boxing Day, December 26 2024, Virginia Head, Beloved Wife of Malcolm and Loving Mother of Diana and Michele, lost her battle with cancer.

        A long-term Member of Avalon Beach SL:SC, the Barrenjoey Breakers swimming group, Pittwater Outrigger Racing Club and the Manly Warringah Kayak Club, Virginia had a passion for watersports and was a very kind lady who sought to save lives in the water.

        Virginia made her time available to all who had never swum to teach them 'how to' and extended this to looking after those who had never swum in the ocean and wanted to have someone beside them who would introduce them to this environment. 

        Virginia Head was that lady who would stand beside you, or more accurately, swim beside you. 

        Thousands of people were enabled to take to the water through her six decades of teaching others to swim.

        In 2023 she was spotted taking part in the Bilgola SLSC 'Billy Ocean swims' - she could still kick, still swim, even if her legs made it hard to negotiate the sand when walking. 

        Virginia still made it through, and threw her fist up in triumph when she made it back to the beach.

        Her love for children, for other people, for inspiring others to 'get in the swim' or try paddling, her favourites, will remain in the hearts of all those whose lives she touched.

        As a volunteer Patrol member of Avalon Beach SLSC Virginia was known for her sharp eyes and not missing her duties until she could no longer serve the community in this capacity.

        As a member of two paddling clubs in our area Virginia would encourage people to get involved either as a team member or as a solo athlete, sharing how fit and free taking to the water and exploring our area via kayak or outrigger will make you, and how getting to represent your club, state or country will connect you to those who share this passion across the world.

        As a mark of respect, love and celebration of a lovely lady who will be much missed in our community, her Profile from 2014 runs this Issue.

          From earliest settler times fishing as a means for people to eat, to save them from starvation, was something learnt from, in terms of where to fish and even getting fish from, the original custodians of this land. The earliest colonists certainly knew how to fish, they came from a land of great fishing people, and applying that here must have seemed a natural step.

          Since those earliest times, and in early newspapers the coasters that traded from Pittwater to town carrying shells, timber …and fish. 

          One of these original fishing families were the Sly brothers from Fairy Bower, who, in 1903, received funding from Manly Council to build a modified whaleboat to patrol Manly and nearby beaches. This shallower version was replaced by a brand new open whaler, the second boat that was launched in 1907.

          This Issue, as we all enjoy Summer in Pittwater and all the local surf lifesaving carnivals happening, a delve into some of the first local fishermen and first surf boat.

          Pittwater Offshore Newsletter:  December 2024

          Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

          To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

          2025 SLSSNB Branch Championships: Dates

          The 2025 Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Branch Championships will be held in February and March 2025. All event circulars and additional important event information are posted and updated on this SLSSNB page – see below.

          Information relating to the events will be also communicated in real time via the SLSSNB Surf Sports Team App 

          Time Table & Locations Summary
          Champion Lifesaver Championships
          (Resus and Theory Only) Branch Office, Warriewood (Evening) Wed, Feb 5th 2025

          Patrol Competition Championships
          (Resus and Theory Only) Branch Office | Warriewood (Evening) | Thurs, Feb 6th 2025

          Following events will be held at Newport Beach on Sat, Feb 8th 2025 –
          • Champion Lifesaver Championships  
          • Patrol Competition Championships
          • Open Championships (Beach Events Only)
          • Masters Championships (Beach Events Only)
          • March Past Championships
          • Rescue & Resuscitation Championships

          Following events will be held at Newport Beach on Sun, Feb 9th 2025 –
          • Junior Championships (Beach Events Only)  
          Following events will be held at Newport Beach on Sat, Feb 15th 2025 –
          • Open Championships (Water Events Only)  
          • Masters Championships (Water Events Only)
          • First Aid Championships (U17’s & U19’s) 
          Following events will be held at Newport Beach on Sun, Feb 16th 2025 –
          • Junior Championships (Water Events Only)  
          • First Aid Championships (U14/15’s & Opens)
          The Surf Boats Championships will be held at Palm Beach on Sat, Mar 1st 2025.

          Whale Beach SLSC's Member of the Month

          January 9, 2025
          We’re excited to announce that the Member of the Month for December is Aaron Chant!

          Aaron has had an exceptional month, going above and beyond to support the club. He has assisted with countless patrols, is often one of the first to arrive at the beach, and works tirelessly to ensure everything is set up and packed away perfectly at the end of the day.

          Aaron’s dedication doesn’t stop there. He has taken the initiative to organize activities and training sessions to keep new Bronze holders engaged and motivated. He also planned a Christmas Day patrol lunch, adding to the festive spirit while ensuring everyone felt included and appreciated. Aaron is always the first to volunteer as a substitute, embodying the true spirit of teamwork and commitment.

          Woody Point Yacht Club's 2025 Wooden Putt Putt & Gentleman's Launch Regatta

          Entry forms are on the website now for this signature event to be held on Saturday 25th January.

          Start and finish: Treharne Cove – Saturday January 25th, 2025
          • Putt Putt start – 11:00 am
          • Gent’s Launch start – 12:00 noon
          FREE ENTRY
          • BBQ sausage sandwiches & salads provided on the beach before the presentation
          • BYO drinks.
          • Prizes for best dressed boats and crew.
          The on water action will commence when the fleet assembles about 30 minutes before the first start.


          Australia Day Breakfast at Newport Beach

          Enjoy an Aussie Breakfast at Newport Beach on Friday 26th of January, with fun and games for everyone from 7:30am to 11:30am!
          Five local community organisations have teamed up to present a fabulous event for all ages to enjoy this Australia day.

          There will be bacon and egg rolls, sausage and egg rolls, pancakes, gelato and coffee available for sale while you enjoy the music performed by local groups. The event is kid friendly, with face painting, rides and games for them to enjoy. If you fancy yourself a bit of a big kid, there will also be our annual thong throwing competition (open to all ages, of course).

          Come down and support Northern Beaches Rotary Club, Northern Beaches Zonta Club, Warringah/Pittwater SES and NSW RFS Northern Beaches Headquarters and Mackerel Beach Brigades and enjoy the atmosphere down at Bert Payne Park!

          189th Australia Day Regatta (Yachts) on Pittwater hosted by Avalon Sailing Club

          Registration for this event closes at Sun 26 Jan 2025 11:00.

          The Regatta will be held in Pittwater, the country of the Garigal clan, they are part of the oldest culture in the world.

          Avalon Sailing Club acknowledges and recognises the Strength, Resilience, and Courage of the traditional custodians.

          Guests are welcome anytime in the afternoon. The presentation will take place once all sailors have returned to the club which is expected between 3:30pm - 4:30pm. Drinks and snacks will be available from the bar, tables and chairs available with guests encouraged to bring a picnic and something to put on the BBQ.

          Expected divisions, and prizes, are as follows:
          • MJ Novice/Optimist Novice/Nippa Novice/Open BIC Novice 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap (a novice is described as a competitor that has never raced in a state or national championship)
          • Optimist 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
          • Manly Junior 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
          • Open BIC 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
          • Laser Radial 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
          • Spiral 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
          • Laser 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
          • Open Centerboard 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
          • Yachts – Multihulls 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
          • Yachts – Non Spinnaker 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
          • Yachts – Spinnaker 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
          • Wooden yachts 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap
          • Couta Boats 1st, 2nd and 3rd Handicap

          Taylors Point Wharf: Update December 2024- Now Open

          Council states the newly rebuilt Taylors Point Wharf is now open.

          Further, council states:
          ''We've finished the main structure and you can start using the wharf right away. We're also adding one final improvement: a pontoon that will make getting on and off boats much easier for everyone.

          The pontoon will be ready in mid-February after the Christmas break. Until then, we've installed two sturdy access ladders to help with boat pick-ups and drop-offs.

          Thank you for your patience as we add this final touch. We look forward to celebrating the completed wharf with you in February 2025.''

             

          The Council is Unfit for the Future

          Dear Editor,
          The council financials are out of control. It is facing a diseconomy of scale, the contrary of economy of scale. It is too big to be sustainable. 

          Here is Frank Peylaire’s full speech given at the Council Meeting held on December 10 2024:

          My name is Frank. I am here to talk about the rate rise.
          I am an advisor to state agencies, specialised in developing economic and financial justifications for multi-billion $ projects.

          I am presenting 2 simple financial concepts to demonstrate that none of the four options will solve the council.

          The 3 former councils, Manly, Pittwater, Warringah total expenditure was $308m in 2016. The Northern Beach Council total expenditure was $398m in 2024.

          > $90m more than 8 years ago
          > almost $1,000 more per dwelling every year

          This is an average increase of 3.3% each year since amalgamation, above the 3% annual average inflation for the same period: 

          FY 2016 expenditure extrapolated from the former councils’ financial reports ending 12 May 2016 by adding 1.5 months of cost to the 10.5 months of cost assumed being reported. This method may over-estimated the real 12-month expenditure for the year depending on the councils’ accrual policy

          Staff costs have surged from $120m in 2016 to $159m in 2024.

          > close to $40m more than eight years ago

          This is an average increase of 3.5% each year since amalgamation, above the 2.5% annual average wage growth for the same period. 

          Most of the increase happened before the pandemic and in the last 2 years.

          The council financials are out of control. It is facing a diseconomy of scale, the contrary of economy of scale. It is too big to be sustainable.

          The amalgamation has produced no efficiency, no productivity gain whatsoever.

          Ironically the council is unfit for the future when this was the key argument of the amalgamation reform.


          Some say that the former Pittwater Council had a lot of debt that the Northern Beaches Council had to deal with.

          Would you accept to inherit a $3m house with a $2m mortgage? What if the house also had a safe with another $2m cash in it?
          That’s about Pittwater in 2016.

          Pittwater had a total debt of $24m against cash in banks of $44m: $20m net of debt.

          That’s not all, there was another $8m to be received from rates and grants net of payables.

          In total Pittwater had $28m in liquid assets net of debt. So why are we only hearing about the debt of Pittwater?

          $16m of this cash was from restricted developer contributions to fund developments.
          Net of contributions, $12m was sitting in banks just unrestricted, readily available cash “in the safe”.
          • Where did the cash of Pittwater go?
          • How could ratepayers believe that this council can be fixed with more money?
          This is not a revenue problem that needs a rate increase solution. This is a cost frenzy problem. The solution is a drastic restructuring of the council including:
          1. Nomination of a state administrator to deliver the restructure
          2. Demerge Pittwater to stop the cost bleeding and restore local governance
          Thank you.

             

          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

          Community Building Partnership grants available soon 

          Local infrastructure projects across NSW are set for a boost with the next round of the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership (CBP) grant program to open early next year.

          Incorporated not-for-profit community organisations and local councils will be eligible to apply for grants of between $10,000 and $100,000.

          Grants can be for building, refurbishing or repairing community infrastructure, or for buying freestanding equipment or vehicles.

          Each state electorate receives a maximum of $450,000 in funding and applications are assessed against other proposed projects within the same electorate.

          A total of $41,850,000 in grants will be available for local infrastructure projects through the CBP program.

          Since 2009, the program has awarded more than $464 million to over 20,900 projects across the state.

          The Program Guidelines will be available soon.

          Applications will be accepted online from Tuesday 28 January 2025 and will close at 5pm AEDT, Friday 21 February 2025. Successful organisations will be announced later in 2025.

          NSW Premier Chris Minns said:
          “The next round of the Community Building Partnership program is opening soon.

          “These grants make an impact at a local level – a shade cloth at a childcare centre or a repair to local sports facilities are valuable ways this program makes a difference to communities.

          “Applications open in January but we’re aware applications take time. I want to encourage eligible organisations to start thinking about the projects that are top of the ‘to do’ list for their communities.”

          Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week

          Missy 

          13yrs Chihuahua X Mini Foxy

          Missy is a sweet but timid lady who had lived with Pudding in the past. Since arrival they have not shown any signs of hanging out together. Missy is a gentle quiet girl who would be best suited to a quiet adult household. Her former Mum needed to go into care. Missy is social with other small dogs. She is easy to handle and cuddle if you give her the time to trust you. She has a heart murmur but is not currently on any medications. She has a short coat and currently a little overweight at 4.5kg. She would suit apartment living and FT working hours and be best with a family who have had a rescue dog. She comes desexed , vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. Her adoption cost is $600. 

          Buzz and Woody 

          2yo Netherland Dwarf Rabbits

          Buzz and Woody might be brothers and have happily lived together. They are friendly bunnies, though they can be a little flighty until they get to know you. They would like to stay together. They both weigh 1.1kg. They are desexed, vaccinated and microchipped. Their adoption fee together is $300. 

          For further details call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133  or email  Monika@DoggieRescue.com.  RON R251000024

          Strike Force established to investigate brawl at Manly: image of two witnesses released

          The image of two witnesses’ police are seeking to identify.

          On Friday, 10 January 2025 NSW Police announced it has established a strike force as investigations continue into offences committed during a brawl at Manly earlier in the week.

          Shortly after 9pm on Monday 6 January 2025, officers attached to Northern Beaches Police Area Command were called to Manly Wharf on The Esplanade, following reports of a large brawl.

          Numerous police crews arrived at the scene within minutes to find about 40 people – many of whom were believed to be juveniles – fighting in the street.

          Those involved fled upon the arrival of officers and police assisted in dispersing the remaining crowd. A knife was found discarded on the ground and seized.

          Police identified and spoke with a number of witnesses who went to the aid of a teenage male being assaulted by a number of people on the roadway. 

          The witnesses were also assaulted while attempting to intervene.

          Strike Force Crookhaven has been established to investigate the brawl and investigators have obtained and reviewed extensive CCTV footage, identifying several people depicted in the vision.

          As part of ongoing inquiries, police have released CCTV images of two witnesses who they are seeking to identify to assist with their inquiries.

          The first man depicted is described as being of Caucasian appearance, aged in his 60s, of medium build, with short grey hair and wearing a stripe shirt, dark shorts and thongs.

          The second man depicted is described as being of Caucasian appearance, aged in his 40s, of medium build, with short dark hair and wearing a blue t-shirt, denim shorts and white sneakers.

          Police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information or footage to contact Northern Beaches Police Area Command.

          Investigations under Strike Force Crookhaven continue.

          Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com

          Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

          Tributes - Memorial Service Notices

          VALE Bruce Collings (Dr.)

          09.03.1924 - 02.01.2025
          Aged 100 years
          Late of Bayview and formerly of Goulburn.

          Beloved husband of Joan (dec). Loving father of Sue, Peter (dec) and David. Father-in-law of Ric and Debra, Grandfather of Jacqui and David, Grandfather-in-law of Lee and Rachel. Great grandfather of James, Oliver and Sophie.

          Privately cremated.

          Dr Collings took over the x-ray practices of Goulburn Hospital in 1956, establishing an extensive radiology practice consisting of Goulburn, Bowral, Yass, Cooma and Crookwell.

          Part of this was in partnership with Dr.s Pinner and Hoy in Canberra. Dr Collings continued to practice in Goulburn until 1993 when he retired to Pittwater.

          He was active in community life, in Rotary and the Goulburn City Council. He was also Official Visitor to Kenmore Hospital for 20 years.

          He oversaw the introduction of new technology into medical imaging services available in Goulburn, including ultrasound and CT scanning.

          He established the Medical Alumni at the University of Sydney in the 1940's.

          Graduated University of Sydney
          Year: 1955. Degree: Graduate Diploma Diagnostic Radiology
          Year: 1948. Degree: Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery

          A memorial service will be held in the Ann Wilson Chapel, Cnr. Barrenjoey Rd and Darley St, Mona Vale, on Friday 28th February 2025, commencing at 1.30pm.

          We would like to thank all the staff at Manly House at Elizabeth Jenkins Place, Collaroy, for their care of Bruce.

          Fleming, Elizabeth Mary (Mary)

          21-08-1933 - 02-01-2025
          Dearly loved wife of Kevin (dec.) Loving mother and mother in-law of Kerry & Alan, Joanne & Chris, Marie & Les, Moya & Sean, Matthew & Michelle, Kathleen & Peter.

          Nana to Jason, John, Carly, Grant, Grace, Laura, Kate, Dale, Blake, Hayley, Alison, Rachel, Sean, Claire, Paul & Alex.
          Great grandmother to 13.

          FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS

          The family and friends of Mary are warmly invited to her Requiem Mass to be held at St. Kevin's Catholic Church, Oaks Ave Dee Why on Friday 17 January at 10am.

          Privately cremated.
          ______________________________

          Harrison, Frank

          09/07/1935 - 06/01/2025

          Beloved husband of Pamela (dec). Father of Colin, Susan, Ian and David. Father-in-law of Gerard, Jessica and Connie. Grandfather to Paul, Stephen, Amanda, Braxton, Jessica and Liam and great-grandfather to Lucas and Lola.

          Pte. Frank Harrison RAA Gunner 2753273 served his country, his family and his community and is now reunited with his true love.

          Family and friends of Frank are warmly invited to attend his Funeral Service to be held in its entirety in the Chapel (Lorikeet Room) at Frenchs Forest Cemetery, 1 Hakea Avenue, Davidson on January 15th 2025 at 1:30pm.

          Wilson Family Funerals
          Family Owned and Operated
          9913 7131
          ______________________________


          Littlefair, Ronald (Ron) Hugh

          Sgt #243116
          07.09.1942 - 06.01.2025

          Passed away peacefully, Late of Frenchs Forest.

          Loving husband of Carol (dec). Much loved father of Karen and Drew. Loving grandfather of Cam and Zach and loved brother of Judi.

          Aged 82 years.

          Will be sadly missed and forever treasured.

          Ron's family and friends are invited to attend Ron's funeral service to be held in East Chapel, Northern Suburbs Memorial Gardens and Crematorium, 199 Delhi Rd, North Ryde, on Thursday, 16th January 2025, commencing at 1.30pm.

          ______________________________

          McAulay, Beverley

          20.09.1935 - 5.01.2025
          Late of Manly. 
          Beloved wife of Cam McAulay (dec). Loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother.

          Privately Cremated. 

          Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Beverley's Memorial Service to be held Wednesday 22nd January 2025 at the Gregory & Carr Chapel, 14 Delhi Road, North Ryde at 11.00am. Please enter the car park via Plassey Road, opposite the cemetery entrance.

          GREGORY & CARR
          Traditional
          Funeral Directors
          Gordon 9498 4455
          ______________________________

          O'Gorman, Dr John Francis

          1.06.1936 - 23.12.2024
          Aged 88 years
          Wallaby #462
          Loving father of Jeremy and JC. Adored grand-father of Zac, Xander, Antonia and Summer.

          Forever Missed.

          Family and friends are warmly invited to attend John's Memorial Service to be held on Wednesday 29th January, 2025 at St Matthews Church, 1 Darley Rd, Manly at 2.00pm.

          GREGORY & CARR
          Traditional Funeral Directors
          Gordon 9498 4455
          ______________________________

          Richards, Mark Raymond

          08/01/1962 - 01/01/2025
          Late of Newport. 
          Peacefully passed away at home, shortly after sharing a cherished Christmas with his loving family.

          Beloved brother of Denise, Karen & Narelle. Treasured father of Adrianne & Naomi. Devoted and loving Poppy to Rocco.

          A remarkable man of strength and kindness, whose love, warmth and adventurous spirit will forever remain in our hearts.

          The family and friends of Mark are warmly invited to attend his Funeral Service to be held in it's entirety at the Royal Motor Yacht Club, 46 Prince Alfred Pde, Newport, on Friday 17th January 2025 at 10:30am.

          Wilson Family Funerals
          9913 7131
          ______________________________

          Streeter, Geoffrey

          It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Geoffrey Streeter who went to be with his Saviour Jesus on 1st January, 2025, aged 88 years. Dearly loved husband of Kay. Brother to Jack and Doug. Father to Mark, Larissa and Brent. Beloved father-in-law to Ali, Hayden and Kirsty. Cherished Grandad to Emily, Millie, Annie, Joshua, Hugo, Brooke, Toby and Harry.

          A man of remarkable strength, deep kindness, and a welcoming spirit. Geoffrey Streeter touched the lives of many with his unwavering support, genuine warmth, and compassionate heart.

          His legacy of love and kindness will remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

          He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

          A Memorial Service will be held on the 16th January 2025 at 2:30pm at the Camellia Chapel, Macquarie Park Crematorium, Plassey Road, North Ryde where we will gather to celebrate his life and cherish the memories we shared.

          Simplicity Balgowlah
          9907 9765

          NSW Public Health Warning: Severe overdoses after using drugs thought to be cocaine

          December 31, 2024
          NSW Health is warning the community about the dangers of unexpected drugs in cocaine, which have resulted in three recent overdoses including one death. 

          Two people have been hospitalised and one person has died in NSW as a result of overdose in the past week. The cases experienced severe sedative effects and altered behaviour.

          The white powder associated with the cases was presumed to be cocaine by those using it, but was found to contain bromazolam, a type of benzodiazepine with strong, sometimes unexpected effects and 2C-B, a hallucinogen.  

          NSW Poisons Inform​ation Centre Acting Medical Director Professor Andrew Dawson said the risk of severe overdose or death is increased when people use a drug that they are not expecting.  

          “One of the dangers of illicit drug supply is the strength and contents of the substance you are getting is unknown and can be inconsistent,” Professor Dawson said.

          “Anyone who experiences unexpected sedative effects such as difficulty speaking or walking, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, slowed breathing/snoring and skin turning blue/grey should seek medical care immediately.

          “‘If you are feeling unwell, stay with friends or around other people. Don’t go home alone to sleep it off.

          “Stimulants such as cocaine have also been found containing opioids.  It's strongly recommended that anyone who uses illicit drugs carry naloxone.

          “Although naloxone does not reverse the effects of benzodiazepines or hallucinogens, if you are concerned that someone is having an overdose, naloxone is safe to use in these circumstances.”

          Take home naloxone is a life-saving treatment which can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose.

          Anyone who uses naloxone should call Triple Zero (000) for an Ambulance immediately after use for follow up care. You won't get into trouble for seeking medical care. If you feel unwell, or if your friend feels unwell, do something about it.

          Take home naloxone is available as an easy-to-use nasal spray or injection from some pharmacies and other health services. For more information on the take-home naloxone program visit: Your Room - Naloxone.

          Naloxone is available from the NUAA via mail in a discreet package. Order via their online shop or call (02) 9171 6650.

          Anyone who has concerns about adverse effects from drugs should contact the NSW Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26, at any time 24/7.

          For support and information on drug and alcohol problems, contact the Alcohol and Drug Information Service on 1800 250 015. This is a 24/7 service offering confidential and anonymous telephone counselling and information.

          NSW public drug warnings are available at Public drug warnings.

          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.

          Spanish Moss killing critically endangered local trees

          The spread of environment weeds in Pittwater is becoming of greater concern to residents and the bushcarers who work to remove them. A recent pictorial by Joe Mills showed there is widespread masses of all types of weeds at Warriewood's perimeter and wetlands and this week the spread of Spanish Moss, with quite a bit now growing on trees beside the path into Toongari Reserve off Avalon Parade, next to the kindergarten, is yet another invader.

          Spanish Moss has been found to spread over mature trees across the Sydney Basin and in doing so, prevent photosynthesis, killing the trees. 

          A recent study by STEP, over Cowan to Marrickville, ascertained what tree species it grew on and found the critically endangered  Turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera) is the most severely affected of all the 76+ species of plants STEP recorded Spanish Moss growing in. 

          Fragments carried by birds to line nests in bushland have spread this weed into more and more areas, but the tips can also be blown by the wind to another plant.

          See: https://www.step.org.au/index.php/item/702-spanish-moss-a-serious-environmental-weed

          STEP is a community-based environmental organisation with over 500 members from Ku-ring-gai, Hornsby and surrounding suburbs. Our primary aim is to work for the conservation of bushland in northern Sydney.

          Many of these are termed 'garden escapees'.

          STEP's Recommendations:

          • Gardeners remove all moss they can reach, put it in their green bin and prevent spread.
          • Local authorities such as local councils and NPWS remove it from all public places, including trees on nature strips.
          • Add Spanish Moss to the next iteration of the Greater Sydney Regional Strategic Weed Management Plan and all other relevant regional strategic weed management plans.
          • Classify Spanish Moss at a level that enables its eradication and containment, prohibition of sale and distribution, e.g. as a regional priority weed.
          • Undertake research into why Turpentines are a favoured host and the ecological effects of Spanish Moss on bushland.
          • Undertake research into control methods.

          Swaying veils of grey in dead or dying trees and simplified bushland is not something to look forward to. Let’s not risk it.

          Read STEP's full report.

          Spanish Moss infestation killing Australian trees: STEP photo

          The Elephants of Avalon Beach

          Winner:
          Palmy d'Or - Best Short Film
          Avalon Film Festival - 2024

          Credits:
          Jae Morrison - Director, Producer, Lead Vocals, Editor, AI Artistry, VFX, GFX
          Aubrie Mitchell - Music Producer, Engineer, Mix & Master, Supporting Vocals
          Llew Griffiths - Executive Producer, Mofa.tv
          Tim Seaton - Cinematography, Motion, Drone & Stills
          Geoff Searl - Avalon Beach Historical Society
          Jonny Kofoed - Guitar
          James Goodfellow - Saxophone
          Big Fan - Recording Studio, Founded by Joel & Gemma Little
          Bryan Ferry / Roxy Music 'Avalon' - Original Music & Lyrics

          Special thanks to:
          Ashley Page - Page 1 Management
          Helena Brooks
          Max Morrison
          Jessie & Ross Stanley
          Matt Lawson
          Ben Welsh

          Sydney Wildlife (Sydney Metropolitan Wildlife Services) Needs Volunteers

          January  7, 2025
          As you know our work doesn't stop. 
          We had the introduction of our new computer system which we all had to learn and get used to during a very busy time of the year! And everyone nailed it.

          Now down to business; We need you!! Our next Rescue and Care Course is starting in February and we are desperate for members all over Sydney. Wouldn't it look great on your resume if you are looking for a job? ‘Volunteer at Sydney Metropolitan Wildlife Services’ the skills you learn are endless! 

          I could write a list as long as my arm the suburbs we need members in. So if this is something you have ever thought about, dreamt about or even had a discussion with your neighbour about now is the time! 

          Follow the link and sign up: 

          Maybe you cant have animals in your residence but have a car. We also need transporters to transport animals to carers from vets email info@sydneywildlife.org.au

          Don't have a car, can't keep animals at home? Sign up for our volunteer rescue line. This is run 24/7 by volunteers. One overnight shift a week (5pm-9am) could be your volunteer hours if Centrelink require you to volunteer. 

          These shifts can be done from your own home so you can still feed the kids, pop them to bed, jump in to bed yourself and just answer the phone if it rings between those times or do set hours a week during the day. Contact Carolyn for a chat at 

          Marine Rescue Broken Bay 2024 Christmas Raffle Winners

          We are very excited to announce the winners of our Marine Rescue Broken Bay 2024 Christmas Raffle, drawn at our base on 18 December, 2024.


          The proceeds of the raffle will help keep our volunteer organisation afloat and our vessels continuing to save lives on the water.

          1st   $5000 worth of Woolworths Gift Cards
          Winning ticket number: 13403
          2nd  Hamper of fishing equipment & clothing, total value $1200
          Winning ticket number: 13865
          3rd  Adult Size Stand Up Paddleboard
          Winning ticket number: 1557
          4th  $200 RMYC Gift Card
          Winning ticket number: 1111
          5th $150 worth of Bunnings Gift Cards
          Winning ticket number: 320

          Thank you to all who have so enthusiastically supported our Broken Bay Unit by participating in this raffle, and we are particularly grateful to the prize donors for their wonderful generosity.

          Marine Rescue Broken Bay 

          Marine Rescue Cottage Point Update

          Thursday December 12 was the start of Summer duties for Marine Rescue Cottage Point. We will be operating Thursday to Sundays until the end of January helping to keep people safe on the water.

          The fabulous weather brought plenty of vessels out with Marine Rescue Cottage Point completing 2 tows to boat ramps in the Hawkesbury River and Berowra Waters.

          Please remember to Log On with Marine Rescue this Summer.

          NSW residents urged to take care this mosquito season

          NSW Health is reminding people to take measures to protect themselves from mosquito bites this summer season.

          NSW Health's Executive Director of Health Protection Dr Jeremy McAnulty said mosquitoes thrive in warm conditions, increasing the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses such as Murray Valley encephalitis, Japanese encephalitis, Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses in parts of NSW.

          “Each year, NSW Health undertakes mosquito surveillance across NSW from November to April each year, which provides important information about when mosquito-borne disease risk is elevated," Dr McAnulty said.

          “As part of this routine surveillance Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus has been recently detected in a mosquito sample in Lake Wyangan collected on 3 December.

          “This is a timely reminder, both to Griffith residents, and to anyone planning to spend time enjoying the outdoors, to take protective measures this summer against mosquitoes," he said.

          Information on eligibility for a free JE vaccine is available on Japanese encephalitis vaccination.

          JE vaccine is available through local General Practitioners (GPs), Aboriginal health services and pharmacists. People who meet the above criteria should make an appointment ahead of time and let them know it is for the JE vaccine. These providers may require a few days' notice so they can order the vaccine.

          There have been no human cases of JEV in NSW since October 2022.

          Mosquitos in NSW can potentially carry a range of other viruses for which there are no vaccines including Murray Valley encephalitis, Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses.

          Actions to prevent mosquito bites include:
          • Applying repellent to exposed skin. Use repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Check the label for reapplication times
          • Wearing light, loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts, long pants and covered footwear. and socks
          • Avoiding going outdoors during peak mosquito times, especially dawn and dusk
          • Using insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing units and mosquito coils to repel mosquitoes (mosquito coils should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas)
          • Covering windows and doors with insect screens and checking there are no gaps
          • Removing items that may collect water such as old tyres and empty pots from around your home to reduce the places where mosquitoes can breed
          • Using repellents that are safe for children. Most skin repellents are safe for use on children aged three months and older. Always check the label for instructions
          • Protecting infants aged less than three months by using an infant carrier draped with mosquito netting, secured along the edges
          • While camping, use a tent that has fly screens to prevent mosquitoes entering or sleep under a mosquito net
          For further information on JE virus and ways to protect yourself visit Mosquito borne diseases.​​

          Changes to Public transport Timetables

          On 19 January 2025, Transport for NSW (Transport) will introduce changes to some bus services across the northern beaches.

          These changes include timetable and minor route changes to support demand, and to improve reliability and connections to Sydney Metro services.

          What’s changing?
          • Improved all-night services, including new all-night services on 144 between Manly and Chatswood (replacing route 144N) and extension of existing all-night services on route 199 to and from Palm Beach.  
          • Timetable adjustments to improve reliability.
          • Changed route 114 for westbound services via Pacific Highway to improve connection to Sydney Metro at Crows Nest Station.
          • Improved frequencies on routes B1, 100 and 230.
          • Timetable changes to 111, 228, 229 and 246.
          • All-night services on 199 now extended to and from Palm Beach. 
          • Timetable changes to 155, 191 and 192 to better reflect demand and availability of On Demand Transport services (Keoride).
          • Timetable changes to 177, 177X, 179, 180 and 180X to better reflect demand.
          Minor changes will be made to some dedicated school services to improve reliability. Most dedicated school services will however remain the same.

          Changes to regular bus services that students catch to and from school may also impact a small number of students.

          Transport and our bus operators are working closely with schools that may be impacted by these changes, to ensure students and their communities are aware of the changes, and how they need to adjust their journeys.

          Transport for NSW encourages students to plan before they travel at the start of Term 1, 2025. 

          Affected routes
          B1, 100, 111, 114, 142, 144, 144N, 145, 150X, 154X, 155, 160X, 162, 165X, 166, 168X, 170X, 171X, 172X, 173X, 174X, 176X, 177, 177X, 178, 179, 180, 180X, 181X, 182, 185, 190X, 191, 192, 199, 201, 228, 229, 230, 238, 243, 246, 249, 263, 280

          $4.25 million In grants for community-led programs to prevent domestic violence

          Up to $4.25 million in grant funding is on offer to local organisations statewide, including regional and rural, for proposals that address the drivers of domestic, family and sexual violence in our community.

          Proposals that align with the Pathways to Prevention strategy will be given priority consideration, including gender-based violence prevention programs that:
          • Focus on high-impact settings such as schools, workplaces and sporting clubs
          • Engage men and boys in prevention initiatives
          • Align with the ’Change the Story’ framework, including related frameworks ‘Changing the Picture’, ‘Changing the Landscape’ and ‘Pride in Prevention’
          • Support LGBTQIA+ communities through inclusive programming
          • Support migrant and refugee communities
          • Explore innovative approaches, including the use of digital spaces such as social media.
          Successful projects will run over a three-year period.

          Following the EOI, eligible organisations will be invited to submit detailed proposals for funding consideration.

          The full grant application process for the Primary Prevention Multi-Year Partnership Grants Program will be run in early 2025.

          The NSW Government has committed $38 million over four years to roll out the state’s first dedicated primary prevention strategy, to partner with local organisations on addressing the drivers of domestic, family and sexual violence.

          For more information and to apply, go to: HERE 

          Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said:

          “Violence against women and girls can and must be prevented.

          “Our government’s first dedicated primary prevention strategy provides a roadmap of the work we need to do to address the drivers of violence against women and stop the violence before it starts.

          “We want to partner with local organisations and the community on programs that disrupt the drivers of gendered violence, promote healthy and respectful relationships, and change attitudes towards women. That will be the key to ending violence against women and girls.”

          Support:

          If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero / 000.

          If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, call the NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63 for free counselling and referrals, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

          For confidential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800 RESPECT or 13 YARN on 13 92 76.

          Pittwater Community Groups: 


          Sports (plus Social Members)

          Gardens and Environment

          Rural Fire Brigades
          Services - Community Organisations

          Arts and Social

          Mona Vale Residents Association

          Mona Vale Residents Association is a community group encouraging involvement on important matters within the Mona Vale area. Email: mvrasydney@gmail.com


          Report Hate Crimes

          If you are subjected to hate on social media or online you should keep evidence by taking screen shots of the abuse including usernames, URLs and any other relevant information. 
          You can report the abuse directly to the platform and report in person at any Police Station. If you witness a hate incident or hate crime but are not the victim, you can still make a report to the NSW Police. In an Emergency call Triple Zero (000). If not urgent, you can report online at crimestoppers.com.au or call 1800 333 000 or report in person at any Police Station. 

          Speed humps on McCarrs Creek Rd: share Wildlife Data 

          Local wildlife rescuers are asking all members of the public to report any roadkill on McCarrs Ck Rd or any other road in the NB (Wakehurst Parkway or Mona Vale Road for instance) on www.wildlifemapping.org

          This records the GPS position, date, sex, species. Photos can be added as they help in identification. The data is then forwarded to OEH and Transport NSW as it can help establish the best places to place mitigation. There is so much wildlife on the move in our area at present due to various pressures. There is a database that volunteers maintain but this needs three pieces of information:
          1. The position via GPS or road and suburb
          2. The date
          3. The animal
          The details can be entered into the database directly by you at:   www.wildlifemapping.org

          Council invites EOI for Pittwater Golf Centre

          Council invites expressions of interest (EOI) for the lease, development and operation of Pittwater Golf Centre, located at 1500 Pittwater Road, Warriewood. The EOI opens on 27 November 2024, with submissions required by 2pm on Thursday 27 February 2025.

          Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins highlighted the exciting opportunities this prominent and much loved venue offers for the right operator.

          “Council is looking for an imaginative, experienced operator to revitalise the Pittwater Golf Centre into a vibrant, high-quality golf and entertainment destination that will attract and engage the community.

          “The Centre boasts a high-profile location with driving range, mini-golf, teaching academy, pro-shop and café providing an ideal opportunity for a revitalised and profitable operation.

          “The Northern Beaches community loves an active, outdoor lifestyle. Situated almost at the centre of the peninsula, the site is perfectly positioned to cater to our golf-loving residents and visitors alike.” said Mayor Heins.

          For those interested in applying, a site briefing and inspection will be held on Wednesday 11 December at 11am at the Pittwater Golf Centre. Bookings are required to attend.

          For further information or submit interest, visit here.

          The property can be viewed here.

          Council Culls Manly's Hop, Skip and Jump bus service

          On Thursday, 12 December 2024 the Northern Beaches Council announced it has decided to reduce the number of routes available on the Hop, Skip and Jump community bus, following a service review of the Council-funded service.

          Route 1 to Manly via the Manly Andrew Boy Charlton Aquatic Centre and Little Manly – the most popular route – will continue to operate, while the other less patronised routes, Routes 2 to 5, will be decommissioned next July.  

          Council stated it has reviewed the current routes of the complimentary bus service and found overall patronage had almost halved from 318,037 in 2018/19 to 174,316 in 2023/24 and that therefore the service was no longer financially sustainable.

          Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins said Council carefully weighed up the benefits of operating a free bus service against significant fiscal constraints.  

          “We know that there are many residents in our community who highly value the Council operated bus service, and we did not make this decision lightly.”

          “At the end of the day we have a responsibility to all of our ratepayers across the Northern Beaches to ensure services are equitable and fair and financially sustainable.”

          The review considered other public transport options available to our community, which negate the need for the Council operated bus service to continue and these services may provide even more accessibility than currently exists. In the Manly ward, 99% of residents are within a 400m radial distance of a Transport for NSW bus service.

          The review made a number of recommendations to enhance service delivery, improve driver safety and improve the financial sustainability of the service:
          • Reduce the routes from 5 to 1
          • A follow-up review in 18 months  
          • Changes to shift times
          • Increase the duration of Route 1 from 30min to 40min
          • Update the timetable to make it more user-friendly
          • Consider options for a driver security screen
          • Investigate the viability of a live tracking app for most routes 
          • Investigate the cost and viability of installing automatic passenger counting software for most routes 
          • Investigate the cost and viability of advertising the service to the community for most routes
          The changes to the Hop, Skip and Jump bus service will come into effect on 1 July 2025 and a further review on the performance of the service in its new format will be reported to Council in 12 months.

          Basin Transport this Summer

          Your Basin Camping Adventure Starts Here! 👉 Barrenjoey Boating Services is your gateway to The Basin and the stunning Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. 

          Our convenient water taxi and barge ferry service make getting to your Basin campsite a breeze. 

          Phone: +02 9974 4229 to book!


           

          Click on logo above to visit their website.

          Dippers at Warriewood Beach

          Autism Swim are world leaders in making aquatics more inclusive. We host a Dippers program (modified Nippers) across beaches in Sydney, including Warriewood Beach for neurodivergent and other abilities participants. 


          Our Dippers program is led by a Clinician and our Volunteers are specifically trained to equip participants with vital water and beach safety skills. 

          We run this program because the risk of drowning is 160 times higher for children on the autism spectrum compared to those who are not. 

          It's entirely free for participants, and sadly, we have to turn families away because we need more funding to run it. 

          We're calling out for sponsors to help this program go ahead and expand this season.

          Are you a local business keen to sponsor? Or can you donate to this great cause?

          Head to www.autismswim.com.au/dippers to find out more.

          Whale Beach SLSC: New Members Needed

          Looking for something fun to do this summer? Join Whale Beach SLSC!
          Whaley is running free first aid, bronze medallion & SRC courses starting October 6th for people that join the club and we would love to see you there.

          Reasons to become a lifesaver at Whale Beach:
          • - Year round access to the beachfront club house, including gym and accommodation
          • - Lifesavers get a Northern Beaches parking sticker
          • - Free courses to learn practical life saving skills
          • - Be part of the welcoming community and give back 
          • - Get fit & make new friends
          • - It looks great on your CV
          Get fit and learn invaluable lifesaving skills over a 8 week program run on Sunday mornings between 8:30-12:30 starting October 6th.
          Spaces are limited so sign up now at: HERE


          JP Public Register

          You can find a Justice of the Peace (JP) using the online Public Register. You can search by postcode, name of a JP, day of availability, language spoken and JP registration number. The register lists a JP’s location, availability and telephone number. Please note that JPs are volunteers and may not be available at all times. ​Click here to access the JP Public Register.  NB: There are  3 J.P’s working in Pittwater RSL Sub-Branch office, we work every Monday (10:30am to 15:30)except on public holidays:
          1. Terry Jones J.P.
          2. Robert (Bob) Wood J.P.
          3. Deborah Hendy(Carter) J.P

          Slow Down: Wildlife Crossing

          Please contact Sydney Wildlife Rescue on (02) 9413 4300 for advice if you hit a native animal or come across an injured one while driving. It is helpful if you can provide an accurate location or landmark to assist our rescuers who will pouch check marsupials for joeys, so little lives like Phoebe can be saved. 


           
          Photo: Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby by Jane Notice

          Community News + what ran in each Issue

          Community News Pages list articles that ran each week as well as reports run in other pages: Inbox and Environment News archives etc.

          March 2013  April 2013 May 2013  June 2013 July 2013 August 2013 September 2013 October 2013 November 2013  December 2013

          January 2014 February 2014  March 2014  April 2014  May 2014 June 2014  July 2014  August 2014  September 2014 October 2014  November 2014  December 2014 

          January 2015  February 2015 March 2015  April 2015 May 2015  June 2015  July 2015  August 2015  September 2015  October 2015 November 2015  December 2015 

          January 2016  February 2016 March 2016 April 2016 May 2016 June 2016 July 2016  August 2016 September 2016 October 2016  November 2016  December 2016  

          January 2017  February 2017  March 2017 April 2017 May 2017 June 2017 July 2017  August 2017 September 2017 October 2017  November 2017  December 2017 

          January 2018  February 2018 March 2018  April 2018  May 2018  June 2018  July 2018 August 2018 September 2018 October 2018 November 2018  December 2018

          January 2019  February 2019  March 2019  April 2019 May 2019  June 2019  July 2019  August 2019  September 2019  October 2019  November 2019   December 2019 

          January 2020 February 2020 March 2020  April 2020 May 2020  June 2020  July 2020  August 2020  September 2020  October 2020  November 2020  December 2020

          January 2021  February 2021  March 2021  April 2021  May 2021  June 2021  July 2021  August 2021  September 2021  October 2021  November 2021  December 2021

          January 2022  February 2022  March 2022  April 2022  May 2022  June 2022  July 2022 August 2022  September 2022  October 2022  November 2022  December 2022

          January 2023  February 2023  March 2023  April 2023  May 2023 June 2023 July 2023  August 2023  September 2023  October 2023 November 2023  December 2023

          January 2024  February 2024  March 2024  April 2024  May 2024  June 2024 July 2024  August 2024  September 2024  October 2024  November 2024  December 2024

          Letters to the Editor

          Letters should preferably be 150 to 175 words, but that remains optional. Letters must include the writer's address and phone number and 'permission to publish'.  

          The editor's prerogative includes editing letters for length, grammar or legal reasons.  Email: pittwateronlinenews@live.com.au