Community News: June 2016 

June 26 - July 2, 2016: Issue 269

Articles This Week 

Front Page Issue 269:

Dance Fever Dance Spectacular 2016: Inter-School Challenge - Maria Regina Students are very deft of feet!

New Rescue Vehicle For Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Donated By Dee Why RSL 

Mollymook To Host 2016 IRB State Championships + Kiama Downs Claims IRB Premiership: Queenscliff claims 3rd and Newport Team A wins 3rd in 35+ tube rescue

Aquatics: Avalon Boomerang Bags Launched: A Stitch In Time To Save Your Seas And All In Them

Pictures: NASA June 2016 Comp: some of the action from Saturday June 25th

Reflections by George RepinEPHESUS – THE LIBRARY OF CELSUS

DIY Ideas:  DIY Garden Shed: Part 2 - Framing Walls + Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 are having their annual Trade Day this Thursday, June 23rd, Public Welcome. If you cannot make that, there is a current Tax Time Tool Blitz sale on until June 30

Profile: Sydney Northern Beaches Woodturners Inc - Practical Art, Interesting Demonstrations, great people - our July 2016 Artist of the Month, launched next Issue, is a current member of this friendly group of people who meet in Narrabeen RSL club

History: Early Pittwater Schools - From Provisional to Public:-  Avalon Public school - Respect, Responsibility, Personal Best

Narrabeen Lagoon And Collaroy Beachfront: Storms And Flood Tides Of The Past

Guringai Festival 2016 – Pittwater Events: May 29 to July 11

Artist of the Month: June 2016 Isabelle Wise: Teenager with Talent recently published in a children's picture book shares some of her wonderful Illustrations

Search Pittwater Online News: 

Complaints Regarding Vegetation Collection - Post Storm

We have contacted Council regarding the numerous emails and phone calls received regarding collection of debris/vegetation post storms.
Their response points to a large volume of branches etc. needing to be collected, much of which has been done during the last two days. For those who still have debris:

June 23, 2016

"We understand many residents have been impacted by the recent storms and may still be waiting on a collection for vegetation. Our customer service centre, in the former Pittwater region alone has processed close to 500 on-call requests for vegetation removal. The process has been lengthy due to the extent of damage and the size of vegetation to be collected, which has impacted our ability to move through the requests quickly. We assure you, we are working to remove all debris from residences and public land and ask for your continued understanding during this busy period."

NORTHERN BEACHES COUNCIL

Boards Wanted: Few More Please

Gary Cook (Newport SLSC) would like to thank everyone who has so kindly donated Boards.

Writing to us earlier this week, Gary said he has collected 19 Boards, all in quite useable condition (4 Seniors and 15 Nippers) these coming from North Steyne SLSC and Newport SLSC. 

He’s hoping for a few more to come in and has transport arranged in a few weeks time to get them all down to Lake Jindabyne where he’s sure they will be very much appreciated by the "Yabbies".

Following our appeal on behalf of the wonderful community asset Pittwater has in Gary Cook, he was contacted by Ian Nicholas from Radio Northern Beaches (RNB- 8.7 and 90.3 FM) to sit down and have a bit of a chat on Air this coming week about the Yabbies and his little project to assist them. Ian Nicholas presents 'The Stir' program at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Gary is seeking unwanted or superseded Boards in reasonable condition(Nippers and or Rescue/ normal size) to donate to a small satellite Nippers Group The Lake Jindabyne "Yabbies".

This group of about 40 kids of varying ages do not get much help and any assistance provided would be very much appreciated by them. 

Contact Mr. Cook on his Email address: garycook1@optusnet.com.au or Mobile 0418 296 180 if you can help.

Pittwater Residents Attend Biodiversity Reforms Protest

Members of the Pittwater Natural Heritage Association, along with several hundred other community members, protested on Friday June 24th against the proposed Biodiversity Reforms changes by the current state government.

PNHA members report:

'The street was closed while we listened to speakers predict the terrible consequences of this legislation. As in the 10/50 Bushfire code tree-lopping disaster, self-assessment and lack of proper oversight will mean further loss of trees and bushland.

If you haven't yet put in a submission objecting to these destructive changes, please do so by June 28.

What is happening ? What can you do? go tohttp://www.standupfornature.org.au/resources..'
______________________

There is more information regarding this in this week's Environment page

RPAYC Sailors In 2016 Laser 4.7 Youth World Championships

From Saturday 30 July 2016 - Sunday 7 August 2016
at Kiel, Germany

Four Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club sailors will be competing in the 2016 Laser 4.7 Youth World Championships, Antony Hawke, Nathan Bryant and Boston Cortis and Logan Cortis. Their fleet consists of 253 Entries from 36 Countries and includes ten other Australians in the boys division. Two Australian girls will also be competing Bronagh Allison and Hailey Johnson.

Host of the Laser Worlds 2016 is the Kieler Yacht-Club, which annually conducts the famous Kieler Woche. This professional sailing club has expert knowledge in organizing excellent international Sailing Events as e.g. the F18 and J/80 Worlds (2015), the ORC and SAP 505 Worlds (2014), Star Euros or the German Sailing Grand Prix. The races of the world championship will be staged on the well known Kieler Woche race area.

Pre-Regatta Training begins on July 25th and racing commences August 2nd.

Applications Open For Community Building Partnership Program

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes is encouraging community, environmental and sporting groups to apply for funds under the NSW Government’s 2016 Community Building Partnership Program.

The NSW Government has allocated $200,000 to the Pittwater electorate as part of this highly successful program which provides financial assistance to projects that will deliver wide-reaching community benefits. 

Local projects that have benefited from this program over recent years include Pittwater High School’s new security fencing, Cottage Point’s new rescue vessel wharf, upgrades to the Narrabeen Community Kindergarten playground and the refurbishment of Mona Vale Hospital’s Assessment and Rehabilitation Unit.

“This program has supported dozens of local projects over recent years,” Rob Stokes said today (JUne 17, 2016).

“Pittwater is really lucky to have a diversity of community groups and associations that all work hard to provide improved services and opportunities for local residents.

“Quite often fundraising efforts simply need a boost to help get projects fully funded and delivered and this is where this program aims to assist.
“Applications are now open and will be accepted until Friday 22 July 2016.

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

“I encourage all eligible groups to explore this program and submit their applications,” Rob Stokes said.
Floating Landcare at Elvina Bay

Monday 4th July 2016
Meet at: Church Point Wharf 8:15am and return 2:00pm
 
Join in the activities of the Rocky Point/Elvina Bay Bushcare Groups for a morning of controlling Asparagus Fern, Yuccas, Aloe vera and a few other pesky garden escapes.  We will be working beneath the Pittwater Spotted Gums with lovely views of the Bay to be enjoyed from this Bushcare site! 
 
Last year great progress was made at our Floating Landcare visit however some much needed follow up is due and some extra hands would be most welcome.
 
Return transport on the Church Point Ferry will be included as will morning tea, lunch, tools and gloves. 
 
RSVP is essential by Wednesday 29th June 2016.  To RSVP email your name and phone number to floatinglandcare@gmail.com or call Rebecca Mooy at Greater Sydney Local Land Services on 02 4724 2120.  Confirmation details will be sent to all volunteers via email on 30.6.2016.
Positions Vacant: Boat Rowers - No Experience Needed

The Newport Surfboat Rowers are starting to plan for next season and are looking to recruit young people who are interested in learning the skill and grace of rowing surfboats.

The objective is to have crews competing for Newport, next season, in the boys Junior division (under 19) or the girls under 23’s divisions.

No experience is necessary however people interested in this opportunity must be able to fulfil the following criteria:

• Prepared to have great fun in the most exhilarating sport you have ever tried
• Have a Bronze Medallion or are prepared to attain one.
• Prepared to fulfil club patrolling obligations.
• Willing to join an already large fraternity of young boat rowers at Newport for great times and adventures.
• Need to be as a minimum 16 years old by the 31 December 2016.

It is anticipated that the training and development program for new surfboat rowers will commence soon. 

If you think this opportunity could be for you please contact Rob Emersonrobert.emerson@northsydney.nsw.gov.au or tel: 0417 413912 or Jack Holland 0438 023539 or Leanne Budd 0414 978391 for more information.

Top: Photo of Newport's Under 23's Women's crew, the 'Maddogs' -who took out the Boat Premiership and received their award at Friday evening's (June 24th) 2016 Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Awards of Excellence

Ingleside Rural Fire Brigade Winter Training

June 25, 2016
Ingleside‬ ‪RFS‬ volunteers today were leading car Fire and vehicle accident training at Kimbriki Tip for the 18 Village Fire Fighters training on the course. Crews were taught to extinguish the fires safely and effectively.

June 23, 2016
Cooking chips at home and they catch fire on your stove!!! Never throw water on a pot of oil that's on fire on the stove, as this can happen...
(Video below)
Put the lid on the pot, use a fire blanket without knocking the pot off the stove and if in doubt, dial triple zero 000 for the fire brigade.
This was a training scenario run for the RFS Village Fire Fighters course Thursday night. Ingleside RFB had 4 instructors running the course for the 19 District Brigade volunteers.

June 24, 2016
Ingleside‬ responded to two ‪‎incident‬ callouts this afternoon in support of ‪Fire‬ Control Centre volunteers on the ‪RFS‬ ‪Flyer‬. Both calls involved the occupants burning material on their property in ‪Waratah‬ Rd and ‪Wattle‬ Rd, Ingleside. Want to know the rules about burning off in winter
Head to our website for information.

June 22, 2016 · 
‪‎Ingleside‬ tanker responded to a tree threatening to fall on ‪Mona‬ Vale Rd, Ingleside just before 5pm this afternoon. Tree cut up by Ingleside volunteers. Fire Control Centre volunteers and ‪‎Police‬ were also in attendance.

About Ingleside RFB
Ingleside Rural Fire Brigade members volunteer their time as part of the New South Wales (NSW) Rural Fire Service to assist in protection of the communities of Warringah and Pittwater Local Government Areas.

We assist with Bushfire Suppression and Prevention, Vehicle accidents and fires, Structural Fires and other operational incidents and to provide Bushfire Education and Awareness to our community.

We respond to a variety of situations and generally respond to 90-100 operational incidents including Bush/Grass Fires, Structure Fires, Vehicles Accidents, Vehicle Fires, Horse Rescues, Storm Damage, Automatic Fire Alarm Calls mostly within the Ingleside area. We also assist other brigades throughout the state with incidents from flooding to major bush fires. In 2014 our Brigade responded to 90 incident calls.

Ingleside also assists with other emergency services including: NSW Police Force, Ambulance Service NSW, Fire Rescue NSW and the State Emergency Service.

Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Branch Awards Of Excellence 2016

Theme: Licence To Save Lives – Dress Bond Style
Friday June 24th, 2016

Surf Life Saving volunteers perform one of the most important jobs in the world – saving lives!
There are so many people involved in so many areas - without their help and commitment our local surf clubs would not function as they do. Each person contrubutes and many go beyond the call and dedicate hundreds of hours working for the club and the community. The Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Branch Awards of Excellence is an opportunity to acknowledge all those who contribute to the saving of lives on our beaches.

More next Issue – in the meantime:

Avalon Beach SLSC
Avalon Beach and Warriewood – Rescue of the Year - Thanks to our Antiques we won the board for their rescue of the year.
Congratulations Christine Hopton on winning an Outstanding Service Award at the SLSSNB Awards of Excellence tonight.
Big congratulations to Mike Stanley-Jones as the Youth Team Program is winner of the Initiative of the Year. Amazing results and well deserved.
Congratulations to the Avalon Beach SLSC Boat Crew the Pinkies for best overall points score at Branch in the U23 division Awards of Excellence.
Avalon Beach SLSC Most Outstanding Club for Administration. Well done Leanne Austin!

Newport Surf Life Saving Club
Congratulations to all members who won awards at this years 2016 Branch Awards of Excellence
Newport’s Ben Matthews Volunteer of the Year
Georgia Miller Competitor of the Year
Newport SLSC Boat Crew the Maddogs Under 23 girls boat premiership
Newport also won Branch Handicap point score, Bennett board, Most outstanding Club for Administration, and came 2nd in patrol competition - a great result for all.

South Narrabeen SLSC
South Narrabeen SLSC is proud to recognise Thecla Haven's elevation to Life Membership of Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches.
Thecla joined South Narrabeen SLSC in 1989. She is a founding member of the Clubs Nipper Committee taking on the role of Secretary, Social Secretary and Handicapper. She was very influential in the establishment of the Nippers at our club working diligently at recruiting and increasing the Nipper membership.
When Thecla’s children joined the senior club she became a Level 1 Surf Sports Official. Her passion is the Surf Boat area where her three children and husband compete. She has been a recorder in the Boat Area since 1996 at the Branch, State, National and World Championships. She is presently the Lead Recorder in the Boat area at the Australian Championships.
Thecla was a member of the project team in developing “Surftracs” this was the IT/HR system that Sydney Northern Beaches Branch developed to track members before the surf guard system was implemented.
Thecla was also part of the project team that developed “Surfcans”, this was a carnival entry system that Sydney Northern Beaches developed. The system checked membership, awards etc before accepting a competitor..
Congratulations Thecla.
Congratulations to Charles Longley for winning the Administrator of the Year at the Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Awards of Excellence last night!
Charles is very deserving of the award. He is the current Director of Finance at South Narrabeen SLSC and also acts as the Public Officer, Legal Representative, Insurer, Council Liaison and State and Federal Compliance Officer. He also held the positions of Functions Manager and Bar Manager in a voluntary capacity and sits on the Building Sub-Committee.
For winning the award at Branch level Charles is automatically nominated for the NSW Administrator of the Year. 
CABPRA’s vision is:
  • To encourage residents to take an active interest in their community
  • To preserve and enhance the natural beauty of the area including native flora and fauna
  • To promote sound environmental planning and management sympathetic with Pittwater’s natural beauty
  • To protect and enhance the residential amenity of the area including public reserves, access lanes, footpaths, cycle ways, beaches, wharves and foreshores
  • To speak with one voice and represent the interests and quality of life of the CABPRA community when in discussion with Council and other relevant government bodies
Find out more at: cabpra.wordpress.com

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 24/6/2016 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Thank You To The Scotland Island Rural Fire Brigade

The past few weeks have seen our Island once again battered by storms.
As usual our Brigade have been on standby 24 hours a day.
They have left their homes to clear roads so we can pass safely. They've cut trees off power lines and tarped roofs. You name it, they were there, day and night.

Ian White
Graeme Crayford
Peter Lalor
Stewart Hassel
Hubert van Mierlo
Wayne Gluyas
Craig Laslett

Thank you gentlemen from all of us.

From Pittwater Offshore Newsletter, June 24th, 2016

Palm Beach Whale Beach Association June 2016 

June 2016 Meeting – Some Snippets

40 KM SPEED ZONE FOR A SECTION OF BARRENJOEY ROAD 
Local business owners addressed the June meeting on the proposed 40 km Zone Barrenjoey Rd opposite Pittwater Park, Palm Beach and requested the PBWBA support their proposal for amendments to the Council’s proposal.

The Palm Beach & Whale Beach Association (PBWBA) fully supports the proposal of the Department of Main Roads to install a 40 km zone on Barrenjoey Rd. opposite Pittwater Park, Palm Beach.  The works are to be carried out by the Northern Beaches Council. 
 
The proposal was discussed at a recent meeting with Rob Stokes and Dick Persson at Pittwater Park.
 
There have been two further meetings between the council, the residents and the owners of the commercial properties, but these meetings had not produced a satisfactory outcome to all of the parties.
 
The council's most recent plan, moves the bus zone on the eastern side of Barrenjoey Rd from its present position to outside Barrenjoey House and the Fish Shop.  The footpath in this area is narrow and used as an outside eating area for both restaurants. The council is paid a fee for use of this area. There is no space for a seat or bus shelter to be installed in this area.
 
Customers eating on the footpath at Barrenjoey House and the Fish Shop and guests staying in the upstairs bed rooms in Barrenjoey House would be subjected to unacceptable levels of diesel and noise pollution.
 
The business operators presented a further plan to keep the bus stop in its present position and extend it at both ends. They propose that the pedestrian crossing be moved to the north of the bus stop. 

MEETING SUMMARY:  PBWBA meeting with Mr. Dick Persson, Administrator Northern Beaches Council, and the Member for Pittwater, the Hon. Rob Stokes, at Pittwater Park.

1. Pittwater Park.  We discussed the problems with long-term cars parking in the parking area and general disrepair of the park. The park is crown land which is administered by the council.  The administrator promised to have a plan of management for the Park in two months.  The law states that any money collected from crown land areas should be spent in the same area.

2. Walkway from Pittwater Park to Palm Beach. It was agreed that this was a major safety issue. The project is now slated for an early start. The funds required would come from council funds and the NSW Government.

3. 40 Km Zone Barrenjoey Rd. There was agreement that this project should proceed. 

4. Palm Beach.  Mr. Persson stated Palm Beach reminded him of Coogee 30 years ago. He agreed that plans would be commenced for landscaping and adequate road drainage at the beach.

Barrenjoey Headland:  Rob Stokes has announced that the views of the community and the PBWBA have been into account.  The plan for short-term accommodation on the headland will not proceed.  The sewerage system will be connected as the Council had planned.

Reference Groups:  All the council reference groups and committees have been suspended with the establishment of the Northern Beaches Council.  One member stated having returned from holidays to attend a reference group Committee meeting having not been informed that the meeting had been cancelled.

The main advantage of Pittwater Council was the involvement of the community groups in committees and reference group meetings. Concern was expressed that this will not continue under the new council.

Development Applications:  The number of DA'S has increased each month.  All had been reviewed by the Committee and no further comments were warranted to Council.

Dog Committee: Martin McCallum reported that there had been no further meetings of the dog committee. Issues in Pittwater need to be addressed. The president will contact council to determine the fate of the dog committee.

Hoons: After a recent and effective blitz by the Northern Beaches Police the problem is on the increase again. A PBWBA member is organising a petition which we will present the local member.  The website for registering information including justification for speed cameras will be provided to the committee by a member presently.  In the meantime, residents are requested to call 000 to report “hoons” in the area.

Morning Coffee/Tea - neighbourhood gathering: The first morning coffee/tea meeting was held in Governor Phillip Park and was well attended.

The next event is scheduled for Monday 27 June at the Whale Beach Deli at 10:30. As coffee etc is available there, you may not need to bring your thermos.   The July morning tea will again be at Governor Phillip Park on Wednesday 27 July at 10:30.   

Ambulances Services:  There was a recent incident when an ambulance was not available to treat and transport a child with an anaphylactic reaction. There is a need for ambulances to be available and in service in Pittwater particularly with the opening of the new northern beaches hospital.  There is some  doubt that the Avalon ambulance station is a fully  operational station as claimed by the government.

B-LINE Bus Service: Discussions are currently taking place regarding extending the service to Newport, given the availability of a significant commuter parking at Newport beach and the existence of necessary road infrastructure, including three lines of traffic in each direction between Mona Vale and Newport. Concern was raised that the extension of the service to Newport might also mean an increase in the housing infrastructure in that area. 

Due to the limited capacity of the road network between Newport Beach and Avalon Beach further extension of the service is not currently being considered.

Narrabeen Youth Club Netball 2016 Presentation

June 24, 2016: Narrabeen Youth Club Netball
SAVE THE DATE !!!

NARRABEEN YOUTH CLUB JUNIOR NETBALL PRESENTATION WILL BE ON SATURDAY 10TH SEPTEMBER AT TED BLACKWOOD HALL FROM 1PM- All teams from 8 year netsetgo to 15 year olds 
More details to come shortly.

Avalon Beach Historical Society Meeting July 2016

The next meeting of the Avalon Beach Historical Society will be held on TUESDAY 5 JULY in the Avalon Beach Bowling Club in Bowling Green Lane starting at 8pm.

‘TONY’ RUSKIN ROWE
On a recent trip to Darwin and the East Kimberleys Collette and I visited the Darwin Military Museum. Amongst their fabulous and extensive display of World War II memorabilia we found a small plaque indicating the death of Harry Ruskin Rowe’s son, Anthony.

As the result of a conversation with one of the volunteers on duty, we were directed to the Adelaide River War Cemetery. Although we already knew that ‘Tony’ was killed in Darwin, we wondered how much more information might be forthcoming.

Our visit to the War Cemetery was both educational and emotional.
Information has already been given to the Society by the late Fred Woodgate, a Spitfire pilot from 54 Squadron RAF.

This info. plus some obtained from the Spitfire Association and the War Cemetery will provide for an interesting and unique history concerning one of Avalon Beach’s special sons.

As usual we will have an excellent selection of very relevant photographs to accompany the talk.

Guests of members are always welcome and to stay for supper afterwards. If you fancy a drink from the bar beforehand please arrive a little earlier so that the meeting can still start on time.

We look forward to your company on the night.
Geoff Searl
President, Avalon Beach Historical Society

Pittwater Ocean Swim Series Winner Enjoys Byron Bay Experience

June 24, 2016
Paul Hardcastle, the winner of the Pittwater Ocean Swim Series major prize of a trip for two to Byron Bay to compete in the local ocean swim has reflected on his experience.

The prize included return flights for two sponsored by Travel View, and three nights' accommodation provided by Bay Royal Luxury Apartments. Pittwater Council provided $5,000 to assist the marketing of the event.

"It was an absolute privilege to participate in the Pittwater Ocean Swim Series. This has been my fourth season, and as well as contributing to the Surf Life Saving charitable organisation, we get to enjoy beach vistas with aquatic landscapes that cannot be matched.
 
"Pittwater Council sponsorship of this series of five ocean races, each one involving multiple distances accounting for age, fitness and individual ability, provides an enjoyable challenge for the weekend mornings in our summer. 

"Logistics are so well thought through that the stress of parking and getting to race registration are all taken care of," said Paul.
 
"To have been drawn as the winner of this seasons' events is really the icing on the cake!  My wife and I enjoyed a long weekend at Byron Bay with our accommodation  Bay Royal Luxury Apartments being excellent, with the added bonus of being directly opposite the race surf club. 
 
"Race day was overcast but mild, the onshore wind and swell blew everything back towards the starting beach including the marker buoys and swimmers.
 
"Having not swum the course prior to this event, I omitted to identify a line of sight on the high ground above the finish and so began a rather zigzag swim around the headland and across the bay.
 
"All this being said and done, the pre-race briefing and post-race festivities made for a very enjoyable experience," Paul added.
 
Paul said he will most definitely be competing in the Pittwater Open Water Swim Series this coming 2016/17 season - "and for as many years to come as I can drag myself back up the beach to the finish line!"

By John Guthrie

Drone Data Of Collaroy After The June 2016 East Coast Low

Published on 23 June, 2016 by UNSW Water Research Laboratory
Flythrough of 3D drone data of Collaroy Beach after damaging storms in June 2016

One Week To Go!!

NBI: June 24, 2016
The sun has set on the last Friday in Northern Sydney without the NDIS
This time next week:
a) the rollout will have started and (possibly even more exciting)
b) our NDIS launch "Glow in the Dark" Disco will be kicking off

For more information about the NDIS or the N-DISCO contact the NBI office.

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Fundraising Dates 2016

July 2nd: Election Day stall, Mona Vale Community Centre, Park Street, Baking, craft, knitting, sewing

July 2nd: Stall, Pittwater Place, Mona Vale Craft, knitting, books

July 9th: Sausage sizzle, Narrabeen Bunnings car park

July 15th: Stall, Mona Vale Hospital foyer  Baking, craft, knitting, books

August 6th: Stall, Pittwater Place, Mona Vale  Baking, craft, Knitting

August 13th: Sausage Sizzle, Narrabeen Bunnings car park

August 19th: Stall, Mona Vale Hospital foyer Baking, craft, Knitting


September 2nd: Father’s Day stall, outside ANZ, Avalon Parade,Avalon  Sewing, craft, knitting

September 3rd: Stall, Pittwater Place, Mona Vale Craft, knitting, books

September 16th: Stall, Mona Vale Hospital foyer  Baking, craft, knitting, books

September 18th: Sausage sizzleNarrabeen Bunnings car park                                                 

October 1st: Stall, Pittwater Place, Mona Vale  Craft, knitting, books

October 1st: Sausage sizzle, Narrabeen Bunnings car park

October 11th: Fashion Parade, Newport Bowling Club

October 21st: Mona Vale Hospital foyer  Baking, craft, knitting, books

October 28th: Stall, Warriewood Square, Warriewood Knitting, craft, sewing

November 5th: Stall, Pittwater Place, Mona Vale  Craft, knitting, books

November 13th: Sausage sizzle, Narrabeen Bunnings car park   

November 18th: Stall, Mona Vale Hospital foyer  Baking, craft, knitting, books

December 3rd: Stall, Pittwater Place, Mona Vale Craft, knitting, books

December 3rd: Sausage sizzle, Narrabeen Bunnings car park    

December 9th: Stall, Warriewood SquareWarriewood Knitting, craft, sewing

December 9th: Stall, Mona Vale Hospital foyer  Baking, craft, knitting, books

Federal Election Pre-polling Open

Pre polling opened on June 14 and will continue as listed below at 
Bungan Court Shop 9, 13 Waratah St
Mona Vale
Assisted wheelchair access

Monday 27 June – Tuesday 28 June (8:30 – 17:30)
Wednesday 29 June (8:30 – 18:00)
Thursday 30 June (8:30 – 17:30)
Friday 1 July (8:30 – 18:00)

Picture – at Mona Vale earlier last week

Friends of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment August Forum

Blackout Narrabeen - building resilience: 7pm Monday August 22, 2016

At: Coastal Environment Centre, Pelican Path, Lake Park Road, North Narrabeen

Michael Furey will outline what the future threats are to our power supplies and the ways in which we can build resilience by acting now. 

There will be an explanation of the actions being taken already in the Sydney area. After supper we will hold a brief Annual General Meeting.

Entry free but a donation is requested to cover expenses

Email: Friends of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment to get a ticket and book a place.

Elanora Players Present The Cemetery Club

“I hope I look as good as you when I am your age.” “You did!”

Ivan Menchell's appealingly bittersweet comedy, The Cemetery Club is Elanora Players’ current production. This hilarious play mixes humour and pathos and is one not to be missed. This will be the ninth show directed by Wade Orth with EP.

Three widows meet once a month for tea before going to visit their husband's graves. Each woman is in a different stage of healing and moving on with her life. Ida is sweet tempered and ready to begin a new life, Lucille is a feisty embodiment of the girl who just wants to have fun, and Doris is priggish and judgemental, particularly when a possible love interest enters the scene. The three friends make it a habit to meet regularly at the graves of their husbands and talk about perspectives in their lives.

The women are bound together by their hurt, their healing and the discovery that they are more alike than they believed. It is a story of emotional strength and endurance. 

The lead roles are played by Wendy Starkie, Fiona Connolly and Vicki Castorina. You will grow to love these characters and perhaps see a little of yourself in them. Martin Oakley and Chris Richardson round out the cast and all will be familiar to regular audiences.

There are only nine performances – July 8-17 - and already many tickets have been sold. The matinee shows are the particularly popular ones. Tickets are $25/ $22. Phone 9982 7364 orelanorabookings@bigpond.com.

How Floodwaters Can Turn Cars Into Death Traps

June 20, 2016: UNSW by Wilson Da Silva
Engineers at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) have discovered just how easily cars can be washed away by even the smallest currents – making the crossing of floodwaters a dangerous and potentially life-threatening decision

A team at the UNSW Water Research Laboratory has been testing how small and large cars behave when they encounter flash floods, replicating scenarios faced by many stranded motorists, but doing so in an especially configured test tank in Manly Vale, in northern Sydney.

“What was surprising was just how little water it took to make even a large vehicle unstable,” said principal engineer Grantley Smith, who led the research. “They became vulnerable to moving floodwaters once the depth reached the floor of the vehicle. Even in low water depths and slow flow speeds, floodwaters had a powerful enough force to make them float away.”


In just 95 cm of water, a 2.5 tonne 4WD can be pushed by hand: Principal engineer Grantley Smith, of the UNSW Water Research Laboratory, led the team that conducted the world first experiments. Photo:Grant Turner/Mediakoo/UNSW

The tests are a world first: previous experiments to understand the force of floodwaters have relied on using vehicle miniatures, rather than actual cars. Even the engineers were surprised how easily cars weighing more than a tonne quickly became buoyant and unstable.

A small car like a Toyota Yaris, weighing 1.05 tonnes, was moved by water only 15 cm deep and with a flow speed of just 3.6 km/h. It completely floats away in 60 cm of water.

Even a 2.5 tonne Nissan Patrol 4WD can be rendered unstable by floodwater 45cm high, and a similar flow speed. Once the water reaches 95 cm, the four-wheel drive can completely float, and needs almost zero force to move it by hand.

By contrast, an able-bodied adult is much more stable in flowing water than the 4WD vehicle.

Part of the reason – modern cars are made so airtight (for comfort reasons) that they more easily float when encountering water. Another factor is that people underestimate the power of a swathe of moving water.

“People don’t realise that even slow-moving water packs a powerful punch,” said Smith. “Water is heavy: each cubic metre weighs about 1,000 kg.
“If a house is exposed to floodwaters two metres deep and 20 metres wide – travelling at a steady 1 metre/second – the force is equivalent to being hit by a 40-tonne semitrailer every 15 seconds.”

Three men died recently after being swept away while trying to drive through floodwaters in separate incidents in the ACT, the NSW southern highlands and Sydney's southwest, and the NSW State Emergency Services launched more than 80 rescues of stranded cars.

NSW SES Acting Commissioner Greg Newton said the high number of flood rescues was distressing. “People need to re-think their actions and not drive into floodwater, because by doing this they are not only placing their lives at risk, but the lives of our volunteers who have to go out and rescue them,” he said. “Entering floodwater is the number one cause of death and injury in a flood, so everyone should stay out and stay alive.”

Robert McDonald, Insurance Australia Group (IAG) Road Safety Expert, agreed: “With more storms predicted over coming days, it’s a timely reminder for people to be aware of the dangers of driving through flood water. “Common sense – and now research – says regardless of the size of your car, even a big 4WD can very quickly float like a boat. So the message is very clear – it’s never safe to enter flood water,” McDonald said.

The experiments were funded by UNSW and the NSW State Emergency Service, the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage, with IAG providing the cars.

“The Office of Environment and Heritage co-sponsored this research as part of the NSW government’s  ongoing efforts to better understand and manage the devastating impacts of flooding on local communities,” a spokeswoman said. “As fatalities and near misses continue to remind us, floodwaters are dangerous and can be deadly. This research highlights that drivers should avoid even shallow depths of still water.”
Artists and sculptors sought for Wildflower Garden Festival

14 June 2016: From Ku-ring-gai Council
Up to $5000 in cash prizes are on offer to artists and sculptors who can create sustainable artworks for a sculpture walk at the Wildflower Garden Festival in August.

This year’s Festival will be held on Sunday 28 August from 9am to 4pm at the Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden, 420 Mona Vale Road, St Ives.
After the success of the inaugural sculpture walk in Ku-ring-gai Council’s Wildflower Art and Garden Festival last year, the environmentally- themed walk will be on again.

A total pool of $5000 in prize money will be offered to works that adhere to the theme of ‘Environmental Sustainability’. Artists and sculptors are asked to demonstrate the use of recycled materials in their artworks, which should be sympathetic to the Garden’s bushland environment.
Additionally artists will be encouraged to paint ‘en plein air’ during the Festival and the event will host a variety of art and craft stalls in the expanded Artisan’s Market.

Other features of this year’s Festival include talks by horticultural experts, native plant sales, wildflower displays, guided walks, exhibits by local businesses, food and drink stalls, a trackless train, pond dip netting, music and dance, children’s craft workshops , story-telling and an Australian wildlife display.

Artists as well as potential performers and stallholders can find out more about applying on Ku-ring-gai Council’s website atkmc.nsw.gov.au/wildflowergarden 
For enquiries about the sculpture walk and Festival call 9424 0354.

Simplifying The Housing Code

What's this about?
The NSW Government is seeking your feedback on a proposed new Housing Code to make building and renovating easier.
The Code sets out clear and simple planning rules for works that can be undertaken as complying development. 
The new Housing Code has been written and structured so it is clear and easy to use. It will include diagrams that illustrate key controls and building standards that have to be met when homeowners are building or renovating. 
The Code forms part of the State Policy for exempt and complying development and sets out the planning rules for new homes, extensions and other developments such as garages and swimming pools.
This is an opportunity to make planning rules easier for everyone to understand without needing to be a planning expert or lawyer.
The new Code will also provide more certainty when certifiers and councils assess a proposal. 
Have your say
Submit your feedback online by 12 August 2016. 
Exhibition
Date: Jun. 14 - Aug. 12, 2016
Department of Planning & Environment
23-33 Bridge Street
Sydney 2000

More Information
Department of Planning and Environment email:information@planning.nsw.gov.au Ph:  1300 305 695 
Easier building and renos with new code

12.06.2016: Ministerial Media Release - The Hon. Rob Stokes MP, Minister for Planning
New simplified planning rules have been put on exhibition to make building and renovating easier.
 
Planning Minister Rob Stokes said the proposed new Housing Code sets out clear and simple rules for works that can be carried out as complying development, allowing them to be fast-tracked.
 
“These changes will mean the community can build or renovate their home with less time, less money, less paperwork and less frustration,” Mr Stokes said.
 
“A picture can be worth a thousand words, and this new Housing Code will contain diagrams and simplified explanations to do away with large blocks of text and better illustrate key controls that must be met when building or renovating.
   
“Simplifying the code will mean you can build a house or add a bedroom without needing to be a planning expert or a lawyer to understand the rules.”
 
Complying development is a fast-tracked development assessment process that allows certain works that meet set standards to be approved without a full development application.
 
Approvals for complying development are issued within 22 days on average. This compares with development applications taking an average 71 days.
 
In 2014-15, complying development accounted for about one third of all development approvals. More than $5.2 billion worth of development was approved through complying development, an increase of 18 per cent on the previous year.
 
The proposed changes are now on exhibition for the public to provide feedback. Submissions will close on August 12.
 
You can review the amendments to the Housing Code at:  www.planning.nsw.gov.au/proposals  

2016 Northern Beaches Instrumental Festival - June 15 to 26

The aim of the Festival is to provide a formal, non-competitive performance opportunity for ensembles that is a positive and encouraging experience.

The Festival for Concert bands and string ensembles is held in June, towards the end of Term 2 at Pittwater High School and the Stage band festival is held in August. The entire festival is hosted by the Northern Beaches Symphonic Wind Ensemble, which is a non for profit co-operative and all proceeds from the festival go back into community music.

Performances are held in small blocks of ensembles so that the students will have the opportunity to listen to other groups. Students remain in the hall with their ensemble for all the performances in their time allocation. (This will be approximately 1-1.5 hours in total). This gives every ensemble performing a large and interested audience.

Schools entering more than one ensemble will have each one programmed in a separate block. The intention is for students and their families to have the opportunity to listen to groups from other schools. Within each block we will also vary the nominated levels of the ensembles to avoid direct comparisons. While professional feedback is provided this is not a competition but a festival celebrating our music making on the Northern Beaches and beyond.

Each ensemble will perform 3 pieces at an appropriate grade. Their performance will be recorded for their future use and a short workshop by an experienced appraiser will be held on stage at the conclusion of their performance. The appraiser also makes comment on the recording.

Availability of tickets.

Non performing audience members can purchase tickets at the door for $5.00 per adult, $3.00 concession or $10.00 per family. These tickets are valid for the entire festival and entitle the holder to entry to the Gala Concert. Tickets are not available for pre-purchase.

List of participants (as at 3 June 2016) in PDF

Find out more at: http://www.snbswe.org.au/ - 

2016 Program in PDF:

Commercial Fisheries Business Adjustment Program

The NSW Government’s Commercial Fisheries Business Adjustment Program introduces linkages between shares and catch or effort. This will give fishers the ability to invest in their businesses with more certainty than ever before. Importantly, share linkages have been tailored to each share class.  
Under the Business Adjustment Program, some commercial fishers may want to purchase more shares to secure their level of business activity, while others may choose to sell their shares and exit the industry. There is a range of assistance measures available to help industry through this transition process.

Friends of Northern Beaches Palliative Care: Upcoming Events

Classy Boot Sale

Calling for ‘Royal Doulton’ and ‘Lalique’ that may be languishing, unloved, in the nether regions of your cupboards. Books, once read and now consigned to oblivion, will find new bibliophiles to cherish them. Jewellery, tarnishing and forgotten, will adorn fresh fashionistas. They will be welcomed for the FONB posh boot sale, Narrabeen High school, Sunday 28th of August. Call Norma 9918 4929.

Trivia at Pittwater RSL for Northern Beaches Prostrate Cancer Support Group – Sunday June 26th, 2016

Entry $5.00. all profits donated to Prostrate Cancer Research.

Big BBQ: Sunday 18th of September, 2016

Northern Beaches Prostrate Cancer Support Group will hold its biannual BIG BBQ with classic car displays, musical performances, jumping castle for children, market stalls, cake sale, raffle, and sausage sizzle. Gold coin entry on the day

From - Friends of Northern Beaches Palliative Care Newsletter: June 2016 – Winter Edition.

Avalon Craft Cottage Returns To Avalon

The Avalon Craft Cottage members are heading back to Avalon for our bi-annual Exhibition & Sale at the Avalon Recreation Centre.

We'll be there for 3 days only, Thursday 7th, Friday 8th and Saturday 9th July and the exhibition will be open from 10am to 4pm daily.

As always a wonderful variety of handcrafted gift items; colourful patchwork quilts;  beautiful jewellery;  brilliantly coloured silk wall hangings; gorgeous embroidered baby wear; warm woolly baby blankets & throws; dozens of hand knitted scarves, hats, gloves, bed socks, and baby bootees; unique Australian woodwork; baby toys; ceramics; screen printed tea towels; folk art; and hundred of wonderful hand-crafted greeting cards.

Our fund-raising efforts this year will be in aid of the DEE WHY WOMEN'S REFUGE. A very worthy cause I am sure you will agree.
There will be a big basket at the door, and we asking everyone to please throw a coin or two into the basket and see just how money we can raise for the Refuge.

This year we are pleased to have the 'once was local' artist the very popularChristine Hill putting some of her mounted prints and greeting cards in the exhibition,  and Chris is very kindly donating a number of her printed cards, in packets, to be sold in aid of the Women's Refuge. 
Christine is now living down the coast, but has been a member of the Craft Cottage for many years. We are delighted to have her once again back in Avalon.
So... lots to see... and lots to buy.

Maureen Darcy-Smith, Avalon Craft Cottage
Mona Vale Hospital To Trial Food Composting System

June 17, 2016
Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today announced the NSW Government will fund a new composting system at Mona Vale Hospital to help reduce the amount of food waste going to landfill.

The project is being funded under the NSW Government’s Waste Less Recycle More program and will see a composting system installed to process the hospital’s food waste into reusable compost rather than it being discarded.

“This is a great initiative that will help tackle the enormous amount of food waste that’s simply discarded every year,” Rob Stokes said today.

“Unfortunately our State’s hospitals are huge producers of food waste and it’s clear we need a better system in place.

“Rather than discarded food simply becoming part of landfill - we’re now looking at innovative ways to convert this waste into compost and enabling it to be reused.

“It’s great that Mona Vale Hospital is helping lead the way and trailing a system which could become commonplace in all hospitals in the future,” Rob Stokes said.

Northern Beaches Futsal Association Rep Team

The Northern Beaches Futsal Association is proud to announce that our representative team the "Northern Beaches Breakers" have been accepted into Football NSW's State League for 2016/17 season.

This will give our members a more futsal orientated pathway and a chance to represent a local representative team.

Age groups will include U12 Boys, U13 Girls, U14 Boys, U15 Girls, U16 Boys, U17 Girls, Youth Men, Open Ladies and Open Men..

The community will have a chance to watch the Breakers in action at our traditional home ground at the Sydney Academy of Sport, Narrabeen.. 

More details to follow about trials shortly.

Website coming soon!!

Visit: www.northernbeachesbreakers.com

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Batman

AGE/SEX: 3 years / M
BREED: Mastiff x
Batman is a big softie. When he first came from the pound he was very shy but soon got the hang of things. He is social with other dogs. He is still hesitant to walk on lead and worried about the open space. It is all foreign to him. He is not a high energy dog. Lounging around the house is more his style. He weighs 27.1kg. He comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. His adoption cost is $400. 
For further details or to meet all dogs at call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 

Planning Alerts website – sign up

About PlanningAlerts

You'd probably know if your next door neighbour was going to knock their house down (hopefully you'd get a letter through the door telling you they had applied for planning permission and asking you what you thought about it). But you'd probably never find out if the old cinema or pub 5 streets away is going to be converted into luxury flats until the bulldozers and tree loppers turned up.

PlanningAlerts is a free service which searches as many planning authority websites as it can find and emails you details of applications near you. The aim of this to enable shared scrutiny of what is being built (and knocked down) in peoples' communities.

PlanningAlerts is brought to you by the charity the OpenAustralia Foundation. It was adapted for Australia by Matthew Landauer and Katherine Szuminska, and is based on the UK site PlanningAlerts.com, built by Richard Pope, Mikel Maron, Sam Smith, Duncan Parkes, Tom Hughes and Andy Armstrong.

Visit: https://www.planningalerts.org.au/alerts/signup

2016 Surf Life Saving NSW Awards of Excellence

Saturday, August 13 at 6:30 PM - 11:30 PM

Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

199 George Street, Sydney, Australia 2000

The Surf Life Saving NSW Awards of Excellence proudly presented by Stramit recognises outstanding achievements and contributions in all aspects of Surf Life Saving. The awards will celebrate the accomplishments of members, clubs and branches in the 2015/16 season.

Dress code - TBC

Tickets - bit.ly/aoetickets

Everyone is invited, come and celebrate the 2015/16 season with your fellow NSW surf lifesavers!

Whether you are a finalist for the Awards, a supporter for a finalist or you just want to have an amazing night out with friends, family and like-minded clubbies from across the state, then make sure you grab your tickets. Ticket prices include three course dinner, beverages, live entertainment from Jellybean Jam and door prizes.

For more information visit www.surflifesaving.com.au/aoe2016.

Prices (exclude booking fee): Adult - $130 - Child (U18) - $100 - Table (10 people) - $1,100

Whether you are a finalist for the Awards, a supporter for a finalist or you just want to have an amazing night out with friends, family and like-minded clubbies from across the state, then make sure you grab your tickets. Ticket prices include three course dinner, beverages, live entertainment from Jellybean Jam and door prizes.

Make sure you visit the Facebook Event to stay updated with relevant information. 

ALL nominations must be submitted viawww.surflifesaving.com.au/aoenominations

Nominate a carer you know today

27 May 2016: Media Release

Minister for Ageing and Minister for Disability Services John Ajaka today announced that nominations for the 2016 NSW Carers Awards are open.

The NSW Carers Awards are an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the dedication, commitment and valuable contributions of the more than 850,000 unpaid carers across NSW.

Mr Ajaka said that one in ten people in NSW dedicate their time to caring for someone who needs care because of disability, mental illness, a chronic health condition, dementia or ageing.

"Every day carers provide vital unpaid support to members of our community, improving their lives and making a positive impact to the community and the economy as a whole," Mr Ajaka said.

"Chances are you already know someone who cares for a loved one. Show them you care about what they do by nominating them for an award."

The 2015 NSW Carer of the Year, Sheila Openshaw, called on members of the community to nominate a carer they know.

"I am passionate about my role as a carer – it has made me more compassionate, understanding and wise," Mrs Openshaw said. "Being a carer can be very challenging at times, so it means a lot to me to have been recognised for the contribution I have made."

This year, ten awards are available for individuals and organisations to be honoured during Carers Week, which runs from Sunday 16 – Saturday 22 October 2016.

The ten recipients will receive their award at a Carers Week ceremony at Parliament House, where the 2016 NSW Carer of the Year will be announced.

Nominations for the NSW Carers Awards 2016 close on Sunday 10 July at midnight, and can be made online atwww.careforacarer.nsw.gov.au/carersawards.

Mona Vale Library welcomes Winter Care Kits up to and including July 3rd

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Trivia Night Saturday 30 July 2016

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc will host the annual fundraising Zonta Trivia Night on 30 July this year.  The evening is in the Pittwater Memorial Hall, Pittwater Road, Mona Vale to start at 7pm.

With the Olympics starting the following Friday we will have an Olympic theme.  Guests may choose to dress with an Olympic or Brazilian touch or just come as you are!  Questions will be broad and general in nature with some Olympic topics – but not all sport!

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches is part of the worldwide service organisation Zonta International. Our local club supports women in need on the Northern Beaches by giving education grants to women, assisting high school students to stay at school, supporting the local Womens’ Refuge and Manly Womens’ Shelter amongst other projects.

This is a fun evening and all proceeds will support our Club’s study grant program.  BYO glass, drinks and nibbles, tea, coffee and biscuits available.  Gather your friends and enjoy this relaxing evening while supporting your local community.

Bookings may be made directly by completing the form HERE or by calling Maree on 0412 902 020 or by email to zontanb@gmail.com   Book a table of 10 or we will seat you with others.

 Avalon Boomerang Bags 2016 Workshops

Boomerang Bag Working Bees run in Avalon Community Centre on Tuesdays 11:30am- 5pm.

For those of you unable to come to workshops there are many other ways to get involved, just let us know you're willing by leaving a comment or sending us a message.

Pictured is a Boomerang Bag Box as will be provided around Avalon Shopping area full of our Boomerang Bags to "Borrow and Bring Back" 

Donations of materials and more hands always welcome

Facebook page

Become a Lifeguard

The Australian Lifeguard Service NSW is currently seeking self-motivated, well presented Lifeguards with exceptional surf lifesaving and lifeguarding knowledge to work during a casual period in the Greater Sydney area (Pittwater, Royal National Park, Lake Parramatta).

The ideal candidate will have a professional manner, strong fitness levels and a proven ability in determining priorities, making sound judgements and the ability to respond appropriately under pressure.

The Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS) NSW is a subsidiary of Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW), providing professional lifeguard services to Local Government Associations (LGA) and other regulatory bodies. The Australian Lifeguard Service is the largest provider of professional lifeguards in Australia.

Location: Pittwater, Royal National Park, Lake Parramatta

Position: Casual

Closing date for applications: Friday 5th August 2016

Application form and details 

Budget Boom For New Schools And Classrooms Of The Future

22nd June 2016: NSW Government.
The NSW Government is investing nearly $1 billion extra for new and upgraded schools across the State, bringing the total spend on education capital works to $2.6 billion over four years.

The commitment detailed in yesterday’s Budget is in response to growing enrolments and to ensure students benefit from innovative technology and teaching practices. The commitment equates to around 3,000 classrooms.

“By increasing investment in new and existing schools, we can ensure we are prepared for a once in a generation rise in enrolments and that all children receive the highest quality education,” said NSW Premier Mike Baird.

Mr Baird today joined Treasurer Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Education Adrian Piccoli at the Futures Learning Unit at the Australian Technology Park to inspect training classrooms, which are equipped with modern digital technology and flexible learning spaces.

“It’s exciting to see first-hand how our children’s learning is evolving and the traditional classroom is being transformed into an interactive learning space,” Mr Piccoli said.

In the Budget it was announced that new primary schools will be developed at Smalls Road, Ryde and North Kellyville; a senior campus of Cammeraygal High School will be established at Crows Nest; and planning for additional classrooms will begin at Willoughby Public School, Willoughby Girls High School, Fort Street Public School, Oran Park Public School, Rosehill Public School and Curl Curl North Public School.

“It is so important that we invest in state of the art schools to make sure students can learn the skills they will need to prepare them for the jobs of the future,” Ms Berejiklian said.

In this year’s Budget there is a record investment in education, with $13.7 billion in recurrent funding in 2016-17 - up by $950 million on last year.

The NSW Government is more than doubling the investment to address the education maintenance backlog, from $160 million to $330 million over two years.  

Since 2011, the NSW Government has committed to projects and a strategy to provide over 36,000 new student places.

 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

2016 Focus on Ability Short Film Festival 

Over $140,000 in cash and prizes to highlight the ability of people with a disability. Films cannot be longer than 5 minutes. Australian entries must be submitted by 30 June 2016. More info at focusonability.com

Fight on the Beaches Christmas in July Charity Ball 2016

Friday July 8th, 2016

Fight on the Beaches has raised over $468 000 over the past 2 years for cancer research. We hope that you will join us this year on Friday 8th July at Miramare Gardens to 'fight for a cure', and to help us to donate even more to cancer research. Having funded 3 cancer researchers over the past 2 years, we will continue to fund cancer research through our fundraising.

Fight on the Beaches is made up of local women who have all been impacted by cancer in one way or another and who want to make a positive difference in the fight against cancer. We are thankful for any contribution, big or small, that will help find a cure for cancer.

You can choose to buy a ticket to the Ball, donate a prize for the Christmas Tree Lucky Dip or Auction, take out one of our fantastic Sponsorship Packages, make a cash donation or, volunteer on the night. We look forward to having you join us in your own way to fight back and find a cure.

We are absolutely thrilled to announce that Richard Wilkins will join Fight on the Beaches as MC on the 8th July to help us in our fight for a cure! Richard is a tireless supporter of various charities and we can't wait to see him on the night!

On Channel Nine's TODAY, Richard presents daily features and interviews from right across the world of showbiz. He's interviewed the cream of the international entertainment industry - from Madonna to The Rolling Stones, and from Andrea Bocelli to Nigel Kennedy.

Richard has hosted a myriad of top rating TV specials from ‘Angelina Jolie: Unbroken and Exclusive’, the eight-hour Millennium Live, the Annual Tropfest Short Film Special and for ten years, the New Year’s Eve Festivities and Fireworks over Sydney Harbour.

In the 2014 Queen’s Birthday Honours List, Richard was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM), for “significant service to the community through a range of charities, and the entertainment industry.”

Tickets at: http://www.fightonthebeaches.com/ 

Research Involving Personal Information

BY: Office of the Privacy Commissioner NSW
Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998
What's this about?
The Privacy Commissioner is seeking comments from interested parties on these draft statutory guidelines on research involving personal information and the accompanying guidance on their application. 
Have your say
Submit your feedback by 5 August 2016 via email ipcinfo@ipc.nsw.gov.au, with Response on Privacy Guidelines in the subject line.
See:

Date: Jun. 24 - Aug. 5, 2016: Time: 9:00am — 5:00pm
More Information:  Statutory Adviser, 1800 472 679 

Privacy Guidance - Consent

What's this about? 
The Privacy Commissioner's Report under Section 61B of the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 was released in February 2015 and identified a number of areas where public sector agencies required guidance to assist in meeting the requirements of the privacy framework in NSW. 

One of the recommendations from this Report was to develop guidelines on the definition and interpretation of consent to assist NSW public sector agencies.

The draft Consent fact sheet is seeking to address this recommendation.  
Have your say
Submit your feedback by 8 July 2016 via email ipcinfo@ipc.nsw.gov.au
Date: Jun. 17 - Jul. 8, 2016: Time: 9:00am — 5:00pm
More Information:  Statutory Adviser,  1800 472 679 

Go Fishing NSW Day 2016 Grants

By NSW Govt. Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries

The inaugural Go Fishing NSW Day was run by DPI in six locations across NSW in December 2015. The Fishing Day was a celebration of recreational fishing, as a fun and healthy pastime for the entire family. A range of fun filled activities was held in each location and many kids and adults were introduced to their first ever fishing experience.

Mark the date for the next Go Fishing NSW Day which will be held on Sunday, 16 October 2016 at a range of new locations. More fun fishing activities are being planned so stay tuned for more details.

Fishing clubs – apply for funding now

Recreational fishing clubs are invited to apply for grants to help run community fishing events and activities in their own local area on the NSW Go Fishing Day - 16 October 2016.

How much can clubs apply for? Grants of up to $2,000 can be applied for.

What can the grants be spent on? Funding can be spent on items required to run a local Fishing Day event and associated activities on 16th October 2016, such as casting and fishing workshops, information sessions and other fishing activities. This includes items such as fishing gear, bait, food and drinks, equipment hire, hire or chartering of specialist fishing services etc. Activities restoring fish habitat on the Fishing Day are also eligible, such as replanting and/or weeding creek banks.

The activities must be scheduled to occur on the 16th October 2016.

How to apply

Download the funding guidelines (PDF, 53.02 KB) for more information

Complete the funding application form (DOC, 147.5 KB)

Forward the application to:

Email: gofishing.nsw@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Mail: NSW DPI, Go Fishing NSW, PO Box 4291. Coffs Harbour Jetty NSW 2450

For assistance with completing your application or to find out more about the expression of interest, phone 02 6229 7712 or e-mailgofishing.nsw@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Fishing clubs also wanting to carry out fish habitat restoration activities such as replanting and/or weeding creek banks on the Fishing Day are encouraged to contact DPI Fish Habitat Rehabilitation staff to obtain advice and assistance at fish.habitat@dpi.nsw.gov.au or phone (02) 6626 1396.

Application closing date is 30 June 2016.

All documents at:  dpi.nsw.gov.au/go-fishing-nsw

Applications open for Heritage Council of NSW committees

The committees will assist the Heritage Council of NSW to effectively manage and promote heritage resources in NSW. Applications close 20 July 2016.

The Heritage Council of NSW is established under the Heritage Act 1977 (NSW).  The Council is a statutory body that includes members of the community, the government, the conservation profession and representatives of organisations such as the National Trust of Australia (NSW). 

The Heritage Council advises the Minister for Heritage on heritage matters in NSW and makes recommendations to the Minister for listing of places and objects on the State Heritage Register.

The Heritage Council also make decisions about the care and protection of heritage places and items that have been identified as being of state significance.

There are five Heritage Council committees:

• State Heritage Register Committee

• Approvals Committee

• Heritage Committee

• Heritage Grants Committee

• Technical Conservation Committee

The role of the committees is to provide high level specialist knowledge, skills and experience to assist the Heritage Council and Heritage Division with making informed decisions on statutory and non-statutory heritage matters in NSW.

The committees will provide independent expert advice to the Heritage Council and Heritage Division on significant and complex issues in heritage conservation, protection and management as they arise.

They will also work with the Heritage Council and Heritage Division to review and update existing policy and guidelines and be involved with reviewing and providing input into the development of new guidelines, operational policies and any proposed legislative amendments (as required).

Members of the committees will have opportunities to liaise with relevant professional bodies and the community concerning heritage work to raise professional standards and encourage best practice. One of the responsibilities of the committees will include drafting an annual work program for endorsement by the Heritage Council of NSW (at a date set by the Heritage Council).

As part of their role, the committees will also encourage public awareness and appreciation of the State’s heritage through education and promotion activities.

If you are interested in applying for a position on one of the five Heritage Council of NSW committees, please go to the Heritage Council committeeswebpage to review the information pack and application form. 

Mosman Art Gallery Seeking White Pillowcases

Call out for 1,942 white pillowcases and memories of the Japanese attack on Sydney. 2017 will mark the 75th anniversary of the Japanese submarine attack on Sydney Harbour in 1942. To commemorate this event Mosman Art Gallery are working with a group of Australian and Japanese artists to develop an exhibition to be shown in mid 2017.

Participating artist, Sue Pedley, is calling out for donations of white pillowcases and memories of the event to help realize a new artwork. Donated White Pillowcases can be in any condition: off - white, stained, starched, patched, threadbare. Where possible the artist requests that donors include a written note of either a living memory or passed on memory of the Japanese attack.

Please deliver laundered pillowcases to Mosman Art Gallery during opening hours in a bag (with your name clearly written if you wish to be acknowledged). Pillowcases will be accepted from 1st May –until 31st July, 2016.

Mosman Art Gallery, Cnr Art Gallery Way & Myahgah Road. Open 7 days, 10am-5pm. Phone 99784178.

June 19 - 25, 2016: Issue 268

Articles This Week 

Articles This Week: 

Front Page Issue 268: World Youth Match Racing Championships  2016 Won By RPAYC Team + MC38 Winter Regatta On Pittwater + Warriewood Square Grand Opening this coming Thursday June 23rd + Clean Up - Shore Up: 2016 Winter Storm + Avalon Boomerang Bags Launches Saturday June 25 +  Winter Flowering Swamp Mahogany

Rising Drowning Toll Prompts Safety Plea from Surf Life Saving, Police, and Marine Rescue NSW 

Reflections by George RepinEPHESUS – THE LIBRARY OF CELSUS

Aquatics: MC38 Winter Regatta on Pittwater Hosted by RPAYC by Lisa Ratcliff

Pictures: Pittwater Mix June 2016 - Regatta On Pittwater  by Sailability Crystal Bay + Birdland + Winter Sunlight + Winter Sun At The Newport + South Avalon Beach This Week: In And On The Water

DIY Ideas:  DIY Garden Shed: Part 2 - Framing Walls + Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 are having their annual Trade Day this Thursday, June 23rd, Public Welcome. If you cannot make that, there is a current Tax Time Tool Blitz sale on until June 30

ProfileSydney Wildlife Rehabilitation Facility at Waratah Park 

Most of the animals only need about 1 month at the facility except for the macropods that take a lot longer to grow and rehabilitate

History: Early Pittwater Schools - From Provisional to Public:- Avalon Public school - Respect, Responsibility, Personal Best

Narrabeen Lagoon And Collaroy Beachfront: Storms And Flood Tides Of The Past

Guringai Festival 2016 – Pittwater Events: May 29 to July 11

Artist of the Month: June 2016 Isabelle Wise: Teenager with Talent recently published in a children's picture book shares some of her wonderful Illustrations

Search Pittwater Online News: 

Applications Open For Community Building Partnership Program

June 17, 2016
Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes is encouraging community, environmental and sporting groups to apply for funds under the NSW Government’s 2016 Community Building Partnership Program.

The NSW Government has allocated $200,000 to the Pittwater electorate as part of this highly successful program which provides financial assistance to projects that will deliver wide-reaching community benefits. 

Local projects that have benefited from this program over recent years include Pittwater High School’s new security fencing, Cottage Point’s new rescue vessel wharf, upgrades to the Narrabeen Community Kindergarten playground and the refurbishment of Mona Vale Hospital’s Assessment and Rehabilitation Unit.

“This program has supported dozens of local projects over recent years,” Rob Stokes said today.

“Pittwater is really lucky to have a diversity of community groups and associations that all work hard to provide improved services and opportunities for local residents.

“Quite often fundraising efforts simply need a boost to help get projects fully funded and delivered and this is where this program aims to assist.
“Applications are now open and will be accepted until Friday 22 July 2016.

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

“I encourage all eligible groups to explore this program and submit their applications,” Rob Stokes said.
Queens Birthday Honours 2016

MEMBER (AM) IN THE GENERAL DIVISION OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA

Mr Walter Tom Kirsop Narrabeen, NSW.
For significant service to the environment through advocacy roles with a range of conservation foundations, and to the community.

MEDAL (OAM) OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA IN THE GENERAL DIVISION

Mr Michael Stuart Chapman Scotland Island, NSW.
For service to sailing, and to maritime organisations.

Congratulations to one of our Islanders.
Today in the Queen’s birthday list of honours, an Order of Australia Medal was awarded to Michael Chapman also known as “Chappo”, for 'services to sailing and maritime organisations'.

Michael was a past head of NSW Waterways Authority, currently sits on many advisory committees and has been President of the Boat Owners Association for many years. He was involved in life jacket reform and boating safety reforms as well as amalgamating volunteer rescue associations.

As a skiff sailor himself in 12's and 18's, he has supported youth training and development in Sabot, 420 and Olympic 470 classes as National President. He continues to be involved in historic 10 and 18 foot skiffs with his partner Karen.

Michael and Karen crew for Greg Roberts in Pegasus in the Woody Point races. They have been Island dwellers for 6 years and Michael is the current Public Officer of SIRA.

Well done Chappo!
From Pittwater Offshore Newsletter, June 13, 2016

Mr Joseph Robert Crumlin Mona Vale, NSW.
For service to military history preservation.

Ms Mo'onia Frances Gerrard Narrabeen, NSW.
For service to netball, and to the community.
Mona Vale Hospital To Trial Food Composting System

June 17, 2016
Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today announced the NSW Government will fund a new composting system at Mona Vale Hospital to help reduce the amount of food waste going to landfill.

The project is being funded under the NSW Government’s Waste Less Recycle More program and will see a composting system installed to process the hospital’s food waste into reusable compost rather than it being discarded.

“This is a great initiative that will help tackle the enormous amount of food waste that’s simply discarded every year,” Rob Stokes said today.

“Unfortunately our State’s hospitals are huge producers of food waste and it’s clear we need a better system in place.

“Rather than discarded food simply becoming part of landfill - we’re now looking at innovative ways to convert this waste into compost and enabling it to be reused.

“It’s great that Mona Vale Hospital is helping lead the way and trailing a system which could become commonplace in all hospitals in the future,” Rob Stokes said.

CALLING ALL SINGERS or those who secretly want to!

A NEW ACAPELLA CHOIR IS FORMING ON THE ISLAND.

You don’t even have to cross the moat.

We are a small group of people who enjoy singing together. We have been through a couple of incarnations, ie. The Last Ferry Home. Now, we just want to get together and sing. Some of us are going to take turns leading, using our musical knowledge. We are also looking at getting some guest conductors to come and give workshops. (any singing teachers out there…?)

Songs will be 2- and 3-part harmonies and rounds, easy stuff to start with. We have a lot of material crossing several genres from gospel, folk, African, classical… the main criteria is that the songs are enjoyable to sing. Acapella mostly. It’s about blending our voices…. And it’s about having fun.

A choir needs some ‘great’ singers, yes. But it also needs some people who aren’t going to feature or do big impressive solos – it needs some singers to stay in the background and just add bulk to the sound. You don’t have to have a big powerful voice, as long as you’re (mostly) in tune!

Next meeting is the 19th of June from 2.30pm-4.30 pm. 

We will be meeting fortnightly on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month at Suzie Boyd’s house*, 2.30pm - 4.30pm, with a break for tea and cake.

Cost - free for now, but guest workshop leaders may cost in the future. You can bring cake if you like.

For more details, or to get on the mailing list, emailjessica_mcgowan@yahoo.com.au or call Jessica on 0422 474 279.

*Suzie Boyd’s is on the waterfront, the second wharf to the West of Tennis (grey house with a grey boatshed). Coming from the back it’s 69 Robertson Rd, second house before the big stairs to Tennis Park. The only house with a driveway. If you don’t see a golf cart at the bottom, you’re in the wrong place.

From Pittwater Offshore Newsletter – June 1, 2016

Food production debated over dinner tables across Northern Beaches



Northern Beaches residents and hospitality businesses came together to watch and support a new grassroots documentary, ‘Restoring Earth’, which features retailer Harris Farms Markets, chefs and a number of leading agricultural produces from in-land and northern New South Wales.

The film travels from paddock to plate, bringing farmers and city folk together for the first time, to bring to light one of Australia’s most heated topics: land clearing. 

The documentary, which played at a free grassroots screening at 4 Pines Brewery in Brookvale on the 16th June 2016, aims to create some transparency over the way food is currently being produced in NSW when it comes to our treatment of the land.

The film is supported by Sustainable Organisations of Manly (SO Manly) and a number of conservation groups, including The Wilderness Society, WWF-Australia and the Nature Conservation Council, who want to see a shift towards sustainable food production. 

The film screening was followed by SO Manly’s Sustainable Food Sourcing Workshop the next day, 17th June 2016 at Ruby Lane Cafe.

“These events will give locals a chance to meet some farmers, and to discuss important issues, such as traceability and transparency when it comes to working out where your food comes from,” said Alicia Lloyd of SO Manly.

The short documentary is currently travelling across New South Wales, demystifying the current conflict over the old native vegetation laws and the NSW Government’s plan to transition to a new Draft Bill, the Biodiversity Conservation Act.

Many city folk may be shocked to know Australia has the third-highest rate of land clearing of any developed nation in the world. Over 40% of our natural environment has been bulldozed since Europeans arrived.

The new Bill, is currently open for public consultation, and is likely to allow for a return to broad scale land clearing across New South Wales. 

The film, directed by a local Curl Curl production company, Bluebottle Films, features Phil Dawson, the owner new café, Ruby Lane, who has come together with other local business in SO Manly to help shift our local food culture towards sustainability.   

The Wilderness Society funded the documentary, but gave the documentary-makers the independence to produce a film, and to share the facts on this topic out on the dinner table. 

Above Picture:  Phil & Ben, Ruby Lane Cafe, Manly - they're looking at every aspect of sustainable sourcing when it comes to running a business 

Northern Beaches Futsal Association Rep Team

The Northern Beaches Futsal Association is proud to announce that our representative team the "Northern Beaches Breakers" have been accepted into Football NSW's State League for 2016/17 season.

This will give our members a more futsal orientated pathway and a chance to represent a local representative team.

Age groups will include U12 Boys, U13 Girls, U14 Boys, U15 Girls, U16 Boys, U17 Girls, Youth Men, Open Ladies and Open Men..

The community will have a chance to watch the Breakers in action at our traditional home ground at the Sydney Academy of Sport, Narrabeen.. 

More details to follow about trials shortly.

Website coming soon!!

Visit: www.northernbeachesbreakers.com

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Courtney

AGE/SEX: 1 year / F
BREED: Kelpie X Whippet
Courtney is a quiet calm girl in a home environment and at the park she loves chasing a tennis ball. She is very smart and needs to be stimulated. She would be great at agility. Courtney is very social with other dogs and does not mind cats. She walks on a loose lead. She is an affectionate girl who loves to jump up and lick your face. She can be picked up by strangers. She does prefer to have her humans around her. She has a short coat and weighs 9.6kg. She came from the pound pregnant and her pup Keira has found a home. She comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. Her adoption cost is $450. 
For further details or to meet all dogs at call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 

5 Lands Walk: Sat 25 June 2016

Building on 10 years - Proudly held on Darkinjung Country

2016 Walker registration now open: Click here to Register

Coming to the 5 Lands Walk from Sydney?

We have special shuttle bus service just for you.  Catch the Palm Beach ferry from Palm Beach to Ettalong and we'll have a free shuttle bus to get you to the start. Then we'll have one from the finish to catch the ferry back.

The 5 Lands Walk is a FREE community- based and community- operated cultural and spiritual Walk.

It seeks to “connect people to people and people to place”. 

The Walk is a 10 km coastal walk with five festival sites along the beaches, headlands, paths and roads that connect FIVE the diverse communities of MacMasters beach, Copacabana, Avoca beach, North Avoca and Terrigal. 

We run festival events for you to enjoy, which we think will enrich you culturally and spiritually and which will connect you to our community and to our place.

We highlight FIVE Central Coast-based ethnic community groups to present and share their culture.

And the local Aboriginal community shares their ceremony, spirituality, culture, law and stories with you.

You walk along beaches and over headlands with stunning views, and then arrive at a Land where festival activities, ethnic and Aboriginal cultural displays and exhibitions are underway. You can stop and enjoy, or move on, as they wish. And if you don’t want to walk the whole way, there’s a free shuttle bus service connecting the Lands.

We have a program of around 40 events that rolls up through the Lands like a wave, timed to allow for comfortable walking and browsing.

It’s a gift from the community of the Central Coast to you.

In 2006 we were inspired by Italy's Cinque Terra, but we created our own unique event to connect People to People and People to Place.  We've been improving it every year since. 

In 2015, 99.6 % of surveyed participants rated their experience “good” or ‘excellent” and with participation rising from around 500 in 2006 to an estimated 16,000, we're pretty sure you're going to have a great time in 2016.

2016 will see many old favourites  plus some new features and events. Be prepared to be inspired.

Check out our website for program details and how to get here from the Northern Beaches. www.5landswalk.com.au

Stay up to date on 5 Lands Walk facebook page

June 10, 2016: from 5 Lands Facebook page

Hon. Robert Stokes, MP for Pittwater and Minister for Planning got the message today - from the communities of the Central Coast, to be delivered to the communities of the Northern Beaches, to come up here on 25 June, to take part in the 5 Lands Walk.

He caught the Palm Beach Ferry over to Ettalong, where he was challenged then welcomed to Darkinjung Country by the Aboriginal Community and to the Central Coast by Gosford MP Adam Crouch. They presented him with a message stick to take back to the Northern Beaches.

Its symbols represents the people of the two regions coming together on 25 June for a walk through Country, to enjoy music, arts, Aboriginal culture and stories, dance, giant kites, multicultural stories and, more than likely, whales.


Planning Alerts website – sign up

About PlanningAlerts

You'd probably know if your next door neighbour was going to knock their house down (hopefully you'd get a letter through the door telling you they had applied for planning permission and asking you what you thought about it). But you'd probably never find out if the old cinema or pub 5 streets away is going to be converted into luxury flats until the bulldozers and tree loppers turned up.

PlanningAlerts is a free service which searches as many planning authority websites as it can find and emails you details of applications near you. The aim of this to enable shared scrutiny of what is being built (and knocked down) in peoples' communities.

PlanningAlerts is brought to you by the charity the OpenAustralia Foundation. It was adapted for Australia by Matthew Landauer and Katherine Szuminska, and is based on the UK site PlanningAlerts.com, built by Richard Pope, Mikel Maron, Sam Smith, Duncan Parkes, Tom Hughes and Andy Armstrong.

Visit: https://www.planningalerts.org.au/alerts/signup

2016 Surf Life Saving NSW Awards of Excellence

Saturday, August 13 at 6:30 PM - 11:30 PM

Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

199 George Street, Sydney, Australia 2000

The Surf Life Saving NSW Awards of Excellence proudly presented by Stramit recognises outstanding achievements and contributions in all aspects of Surf Life Saving. The awards will celebrate the accomplishments of members, clubs and branches in the 2015/16 season.

Dress code - TBC

Tickets - bit.ly/aoetickets

Everyone is invited, come and celebrate the 2015/16 season with your fellow NSW surf lifesavers!

Whether you are a finalist for the Awards, a supporter for a finalist or you just want to have an amazing night out with friends, family and like-minded clubbies from across the state, then make sure you grab your tickets. Ticket prices include three course dinner, beverages, live entertainment from Jellybean Jam and door prizes.

For more information visit www.surflifesaving.com.au/aoe2016.

Prices (exclude booking fee): Adult - $130 - Child (U18) - $100 - Table (10 people) - $1,100

Whether you are a finalist for the Awards, a supporter for a finalist or you just want to have an amazing night out with friends, family and like-minded clubbies from across the state, then make sure you grab your tickets. Ticket prices include three course dinner, beverages, live entertainment from Jellybean Jam and door prizes.

Make sure you visit the Facebook Event to stay updated with relevant information. 

ALL nominations must be submitted viawww.surflifesaving.com.au/aoenominations

Nominate a carer you know today

27 May 2016: Media Release

Minister for Ageing and Minister for Disability Services John Ajaka today announced that nominations for the 2016 NSW Carers Awards are open.

The NSW Carers Awards are an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the dedication, commitment and valuable contributions of the more than 850,000 unpaid carers across NSW.

Mr Ajaka said that one in ten people in NSW dedicate their time to caring for someone who needs care because of disability, mental illness, a chronic health condition, dementia or ageing.

"Every day carers provide vital unpaid support to members of our community, improving their lives and making a positive impact to the community and the economy as a whole," Mr Ajaka said.

"Chances are you already know someone who cares for a loved one. Show them you care about what they do by nominating them for an award."

The 2015 NSW Carer of the Year, Sheila Openshaw, called on members of the community to nominate a carer they know.

"I am passionate about my role as a carer – it has made me more compassionate, understanding and wise," Mrs Openshaw said. "Being a carer can be very challenging at times, so it means a lot to me to have been recognised for the contribution I have made."

This year, ten awards are available for individuals and organisations to be honoured during Carers Week, which runs from Sunday 16 – Saturday 22 October 2016.

The ten recipients will receive their award at a Carers Week ceremony at Parliament House, where the 2016 NSW Carer of the Year will be announced.

Nominations for the NSW Carers Awards 2016 close on Sunday 10 July at midnight, and can be made online atwww.careforacarer.nsw.gov.au/carersawards.

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Trivia Night Saturday 30 July 2016

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc will host the annual fundraising Zonta Trivia Night on 30 July this year.  The evening is in the Pittwater Memorial Hall, Pittwater Road, Mona Vale to start at 7pm.

With the Olympics starting the following Friday we will have an Olympic theme.  Guests may choose to dress with an Olympic or Brazilian touch or just come as you are!  Questions will be broad and general in nature with some Olympic topics – but not all sport!

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches is part of the worldwide service organisation Zonta International. Our local club supports women in need on the Northern Beaches by giving education grants to women, assisting high school students to stay at school, supporting the local Womens’ Refuge and Manly Womens’ Shelter amongst other projects.

This is a fun evening and all proceeds will support our Club’s study grant program.  BYO glass, drinks and nibbles, tea, coffee and biscuits available.  Gather your friends and enjoy this relaxing evening while supporting your local community.

Bookings may be made directly by completing the form HERE or by calling Maree on 0412 902 020 or by email to zontanb@gmail.com   Book a table of 10 or we will seat you with others.

 Avalon Boomerang Bags 2016 Workshops

Boomerang Bag Working Bees run in Avalon Community Centre on Tuesdays 11:30am- 5pm.

For those of you unable to come to workshops there are many other ways to get involved, just let us know you're willing by leaving a comment or sending us a message.

Pictured is a Boomerang Bag Box as will be provided around Avalon Shopping area full of our Boomerang Bags to "Borrow and Bring Back" 

Donations of materials and more hands always welcome

Facebook page

2016 Premier's Awards

10 June, 2016

Nominations for the 2016 Premier’s Award have now opened. The award recognises excellence by individuals and teams in the delivery of public services to the NSW community by the public sector, not-for-profit organisations and private businesses.

In 2016, there will be twelve award categories to showcase achievements and progress towards the NSW Premier’s priorities.

If you know a FACS employee or team who have demonstrated excellence in public service delivery please contactFACS Info by 16 June.

To find out more about the award categories, selection criteria and past winners, check out the Premier’s Awards website.

Visit: www.publicserviceawards.nsw.gov.au

 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

Become a Lifeguard

The Australian Lifeguard Service NSW is currently seeking self-motivated, well presented Lifeguards with exceptional surf lifesaving and lifeguarding knowledge to work during a casual period in the Greater Sydney area (Pittwater, Royal National Park, Lake Parramatta).

The ideal candidate will have a professional manner, strong fitness levels and a proven ability in determining priorities, making sound judgements and the ability to respond appropriately under pressure.

The Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS) NSW is a subsidiary of Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW), providing professional lifeguard services to Local Government Associations (LGA) and other regulatory bodies. The Australian Lifeguard Service is the largest provider of professional lifeguards in Australia.

Location: Pittwater, Royal National Park, Lake Parramatta

Position: Casual

Closing date for applications: Friday 5th August 2016

Application form and details 

2016 Focus on Ability Short Film Festival 

Over $140,000 in cash and prizes to highlight the ability of people with a disability. Films cannot be longer than 5 minutes. Australian entries must be submitted by 30 June 2016. More info at focusonability.com

Fight on the Beaches Christmas in July Charity Ball 2016

Friday July 8th, 2016

Fight on the Beaches has raised over $468 000 over the past 2 years for cancer research. We hope that you will join us this year on Friday 8th July at Miramare Gardens to 'fight for a cure', and to help us to donate even more to cancer research. Having funded 3 cancer researchers over the past 2 years, we will continue to fund cancer research through our fundraising.

Fight on the Beaches is made up of local women who have all been impacted by cancer in one way or another and who want to make a positive difference in the fight against cancer. We are thankful for any contribution, big or small, that will help find a cure for cancer.

You can choose to buy a ticket to the Ball, donate a prize for the Christmas Tree Lucky Dip or Auction, take out one of our fantastic Sponsorship Packages, make a cash donation or, volunteer on the night. We look forward to having you join us in your own way to fight back and find a cure.

We are absolutely thrilled to announce that Richard Wilkins will join Fight on the Beaches as MC on the 8th July to help us in our fight for a cure! Richard is a tireless supporter of various charities and we can't wait to see him on the night!

On Channel Nine's TODAY, Richard presents daily features and interviews from right across the world of showbiz. He's interviewed the cream of the international entertainment industry - from Madonna to The Rolling Stones, and from Andrea Bocelli to Nigel Kennedy.

Richard has hosted a myriad of top rating TV specials from ‘Angelina Jolie: Unbroken and Exclusive’, the eight-hour Millennium Live, the Annual Tropfest Short Film Special and for ten years, the New Year’s Eve Festivities and Fireworks over Sydney Harbour.

In the 2014 Queen’s Birthday Honours List, Richard was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM), for “significant service to the community through a range of charities, and the entertainment industry.”

Tickets at: http://www.fightonthebeaches.com/ 

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 17/6/2016 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Go Fishing NSW Day 2016 Grants

By NSW Govt. Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries

The inaugural Go Fishing NSW Day was run by DPI in six locations across NSW in December 2015. The Fishing Day was a celebration of recreational fishing, as a fun and healthy pastime for the entire family. A range of fun filled activities was held in each location and many kids and adults were introduced to their first ever fishing experience.

Mark the date for the next Go Fishing NSW Day which will be held on Sunday, 16 October 2016 at a range of new locations. More fun fishing activities are being planned so stay tuned for more details.

Fishing clubs – apply for funding now

Recreational fishing clubs are invited to apply for grants to help run community fishing events and activities in their own local area on the NSW Go Fishing Day - 16 October 2016.

How much can clubs apply for? Grants of up to $2,000 can be applied for.

What can the grants be spent on? Funding can be spent on items required to run a local Fishing Day event and associated activities on 16th October 2016, such as casting and fishing workshops, information sessions and other fishing activities. This includes items such as fishing gear, bait, food and drinks, equipment hire, hire or chartering of specialist fishing services etc. Activities restoring fish habitat on the Fishing Day are also eligible, such as replanting and/or weeding creek banks.

The activities must be scheduled to occur on the 16th October 2016.

How to apply

Download the funding guidelines (PDF, 53.02 KB) for more information

Complete the funding application form (DOC, 147.5 KB)

Forward the application to:

Email: gofishing.nsw@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Mail: NSW DPI, Go Fishing NSW, PO Box 4291. Coffs Harbour Jetty NSW 2450

For assistance with completing your application or to find out more about the expression of interest, phone 02 6229 7712 or e-mailgofishing.nsw@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Fishing clubs also wanting to carry out fish habitat restoration activities such as replanting and/or weeding creek banks on the Fishing Day are encouraged to contact DPI Fish Habitat Rehabilitation staff to obtain advice and assistance at fish.habitat@dpi.nsw.gov.au or phone (02) 6626 1396.

Application closing date is 30 June 2016.

All documents at:  dpi.nsw.gov.au/go-fishing-nsw

Applications open for Heritage Council of NSW committees

The committees will assist the Heritage Council of NSW to effectively manage and promote heritage resources in NSW. Applications close 20 July 2016.

The Heritage Council of NSW is established under the Heritage Act 1977 (NSW).  The Council is a statutory body that includes members of the community, the government, the conservation profession and representatives of organisations such as the National Trust of Australia (NSW). 

The Heritage Council advises the Minister for Heritage on heritage matters in NSW and makes recommendations to the Minister for listing of places and objects on the State Heritage Register.

The Heritage Council also make decisions about the care and protection of heritage places and items that have been identified as being of state significance.

There are five Heritage Council committees:

• State Heritage Register Committee

• Approvals Committee

• Heritage Committee

• Heritage Grants Committee

• Technical Conservation Committee

The role of the committees is to provide high level specialist knowledge, skills and experience to assist the Heritage Council and Heritage Division with making informed decisions on statutory and non-statutory heritage matters in NSW.

The committees will provide independent expert advice to the Heritage Council and Heritage Division on significant and complex issues in heritage conservation, protection and management as they arise.

They will also work with the Heritage Council and Heritage Division to review and update existing policy and guidelines and be involved with reviewing and providing input into the development of new guidelines, operational policies and any proposed legislative amendments (as required).

Members of the committees will have opportunities to liaise with relevant professional bodies and the community concerning heritage work to raise professional standards and encourage best practice. One of the responsibilities of the committees will include drafting an annual work program for endorsement by the Heritage Council of NSW (at a date set by the Heritage Council).

As part of their role, the committees will also encourage public awareness and appreciation of the State’s heritage through education and promotion activities.

If you are interested in applying for a position on one of the five Heritage Council of NSW committees, please go to the Heritage Council committeeswebpage to review the information pack and application form. 

Mosman Art Gallery Seeking White Pillowcases

Call out for 1,942 white pillowcases and memories of the Japanese attack on Sydney. 2017 will mark the 75th anniversary of the Japanese submarine attack on Sydney Harbour in 1942. To commemorate this event Mosman Art Gallery are working with a group of Australian and Japanese artists to develop an exhibition to be shown in mid 2017.

Participating artist, Sue Pedley, is calling out for donations of white pillowcases and memories of the event to help realize a new artwork. Donated White Pillowcases can be in any condition: off - white, stained, starched, patched, threadbare. Where possible the artist requests that donors include a written note of either a living memory or passed on memory of the Japanese attack.

Please deliver laundered pillowcases to Mosman Art Gallery during opening hours in a bag (with your name clearly written if you wish to be acknowledged). Pillowcases will be accepted from 1st May –until 31st July, 2016.

Mosman Art Gallery, Cnr Art Gallery Way & Myahgah Road. Open 7 days, 10am-5pm. Phone 99784178.

"R Marine Riley Riv Dog" Competition

R Marine Riley (RMR) is looking for the best boating dogs! 

To enter, please send Jessica a photo of your boating buddy 'RMR Riv Dog' for your chance to win some doggie treats and a beautiful, hand spliced lead, made from recycled boating rope, with your choice of colour!

Every entrant receives a RMR Key Float for participating.  If you have some friends who would like to send in a photo of their "RMR Riv Dog", please share this news with them...www.facebook.com/rmarineriley

Send in your photo's to jessica@rmarineriley.com.au today. Photos will be posted on Facebook and the picture with the most 'likes' by Wednesday, 27th July 2016, wins!

Bushcare in Pittwater 


For further information or to confirm the meeting details for below groups, please contact Council's Bushcare Officer on 9970 1367





BUSHCARE SCHEDULES 
Where we work                      Which day                              What time 

Avalon     
Angophora Reserve             3rd Sunday                         8:30 - 11:30am 
Avalon Dunes                        1st Sunday                         8:30 - 11:30am 
Avalon Golf Course              2nd Wednesday                3 - 5:30pm 
Careel Creek                         4th Saturday                       8:30 - 11:30am 
Toongari Reserve                 3rd Saturday                       9 - 12noon (8 - 11am in summer) 
Bangalley Headland            2nd Sunday                         9 to 12noon 

Bayview     
Winnererremy Bay                 4th Sunday                        9 to 12noon 

Bilgola     
North Bilgola Beach              3rd Monday                        9 - 12noon 
Algona Reserve                      1st Saturday                      9 - 12noon 
Plateau Park                            1st Friday                          8:30 - 11:30am 

Church Point     
Browns Bay Reserve             1st Tuesday                      9 - 12noon 
McCarrs Creek Reserve       Contact Bushcare Officer     To be confirmed 

Clareville     
Old Wharf Reserve                 3rd Saturday                     8 - 11am 

Elanora     
Kundibah Reserve                   4th Sunday                      8:30 - 11:30am 

Mona Vale     
Mona Vale Beach Basin          1st Saturday                   8 - 11am 
Mona Vale Dunes                     2nd Saturday+3rd Thursday     8:30 - 11:30am 

Newport     
Bungan Beach                          4th Sunday                      9 - 12noon 
Crescent Reserve                    3rd Sunday                      9 - 12noon 
North Newport Beach              4th Saturday                    8:30 - 11:30am 
Porter Reserve                          2nd Saturday                  8 - 11am 

North Narrabeen     
Irrawong Reserve                     3rd Saturday                   2 - 5pm 

Palm Beach     
North Palm Beach Dunes      3rd Saturday                    9 - 12noon 

Scotland Island     
Catherine Park                          2nd Sunday                     10 - 12:30pm 
Elizabeth Park                           1st Saturday                      9 - 12 noon 
Pathilda Reserve                      3rd Saturday                      9 - 12 noon 

Warriewood     
Warriewood Wetlands             1st Sunday                         8:30 - 11:30am 

Whale Beach     
Norma Park                               1st Friday                            9 - 12noon 

Western Foreshores     
Coopers Point, Elvina Bay      2nd Sunday                        10 - 1pm 
Rocky Point, Elvina Bay           1st Monday                          9 - 12noon

 Gone Fishing Gallery at Waterfront Store Church Point

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

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

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

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

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

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

  June 12 - 18, 2016: Issue 267

Articles This Week 

Front Page Issue 267: Champions Surf Pittwater Upgrade Going Ahead

Rod and Kerry Waterhouse win 2nd 2016 Hobie Worlds title: Grand Masters, Curtis and Duchatel take second overall, Curtis and Outteridge take second in Women's Overall - Five Pittwater Crew win Places in Opens Finals

NSW Government Funding To Commence $90M Upgrade Of Mona Vale Road East

Pygmy Possum Project: Nesting Box Update by Lesley Stevens

Aquatics: Successful Summer For Sydney Lifeguards: Pittwater Statistics by Surf Life Saving New South Wales

Narrabeen Lagoon And Collaroy Beachfront: Storms And Flood Tides Of The Past

Pictures: June 2016 Storm - 1000's of Hands, Ten of 1000's of Community Kindnesses: One Objective - The Community's Record

Park Bench Philosopher: St Johns Camden: 176th And 167th Anniversaries In June 2016 - Places To Visit these School Holidays

Guringai Festival 2016 – Pittwater Events: May 29 to July 11

Artist of the Month: June 2016 Isabelle Wise: Teenager with Talent recently published in a children's picture book shares some of her wonderful Illustrations

Profile: Peninsula Community Gardens: Woolcott Reserve Newport - A community garden is any piece of land gardened by a group of people, utilising either individual or shared plots on private or public land. Community gardens provide fresh products and plants as well as contributing to a sense of community and connection to the environment and an opportunity for satisfying labor and neighborhood improvement. 

History:Early Pittwater Schools - From Provisional to Public:- Mona Vale Public school - from Village Green to Greening the Village!

Search Pittwater Online News: 

Long Weekend Beach, Pool, Tracks And Path Closures

10 June 2016: Media Release

Northern Beaches residents and visitors are urged to check for signage and be extra cautious when visiting beaches, ocean pools, tracks and paths.

“Given the recent storm, swimmers and surfers should be extra cautious even at beaches that are open and appear safe,” said Mark Ferguson, General Manager Northern Beaches Council. 

“Safety for residents and visitors to our area is our first priority and while we want everyone to enjoy their visit to the Northern Beaches, we urge everyone to make safe choices and not enter areas that could put them risk.

“We also advise the public to be aware of pollution and storm debris that may surface, particularly at our beaches,” Mr Ferguson said.

Council has closed the following public places and facilities in the interest of public safety:

BEACHES

Narrabeen and Collaroy

South Narrabeen and Collaroy beach access is closed over the long weekend due to safety issues in accessing the beach and debris on the beach and in the water.

In the interest of the community’s safety, the public are prohibited from entering or walking along the beach between Devitt Street, Narrabeen and the Beach Services Club, Collaroy. This situation is being carefully monitored.

All other beaches

Manly Beach is being patrolled daily by lifeguards with usual practices in place, including lifeguards erecting flags at locations suitable for safe swimming or displaying signage to advise dangerous surf and beach closures.

All other beaches are unpatrolled.

OCEAN POOLS

Due to glass and other debris, the following pools will remain closed over the long weekend:

•Clontarf •Dee Why •Fairy Bower •Pickering Point (Seaforth)  •Queenscliff•Mona Vale •Newport •Whale Beach 

PATHWAYS & TRACKS 

Marine Parade (Shelly Beach walk) redirection

Marine Parade—between Bower Lane and Shelly Beach—is closedto the public. Shelly Beach and nearby facilities are open to the public and can be accessed via Bower Street.  Shelly Beach is not a patrolled beach and usual caution should be taken when entering the water.

Narrabeen Lagoon Trail

The portion of the trail between Bilarong Reserve and Middle Creek Reserve is closed.

Collaroy Beachside Promenade

A section of the promenade is closed.

Queenscliff pathway

The walkway beneath Queenscliff Bridge is closed.

MANLY DAM

The playground and Circuit, Heath, Evas and Curl Curl tracks are closed. The public picnic areas and mountain bike track are currently open.

Please report any new damage or unsafe situation on public land to our 24/7 customer service.

24 Hour Storm Hotline for Affected Residents

09 June, 2016

Northern Beaches Council has established a 24hour Storm Hotline - 9942 2557 - to assist storm and flood affected residents from Collaroy, Narrabeen and North Narrabeen.

The temporary Hotline will be manned by dedicated Council Customer Service staff and will operate for as long as there is a large influx of enquiries from affected residents. Council will prioritise these calls and will provide information as quickly as possible. Council has been working to support all those in the community affected by the storm.

Council appreciates the community’s patience with responses to enquiries and in the delivery of our normal services during the clean up phase.

Northern Beaches Disaster Recovery Information Centre

09 June 2016

A Disaster Recovery Information Centre will open at Council’s Customer Service Centre, at Mona Vale on Friday 10 June for residents who have been impacted by the recent storm.

Administrator Dick Persson said that Council had been working very closely with the Office of Emergency Management NSW to set up the centre, which will be a hub for information and advice on a range of government and welfare services.

“Resident safety will always be our first priority, but now that a few days has passed and we have a clearer idea of what we are dealing with, we are now able to help our community with rebuilding their lives,” said Mr Persson.

The Disaster Recovery Information Centre will operate from Friday 10-17 June. 

The Northern Beaches Council has also opened a temporary 24 hour Coastal Erosion Hotline for residents - 9942 2557.

The Disaster Recovery Information Centre will provide a range of services, these include: 

• Disaster Welfare Services

• SafeWork NSW

• NSW Fair Trading

• Housing NSW

• LegalAid

• NSW Health

• Insurance Council of Australia

• NRMA, CGU and Coles Insurance

• Red Cross

• Chaplains

Location: Northern Beaches Council - Customer Service Centre

1 Park Street, Mona Vale

Hours

Weekdays              9am-7pm

All long weekend    9am-4pm

Enquiries                9970 1666 

For those requiring assistance, representatives of key welfare, business and insurance agencies will be on hand, or via referral from the site to give help, advice and information to affected residents and business people.

Visit the Emergency NSW website: emergency.nsw.gov.au/publications/publications.htm

Storm Damage - Clean Up: Council Services

June 7, 2016

We are extremely concerned for the residents as the East Coast of Australia continues to be hit by storms, high tides and massive swells.

We feel for the affected families on the Northern Beaches and are working with authorities to ensure their safety. We’re also very concerned about the properties that are in danger.  Houses and businesses with and without seawalls are now threatened.  I will be meeting with the most severely affected residents and land owners today.  Council has provided emergency accommodation for the affected residents.

We also are very concerned about the medium to long term protection of properties and critical infrastructure on the Northern Beaches.

We have been in advanced discussions with the Premier, Mike Baird MP, the Minister for Family and Community Services, Brad Hazzard MP. and the Minister for Planning, Rob Stokes MP. to establish a coordinated approach to these issues.   With the severity and frequency of storms increasing globally it is important that we have a collaborative and considered response at all levels of government with the community.

I’d like to thank staff who have been working around the clock to help protect the community and recover from the storm.

Council has responded to approximately 400 calls from the public for assistance. To assist with the clean-up, Council has put on a range of extra waste services.

Extra waste services will be put in place over the coming weeks. Council will endeavour to clean up the waste as soon as possible. Please follow these guidelines. 

Vegetation clean up services

Assistance and additional services for vegetation clean up will be provided for residents:

• Please use existing green-lidded bin services for vegetation waste where possible

• Call Customer Service for additional collections if needed

• Leave vegetation on the kerbside in manageable stacks or in vegetation bins (no plastic bags please)

• Larger branches will be collected separately from the kerbside

• Take excess vegetation waste to Kimbriki Resource Recovery Centre for free disposal. Residents will also need to quote ‘Storm Damage’ when passing the weighbridge and show proof of residence.

General Waste Services

Assistance and additional services for other storm damage (household materials) and general waste disposal will be provided for residents.

• Please use existing re-lidded bin services for small general waste items and food where possible.

• For excessive amounts of spoiled food due to flooding or power outages call customer service to arrange a collection. 

• For disposal of larger items, such as water damaged furniture, carpet and other household material residents can:

- place items on the kerb and call customer service to arrange a collection, or

- take items to Kimbriki Resource Recovery Centre for free disposal. Residents will also need to quote ‘Storm Damage’ when passing the weighbridge and show proof of residence.

Please call the Council by 14 June 2016 to book your waste pick up

Former Manly                   (02) 9976 1500

Former Warringah           (02) 9942 2111

Former Pittwater             (02) 9970 1111

For those experiencing electrical wires down in your street or near your home, please contact Ausgrid Emergency on 13 13 88.

To report fallen trees on public land that are posing a risk to safety; flooding as a result of drainage issues on public land or damage to public buildings or Council infrastructure, please call one of our Customer Service Centres by phone or via our social media channels:

Residents are advised to contact the SES on 132 500 for emergency assistance for property damage on private land or for trees on private land causing damage.

Dick Persson, Administrator 

Strong Sunday Surf Forecast For NSW

June 11, 2016: SLS NSW

Swimmers, surfers, and rockfishers looking to take a break from the clean-up of last week by hitting the water are urged to be vigilant with powerful surf conditions expected to hit the NSW coastline from tomorrow.

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a dangerous surf warning for the coastline between Jervis Bay in the state’s south through to the Queensland border.

Swells are expected to increase in intensity throughout the early hours of Sunday peaking at over 3 metres along much of the coast by mid-morning.

Conditions are likely to remain challenging throughout the remainder of the day with the large southerly swell expected to ease into Monday.

Along with the strong swells that have been forecast, rock fishers in particular need to be aware that a long period swell of between 10-12 seconds is expected.

After a suspected drowning at Bondi Beach earlier this week, lifesaving manager Andy Kent has again reminded the public that there are no volunteer lifesavers on patrol during winter and is urging those heading to the beach to visit beachsafe.org.au to find a beach that is patrolled by Council Lifeguards.

“The public needs to be aware that while our callout teams are ready to respond to coastal emergencies, we strongly advise people to think carefully before entering the water.”

Mr Kent said there are a number of ways people can protect themselves while enjoying coastal activities during winter and urges the public to not overestimate their abilities or underestimate the conditions.

“The best advice we can give people is to be aware of their environment. Take the time to study a recent weather forecast before heading out and let others know what your plans are.

“Once you get to beach if you have any doubt about your abilities in the conditions it is best not to go out. As we saw last week conditions can change extremely quickly, and the ocean needs to be respected,” he concluded.

A number of beaches will remain patrolled around NSW throughout the winter months by Council Lifeguards. Please see www.beachsafe.org.au for a full list of these patrolled locations. Volunteer lifesavers will return for the commencement of the 2016/17 season from Saturday September 24.

General Safety Tips During Dangerous Surf Conditions:

Avoid rock fishing and water activities on exposed beaches/rock-shelves

Only swim at patrolled beaches, between the red & yellow flags. Seewww.beachsafe.org.au for patrolled locations/times

Check the official Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) forecast before undertaking rock fishing and water activities

Boaties should seek advice from Marine Rescue NSW and always wear a lifejacket If witnessing an in-water emergency dial Triple Zero – Police

Rising Drowning Toll Prompts Safety Plea

June 17, 2016 - BY SLS NSW

After two rock fishing deaths in the last week alone, and the highest NSW coastal drowning toll in five years, Surf Life Saving, Police, and Marine Rescue NSW are pleading with the public to be vigilant when near the water.

There have been 48 coastal drownings recorded in NSW waters during the 2015/16 season with rock fishing accounting for eight of them.

In the latest incidents the body of a 53-year-old man who drowned while rock fishing was recovered at Whale Beach in Sydney on Sunday, while a search for a man aged in his 20s who went missing at Red Rock on the state’s North Coast on Thursday is ongoing.

Neither man was wearing a lifejacket.

In the last five years in NSW there have been 44 deaths attributed to the popular pastime. With new legislation mandating the use of lifejackets soon to be introduced, lifesavers have called on rock fishers to take their own safety seriously.

“Any drowning is a tragedy but what is incredibly frustrating is the fact that so many rock fishing incidents are preventable by wearing a lifejacket,” said NSW Lifesaving Manger Andy Kent.

“A lifejacket is not a fashion item, it’s an essential piece of rescue equipment which could buy you the extra time needed for rescuers to arrive.”

Marine Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner Dean Storey has stressed the need for greater personal responsibility and to make simple safety measures part of any water activity.

“Weather forecasts are easily accessible, safety advice is available from Surf Life Saving and Marine Rescue NSW, and lifejackets are cheap and non-intrusive. The current drowning rate is unnecessary and completely preventable – a culture change is required regarding water safety in our state.”

NSW Police Marine Area Commander, Superintendent Mark Hutchings, has echoed these calls, urging the community to take extra care and prioritise safety on the water this weekend. "The key to water safety is assessing the environment and taking simple precautions.

Whether you're going to the beach, river or lake, it's important to know the conditions and possible hazards as their appearance may very well be deceiving,” Supt Hutchings said.

"For those out boating or rock fishing, please always remember your most important piece of safety equipment is a life jacket. You should also make inquiries and check weather conditions before you leave home,” Supt Hutchings said.

"I urge anyone planning to head out into the water or on the water to heed our safety advice, and the advice of surf lifesavers and maritime authorities.

"We're not trying to spoil anyone's fun – our top priority is keeping you safe."

The Bureau of Meteorology is monitoring a weather system that could potentially bring more powerful surf conditions and winds to the coast on Sunday and swimmers, surfers, fishers and watercraft users are advised to check forecasts.

A number of beaches will remain patrolled around NSW throughout the winter months by Council Lifeguards. Please see www.beachsafe.org.au for a full list of these patrolled locations. Volunteer lifesavers will return for the commencement of the 2016/17 season from Saturday September 24.

General Rock Fishing Safety Tips:

• Check the weather, surf conditions and tides before going fishing

• Tell someone where you are going and when you will be back

• Always wear a lifejacket

• Wear appropriate non-slip footwear and light clothing

• Always fish with a friend

• Check the warnings signs for information about the area – especially as there are no volunteer lifesavers on duty this time of the year

• Never turn your back to the water

• Do not try and retrieve anything that has fallen into the water

• Do not jump in if someone falls into the water - wait for assistance or throw an ‘Angel Ring’ or Lifebuoy if there is one nearby

• Additionally boaters are urged to always check conditions prior and to log on with their local Marine Rescue Base via radio or using the MarineRescue App see www.mrnsw.com.au for more information

• Call Triple Zero – Police to report an in-water emergency

Photo: NSW Lifesaving Manager, Andy Kent speaking to media alongside NSW Police Marine Area Commander, Superintendent Mark Hutchings and Marine Rescue NSW Deputy Commissioner Dean Storey at Tamarama on Friday 17 June 2016.

_____________________________

Rock Fisherman Dies At Whale Beach

Sunday, 12 Jun 2016- SLS NSW
Lifesavers from Avalon Beach and North Palm Beach Surf Clubs and Branch support operations have assisted the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter in recovering the body of a rock fisher believed to have drowned at Whale Beach on Sydney’s Northern Beaches on Sunday.

It is understood that the 53-year-old male had headed to the rock platform at the southern end of the beach at around 12pm yesterday.

When he didn’t return home concerns were raised for his welfare ,and his son discovered his father’s vehicle abandoned in a car park early on Sunday.

At the scene Police discovered the man’s body near rocks and requested the assistance of lifesaving assets to help in the recovery efforts.

An Inflatable Rescue Boat from Avalon Beach, and a jet ski from North Palm Beach went to the scene where the Westpac Helicopter was able to retrieve the patient and transport him back to Palm Beach.

The man was not wearing a lifejacket and the circumstances in which he entered the water are not known.

Lifesaving Manager Andy Kent says this is another sad but preventable rock fishing tragedy.

"A dangerous surf warning was issued yesterday and as always we remind rock fishers to check forecasts, don't fish alone and above all else wear a lifejacket," said Mr Kent.

Police investigations are continuing at North Palm Beach with a report to be prepared for the coroner.

Federal Election Pre-polling Open

Pre polling opened on June 14 and will continue as listed below at 
Bungan Court Shop 9, 13 Waratah St
Mona Vale
Assisted wheelchair access

Monday 20 June – Thursday 23 June (8:30 – 17:30)
Friday 24 June (8:30 – 18:00)
Saturday 25 June (9:00 – 16:00)
Monday 27 June – Tuesday 28 June (8:30 – 17:30)
Wednesday 29 June (8:30 – 18:00)
Thursday 30 June (8:30 – 17:30)
Friday 1 July (8:30 – 18:00)

Picture – at Mona Vale earlier this week
IRB Surf Lifesavers Set To Race In Sydney

June 14, 2016: SLS NSW
More than 270 surf lifesavers will travel to South Maroubra SLSC this weekend for Round 4 of the NSW IRB (Inflatable Rescue Boat) Premiership.

Crews will be eager to finish the last round of the Premiership Series strongly as Round 3 at the picturesque Birubi Point SLSC was cancelled due to the recent powerful surf conditions.

This weekend will see the overall winning club of the IRB Premiership take home an IRB motor thanks to Lakeside Marine.

It’s not just prizes that will bring the best out in the competitors, with crews gearing up for next month’s NSW and Australian Championships to be held at Mollymook SLSC on the state’s south coast.

Leading into final round of the NSW IRB Premiership Kiama Downs, Caves Beach and Queenscliff round out the top three, closely followed by North Cronulla, Catherine Hill Bay and this weekend’s hosts South Maroubra.

South Maroubra SLSC Chairman, Paul Fownes says the club as well as its IRB racing team are very much looking forward to hosting the event and having the home beach advantage.

“One of the reasons we have undertaken this project was to bring IRB racing to Sydney and support our own crews who have had a strong representation over the last 15 years,” Paul Fownes said.

“It makes a nice change not having to travel for our IRB teams. We’re seeing IRB racing all over regional NSW and that requires overnight stays and I think the team will thrive in their own conditions and the fact that they don’t need to travel is all beneficial for their preparations.”

Having not hosted an IRB event for more than 15 years, South Maroubra members have put a lot of planning and time into this weekend and they’re expecting a great weekend of competition.

“We’ve had a lot of experience running major events like the State Championships so we’re comfortable that everything is ready to go. We should have a great event on one of Sydney’s best surf beaches,” Paul Fownes said.

Surf Life Saving NSW Sports Manager, Rob Pidgeon says the quality of racing throughout the IRB Premiership is a credit to the amount of training the surf lifesavers undergo.

“As IRB Racing simulates real life rescues, it’s amazing to see competitors build up their skill level each time they’re in the rubber ducks,” Rob Pidgeon said.

“South Maroubra is an ideal location and we’re thankful for all the work they have put in leading up to Round 4 of the NSW IRB Premiership and wish crews the best of luck.”

Round 4 of the NSW IRB Premiership at South Maroubra is set to kick off at 8am on Saturday 18 June.

IRB Premiership Round 4 entries:
Avalon Beach, Bungan Beach, Catherine Hill Bay, Caves Beach, Coogee, Cooks Hill, Elouera, Kiama Downs, Maroubra, Newcastle, Newport, Nobbys, North Avoca, North Cronulla, North Curl Curl, Ocean Beach, Queenscliff, South Maroubra, Stockton, Terrigal, Thirroul, Wamberal and Woonona.

Elanora Players Present The Cemetery Club

“I hope I look as good as you when I am your age.” “You did!”

Ivan Menchell's appealingly bittersweet comedy, The Cemetery Club is Elanora Players’ current production. This hilarious play mixes humour and pathos and is one not to be missed. This will be the ninth show directed by Wade Orth with EP.

Three widows meet once a month for tea before going to visit their husband's graves. Each woman is in a different stage of healing and moving on with her life. Ida is sweet tempered and ready to begin a new life, Lucille is a feisty embodiment of the girl who just wants to have fun, and Doris is priggish and judgemental, particularly when a possible love interest enters the scene. The three friends make it a habit to meet regularly at the graves of their husbands and talk about perspectives in their lives.

The women are bound together by their hurt, their healing and the discovery that they are more alike than they believed. It is a story of emotional strength and endurance. 

The lead roles are played by Wendy Starkie, Fiona Connolly and Vicki Castorina. You will grow to love these characters and perhaps see a little of yourself in them. Martin Oakley and Chris Richardson round out the cast and all will be familiar to regular audiences.

There are only nine performances – July 8-17 - and already many tickets have been sold. The matinee shows are the particularly popular ones. Tickets are $25/ $22. Phone 9982 7364 orelanorabookings@bigpond.com.
Danger from extreme storms, high seas to rise, warn Australian researchers - Storms that battered Australia's east coast are a harbinger of things to come

June 8 and June 14, 2016: University of New South Wales

Damaged homes along the foreshore of Sydney's Collaroy Beach, hit by powerful storms in early June. Credit: Mitchell Harley/UNSW

Storms that battered Australia's east coast are a harbinger of things to come and a stark reminder of the need for a national effort to monitor the growing threat from climate change, UNSW coastal researchers warn.
"The damage we've seen is a harbinger of what's to come," said Ian Turner, Director of the Water Research Laboratory at the University of New South Wales. "Climate change is not only raising the oceans and threatening foreshores, but making our coastlines much more vulnerable to storm damage. What are king high tides today will be the norm within decades."

Turner's lab manages one of the world's longest-running beach erosion research programs, at Collaroy and Narrabeen in Sydney, using drones, real-time satellite positioning, fixed cameras, and airborne LiDAR and quadbikes. The variability, changes and trends in coastal erosion at the beaches have been tracked since 1976.

But the data collected by the UNSW team is only reliable for modelling when it comes to predicting effects in southeastern Australia. For the vast bulk of Australia's 25,760 km long coastline, researchers -- and the governments and coastal communities they advise -- are largely making guesses based on limited or non-existent data, say researchers.
"The wealth of data we've collected over decades makes our models of coastal variability increasingly more reliable -- but only for a 500 km stretch of southeastern Australia," Turner added. "But when it comes to modelling other parts of Australia, in many locations we are basically working blind.

"There are very different coasts across the country exposed to very different conditions, and we just don't have the observational data we need to make predictions with any great confidence," he said. "For that, we need a national approach."

The long-term data from the UNSW program has been crucial in understanding how climate change is changing Australia's coasts, recently showing that El Niño and La Niña cycles will intensify coastal hazards, leading to changes in behaviour of storms, extreme coastal flooding and erosion in populated regions across the Pacific.

As a result, estimates of coastal vulnerability -- which once focussed on sea level rise -- now have to factor in changing patterns of storm erosion, more intense storms, and other coastal effects.

Dr Mitchell Harley, a Senior Research Associate at the Lab who manages the Narrabeen-Collaroy program, said that beach erosion and coastal variability has been found to be a lot more complex than had originally thought, partly thanks to insights from the UNSW data.

"It's now clear that sea level rise is not the only player in climate change: shifts in storm patterns and wave direction also have consequences, and distort or amplify the natural variability of coastal patterns," Harley said.
Turner added, "These are precisely the conditions we experienced in Sydney over the past weekend -- waves from the north-east, combined with unusually high sea levels brought on by king tides wreaked considerable damage. And, as sea levels rise, even ordinary tides will reach higher. What we consider king high tides today will be commonplace within decades."

In 2014, Australian coastal researchers called for the creation of a national coastline observatory, with basic data -- such as sub-aerial profiles, bathymetry and inshore wave forcing measurements -- collected routinely from a network of around 20 'representative' beaches across Australia.
This would provide valuable data that could be used to more accurately model how Australia's more than 11,000 beaches are changing, and predict how they will respond as climate change sets in.
The long experience gained by UNSW in Sydney's Northern Beaches "gives us a template of what can be achieved across Australia," said Turner. "But without consistent and national observational data -- from very different regions like the tropical north, or the highly energetic southwestern coastlines, or the Indian Ocean coastlines of Western Australia -- it's of little value. To say we have blindspots is an understatement."

Harley agreed, adding: "For the great majority of Australia's coastlines, we don't have observations for how they are behaving now -- let alone any clear idea how they might respond to increasing variability in the future. We see it happening at Narrabeen-Collaroy, and can therefore predict it for this part of Australia. But elsewhere, we're largely operating in the dark."

Pre storm data collected by the WRL coastal team and collaborators include:

  • Shoreline positions measured remotely every 30 minutes by the of Narrabeen-Collaroy coastal imaging station;
  • Airborne LiDAR surveys at 20 critical and sites located between Sydney and Coffs Harbour (undertaken four days prior to storm by the UNSW School of Aviation);
  • High-density UAV (drone) point-cloud data of the entire Narrabeen-Collaroy embayment, including the dunes and beach face;
  • RTK-GPS cross-shore profiles at long-term monitoring locations (Narrabeen-Collaroy, Bilgola,  Mona Vale  and Dee Why);
  • Three-dimensional survey of the entire Narrabeen Collaroy embayment using an All-Terrain-Vehicle mounted with RTK-GPS;
  • High-frequency LiDAR scans of a single transect located in front of the Flight Deck Building at Narrabeen;Offshore bathymetry measurements using a jet-ski at Narrabeen-Collaroy, Bilgola and
  •  Mona Vale beaches (undertaken by the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage); and
  • Nearshore deployment of WRL’s mini waverider buoy by OEH in 10m water depth in front of the Flight Deck Building at Collaroy.

During the storm event, WRL’s coastal monitoring team were quick to utilise all available datasets for real-time assessment of the rapidly evolving beach conditions. When the extreme conditions subsided, it was found that the beach shifted an incredible 50m in width due to the storms, which is the most eroded in 40 years of measurements. 

The above is reprinted from materials provided by University of New South Wales. The original item was written by Wilson da Silva. 

Boards Wanted

Gary Cook from Newport SLSC is seeking assistance from Clubs who may have some surplus, unwanted or superseded Boards in reasonable condition(Nippers and or Rescue/ normal size) they could perhaps donate to a small satellite Nippers Group The Lake Jindabyne "Yabbies" .

This group of about 40 kids of varying ages do not get much help and any assistance provided would be very much appreciated by them. Gary is willing to collect any donations from clubs and will arrange transport down to Jindabyne in due course. 

Email address is garycook1@optusnet.com.au or Mobile 0418 296 180 for any enquiries.

Artists and sculptors sought for Wildflower Garden Festival

14 June 2016: From Ku-ring-gai Council
Up to $5000 in cash prizes are on offer to artists and sculptors who can create sustainable artworks for a sculpture walk at the Wildflower Garden Festival in August.

This year’s Festival will be held on Sunday 28 August from 9am to 4pm at the Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden, 420 Mona Vale Road, St Ives.
After the success of the inaugural sculpture walk in Ku-ring-gai Council’s Wildflower Art and Garden Festival last year, the environmentally- themed walk will be on again.

A total pool of $5000 in prize money will be offered to works that adhere to the theme of ‘Environmental Sustainability’. Artists and sculptors are asked to demonstrate the use of recycled materials in their artworks, which should be sympathetic to the Garden’s bushland environment.
Additionally artists will be encouraged to paint ‘en plein air’ during the Festival and the event will host a variety of art and craft stalls in the expanded Artisan’s Market.

Other features of this year’s Festival include talks by horticultural experts, native plant sales, wildflower displays, guided walks, exhibits by local businesses, food and drink stalls, a trackless train, pond dip netting, music and dance, children’s craft workshops , story-telling and an Australian wildlife display.

Artists as well as potential performers and stallholders can find out more about applying on Ku-ring-gai Council’s website atkmc.nsw.gov.au/wildflowergarden 
For enquiries about the sculpture walk and Festival call 9424 0354.

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Fundraising Dates 2016

STALLS

Pittwater Place - First Saturday of the month 

Knitting, Sewing, Craft & Bric-a-Brac

Saturday:       4th July,1st August,5th September,3rd October,7th November, 5th December - 9.00am - 3.00pm

Hospital Foyer - Third Friday of the month

Knitting, Sewing, Craft & Baking - 

Friday:   14th July,14th August,18th September,16th October,20th November, 9.00am - 3.00pm

Avalon Parade  ~ 4th September

Sausage Sizzle - Bunnings Car Park - Narrabeen

Saturday:  11th July,8th August,12th September,10th October,14th November,12th December

Easier building and renos with new code

12.06.2016: Ministerial Media Release - The Hon. Rob Stokes MP, Minister for Planning
New simplified planning rules have been put on exhibition to make building and renovating easier.
 
Planning Minister Rob Stokes said the proposed new Housing Code sets out clear and simple rules for works that can be carried out as complying development, allowing them to be fast-tracked.
 
“These changes will mean the community can build or renovate their home with less time, less money, less paperwork and less frustration,” Mr Stokes said.
 
“A picture can be worth a thousand words, and this new Housing Code will contain diagrams and simplified explanations to do away with large blocks of text and better illustrate key controls that must be met when building or renovating.
   
“Simplifying the code will mean you can build a house or add a bedroom without needing to be a planning expert or a lawyer to understand the rules.”
 
Complying development is a fast-tracked development assessment process that allows certain works that meet set standards to be approved without a full development application.
 
Approvals for complying development are issued within 22 days on average. This compares with development applications taking an average 71 days.
 
In 2014-15, complying development accounted for about one third of all development approvals. More than $5.2 billion worth of development was approved through complying development, an increase of 18 per cent on the previous year.
 
The proposed changes are now on exhibition for the public to provide feedback. Submissions will close on August 12.
 
You can review the amendments to the Housing Code at:  www.planning.nsw.gov.au/proposals  

2016 Northern Beaches Instrumental Festival - June 15 to 26

The aim of the Festival is to provide a formal, non-competitive performance opportunity for ensembles that is a positive and encouraging experience.

The Festival for Concert bands and string ensembles is held in June, towards the end of Term 2 at Pittwater High School and the Stage band festival is held in August. The entire festival is hosted by the Northern Beaches Symphonic Wind Ensemble, which is a non for profit co-operative and all proceeds from the festival go back into community music.

Performances are held in small blocks of ensembles so that the students will have the opportunity to listen to other groups. Students remain in the hall with their ensemble for all the performances in their time allocation. (This will be approximately 1-1.5 hours in total). This gives every ensemble performing a large and interested audience.

Schools entering more than one ensemble will have each one programmed in a separate block. The intention is for students and their families to have the opportunity to listen to groups from other schools. Within each block we will also vary the nominated levels of the ensembles to avoid direct comparisons. While professional feedback is provided this is not a competition but a festival celebrating our music making on the Northern Beaches and beyond.

Each ensemble will perform 3 pieces at an appropriate grade. Their performance will be recorded for their future use and a short workshop by an experienced appraiser will be held on stage at the conclusion of their performance. The appraiser also makes comment on the recording.

Availability of tickets.

Non performing audience members can purchase tickets at the door for $5.00 per adult, $3.00 concession or $10.00 per family. These tickets are valid for the entire festival and entitle the holder to entry to the Gala Concert. Tickets are not available for pre-purchase.

List of participants (as at 3 June 2016) in PDF

Find out more at: http://www.snbswe.org.au/ - 

2016 Program in PDF:

Commercial Fisheries Business Adjustment Program

The NSW Government’s Commercial Fisheries Business Adjustment Program introduces linkages between shares and catch or effort. This will give fishers the ability to invest in their businesses with more certainty than ever before. Importantly, share linkages have been tailored to each share class.  
Under the Business Adjustment Program, some commercial fishers may want to purchase more shares to secure their level of business activity, while others may choose to sell their shares and exit the industry. There is a range of assistance measures available to help industry through this transition process.

Inpatient Facility at Mona Vale Hospital Update

Update on the Palliative Care Inpatient Facility is that the optimal location on the Mona Vale hospital campus is being chosen and the provider will be selected.

Parry Thomas, chairman of the working group, has resigned form that position. We are grateful for his leadership, his inspiration and his skills that significantly contributed to achievement thus far. We welcome Kay Millar, who goes forward in the role.

Rotary Gift

Thanks to the combined Rotary Cubs of the northern beaches for their gift of more than $3000.00. FONB has purchased equipment that will significantly enhance the work of the Palliative Care clinic and support patients being cared for at home. 

Classy Boot Sale

Calling for ‘Royal Doulton’ and ‘Lalique’ that may be languishing, unloved, in the nether regions of your cupboards. Books, once read and now consigned to oblivion, will find new bibliophiles to cherish them. Jewellery, tarnishing and forgotten, will adorn fresh fashionistas. They will be welcomed for the FONB posh boot sale, Narrabeen High school, Sunday 28th of August. Call Norma 9918 4929.

Trivia at Pittwater RSL for Northern Beaches Prostrate Cancer Support Group – Sunday June 26th, 2016

Entry $5.00. all profits donated to Prostrate Cancer Research.

Big BBQ: Sunday 18th of September, 2016

Northern Beaches Prostrate Cancer Support Group will hold its biannual BIG BBQ with classic car displays, musical performances, jumping castle for children, market stalls, cake sale, raffle, and sausage sizzle. Gold coin entry on the day

From - Friends of Northern Beaches Palliative Care Newsletter: June 2016 – Winter Edition.

Round 4 of the Organics Infrastructure (large and small) grants program now open

Media release: 14 June 2016 - EPA
Round 4 of the Organics Infrastructure (large and small) grants program is open for applications. Grants between $25,000 and $5 million are available to build or supply the infrastructure needed to divert food and organic garden waste from landfill.

The program is being delivered in partnership with the Environmental Trust, as part of the $465.7 million Waste Less Recycle More program. Applications are invited from local councils, industry, business and not-for-profit organisations.

EPA Chair and CEO, Barry Buffier said the aim of the program is to increase infrastructure and equipment to increase recycling capacity for food and garden waste in NSW or improve opportunities to redistribute good food to people in need.

“This program is part of a comprehensive strategy underway in NSW to get food and garden waste out of landfill.

“It includes education through Love Food Hate Waste, new green-lid kerbside collection services and this funding for infrastructure to redistribute good food to people need or recycle avoidable food waste into compost.

“Now in this fourth and final round, I encourage organisations who have not yet applied for an infrastructure grant and who have projects that can be substantially completed by June next year to put in an application.”

Applications are invited across three streams:
Stream 1         Food and Garden Organics Processing
For major equipment and infrastructure at processing facilities to process morefood and/or garden waste collected from households and businesses.
Stream 2         Business Organics Recycling
For equipment, like composting systems and commercial worm farms, to process food and/or garden waste onsite at large businesses or institutions like prisons, hospitals, universities and aged care.
Stream 3         Food Donation
To fund infrastructure, like vans, fridges and freezers, to enable food relief agencies to collect and redistribute more surplus food from businesses to people in need.

Environmental Trust Senior Grants Manager, Peter Dixon said applications are open for Round 4 until Wednesday 13 July 2016.

“The Trust has a long history in working with Local Government, industry, non-government organisations and community groups in tackling waste, recycling and sustainability issues.

“This program, focussed on organics recovery, is helping to build the capacity in NSW to do something better with food and garden waste than dumping it in landfill.”

More information about Waste Less, Recycle More and how to apply for an Organics Infrastructure (large and small) grant is available here: http://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/wastegrants/organic-large-small.htm

Nominate Your Local Heroes and Admirable Aussies for Awards

Australians are being asked to nominate their local heroes and admirable Australians for the 2017 Australian of the Year Awards.

The Australian of the Year Awards rely on the public to submit nominations for fellow Australians they would like to see recognised by the Awards.

There are four Awards categories:

Australian of the Year

Senior of the Year (65 years and over)

Young Australian (16 - 30 years)

Australia’s Local Hero

Nominations can be made at australianoftheyear.org.au until midnight 7 August 2016.

Ben Roberts-Smith VC MG, Chairman of the National Australia Day Council, encouraged the public to get involved and nominate people who are worthy of attention.

“Nominations from the public are vitally important – it’s the public who know the people doing great things in our communities,” said Mr Roberts-Smith.

“The Awards recognise 128 people nationally each year – people from diverse backgrounds around the nation who contribute in many different ways. They’re volunteers, charity founders, advocates for those in need, people who’ve overcome their own challenges to help others, pioneers who’ve made a difference, young people looking to create a brighter future and achievers with a sense of community.  Most of all, they are one of us.

“Throughout the 56-year history of the Australian of the Year Awards, there’s a wealth of people whose contributions or achievements have been of benefit to others – from humble heroes such as ‘Angel of the Gap’ Don Ritchie and foster mum Lynne Sawyers to high achievers like Ian Frazer and Fiona Stanley whose scientific developments have had global impact.

“The four Awards categories - Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year and Australia’s Local Hero - are equal in their importance and allow us to honour people across a range of areas.

“It only takes one nomination for an individual to be in the running for the Awards, but they must be nominated.  Don’t assume someone you know of may have been nominated already – if we don’t receive a nomination for someone, we can’t consider them for the Awards.”

Nominations can be made online at australianoftheyear.org.au.

If you do not have access to the internet, you can call the National Australia Day Council on 02 6120 0600 for assistance to submit a nomination.

The Australian of the Year awards celebrate the achievements of inspirational Australians.

As Principal Partner, Commonwealth Bank, is proud to have supported the Awards for more than 36 years.

“We are delighted to continue our long standing partnership with the Australian of the Year Awards. We look forward to seeing which remarkable Australians are nominated in 2017,” said Ian Narev, Chief Executive Officer, Commonwealth Bank.

Northern Beaches Declared Natural Disaster Zone

June 8, 2016

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today said the Northern Beaches is among 37 local government areas across NSW to be declared a natural disaster zone.

The joint declaration has been made by the State and Federal Government in response to the damaging storms which swept across the northern beaches over the weekend and means financial assistance is now activated for local families, small businesses, community organisations and the Northern Beaches Council.

“Unfortunately parts of our community are among the most affected areas in NSW,” Rob Stokes said today.

“The amount of damage and disruption we’ve seen is frightening and many families are still doing it really tough.

“Whilst most of the attention is on coastal properties damaged by the ocean surge – there’s many other properties impacted by damaged roofs and flooding.

“With the clean-up now underway the State and Federal Governments are seeking to provide financial assistance to those with limited means to recover on their own.

“Our local emergency service personnel have done an outstanding job – but there’s still lots more work to do.

“Essential council infrastructure is among the key priorities and support is now available to assist with rebuilding and repair works.

“Information on the disaster assistance programs which have now been activated is available by visiting www.emergency.nsw.gov.au ,” Rob Stokes said.

NSW IODA East Coast Championship on Pittwater June 11 to 12, 2016

09 June, 2016

The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club is excited to be hosting this year’s NSW IODA East Coast Championship which will see the Optimist Classes and Laser 4.7 Class compete on Pittwater. There are over 120 competitors entered in this years ECC. 

If you're out on the estuary today (Sunday 12th), that's why there's so many OPtis and Lasers about!

Boards Wanted

Gary Cook from Newport SLSC is seeking assistance from Clubs who may have some surplus, unwanted or superseded Boards in reasonable condition(Nippers and or Rescue/ normal size) they could perhaps donate to a small satellite Nippers Group The Lake Jindabyne "Yabbies" .

This group of about 40 kids of varying ages do not get much help and any assistance provided would be very much appreciated by them. Gary is willing to collect any donations from clubs and will arrange transport down to Jindabyne in due course. 

Email address is garycook1@optusnet.com.au or Mobile 0418 296 180 for any enquiries.

NSW Government Funding to Commence $90M Upgrade of Mona Vale Road East

June 10, 2016 

The long awaited $90 million upgrade of Mona Vale Road between Mona Vale and Ingleside will now get underway with funding in the NSW Government’s 2016-17 Budget.

$10.5m will be allocated to progress the 3.2km project, between Foley Street at Mona Vale and Manor Road at Ingleside, from planning and design to construction. 

A further $3 million will be allocated to finalise environmental assessment and advance road design for the western section of Mona Vale Road between Powderworks Road at Ingleside and McCarrs Creek Road at Terrey Hills. 

“This is fantastic news for our community and a huge leap forward for this long-awaited project,” Rob Stokes said. 

“Design works, geotechnical assessments and property acquisitions have been undertaken over recent years and the project will now proceed towards construction.

“For decades our community has be screaming out for major improvements to safety and travel flow along Mona Vale Road and we’ll soon be underway.”

Minister for Roads Duncan Gay said the Mona Vale Road East Upgrade had been approved in December 2015 and will improve safety, reduce travel times and provide enormous benefits to the local community.

“With this new investment, we’re now ‘cracking on’ with getting the 3.2km eastern section of Mona Vale Road upgraded from two to four lanes and various safety improvements introduced.

“The upgrade will bring great benefits to the community and is due for completion in 2020.”

“Later this year the NSW Government will be asking the community to provide feedback on the review of environmental factors and species impact statement for the upgrade of the western section of Mona Vale Road between Ingleside and Terrey Hills,’ Mr Gay said.


Bills Assented to This Week:

Coastal Management Act 2016 No 20 — Assented to 07 June 2016

National Parks and Wildlife Amendment (Adjustment of Areas) Act 2016 No 21 — Assented to 07 June 2016

See Issue 266 pages:

Bill To Facilitate Mona Vale Road Upgrades Passes: Vital Fauna Bridge Discussed - Stage 3, Mona Vale Road Upgrade- West, one step closer

Pittwater Mens Probus Club: June 2016 Speaker

Tuesday 14th June 2015 at 11 a.m.

The Royal Botanic Gardens - 200 Years - Speaker: Geoff Richards

The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is a major botanical garden located in the heart of Sydney. Opened in 1816, the garden is the oldest scientific institution in Australia and one of the most important historic botanical institutions in the world. It is open every day of the year and access is free. Its stunning position on Sydney Harbour and immediately adjacent to the Sydney CBD, the Sydney Opera House and the large public parklands of The Domain ensure it is one of the most visited attractions in Sydney

Our speaker is our own Geoff Richards. Geoff is a member of the Botanic Gardens Foundation and Friends and has an in-depth knowledge of the history of the Gardens. Members will remember Geoff's past presentations and this meeting is most timely with the Gardens celebrating its 200th anniversary.

Partners welcome. Mona Vale Golf Club.

Find out more: probus.pittwater.org.au/

Upcoming Events

Mid-year Lunch Wednesday, June 22nd

St Patricks, Manly

Our Probus mid-year lunch is at 12.00 noon on Wednesday, June 22, 2016 at St Patricks International School of Management on Darley Road, Manly

2016 Northern Beaches Instrumental Festival - June 15 to 26

The aim of the Festival is to provide a formal, non-competitive performance opportunity for ensembles that is a positive and encouraging experience.

The Festival for Concert bands and string ensembles is held in June, towards the end of Term 2 at Pittwater High School and the Stage band festival is held in August. The entire festival is hosted by the Northern Beaches Symphonic Wind Ensemble, which is a non for profit co-operative and all proceeds from the festival go back into community music.

Performances are held in small blocks of ensembles so that the students will have the opportunity to listen to other groups. Students remain in the hall with their ensemble for all the performances in their time allocation. (This will be approximately 1-1.5 hours in total). This gives every ensemble performing a large and interested audience.

Schools entering more than one ensemble will have each one programmed in a separate block. The intention is for students and their families to have the opportunity to listen to groups from other schools. Within each block we will also vary the nominated levels of the ensembles to avoid direct comparisons. While professional feedback is provided this is not a competition but a festival celebrating our music making on the Northern Beaches and beyond.

Each ensemble will perform 3 pieces at an appropriate grade. Their performance will be recorded for their future use and a short workshop by an experienced appraiser will be held on stage at the conclusion of their performance. The appraiser also makes comment on the recording.

Availability of tickets.

Non performing audience members can purchase tickets at the door for $5.00 per adult, $3.00 concession or $10.00 per family. These tickets are valid for the entire festival and entitle the holder to entry to the Gala Concert. Tickets are not available for pre-purchase.

List of participants (as at 3 June 2016) in PDF

Find out more at: http://www.snbswe.org.au/ - 

2016 Program in PDF:

Amnesty International Australia, Avalon Group NSW: Mackellar Forum

Amnesty International (Avalon) and the Avalon Baptist Peace Church are sponsoring a  Human Rights Forum with Mackellar Candidates:

Mike Hall (Greens)

Rhonda Funnell (ALP)

Julie Hegarty (Ind)

We hope more candidates might accept – we’ll let you know

Tuesday 14th June 6.45 pm for 7 pm sharp.

Avalon Baptist Church, 2 George Street Avalon

Topics

1. Indigenous matters: Child and youth incarceration; Closing the Gap.

2. Domestic violence

3. Promotion of rights of people with disabilities

4. Asylum Seekers and Refugees: increasing refugee annual intake; ending offshore detention

5. Marriage equality

6. Protect civil liberties and dissent threatened by Anti-Protest Laws

7. Role in global campaign to end death penalty

8. End military trade with Israel under Arms Trade Treaty

There will be an Open Question Session after the main topics are addressed,

Inpatient Facility at Mona Vale Hospital Update

Update on the Palliative Care Inpatient Facility is that the optimal location on the Mona Vale hospital campus is being chosen and the provider will be selected.

Parry Thomas, chairman of the working group, has resigned form that position. We are grateful for his leadership, his inspiration and his skills that significantly contributed to achievement thus far. We welcome Kay Millar, who goes forward in the role.

Rotary Gift

Thanks to the combined Rotary Cubs of the northern beaches for their gift of more than $3000.00. FONB has purchased equipment that will significantly enhance the work of the Palliative Care clinic and support patients being cared for at home. 

Classy Boot Sale

Calling for ‘Royal Doulton’ and ‘Lalique’ that may be languishing, unloved, in the nether regions of your cupboards. Books, once read and now consigned to oblivion, will find new bibliophiles to cherish them. Jewellery, tarnishing and forgotten, will adorn fresh fashionistas. They will be welcomed for the FONB posh boot sale, Narrabeen High school, Sunday 28th of August. Call Norma 9918 4929.

Trivia at Pittwater RSL for Northern Beaches Prostrate Cancer Support Group – Sunday June 26th, 2016

Entry $5.00. all profits donated to Prostrate Cancer Research.

Big BBQ: Sunday 18th of September, 2016

Northern Beaches Prostrate Cancer Support Group will hold its biannual BIG BBQ with classic car displays, musical performances, jumping castle for children, market stalls, cake sale, raffle, and sausage sizzle. Gold coin entry on the day

From - Friends of Northern Beaches Palliative Care Newsletter: June 2016 – Winter Edition.

Aussie Surf Team for Worlds Meets Rugby Legend

June 6, 2016: Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches

The Australian team to compete at the World Championships in Holland in early September have come together for their first camp.

A special guest at the camp was former Australian rugby union captain John Eales.

Sydney Northern Beaches will be represented in the opens by Newport trio Dane Farrell, Georgia Miller and Jake Lynch , while Marty Lynch is the beach coach.

Newporter off to Japan

Jackson Borg  will travel to Japan with the Australian surf lifesaving team to compete in the Sanyo-Busan Cup. The Sanyo Bussan Cup was developed to promote a higher recognition of lifesaving within the Japanese public eye through the world class performance of Lifesaving Sports.

The Cup has been held annually since 2006 with the exception of 2011, cancelled following the series of devastating earthquakes that struck Japan.

The Australian selectors have chosen 10 of the most promising athletes to compete against representative teams from New Zealand, USA, Canada, Great Britain, Hong Kong and the host country.

It will be the second time the young Newport competitor will represent his country but his first overseas trip with an Australian team.

''It's really exciting and I am really looking forward to it,'' he said.

''I am working on my general fitness but will start to step it up in the ocean.''

The two-day event on July 2 and 3 will be held at Aoshima Beach in Miyazaki.

Nominate Your Local Heroes and Admirable Aussies for Awards

Australians are being asked to nominate their local heroes and admirable Australians for the 2017 Australian of the Year Awards.

The Australian of the Year Awards rely on the public to submit nominations for fellow Australians they would like to see recognised by the Awards.

There are four Awards categories:

Australian of the Year

Senior of the Year (65 years and over)

Young Australian (16 - 30 years)

Australia’s Local Hero

Nominations can be made at australianoftheyear.org.au until midnight 7 August 2016.

Ben Roberts-Smith VC MG, Chairman of the National Australia Day Council, encouraged the public to get involved and nominate people who are worthy of attention.

“Nominations from the public are vitally important – it’s the public who know the people doing great things in our communities,” said Mr Roberts-Smith.

“The Awards recognise 128 people nationally each year – people from diverse backgrounds around the nation who contribute in many different ways. They’re volunteers, charity founders, advocates for those in need, people who’ve overcome their own challenges to help others, pioneers who’ve made a difference, young people looking to create a brighter future and achievers with a sense of community.  Most of all, they are one of us.

“Throughout the 56-year history of the Australian of the Year Awards, there’s a wealth of people whose contributions or achievements have been of benefit to others – from humble heroes such as ‘Angel of the Gap’ Don Ritchie and foster mum Lynne Sawyers to high achievers like Ian Frazer and Fiona Stanley whose scientific developments have had global impact.

“The four Awards categories - Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year and Australia’s Local Hero - are equal in their importance and allow us to honour people across a range of areas.

“It only takes one nomination for an individual to be in the running for the Awards, but they must be nominated.  Don’t assume someone you know of may have been nominated already – if we don’t receive a nomination for someone, we can’t consider them for the Awards.”

Nominations can be made online at australianoftheyear.org.au.

If you do not have access to the internet, you can call the National Australia Day Council on 02 6120 0600 for assistance to submit a nomination.

The Australian of the Year awards celebrate the achievements of inspirational Australians.

As Principal Partner, Commonwealth Bank, is proud to have supported the Awards for more than 36 years.

“We are delighted to continue our long standing partnership with the Australian of the Year Awards. We look forward to seeing which remarkable Australians are nominated in 2017,” said Ian Narev, Chief Executive Officer, Commonwealth Bank.

Become a Lifeguard

The Australian Lifeguard Service NSW is currently seeking self-motivated, well presented Lifeguards with exceptional surf lifesaving and lifeguarding knowledge to work during a casual period in the Greater Sydney area (Pittwater, Royal National Park, Lake Parramatta).

The ideal candidate will have a professional manner, strong fitness levels and a proven ability in determining priorities, making sound judgements and the ability to respond appropriately under pressure.

The Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS) NSW is a subsidiary of Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW), providing professional lifeguard services to Local Government Associations (LGA) and other regulatory bodies. The Australian Lifeguard Service is the largest provider of professional lifeguards in Australia.

Location: Pittwater, Royal National Park, Lake Parramatta

Position: Casual

Closing date for applications: Friday 5th August 2016

Application form and details 

Bushcare Alert! Bushcare postponed until further notice due to storm clean-up

The wild weather has increased hazards at a number of our bushland sites and as a result all Bushcare activities have been postponed until further notice. We expect that most Bushcare groups will be able to reconvene in the next two weeks. Council staff are currently inspecting and monitoring our sites and this will be ongoing over the next few weeks so thank you for your patience. In the meantime we ask all residents to avoid areas with tree canopy, steep slopes, drains and creeklines. Bushcare groups will be contacted over this period and advised of any hazards and clean-up activities, and provided with safe work plans.

Information to assist residents dealing with storm damage can be found at http://www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/storm_update.

For more information please give me a call.

Thanks for your amazing efforts and continued support!

Helena Dewis, Bushcare Officer 

Northern Beaches Council

P - 9970 1367 - M - 0408 164 235

Email - helena_dewis@pittwater.nsw.gov.au



Pittwater Short Story Award 2016 Update

Berkelouw Books Mona Vale: Thursday June 9, 2016

Reading, reading, reading... We received more than 350 entries in the 2016 Pittwater Short Story Award and judging has commenced with the first read through under way now. Thank you and good luck to all who entered. More from us soon.


CALLING ALL SINGERS or those who secretly want to!

A NEW ACAPELLA CHOIR IS FORMING ON THE ISLAND.

You don’t even have to cross the moat.

We are a small group of people who enjoy singing together. We have been through a couple of incarnations, ie. The Last Ferry Home. Now, we just want to get together and sing. Some of us are going to take turns leading, using our musical knowledge. We are also looking at getting some guest conductors to come and give workshops. (any singing teachers out there…?)

Songs will be 2- and 3-part harmonies and rounds, easy stuff to start with. We have a lot of material crossing several genres from gospel, folk, African, classical… the main criteria is that the songs are enjoyable to sing. Acapella mostly. It’s about blending our voices…. And it’s about having fun.

A choir needs some ‘great’ singers, yes. But it also needs some people who aren’t going to feature or do big impressive solos – it needs some singers to stay in the background and just add bulk to the sound. You don’t have to have a big powerful voice, as long as you’re (mostly) in tune!

Next meeting is the 19th of June from 2.30pm-4.30 pm. 

We will be meeting fortnightly on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month at Suzie Boyd’s house*, 2.30pm - 4.30pm, with a break for tea and cake.

Cost - free for now, but guest workshop leaders may cost in the future. You can bring cake if you like.

For more details, or to get on the mailing list, emailjessica_mcgowan@yahoo.com.au or call Jessica on 0422 474 279.

*Suzie Boyd’s is on the waterfront, the second wharf to the West of Tennis (grey house with a grey boatshed). Coming from the back it’s 69 Robertson Rd, second house before the big stairs to Tennis Park. The only house with a driveway. If you don’t see a golf cart at the bottom, you’re in the wrong place.

From Pittwater Offshore Newsletter – June 1, 2016

Government House Open Day

On Sunday, 12 June 2016, Government House will open its doors for self-guided tours and Guides will be on hand to answer questions about this 170 year old residence.  

We also invite you to bring a picnic rug, pack your favourite picnic fare, and enjoy the winter sun in the grounds of Government House.

The Government House Gates will open from 10.00 am and close at 4.00 pm. Entry will be by (optional) charitable donation.

Send a birthday message to Her Majesty The Queen  www.royal.uk/messagetothequeen 

Northern Beaches Futsal Association Rep Team

The Northern Beaches Futsal Association is proud to announce that our representative team the "Northern Beaches Breakers" have been accepted into Football NSW's State League for 2016/17 season.

This will give our members a more futsal orientated pathway and a chance to represent a local representative team.

Age groups will include U12 Boys, U13 Girls, U14 Boys, U15 Girls, U16 Boys, U17 Girls, Youth Men, Open Ladies and Open Men..

The community will have a chance to watch the Breakers in action at our traditional home ground at the Sydney Academy of Sport, Narrabeen.. 

More details to follow about trials shortly.

Website coming soon!!

Visit: www.northernbeachesbreakers.com

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Bowie

AGE/SEX: 6 months / F
BREED: Lab X Siberian Husky
Bowie can now run and play with other dogs and is a favourite at our shelter. She came from the pound with a fractured hip. It looks like she was a victim of a car accident and unfortunately her injuries were never treated. Bowie had specialist orthopaedic surgery. She is now runs on her leg and enjoys playing with other young dogs. She is a gentle calm girl for her age. She sleeps though the night and can be left unattended. She is very social and friendly with other dogs and walks well on lead. Bowie needs an active family who will not only give her the exercise she needs but also keep her mind active too! Thank you for showing your support and sending love to little Bowie!

Please help us cover the costs of Bowie's hip surgery viahttps://give.everydayhero.com/au/help-bowie-run-again

She comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. Her adoption cost is $450. 
For further details or to meet all dogs at call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 

5 Lands Walk: Sat 25 June 2016

Building on 10 years - Proudly held on Darkinjung Country

2016 Walker registration now open: Click here to Register

Coming to the 5 Lands Walk from Sydney?

We have special shuttle bus service just for you.  Catch the Palm Beach ferry from Palm Beach to Ettalong and we'll have a free shuttle bus to get you to the start. Then we'll have one from the finish to catch the ferry back.

The 5 Lands Walk is a FREE community- based and community- operated cultural and spiritual Walk.

It seeks to “connect people to people and people to place”. 

The Walk is a 10 km coastal walk with five festival sites along the beaches, headlands, paths and roads that connect FIVE the diverse communities of MacMasters beach, Copacabana, Avoca beach, North Avoca and Terrigal. 

We run festival events for you to enjoy, which we think will enrich you culturally and spiritually and which will connect you to our community and to our place.

We highlight FIVE Central Coast-based ethnic community groups to present and share their culture.

And the local Aboriginal community shares their ceremony, spirituality, culture, law and stories with you.

You walk along beaches and over headlands with stunning views, and then arrive at a Land where festival activities, ethnic and Aboriginal cultural displays and exhibitions are underway. You can stop and enjoy, or move on, as they wish. And if you don’t want to walk the whole way, there’s a free shuttle bus service connecting the Lands.

We have a program of around 40 events that rolls up through the Lands like a wave, timed to allow for comfortable walking and browsing.

It’s a gift from the community of the Central Coast to you.

In 2006 we were inspired by Italy's Cinque Terra, but we created our own unique event to connect People to People and People to Place.  We've been improving it every year since. 

In 2015, 99.6 % of surveyed participants rated their experience “good” or ‘excellent” and with participation rising from around 500 in 2006 to an estimated 16,000, we're pretty sure you're going to have a great time in 2016.

2016 will see many old favourites  plus some new features and events. Be prepared to be inspired.

Check out our website for program details and how to get here from the Northern Beaches. www.5landswalk.com.au

Stay up to date on 5 Lands Walk facebook page

June 10, 2016: from 5 Lands Facebook page

Hon. Robert Stokes, MP for Pittwater and Minister for Planning got the message today - from the communities of the Central Coast, to be delivered to the communities of the Northern Beaches, to come up here on 25 June, to take part in the 5 Lands Walk.

He caught the Palm Beach Ferry over to Ettalong, where he was challenged then welcomed to Darkinjung Country by the Aboriginal Community and to the Central Coast by Gosford MP Adam Crouch. They presented him with a message stick to take back to the Northern Beaches.

Its symbols represents the people of the two regions coming together on 25 June for a walk through Country, to enjoy music, arts, Aboriginal culture and stories, dance, giant kites, multicultural stories and, more than likely, whales.


Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Fundraising Dates 2016


 
June 17:      Mona Vale Hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm
                       Baking, craft, sewing, knitting.

Planning Alerts website – sign up

About PlanningAlerts

You'd probably know if your next door neighbour was going to knock their house down (hopefully you'd get a letter through the door telling you they had applied for planning permission and asking you what you thought about it). But you'd probably never find out if the old cinema or pub 5 streets away is going to be converted into luxury flats until the bulldozers and tree loppers turned up.

PlanningAlerts is a free service which searches as many planning authority websites as it can find and emails you details of applications near you. The aim of this to enable shared scrutiny of what is being built (and knocked down) in peoples' communities.

PlanningAlerts is brought to you by the charity the OpenAustralia Foundation. It was adapted for Australia by Matthew Landauer and Katherine Szuminska, and is based on the UK site PlanningAlerts.com, built by Richard Pope, Mikel Maron, Sam Smith, Duncan Parkes, Tom Hughes and Andy Armstrong.

Visit: https://www.planningalerts.org.au/alerts/signup

2016 Surf Life Saving NSW Awards of Excellence

Saturday, August 13 at 6:30 PM - 11:30 PM

Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

199 George Street, Sydney, Australia 2000

The Surf Life Saving NSW Awards of Excellence proudly presented by Stramit recognises outstanding achievements and contributions in all aspects of Surf Life Saving. The awards will celebrate the accomplishments of members, clubs and branches in the 2015/16 season.

Dress code - TBC

Tickets - bit.ly/aoetickets

Everyone is invited, come and celebrate the 2015/16 season with your fellow NSW surf lifesavers!

Whether you are a finalist for the Awards, a supporter for a finalist or you just want to have an amazing night out with friends, family and like-minded clubbies from across the state, then make sure you grab your tickets. Ticket prices include three course dinner, beverages, live entertainment from Jellybean Jam and door prizes.

For more information visit www.surflifesaving.com.au/aoe2016.

Prices (exclude booking fee): Adult - $130 - Child (U18) - $100 - Table (10 people) - $1,100

Whether you are a finalist for the Awards, a supporter for a finalist or you just want to have an amazing night out with friends, family and like-minded clubbies from across the state, then make sure you grab your tickets. Ticket prices include three course dinner, beverages, live entertainment from Jellybean Jam and door prizes.

Make sure you visit the Facebook Event to stay updated with relevant information. 

ALL nominations must be submitted viawww.surflifesaving.com.au/aoenominations

Nominate a carer you know today

27 May 2016: Media Release

Minister for Ageing and Minister for Disability Services John Ajaka today announced that nominations for the 2016 NSW Carers Awards are open.

The NSW Carers Awards are an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the dedication, commitment and valuable contributions of the more than 850,000 unpaid carers across NSW.

Mr Ajaka said that one in ten people in NSW dedicate their time to caring for someone who needs care because of disability, mental illness, a chronic health condition, dementia or ageing.

"Every day carers provide vital unpaid support to members of our community, improving their lives and making a positive impact to the community and the economy as a whole," Mr Ajaka said.

"Chances are you already know someone who cares for a loved one. Show them you care about what they do by nominating them for an award."

The 2015 NSW Carer of the Year, Sheila Openshaw, called on members of the community to nominate a carer they know.

"I am passionate about my role as a carer – it has made me more compassionate, understanding and wise," Mrs Openshaw said. "Being a carer can be very challenging at times, so it means a lot to me to have been recognised for the contribution I have made."

This year, ten awards are available for individuals and organisations to be honoured during Carers Week, which runs from Sunday 16 – Saturday 22 October 2016.

The ten recipients will receive their award at a Carers Week ceremony at Parliament House, where the 2016 NSW Carer of the Year will be announced.

Nominations for the NSW Carers Awards 2016 close on Sunday 10 July at midnight, and can be made online atwww.careforacarer.nsw.gov.au/carersawards.

 Winter Care Kits 2016

May, 2016 - Mona Vale Library

Mona Vale library will again be a drop-off point for the Winter Care Kits for the homeless people in Sydney. 

The flyer itemises the 8 items which are required to be placed in a large zip lock bag.

Mona Vale library has a stock of the bags - feel free to pick up a free one next time you are in the library

In addition, we are also collecting hand knitted Winter Warmies – gloves, scarves, beanies or socks would be perfect.

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Trivia Night Saturday 30 July 2016

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc will host the annual fundraising Zonta Trivia Night on 30 July this year.  The evening is in the Pittwater Memorial Hall, Pittwater Road, Mona Vale to start at 7pm.

With the Olympics starting the following Friday we will have an Olympic theme.  Guests may choose to dress with an Olympic or Brazilian touch or just come as you are!  Questions will be broad and general in nature with some Olympic topics – but not all sport!

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches is part of the worldwide service organisation Zonta International. Our local club supports women in need on the Northern Beaches by giving education grants to women, assisting high school students to stay at school, supporting the local Womens’ Refuge and Manly Womens’ Shelter amongst other projects.

This is a fun evening and all proceeds will support our Club’s study grant program.  BYO glass, drinks and nibbles, tea, coffee and biscuits available.  Gather your friends and enjoy this relaxing evening while supporting your local community.

Bookings may be made directly by completing the form HERE or by calling Maree on 0412 902 020 or by email to zontanb@gmail.com   Book a table of 10 or we will seat you with others.

 Avalon Boomerang Bags 2016 Workshops

Boomerang Bag Working Bees run in Avalon Community Centre on Tuesdays 11:30am- 5pm.

For those of you unable to come to workshops there are many other ways to get involved, just let us know you're willing by leaving a comment or sending us a message.

Pictured is a Boomerang Bag Box as will be provided around Avalon Shopping area full of our Boomerang Bags to "Borrow and Bring Back" 

Donations of materials and more hands always welcome

Facebook page

2016 Premier's Awards

10 June, 2016

Nominations for the 2016 Premier’s Award have now opened. The award recognises excellence by individuals and teams in the delivery of public services to the NSW community by the public sector, not-for-profit organisations and private businesses.

In 2016, there will be twelve award categories to showcase achievements and progress towards the NSW Premier’s priorities.

If you know a FACS employee or team who have demonstrated excellence in public service delivery please contactFACS Info by 16 June.

To find out more about the award categories, selection criteria and past winners, check out the Premier’s Awards website.

Visit: www.publicserviceawards.nsw.gov.au

Winter trout closures begin June 14

8 June, 2016

Anglers looking to catch a trout are reminded that the June long weekend is their last opportunity in designated streams and rivers across NSW, before the fishing season closes in these waters over winter.

NSW Department of Primary Industries’ (DPI) Inland Senior Fisheries Manager, Cameron Westaway, said the annual closure will start on Tuesday 14 June and re-open in time for the October long weekend on Saturday 1 October 2016.

“This closure allows brown, rainbow and brook trout to breed uninterrupted during their annual spawning run, while also allowing trout fishers to fish during both the June and October long weekends,” Mr Westaway said.

Anglers can continue fishing for trout during the annual closure, without breaking the rules, at any of the trout dams across the State that have been stocked as part of the NSW DPI fish stocking program.

“Popular winter fishing spots include Lakes Jindabyne and Eucumbene, Oberon Dam near Bathurst, Tantangara and Talbingo Dams near Tumut and Lake Wallace and Thompson’s Creek Dam near Lithgow.

“DPI, in conjunction with local acclimatisation societies, has been stocking trout dams and rivers in NSW for many years.

“During the 2015/16 season, around 2.9 million trout were stocked in NSW waterways, consisting of approximately 2 million Rainbow Trout, 630,000 Brown Trout, 150,000 Atlantic Salmon and 110,000 Brook Trout.”

NSW DPI Director of Fisheries Compliance, Patrick Tully, said it is an offence to fish in trout streams during the closed season and fisheries officers will also be patrolling waterways across the State to ensure that fishers are adhering to the closure.

“Fishers heading to one of the trout dams this winter are reminded that they are still required to have a current NSW recreational fishing licence receipt on them at all times while fishing,” Mr Tully said.

“A combined bag limit of five and a size limit of 25cm applies for trout or salmon in all trout dams except Thompsons Creek Dam and Black Lake where the bag limit is two.”

Detailed information on the fishing rules can be found at or in the 2016-17 NSW Freshwater Fishing Guide which is available in hard copy from DPI Fisheries offices and most bait and tackle stores.

Property, Stock and Business Agents Amendment (Property Reports and Exemption) Regulation 2016 

To assist property owners, agents and purchasers when selling and buying property, the NSW Government seeks to further improve the regulation of the NSW property industry.

The proposed improvements to the Property, Stock and Business Agents Regulation 2014 include:

• making it easier and cheaper for prospective buyers to obtain pre-purchase property reports

• having the real estate agent include in the agency agreement for residential property the price at which the property is to be offered (this previous requirement would be reinstated, as has been requested by industry)

• removing unnecessary regulation for real estate agents who sell or manage property for a related corporate entity or a large commercial property owner.

Read the draft Regulation and have your say on these changes by 15 June 2016.

What do the changes include? 

Record of property reports for home buyers

Real estate agents would need to maintain a record of certain property reports carried out (including timber and pest inspections, and strata search reports) for residential properties for sale. This would enable home buyers easier, faster and cheaper access to reports already commissioned.

Real estate agents would need to record reports that they are aware of. Prospective buyers would be informed about available reports, if any, when requesting the sale contract. The records would include:

• contact details for the person who compiled each report

• who requested it (ie. the seller, agent or a prospective buyer)

• whether the report is available to be repurchased. 

Including the offer price in agency agreements

In response to industry consultation, an agency agreement for the sale of residential property would again be required to contain the price at which the property is to be offered.

Deregulation of commercial property agency work 

Commercial property agents would no longer be regulated when selling or managing property for a related corporate entity or a large commercial property owner. The NSW Government committed to this in agreeing to adopt recommendation 17, together with the other recommendations in the IPART Report - Reforming licensing in NSW.

Have you say 

Provide your comments after reading the Property, Stock and Business Agents Amendment (Property Reports and Exemption) Regulation 2016 (PDF size: 148kb). The deadline for comment is 15 June 2016.

We prefer to receive submissions by email at policy@finance.nsw.gov.au

Alternatively, comments on the draft amendment Regulation can be posted to: PS&BA Amendment (Property Reports & Exemption) Regulation, Policy & Legislation, NSW Fair Trading, PO Box 972. PARRAMATTA NSW 2124

Next steps 

NSW Fair Trading reviews all submissions, which may result in further changes to the Regulation. If required, we may conduct further targeted consultation on any key issues identified. If you submit comments, you will be notified when the Regulations are finalised.

The final Regulation will be published on the NSW legislation website.

Agency website page:  here

Guardianship Regulation 2016

NSW Government: Review of proposed regulation under the Guardianship Act 1987

What's this about?

The Department of Justice invites people who are interested in the proposed change to the ​Guardianship Regulation 2016 to tell us what they think.

The Guardianship Regulation is under the Guardianship Act 1987.

There are three documents that you can read to understand the proposed changes. They are all available to download on the right-hand side of this page.

Proposed Guardianship Regulation 2016​ [PDF, 225kb]

Regulatory Impact Statement [PDF, 166kb]

Easy Read Guide to the Guardianship Regulation changes [PDF, 3.7MB]

Have your say

Submit your feedback by 5pm 14 June 2016 via emailpolicy@justice.nsw.gov.au or write to:

Guardianship Regulation Public Consultation

Executive Director,  Justi​ce Strategy & Policy

Department of Justice, GPO Box 31. Sydney NSW 2001

Please note that a​​ll submissions and comments will be treated as public, and may be published, unless the author indicates that it is to be treated as confidential.​​​​​​​

Formal Submission - Date: May. 18 - Jun. 14, 2016

Consultation website with above documents here

Bruce Goold Doco Crowd Funding Project

BRUCE GOOLD: LIFE & TIMES & ART is a documentary about renowned and celebrated Australian artist, Bruce Goold, and his fascinating voyage through the history of Australia’s post-war art world.

The Subject

Australian artist Bruce Goold is world-renowned for his fabrics, limited-edition prints, furniture designs, logos, paintings and sculptures.

Bruce’s voyage through the history of Australia’s post-war art world is a fascinating journey – from the Bohemian days in the infamous Yellow House to grand hotel renovations on Lord Howe Island to the 40th anniversary of the Sydney Opera House.

He has had exhibitions in Australia, Ireland and London, and has been commissioned by the Lord Mayor of Sydney, the Sydney Opera House, Bryan Brown, Martin Sharp, Jeremy Thomas, Mambo, Post Office Stamps, Sydney Morning Herald, and Random House Books, to name a few.

The Vision

This arts program incorporates interviews of Bruce at work, enhanced with archival film and photos of some great times and exotic people. We have also tracked down some of his finest pieces of art spread around the world, leading to some wonderful conversations that will help weave a path through his career.

Some of the contributors to the colourful discussions are: Dare Jennings, Rachel Ward & Bryan Brown, Hayley Baillie, David Elfick, Ian Kiernan, Cressida Campbell, George Gittoes, Greg Weight, Jeremy Thomas, Phil Whistler, Nancy Goold and Wendy Whiteley.

The Call to Action – Post Production

We now have 34 interviews that need to be edited with music and a powerful narration. The imagery of Bruce’s work will be treated with computer graphic work (CGI) and the colours graded to their original intentions. We are raising funds so that we can bring this all together into a one hour Arts Program for Australian and international interests. A website will also be created to incorporate the many hours of information from the interviews that will not be able to fit within the one hour program.

We invite you to be a part of preserving Bruce’s vibrant past and contribution to the Australian art landscape.

Further Information: www.luckycountryproductions.com

Crowdfunding at: australianculturalfund.org.au/bruce-goold-life-times-art/ 

Bruce Goold Documentary "Concept Trailer"

Building a new model for regional collaboration

NSW Government: June 10, 2016

What are we doing?

The NSW Government is building new Joint Organisations (JOs) as a key part of the state's local government reform program to support regional and rural councils become Fit for the Future.

Throughout 2015 JOs have been piloted in different ways in five regions:

• Central NSW • Hunter • Illawarra • Namoi • Riverina

Each region has piloted a slightly different model to test and reflect the different working relationships and priorities of their region.

The consultation papers consolidate the experiences of the pilot process, consultation feedback and evaluation findings to propose key elements of the core JO model.

The NSW Government welcomes your feedback to support the creation of a robust model for JOs to ensure that they are effective.

Have your say

View the consultation papers and submit your feedback online by 15 July 2016 via the online consultation website.

Visit: www.fitforthefuture.nsw.gov.au/joint-organisations

Submissions may be made online by 5pm on 15 July 2016 here

NSW budget: help for vulnerable veterans

9 Jun 2016: Media Release - NSW Family and Community Services

Vulnerable war veterans will be better protected from the risk of homelessness with the NSW Government’s Budget commitment to a new $1 million rental subsidy to assist them in the private rental market.

Minister for Family and Community Services Brad Hazzard said veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness can access the subsidy and also access health and employment services via DefenceCare and Homes for Heroes.

"These diggers have fallen on hard times, and sometimes they struggle to return to civilian life," Mr Hazzard said.

"The Australian Defence Force does a lot of good but we need a uniform approach across the country to house our diggers and get them the support they need.

"Our community rightly expects that diggers, who have given so much for their country, should not be on the streets and should have every assistance for secure and stable housing."

A survey in Sydney found about eight per cent of rough sleepers identified as veterans. Half of them had long term needs due to physical and mental health issues.

General Manager of DefenceCare, Robyn Collins, said defence was a high risk occupation and some veterans suffered physical and mental ill-health as a result of their service.

"Veterans are trained to carry on in the most difficult of circumstances and often don’t reach out for help when they need a hand. Sadly, the result can be homelessness," Ms Collins said.

"NSW has been leading the way in finding a sustainable solution for veteran homelessness and this initiative will make a difference to those who have sacrificed their health for our country."

Treasurer Gladys Berejiklian said while care for veterans is generally a Commonwealth responsibility, the NSW Government was committed to taking action wherever possible to care for the most vulnerable in the community.

Visit: www.defencecare.org.au/news andwww.defencecare.org.au/services/services 

Marine Legislation Amendment Bill 2016 Introduced into Parliament

On Tuesday May 31, 2016, the Marine Legislation Amendment Bill 2016was introduced into the Legislative Council.

The long title is 'An Act to amend the Marine Safety Act 1998 and the Ports and Maritime Administration Act 1995 to make provision for camera recorded offences and further provision for safety management matters, alcohol and drug testing procedures, and compliance and investigation; and for other purposes.'

Overview of Bill

The object of this Bill is to amend the Marine Safety Act 1998 (the Marine Act) and the Ports and Maritime Administration Act 1995 (the Ports Act) to:

(a) introduce new offences into the Marine Act for operating a vessel in a menacing manner, and

(b) provide for the seizure, impoundment or forfeiture of recreational vessels if an authorised officer reasonably believes certain serious offences have been committed, and

(c) allow for random drug testing of vessel operators, and

(d) provide consistency in penalties and disqualification periods for drug and alcohol offences under roads and maritime law, and

(e) clarify and streamline marine compliance and investigation powers, and

(f) establish a scheme for camera recorded offences, and

(g) enable marine exclusion zones to be declared for special events, and

(h) provide for the management of wharves, moorings, port facilities and works, and

(i) make other consequential changes to give effect to recommendations made during the statutory review of the Marine Act by the Maritime Management Centre and Transport for NSW, and

(j) save any provisions from the Maritime Services Act 1935 and the regulations under that Act that are still in use.

Read Marine Legislation Amendment Bill 2016 here

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 1/6/2016 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

Call for More Transparency in Baird Budget

June 7, 2016: LGNSW

The local government sector has called for more budget transparency and accountability when the Baird Government hands down the 2016/17 NSW Budget on 21 June.

"The NSW Government has forced through a number of council amalgamations, claiming the move will drive budget efficiencies and drive down rates," Local Government NSW President Keith Rhoades said today.

"LGNSW has always argued that the sector's financial issues are systemic, and I welcome the Government's decision to refer those systemic issues to the IPART for investigation," he said.

"But there is also another way to improve transparency and accountability, and that's by the NSW Government providing detailed information about total funding assistance to councils in the public budget papers."

A Local Government Budget Statement - standard practice in other states - could:

• provide a breakdown of expenditure, both operational and capital, by major categories of assistance and for each program

• distinguish between payments for services provided on behalf of the state, and payments to local government for its own purposes.

"Taking this step would enable not only the sector but all of NSW to see the Baird Government is genuinely committed to stronger councils and communities," Clr Rhoades said.

"The disclosure of payments to local government is in full accordance with the principles of fiscal transparency and accountability, and would enhance evidence-based decision-making.

"I've been advised that there are no technical barriers to the production of a Local Government Budget Statement, and the NSW Treasury is able to extract the relevant information from its financial databases.

"If the Premier and the Treasurer are serious about more integrity, accountability and financial efficiency in all spheres of Government, they could easily take this step."

Clr Rhoades said LGNSW was also calling for improved transparency in specific areas such as the Planning Reform Fund.

"The Planning Reform Fund - established to support local government in the implementation of land use planning reforms such as e-Planning - is entirely funded by the fees collected by councils and paid to the Department of Planning and Environment," he said.

"LGNSW is concerned about the lack of transparency with respect to income and expenditure of this fund.

"We need greater fiscal transparency to ensure that the fund is used for its intended purpose, and specifically for great initiatives such as e-Planning."

Clr Rhoades said the need for transparency was detailed in the LGNSW Budget Submission, which can be found in full here

2016 Focus on Ability Short Film Festival 

Over $140,000 in cash and prizes to highlight the ability of people with a disability. Films cannot be longer than 5 minutes. Australian entries must be submitted by 30 June 2016. More info at focusonability.com

Fight on the Beaches Christmas in July Charity Ball 2016

Friday July 8th, 2016

Fight on the Beaches has raised over $468 000 over the past 2 years for cancer research. We hope that you will join us this year on Friday 8th July at Miramare Gardens to 'fight for a cure', and to help us to donate even more to cancer research. Having funded 3 cancer researchers over the past 2 years, we will continue to fund cancer research through our fundraising.

Fight on the Beaches is made up of local women who have all been impacted by cancer in one way or another and who want to make a positive difference in the fight against cancer. We are thankful for any contribution, big or small, that will help find a cure for cancer.

You can choose to buy a ticket to the Ball, donate a prize for the Christmas Tree Lucky Dip or Auction, take out one of our fantastic Sponsorship Packages, make a cash donation or, volunteer on the night. We look forward to having you join us in your own way to fight back and find a cure.

We are absolutely thrilled to announce that Richard Wilkins will join Fight on the Beaches as MC on the 8th July to help us in our fight for a cure! Richard is a tireless supporter of various charities and we can't wait to see him on the night!

On Channel Nine's TODAY, Richard presents daily features and interviews from right across the world of showbiz. He's interviewed the cream of the international entertainment industry - from Madonna to The Rolling Stones, and from Andrea Bocelli to Nigel Kennedy.

Richard has hosted a myriad of top rating TV specials from ‘Angelina Jolie: Unbroken and Exclusive’, the eight-hour Millennium Live, the Annual Tropfest Short Film Special and for ten years, the New Year’s Eve Festivities and Fireworks over Sydney Harbour.

In the 2014 Queen’s Birthday Honours List, Richard was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM), for “significant service to the community through a range of charities, and the entertainment industry.”

Tickets at: http://www.fightonthebeaches.com/ 

Applications open for Heritage Council of NSW committees

The committees will assist the Heritage Council of NSW to effectively manage and promote heritage resources in NSW. Applications close 20 July 2016.

The Heritage Council of NSW is established under the Heritage Act 1977 (NSW).  The Council is a statutory body that includes members of the community, the government, the conservation profession and representatives of organisations such as the National Trust of Australia (NSW). 

The Heritage Council advises the Minister for Heritage on heritage matters in NSW and makes recommendations to the Minister for listing of places and objects on the State Heritage Register.

The Heritage Council also make decisions about the care and protection of heritage places and items that have been identified as being of state significance.

There are five Heritage Council committees:

• State Heritage Register Committee

• Approvals Committee

• Heritage Committee

• Heritage Grants Committee

• Technical Conservation Committee

The role of the committees is to provide high level specialist knowledge, skills and experience to assist the Heritage Council and Heritage Division with making informed decisions on statutory and non-statutory heritage matters in NSW.

The committees will provide independent expert advice to the Heritage Council and Heritage Division on significant and complex issues in heritage conservation, protection and management as they arise.

They will also work with the Heritage Council and Heritage Division to review and update existing policy and guidelines and be involved with reviewing and providing input into the development of new guidelines, operational policies and any proposed legislative amendments (as required).

Members of the committees will have opportunities to liaise with relevant professional bodies and the community concerning heritage work to raise professional standards and encourage best practice. One of the responsibilities of the committees will include drafting an annual work program for endorsement by the Heritage Council of NSW (at a date set by the Heritage Council).

As part of their role, the committees will also encourage public awareness and appreciation of the State’s heritage through education and promotion activities.

If you are interested in applying for a position on one of the five Heritage Council of NSW committees, please go to the Heritage Council committeeswebpage to review the information pack and application form. 

Mosman Art Gallery Seeking White Pillowcases

Call out for 1,942 white pillowcases and memories of the Japanese attack on Sydney. 2017 will mark the 75th anniversary of the Japanese submarine attack on Sydney Harbour in 1942. To commemorate this event Mosman Art Gallery are working with a group of Australian and Japanese artists to develop an exhibition to be shown in mid 2017.

Participating artist, Sue Pedley, is calling out for donations of white pillowcases and memories of the event to help realize a new artwork. Donated White Pillowcases can be in any condition: off - white, stained, starched, patched, threadbare. Where possible the artist requests that donors include a written note of either a living memory or passed on memory of the Japanese attack.

Please deliver laundered pillowcases to Mosman Art Gallery during opening hours in a bag (with your name clearly written if you wish to be acknowledged). Pillowcases will be accepted from 1st May –until 31st July, 2016.

Mosman Art Gallery, Cnr Art Gallery Way & Myahgah Road. Open 7 days, 10am-5pm. Phone 99784178.

Bushcare in Pittwater 


For further information or to confirm the meeting details for below groups, please contact Council's Bushcare Officer on 9970 1367

BUSHCARE SCHEDULES 
Where we work                      Which day                              What time 


Avalon     
Angophora Reserve             3rd Sunday                         8:30 - 11:30am 
Avalon Dunes                        1st Sunday                         8:30 - 11:30am 
Avalon Golf Course              2nd Wednesday                3 - 5:30pm 
Careel Creek                         4th Saturday                       8:30 - 11:30am 
Toongari Reserve                 3rd Saturday                       9 - 12noon (8 - 11am in summer) 
Bangalley Headland            2nd Sunday                         9 to 12noon 

Bayview     
Winnererremy Bay                 4th Sunday                        9 to 12noon 

Bilgola     
North Bilgola Beach              3rd Monday                        9 - 12noon 
Algona Reserve                      1st Saturday                      9 - 12noon 
Plateau Park                            1st Friday                          8:30 - 11:30am 

Church Point     
Browns Bay Reserve             1st Tuesday                      9 - 12noon 
McCarrs Creek Reserve       Contact Bushcare Officer     To be confirmed 

Clareville     
Old Wharf Reserve                 3rd Saturday                     8 - 11am 

Elanora     
Kundibah Reserve                   4th Sunday                      8:30 - 11:30am 

Mona Vale     
Mona Vale Beach Basin          1st Saturday                   8 - 11am 
Mona Vale Dunes                     2nd Saturday+3rd Thursday     8:30 - 11:30am 

Newport     
Bungan Beach                          4th Sunday                      9 - 12noon 
Crescent Reserve                    3rd Sunday                      9 - 12noon 
North Newport Beach              4th Saturday                    8:30 - 11:30am 
Porter Reserve                          2nd Saturday                  8 - 11am 

North Narrabeen     
Irrawong Reserve                     3rd Saturday                   2 - 5pm 

Palm Beach     
North Palm Beach Dunes      3rd Saturday                    9 - 12noon 

Scotland Island     
Catherine Park                          2nd Sunday                     10 - 12:30pm 
Elizabeth Park                           1st Saturday                      9 - 12 noon 
Pathilda Reserve                      3rd Saturday                      9 - 12 noon 

Warriewood     
Warriewood Wetlands             1st Sunday                         8:30 - 11:30am 

Whale Beach     
Norma Park                               1st Friday                            9 - 12noon 

Western Foreshores     
Coopers Point, Elvina Bay      2nd Sunday                        10 - 1pm 
Rocky Point, Elvina Bay           1st Monday                          9 - 12noon

 Gone Fishing Gallery at Waterfront Store Church Point

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Seniors Toy Repair Group needs your help

Volunteers are sought to help out on Wednesday mornings (7.30am to midday) at the group's workshed in Ingleside. Volunteers need their own transport and be willing to sort and clean toys that are picked up at different collection points on the Northern Beaches. 

Prospective volunteers can email Mary Kitchen to arrange a visit to the workshed. To arrange a donation pickup please call Terry Cook on 0410 597 327 or email himFind out more about this great community groupHERE

 June 5 - 11, 2016: Issue 266

Articles This Week 

Front Page Issue 266: World Champions -Vital Fauna Bridge - Pittwater Artists - Mermaids Of Palm Beach -Newport Ladies Day -Taking Action For A Living Ocean and Living Earth Locally this World Environment and World Earth Day

Rod And Kerry Waterhouse Win Masters Hobie® 16 World Championships - Curtis/Outteridge Lead Women's - Pittwater Sailors Lead Grand Masters After Day One by Bob Findlay

World Environment Day And World Ocean Day 2016: Taking Action For A Living Ocean And Living Earth Locally

‘Wanda' The Wildlife Mobile Clinic by Lynleigh Greig

Pittwater Artists Trail Winter Exhibition 2016 Opened With A Giggle Courtesy Of Jim Pike: closes 3pm Sunday June 5th

Bill To Facilitate Mona Vale Road Upgrades Passes: Vital Fauna Bridge Discussed - Stage 3, Mona vale Road Upgrade- West, one step closer

Mermaids of Palm Beach Currawong Day 2016: Fundraiser for Variety- The Children's Charity Brings Beautiful Early Winter Sun - Dinner Aug. 1st.

Reflections by George Repin: INDONESIAN SNAPSHOTS

Aquatics: Coastal Management Bill 2016 Passes

Pictures: Social Pittwater: June 2016 

Guringai Festival 2016 – Pittwater Events: May 29 to July 11

Artist of the Month: June 2016 Isabelle Wise: Teenager with Talent recently published in a children's picture book shares some of her wonderful Illustrations

Profile: Julie Hegarty - a few weeks ago, after serving in Local Government for over two decades, this popular resident announced; 

After serving my community for 21 years as an elected member of Pittwater Council, I have been encouraged by this same community to throw my hat in the ring for the Federal seat of Mackellar as an Independent community candidate.. '

History:Early Pittwater Schools - From Provisional to Public:- Mona Vale Public school - from Village Green to Greening the Village!

Search Pittwater Online News: 

2016 Surf Life Saving NSW Awards of Excellence

Saturday, August 13 at 6:30 PM - 11:30 PM

Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

199 George Street, Sydney, Australia 2000

The Surf Life Saving NSW Awards of Excellence proudly presented by Stramit recognises outstanding achievements and contributions in all aspects of Surf Life Saving. The awards will celebrate the accomplishments of members, clubs and branches in the 2015/16 season.

Dress code - TBC

Tickets - bit.ly/aoetickets

Everyone is invited, come and celebrate the 2015/16 season with your fellow NSW surf lifesavers!

Whether you are a finalist for the Awards, a supporter for a finalist or you just want to have an amazing night out with friends, family and like-minded clubbies from across the state, then make sure you grab your tickets. Ticket prices include three course dinner, beverages, live entertainment from Jellybean Jam and door prizes.

For more information visit www.surflifesaving.com.au/aoe2016.

Prices (exclude booking fee): Adult - $130 - Child (U18) - $100 - Table (10 people) - $1,100

Whether you are a finalist for the Awards, a supporter for a finalist or you just want to have an amazing night out with friends, family and like-minded clubbies from across the state, then make sure you grab your tickets. Ticket prices include three course dinner, beverages, live entertainment from Jellybean Jam and door prizes.

Make sure you visit the Facebook Event to stay updated with relevant information. 

ALL nominations must be submitted viawww.surflifesaving.com.au/aoenominations

Marine Legislation Amendment Bill 2016 Introduced into Parliament

On Tuesday May 31, 2016, the Marine Legislation Amendment Bill 2016 was introduced into the Legislative Council.

The long title is 'An Act to amend the Marine Safety Act 1998 and the Ports and Maritime Administration Act 1995 to make provision for camera recorded offences and further provision for safety management matters, alcohol and drug testing procedures, and compliance and investigation; and for other purposes.'

Overview of Bill

The object of this Bill is to amend the Marine Safety Act 1998 (the Marine Act) and the Ports and Maritime Administration Act 1995 (the Ports Act) to:

(a) introduce new offences into the Marine Act for operating a vessel in a menacing manner, and

(b) provide for the seizure, impoundment or forfeiture of recreational vessels if an authorised officer reasonably believes certain serious offences have been committed, and

(c) allow for random drug testing of vessel operators, and

(d) provide consistency in penalties and disqualification periods for drug and alcohol offences under roads and maritime law, and

(e) clarify and streamline marine compliance and investigation powers, and

(f) establish a scheme for camera recorded offences, and

(g) enable marine exclusion zones to be declared for special events, and

(h) provide for the management of wharves, moorings, port facilities and works, and

(i) make other consequential changes to give effect to recommendations made during the statutory review of the Marine Act by the Maritime Management Centre and Transport for NSW, and

(j) save any provisions from the Maritime Services Act 1935 and the regulations under that Act that are still in use.

Read Marine Legislation Amendment Bill 2016 here

CALLING ALL SINGERS or those who secretly want to!

A NEW ACAPELLA CHOIR IS FORMING ON THE ISLAND.

You don’t even have to cross the moat.

We are a small group of people who enjoy singing together. We have been through a couple of incarnations, ie. The Last Ferry Home. Now, we just want to get together and sing. Some of us are going to take turns leading, using our musical knowledge. We are also looking at getting some guest conductors to come and give workshops. (any singing teachers out there…?)

Songs will be 2- and 3-part harmonies and rounds, easy stuff to start with. We have a lot of material crossing several genres from gospel, folk, African, classical… the main criteria is that the songs are enjoyable to sing. Acapella mostly. It’s about blending our voices…. And it’s about having fun.

A choir needs some ‘great’ singers, yes. But it also needs some people who aren’t going to feature or do big impressive solos – it needs some singers to stay in the background and just add bulk to the sound. You don’t have to have a big powerful voice, as long as you’re (mostly) in tune!

Next meeting is the 5th of June from 2.30pm-4.30 pm. Following that, June 19th.

We will be meeting fortnightly on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month at Suzie Boyd’s house*, 2.30pm - 4.30pm, with a break for tea and cake.

Cost - free for now, but guest workshop leaders may cost in the future. You can bring cake if you like.

For more details, or to get on the mailing list, emailjessica_mcgowan@yahoo.com.au or call Jessica on 0422 474 279.

*Suzie Boyd’s is on the waterfront, the second wharf to the West of Tennis (grey house with a grey boatshed). Coming from the back it’s 69 Robertson Rd, second house before the big stairs to Tennis Park. The only house with a driveway. If you don’t see a golf cart at the bottom, you’re in the wrong place.

From Pittwater Offshore Newsletter – June 1, 2016


Newport Community Garden Meeting

June 1, 2016

Meeting at Avalon Recreation Centre, Monday 6th June from 6.00 - 7.00pm for all gardeners and supporters (new or existing, active or advisory!) of the Woollcott Reserve -Newport's first Community Garden project. Come and hear the progress and be part of the next steps...

RSVP Jenny Cronan at Council T: 9970 1357

jenny_cronan@pittwater.nsw.gov.au

Sad News

Dr.  Howard Ralph has closed the Sydney practice for Southern Cross Wildlife Care. He will only have the Braidwood Clinic from now on. 


Lynleigh Grieg will continue to run a wildlife article every month as a member of Sydney Wildlife. From time to time her daughter Kayleigh, champion of and for our local wildlife,  will contribute items from the her generation’s perspective.  

Joan Reid Facility manager of the Sydney Wildlife Rehab Facility will also continue to send in updates.

Avalon Palm Beach Business Chamber June 2016 Networking

Avalon Palm Beach Business Chamber invites you to join them for its June 2016 Business Networking Breakfast - Tues 7 June, 7.15am @The Avalon on the Beach.

Guest Speaker: Owen Coughlan, Partnership and Sponsorship Manager, NSW Business Chamber will share with us the benefits you as a member of our Chamber receive from the NSW Chamber as well as an update on the current NSW Chamber Business Awards and the many business events and services being provided by them.

Where: The Avalon on the Beach (Avalon Surf Club)

Time & Date: 7.15AM on Tuesday 7th June 2016

Cost: $30 Per Person

Menu: Full Breakfast will be served (Lifestyle and Health options available)

What to expect:

Our Breakfast meetings give ALL attendees an opportunity to showcase their business to other members of the Chamber and share ideas and success stories.

What to Bring: Yourself, Business Cards and a 60 second introduction or commercial about your business.

Pre Registration is essential, pay and register online: here

Want more info? Call Sam 02 9918 0070 or Gareth 0412 118 520

This event is open to non-members, so please feel free to share the email with potential visitors who may be interested in joining the Chamber in the future. This will be your last opportunity to showcase your business this financial year.

It will also be your last opportunity to tell the current Chamber Executive what you want from the Chamber before the end of their term. Your input at this meeting will have a significant bearing on the future direction of the Chamber.

Help Noah Wise Make a Difference

Avalon student Noah is reading like crazy to help others less fortunate than himself... Please help him to help others through a small donation to Dymocks Children's Charity... Click on the link... It's that easy!!!.... Thank you in advance xxxx

MY STORY

I've created this page because I want to make a difference. I'm inspired by the work of Dymocks Childrens Charities and wanted to support them by raising money as part of my participation in Dymocks Children's Charities Book Bonus 2016. Please help me help them by giving whatever you can using the 'Give Now' button. The more people that know about Dymocks Childrens Charities, the greater their impact, so please also spread the word by sharing my page with your friends and family. Thank you in advance for your generosity, it means a lot!

https://bookbonus2016.everydayhero.com/au/peta 

Amnesty International Australia, Avalon Group NSW: Mackellar Forum

Amnesty International (Avalon) and the Avalon Baptist Peace Church are sponsoring a  Human Rights Forum with Mackellar Candidates:

Mike Hall (Greens)

Rhonda Funnell (ALP)

Julie Hegarty (Ind)

We hope more candidates might accept – we’ll let you know

Tuesday 14th June 6.45 pm for 7 pm sharp.

Avalon Baptist Church, 2 George Street Avalon

The main session will present prepared questions to the candidates. 

We invite you to submit by email a question related to any of the 8 topics to gerdhollander@gmail.com before 8 June.  

Final questions for the candidates will be composed from submitted suggestions. There will also be opportunities for questions from the floor.

Topics

1. Indigenous matters: Child and youth incarceration; Closing the Gap.

2. Domestic violence

3. Promotion of rights of people with disabilities

4. Asylum Seekers and Refugees: increasing refugee annual intake; ending offshore detention

5. Marriage equality

6. Protect civil liberties and dissent threatened by Anti-Protest Laws

7. Role in global campaign to end death penalty

8. End military trade with Israel under Arms Trade Treaty

We welcome your suggestions and attendance

Gerd Hollander - Convenor

Avalon Group, Amnesty International Australia

Greater Sydney Marine Legislation Amendment Bill 2016 Introduced into Parliament

The Australian Lifeguard Service NSW is currently seeking self-motivated, well presented Lifeguards with exceptional surf lifesaving and lifeguarding knowledge to work during a casual period in the Greater Sydney area (Pittwater, Royal National Park, Lake Parramatta).

The ideal candidate will have a professional manner, strong fitness levels and a proven ability in determining priorities, making sound judgements and the ability to respond appropriately under pressure.

The Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS) NSW is a subsidiary of Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW), providing professional lifeguard services to Local Government Associations (LGA) and other regulatory bodies. The Australian Lifeguard Service is the largest provider of professional lifeguards in Australia.

Location: Pittwater, Royal National Park, Lake Parramatta

Position: Casual

Closing date for applications: Friday 5th August 2016

Application form and details 

Indigo Series at The Sneaky Grind - Avalon‏

Samantha Patterson is currently holding an exhibition at The Sneaky Grind café in Avalon.  Samantha has 7 pieces of work on display.   

“Living in Clareville 4 years has inspired these pieces of work and my compulsion to paint. 

It’s been a fabulous process of trial and error, and I've found that the material I paint on is just as important as what I paint.  

The Indigo series are layers and layers of ink on canvas and board.  They absorb you,  the effect is fantastic, its swirling and transparent. 


The Sneaky Grind Café – open 7am to 4pm

3/48 Old Barrenjoey Rd, Avalon Beach

Boost to support payments for customers and drivers of wheelchair accessible taxis

Sunday 29 May 2016: NSW Roads and Maritime

Eligible customers and drivers of Wheelchair Accessible Taxis (WATs) will have access to increased support payments from July 1 as part of a $15.5 million boost to deliver more accessible services.

Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance said the changes would also boost the numbers of WATs through loans and driver incentives, as well as increased payments to customers through the Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme (TTSS).

“One of the clear winners of our point to point reforms are people with disability, with a comprehensive package to boost the supply of services and subsidies for customers to ensure their drivers get them from A to B safely,” Mr Constance said.

“Eligible TTSS customers will start to receive their new docket books in coming weeks, and be able to use them from July 1, doubling the cap to $60 on trips.

“WAT drivers will also benefit with their incentive payment almost doubling from $7.70 to $15 per trip that assists a wheelchair user.

“We’ve already reduced the cost of a Wheelchair Accessible Taxi licence to zero, and today’s announcement will help ensure customers and drivers have the right mix of subsidies and incentives to get to where they need to go.”

NSW Government WAT licences have specific conditions on operators to ensure that bookings for passengers in wheelchairs are given the highest priority.

WAT service providers will also benefit from the reforms with an increase to the loan pool to help purchase a new vehicle, or retrofit an existing one.

“We already know there’s an increase in demand for WAT licences from the industry, and with the new and improved $5 million loan pool, WAT providers can soon apply and start to plan for their new accessible taxi service,” Mr Constance said.

“From 1 July, the maximum interest-free loan of $30,000 will be increased to $100,000, and the pool of funds increased from $1 million to $5 million.”

Minister for Disability Services John Ajaka said the reforms are critical to improving the lives of people with disability and the frail aged, ensuring they continue to have access to safe and convenient transport options.

“Alongside the delivery of the National Disability Insurance Scheme, the NSW Government is also looking into all of its services, particularly transport, to ensure that people with disability are catered for,” Mr Ajaka said.

Transport for NSW will be writing to TTSS customers, taxi drivers and taxi service providers to let them know about the changes in coming weeks.

To apply for the first round of the new WAT loan pool go to www.rms.nsw.gov.au

For more information on point to point reforms go towww.transport.nsw.gov.au/pointtopoint

"R Marine Riley Riv Dog" Competition

R Marine Riley (RMR) is looking for the best boating dogs! 

To enter, please send Jessica a photo of your boating buddy 'RMR Riv Dog' for your chance to win some doggie treats and a beautiful, hand spliced lead, made from recycled boating rope, with your choice of colour!

Every entrant receives a RMR Key Float for participating.  If you have some friends who would like to send in a photo of their "RMR Riv Dog", please share this news with them...www.facebook.com/rmarineriley

Send in your photo's to jessica@rmarineriley.com.au today. Photos will be posted on Facebook and the picture with the most 'likes' by Wednesday, 27th July 2016, wins!

Seasonal fishing closure in force across NSW Hunter and Central Coast

3 Jun 2016

A four month operation targeting illegal fishing in the Hunter district is underway in a bid to crack down on non-compliant fishing activity at known hotspots in the region.

NSW Department of Primary Industries’ (NSW DPI) Director of Fisheries Compliance, Patrick Tully, says the hot water outlet canals of the Eraring Power Station near Lake Macquarie and other waterways on the Central Coast are closed to all methods of fishing from May 1 to August 21 between the hours of 6pm and 6am.

“The closure aims to protect juvenile fish stocks, which aggregate in large numbers in the warm water near the outlets to be able to make their way to the Lake Macquarie Recreational Fishing Haven,” Mr Tully said.

“Unacceptable levels of non-compliance during the closure period have occurred in recent years so DPI Fisheries officers will be taking a hard line approach to all incidents of non-compliance at these two locations over the next four months.

“Anyone found at these spots fishing between the closure hours can face hefty on the spot fines or prosecution.”

Offences detected in recent years include taking fish from waters protected from recreational fishing and possessing fishing gear at closed waters.

Fines for non-compliance penalties range for $75 to $500 while prosecution penalties can be up to $22,000.

“Illegal fishing activity won’t be tolerated, and our fisheries officers will work tirelessly to protect the aquatic environment and safeguard fish stocks for future generations.

“These closures are in place to protect and conserve our native fish and aquatic habitats to ensure that fishing activities remain sustainable,” said Mr Tully.

To report illegal fishing contact the Fishers Watch Phone Line on 1800 043 536 or visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/compliance

Government House Open Day

On Sunday, 12 June 2016, Government House will open its doors for self-guided tours and Guides will be on hand to answer questions about this 170 year old residence.  

We also invite you to bring a picnic rug, pack your favourite picnic fare, and enjoy the winter sun in the grounds of Government House.

The Government House Gates will open from 10.00 am and close at 4.00 pm. Entry will be by (optional) charitable donation.

Send a birthday message to Her Majesty The Queen  www.royal.uk/messagetothequeen 

Guardianship Regulation 2016

NSW Government: Review of proposed regulation under the Guardianship Act 1987

What's this about?

The Department of Justice invites people who are interested in the proposed change to the ​Guardianship Regulation 2016 to tell us what they think.

The Guardianship Regulation is under the Guardianship Act 1987.

There are three documents that you can read to understand the proposed changes. They are all available to download on the right-hand side of this page.

Proposed Guardianship Regulation 2016​ [PDF, 225kb]

Regulatory Impact Statement [PDF, 166kb]

Easy Read Guide to the Guardianship Regulation changes [PDF, 3.7MB]

Have your say

Submit your feedback by 5pm 14 June 2016 via emailpolicy@justice.nsw.gov.au or write to:

Guardianship Regulation Public Consultation

Executive Director,  Justi​ce Strategy & Policy

Department of Justice, GPO Box 31. Sydney NSW 2001

Please note that a​​ll submissions and comments will be treated as public, and may be published, unless the author indicates that it is to be treated as confidential.​​​​​​​

Formal Submission - Date: May. 18 - Jun. 14, 2016

Consultation website with above documents here

Planning Alerts website – sign up

About PlanningAlerts

You'd probably know if your next door neighbour was going to knock their house down (hopefully you'd get a letter through the door telling you they had applied for planning permission and asking you what you thought about it). But you'd probably never find out if the old cinema or pub 5 streets away is going to be converted into luxury flats until the bulldozers and tree loppers turned up.

PlanningAlerts is a free service which searches as many planning authority websites as it can find and emails you details of applications near you. The aim of this to enable shared scrutiny of what is being built (and knocked down) in peoples' communities.

PlanningAlerts is brought to you by the charity the OpenAustralia Foundation. It was adapted for Australia by Matthew Landauer and Katherine Szuminska, and is based on the UK site PlanningAlerts.com, built by Richard Pope, Mikel Maron, Sam Smith, Duncan Parkes, Tom Hughes and Andy Armstrong.

Visit: https://www.planningalerts.org.au/alerts/signup

Mosman Art Gallery Seeking White Pillowcases

Call out for 1,942 white pillowcases and memories of the Japanese attack on Sydney. 2017 will mark the 75th anniversary of the Japanese submarine attack on Sydney Harbour in 1942. To commemorate this event Mosman Art Gallery are working with a group of Australian and Japanese artists to develop an exhibition to be shown in mid 2017.

Participating artist, Sue Pedley, is calling out for donations of white pillowcases and memories of the event to help realize a new artwork. Donated White Pillowcases can be in any condition: off - white, stained, starched, patched, threadbare. Where possible the artist requests that donors include a written note of either a living memory or passed on memory of the Japanese attack.

Please deliver laundered pillowcases to Mosman Art Gallery during opening hours in a bag (with your name clearly written if you wish to be acknowledged). Pillowcases will be accepted from 1st May –until 31st July, 2016.

Mosman Art Gallery, Cnr Art Gallery Way & Myahgah Road. Open 7 days, 10am-5pm. Phone 99784178.

Applications open for Heritage Council of NSW committees

The committees will assist the Heritage Council of NSW to effectively manage and promote heritage resources in NSW. Applications close 20 July 2016.

The Heritage Council of NSW is established under the Heritage Act 1977 (NSW).  The Council is a statutory body that includes members of the community, the government, the conservation profession and representatives of organisations such as the National Trust of Australia (NSW). 

The Heritage Council advises the Minister for Heritage on heritage matters in NSW and makes recommendations to the Minister for listing of places and objects on the State Heritage Register.

The Heritage Council also make decisions about the care and protection of heritage places and items that have been identified as being of state significance.

There are five Heritage Council committees:

• State Heritage Register Committee

• Approvals Committee

• Heritage Committee

• Heritage Grants Committee

• Technical Conservation Committee

The role of the committees is to provide high level specialist knowledge, skills and experience to assist the Heritage Council and Heritage Division with making informed decisions on statutory and non-statutory heritage matters in NSW.

The committees will provide independent expert advice to the Heritage Council and Heritage Division on significant and complex issues in heritage conservation, protection and management as they arise.

They will also work with the Heritage Council and Heritage Division to review and update existing policy and guidelines and be involved with reviewing and providing input into the development of new guidelines, operational policies and any proposed legislative amendments (as required).

Members of the committees will have opportunities to liaise with relevant professional bodies and the community concerning heritage work to raise professional standards and encourage best practice. One of the responsibilities of the committees will include drafting an annual work program for endorsement by the Heritage Council of NSW (at a date set by the Heritage Council).

As part of their role, the committees will also encourage public awareness and appreciation of the State’s heritage through education and promotion activities.

If you are interested in applying for a position on one of the five Heritage Council of NSW committees, please go to the Heritage Council committeeswebpage to review the information pack and application form. 

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Jip

AGE/SEX: 10 years / M
BREED: Maltese x
Jip is a happy friendly boy who is always ready for a cuddle! He is social with other dogs. Jip can see well from his R eye but has a cataract in the L. He has a non-shedding coat and came in at 3.8kg. He comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. His adoption cost is $400.
For further details or to meet all dogs at call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 

Time to replace smoke alarms

Fire and Rescue NSW is urging all NSW residents to replace their smoke alarms and check their friends and family do so too.

Fire and Rescue NSW recommends that every house in NSW be fitted with the latest photoelectric smoke alarm.

It’s been a decade since NSW mandatory smoke alarm legislation was passed, which means millions of smoke alarms across NSW are now reaching their ‘best before’ date and are due to be replaced.

As part of Fire and Rescue NSW’s ‘ReAlarm your home against fire’ awareness campaign, throughout the month of May NSW Fire and Rescue is asking all NSW residents to replace their smoke alarms, and take the time to check in on 10 friends or family members to ensure they update their smoke alarms too.

For more information visit: www.fire.nsw.gov.au/realarm

A SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL FOR SOIBADA

GOOD NEWS! Thanks to the Farrell Family Foundation, we have been successful with our grant proposal for $40,000 towards Soibada Senior High School. Nicolau Lobato Senior High School.

THE CHALLENGE! Before we can use that money we need to match that with our fundraising! We can do it - with your help! We have the movie night coming up on 30 March, the Buy a Brick project, a new Chuffed Campaign about to launch. We are getting lots of support from Rotary Clubs too. Spread the word - the sooner we raise $40,000 the sooner we start construction. If you have any good ideas, are willing to host or organise an event please let us know.

Can you help us raise the matching funds? 

Tell your friends about our Chuffed Crowd funding Campaign; it is easy to donate by going to the website:  www.chuffed.org/project/soibada-senior-high-school

Buy a Brick for the School: www.pittwaterfriendsofsoibada.org.au/buy-a-brick

Last year Youth for Soibada interviewed the young people in Soibada to find out how THEY would like us to assist them. Everybody asked for a real school! A school with desks, chairs, computers, music and sports equipment! Not a fancy building – but something more substantial than what you see in the picture above!

Contact for details Email: tamara.harding@bigpond.com

Find out more at: www.pittwaterfriendsofsoibada.org.au

Tamara Sloper Harding OAM 

Chairperson, Pittwater Friends of Soibada Inc

Sydney WildlifeCritters of the Month June 2016: ‘Wanda' The Wildlife Mobile Clinic (Concept photo only)

The History

Joan Reid (our Sydney Wildlife Rehabilitation Facility manager) came up with the idea for the Wildlife Mobile Clinic during a Brain-storming Session when a group of young consultants from Ernst and Young came out to volunteer their time at our Rehabilitation Facility.  We were all very excited about the idea and discussed how we could go about funding the van.  My (then) 11-year-old daughter, Kayleigh, had once written to Premier Mike Baird about saving our wildlife and he had responded favourably so she decided to contact him again.  She presented the idea to him and he suggested we get in touch with Ministers Rob Stokes and Brad Hazzard to discuss grant options.  Kayleigh, Joan and I presented to each of them and they both loved the idea and were extremely helpful. Minister Stokes set up a meeting with the NSW Minister for the Environment at Parliament House.  We caused a bit of a stir when we arrived at Parliament House with one of our kangaroo joeys in tow…!  Wildlife carers have to take their dependent baby animals wherever they go as they are often on 3-hourly feeds.  It didn’t occur to us that it was something the security department would be concerned about:)

Kayleigh presented to Premier Mike Baird, Minister Rob Stokes, Minister Brad Hazzard, Minister Mark Speakman at Parliament House.  The joey and wombat that went to Parliament House:) !

We will be applying for the grants suggested by our Ministers.  However, as we don’t know whether or not we will be successful with our application, we have decided to start fundraising in the interim.  We don’t want to wait too long because in the past year, we’ve lost:

185 wallabies (not including in-pouch joeys)

84 brush tail possums 

62 ringtail possums 

19 long nosed bandicoots

12 echidnas 

2 goannas 

6 snakes

And countless birds including powerful owls, brush turkeys, lorikeets and kookaburras

Our Campaign

When our pets get hurt or sick, we rush them to a veterinarian and are happy to pay whatever it takes to make our furry/feathery/scaly family member all better, right?

But what happens to our wildlife when they get sick?  They don't have owners to rush them to the vet or pay for their treatment.   Who takes care of them when they are in pain and in need of care?  

We are Sydney Wildlife  www.sydneywildlife.org.au  We are an organisation made up purely of volunteers (we receive no Government funding) - and we rescue these wild animals and care for them.  We receive in excess of 13,000 calls for help annually in just the Sydney Metropolitan area.  However, we are not veterinarians and sometimes the wildlife need treatment that can only be provided by a professional veterinary surgeon.   At the moment we are burdening our local vets with injured wildlife and they are having to bear the medical costs, while our volunteer rescuers bear all other costs.  Wouldn't it be wonderful if there was a service that helped our wildlife, our volunteers and our veterinarians…?  

Well, we have a solution!  Sydney Wildlife’s goal is to establish a Wildlife Mobile Clinic which will provide treatment to injured or sick wildlife, whilst taking the pressure off our local veterinarians.  But we need your help to fund it!  With your help, we are aiming to raise $50,000 towards buying the van.  With a sponsored clinic, we would be able to provide all medical equipment and medical supplies to our volunteer veterinarians, thereby reducing costs to their own veterinary clinics.  We would also be providing free training to veterinary students who are always desperate to learn how to treat our wild critters.  

The Northern Beaches area is renowned for its natural beauty and for its glorious array of wildlife.  But our wildlife face more dangers than ever before - habitat loss being their biggest problem.   When they lose their habitat, they are forced to look for new homes, causing them to wander onto roads, become entangled in fences and bringing them into contact with domestic and feral animals that often attack them.  The clinic aims to provide quick treatment to these animals and the van can also be deployed to areas where natural disasters have struck.

If you’re one of those people who loves the sound of kookaburras laughing at dawn or if you're delighted by the sight of a gentle wallaby making her way across the grass with a joey in her pouch or even someone who just enjoys watching a friendly blue-tongue lizard gobbling snails in the garden, then please help them by donating to Sydney Wildlife - your donation will go towards acquiring a mobile van or will provide other essential care to wildlife in need.

If you would like to donate to our campaign, click on www.gofundme.com/22abqws  

If you would like to become a sponsor and have your name on our van please email info@sydneywildlife.org.au  or call Sydney Wildlife on 9413 4300

Our website is www.sydneywildlife.org.au

By Lynleigh Greig
Sydney Wildlife 

From one Olympic venue to the next

Tuesday 31 May 2016

Weymouth and Portland, the London 2012 sailing venue, will play host to the final big hit out before sailors make their way to Marina da Gloria in Rio de Janeiro for the 2016 Olympic Games.

From 6-12 June, Weymouth and Portland will host 380 sailors from 44 nations across the ten Olympic fleets for the next instalment of the Sailing World Cup.

Many of the sailors racing on the British waters will be crowned an Olympic champion in just 66 days' time. Weymouth and Portland will offer all the final opportunity to fine tune their technique and test themselves against their rivals in a formal regatta environment before Rio 2016.

The 25-boat Nacra 17 fleet will be one of the most competitive in Weymouth and Portland with no fewer than nine of the world's top ten set to compete.

Whenever Billy Besson and Marie Riou (FRA) set sail in a Nacra 17 regatta they are viewed as favourites by the sailors, spectators and the media and that is unlikely to change for Sailing World Cup Weymouth and Portland. The duo have dominated the Rio 2016 quadrennial, becoming one of the first teams to win all four World Championships in an Olympic cycle. Their feat was matched by Peter Burling and Blair Tuke (NZL) in the 49er.

Following their victory at the 2016 Nacra 17 Worlds in Clearwater, USA they took a further gold at the Trofeo Princesa Sofia Trophy in Palma de Mallorca, Spain. Just two weeks later, at Sailing World Cup Hyères, they showed they were human after all, only managing a sixth place.

It will be the first time that Besson has competed on the London 2012 Olympic waters but for Riou, the surroundings will be all too familiar. Riou campaigned for and competed at London 2012 in the Women's Match Racing event. The 2016 edition of Sailing World Cup Weymouth and Portland will be her sixth event on the waters so her experience and knowledge will prove vital if the French pair are to walk away as champions.


Australia's Jason Waterhouse and Lisa Darmanin took the Weymouth and Portland Sailing World Cup gold medals away in 2015 and make a return to the venue. The Australians, currently ranked World #2, sealed victory in the Medal Race, overcoming Switzerland's Matias Buhler and Nathalie Brugger. The Swiss team will be back in 2016 aiming to go one better.

The World #1 Nacra 17 team Vittorio Bissaro and Silvia Sicouri (ITA) will be in amongst the front runners as will Sailing World Cup Hyères gold medallists Fernando Echavarri and Tara Pacheco (ESP) and Sailing World Cup Miami winners Mandy Mulder and Coen de Koning (NED).

In the 49erFX, Spain's Tamara Echegoyen will make a return to the venue where she was crowned an Olympic champion in Women's Match Racing. Soon after London 2012 she switched to the 49erFX to sail with Berta Betanzos. After a slow start to the campaign they found their legs in the Women's Skiff and secured their first Sailing World Cup podium finish at the 2015 edition of Weymouth and Portland. Their rise through the ranks continued and at the 2016 World Championships they walked away as victors and remain a mainstay at the front of the fleet.

Joining them in the 19 boat 49erFX fleet in Weymouth and Portland will be 2013 World Champions Alex Maloney and Molly Meech (NZL), Sailing World Cup Hyeres gold medallists Lisa Ericson and Hanna Klinga (SWE) as well 2016 European Champions Jena Mai Hansen and Katja Salskov Iversen (DEN).

The 49er will welcome 40-boats in Weymouth and Portland. The World #1 crew Nico Delle Karth and Nikolaus Resch (AUT) will lead the charge with Delta Lloyd Regatta and Sailing World Cup Miami victors Diego Botin and Iago Lopez (ESP) alongside them. Trofeo Princesa Sofia Regatta winners Ryan Seaton and Matthew McGovern (IRL) will also be within the fleet.

The Men's and Women's RS:X fleets will welcome 20 and 10 sailors respectively. London 2012 Olympic silver medallist Nick Dempsey (GBR) will spearhead the Men's RS:X fleet and he will be joined by Olympic Test Event gold medallist Aichen Wang (CHN), World #2 Tom Squires (GBR) and World #10 Daniele Benedetti of Italy. Two-time Youth Worlds gold medallist Stefania Elfutina (RUS) and 2015 Women's RS:X World Champion Peina Chen (CHN) will go in the Women's fleet.

Racing kicks off on Wednesday 8 June and will conclude on Sunday 12 June with the Medal Races which will be broadcast live on the World Sailing TV YouTube Channel.

By Daniel Smith - World Sailing

ASRL Newsletter: June 2016

Newsletter #63 - June 2016

This newsletter will carry information on:

1. National Team Selection Event

2. ASRL Open 2017

National Team Selection Event (NTSE) Process and Notification:

These key dates are important:

The NTSE will be held on the weekend of 17/18 Dec

• Actual details still being worked on

• Location TBC but it will be in Sydney

Background to chosen dates:

• SLSNZ will this year be hosting the Test Match and Development Crews Series

• 12 months ago SLSNZ and SLSA signed an agreement for the hosting of this now annual event where each host country is responsible for setting the date and location of the event 

• Accordingly SLSNZ advised last year that their forward program was set in place and “the test date will be on the 4th February 2016 at Waihi Beach in conjunction with our North Island Surf Boat Championships”

• The original ASRL plan was to select the team at the Manly Carnival but when the date of 4 Feb was made known to us it makes a Jan selection date unachievable

• After the 4 Australian Teams are selected SLSA then need time to organise Air travel, Accommodation, Vehicle Hire, Blazers, general Team Outfitting while at the same time SLSNZ need to find and organise the loan of suitable boats for our 4 Aussie crews to race in

• On top of that our crews may need time to organise family and time off work

• Everyone will understand that this can’t all be achieved in a few short weeks

• The ASRL then reverted back to a pre-Christmas date of 17/18 Dec

• We are aware that travelling crews to the NTSE will require a tight program of quality races to make the travel rewarding and that is what we are currently working towards

• As in previous years each crew wanting to be considered to be invited into the selection event will need to complete a SLSA nomination Form that will be opened up and available early in the next season. This will be advised through the SLSA website, National/State Circulars as well as again via the ASRL website and social media outlets

Teams to be Selected:

The Australian Team will consist of an:

• Open Female: full test team status including Australian Blazer and Numbers Australian Cap

• Open Male; full test team status including Australian Blazer and Numbers Australian Cap

• Under 23 Female: Development squad status without the Blazer and Cap

• Under 23 Male: Development squad status without the Blazer and Cap

Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to represent your country. It is open to all crews and by signing the SLSA Nomination Form you are committing if selected to travel and compete in New Zealand on the 4 February 2017

2017 ASRL Open: 

Taking into consideration issues like:

•Where the Australian Championship is being held

•Where the NSW Championship is being held

•Contractual agreement with DNSW

•Proximity to major airport

•Availability of accommodation

•Host Surf Club with capability and enthusiasm to work in delivering such a large event

The decision has been taken to return to: Shellharbour for the 2017 season  Dates will be Friday 17 to Sunday 19 February

This notification will allow competitors and officials time to log the dates into the diary

2016 Focus on Ability Short Film Festival 

Over $140,000 in cash and prizes to highlight the ability of people with a disability. Films cannot be longer than 5 minutes. Australian entries must be submitted by 30 June 2016. More info at focusonability.com

Jack Johnson Kicks Off the #Wavefor Change: World Oceans Day 2016

Published on 25 May 2016

Join Jack Johnson and many others around the world who are riding the Wave For Change! 

Take the #WaveforChange challenge and take action for the ocean by recording a video of yourself making a promise and doing the wave. Maybe you’ll give up using plastic straws or perhaps you’ll commit to participating in two beach cleanups a year! Sign your commitment by doing the wave and sharing it with the world.

Nominate a carer you know today

27 May 2016: Media Release

Minister for Ageing and Minister for Disability Services John Ajaka today announced that nominations for the 2016 NSW Carers Awards are open.

The NSW Carers Awards are an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the dedication, commitment and valuable contributions of the more than 850,000 unpaid carers across NSW.

Mr Ajaka said that one in ten people in NSW dedicate their time to caring for someone who needs care because of disability, mental illness, a chronic health condition, dementia or ageing.

"Every day carers provide vital unpaid support to members of our community, improving their lives and making a positive impact to the community and the economy as a whole," Mr Ajaka said.

"Chances are you already know someone who cares for a loved one. Show them you care about what they do by nominating them for an award."

The 2015 NSW Carer of the Year, Sheila Openshaw, called on members of the community to nominate a carer they know.

"I am passionate about my role as a carer – it has made me more compassionate, understanding and wise," Mrs Openshaw said. "Being a carer can be very challenging at times, so it means a lot to me to have been recognised for the contribution I have made."

This year, ten awards are available for individuals and organisations to be honoured during Carers Week, which runs from Sunday 16 – Saturday 22 October 2016.

The ten recipients will receive their award at a Carers Week ceremony at Parliament House, where the 2016 NSW Carer of the Year will be announced.

Nominations for the NSW Carers Awards 2016 close on Sunday 10 July at midnight, and can be made online atwww.careforacarer.nsw.gov.au/carersawards.

Remains of six First World War soldiers identified

27 May 2016: Media Release

The Australian Army has confirmed the identification of a further six Australians from the 250 Australian and British World War One soldiers recovered from a mass burial site at Pheasant Wood in France in 2009.

The soldiers newly identified are Second Lieutenant James Benson, Private Justin Hercules Breguet, Private Clifton Sydney Brindal, Private Sidney Broom, Private William Burke, and Private Robert Thomas Maudsley.

The recent identification was facilitated by the Australian Army’s Unrecovered War Casualties Fromelles project team.  The identification brings the total number of named Australians to 150 and contributes another important piece to the history of the Army in the Great War.

The Deputy Chief of Army, Major General Rick Burr, DSC, AM, MVO, said the identification honoured the service and memory of our soldiers.

“The Battle of Fromelles is an important part of our Army’s history and our Nation’s history, and it is a story that we want to complete,” Major General Burr said.

“We have been fortunate to have the interest and cooperation of the Australian community to connect 150 of the soldiers lost at Fromelles with their descendants,”

“Together with the relatives of those who fought at Fromelles, we hope to collect more information to identify the 100 soldiers who remain unknown,”

“The assistance of the community helps us to commemorate our soldiers in the most respectful way, while also connecting current generations of Australians with their military heritage.”

The Battle of Fromelles was the first major battle fought by the Australian Imperial Force in France and is recognised as one of the worst periods in Australia’s military history as the 5th Australian Division suffered more than 5,500 casualties (killed and wounded).

The identification of soldiers killed has been made possible by the Fromelles Project team establishing a register of more than 3,000 relatives and descendants of Australian soldiers killed at Fromelles.

For more information about the six identified soldiers visit the Army website 

Further information about the Fromelles Project is available at: army.gov.au/Our-work/Unrecovered-War-Casualties-Army/Fromelles

The Australian Army’s Unrecovered War Casualties Unit are collecting information about First Australian Imperial Force soldiers who; fought in the Battle of Fromelles, whose date of death is listed between 19 – 20 July 1916, and whose grave is listed as unknown.

Members of the public who have a relative that fits this profile, please register with the Australian Fromelles Project: Email: army.uwc@defence.gov.au

 Winter Care Kits 2016

May, 2016 - Mona Vale Library

Mona Vale library will again be a drop-off point for the Winter Care Kits for the homeless people in Sydney. 

The flyer itemises the 8 items which are required to be placed in a large zip lock bag.

Mona Vale library has a stock of the bags - feel free to pick up a free one next time you are in the library

In addition, we are also collecting hand knitted Winter Warmies – gloves, scarves, beanies or socks would be perfect.

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Trivia Night Saturday 30 July 2016

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc will host the annual fundraising Zonta Trivia Night on 30 July this year.  The evening is in the Pittwater Memorial Hall, Pittwater Road, Mona Vale to start at 7pm.

With the Olympics starting the following Friday we will have an Olympic theme.  Guests may choose to dress with an Olympic or Brazilian touch or just come as you are!  Questions will be broad and general in nature with some Olympic topics – but not all sport!

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches is part of the worldwide service organisation Zonta International. Our local club supports women in need on the Northern Beaches by giving education grants to women, assisting high school students to stay at school, supporting the local Womens’ Refuge and Manly Womens’ Shelter amongst other projects.

This is a fun evening and all proceeds will support our Club’s study grant program.  BYO glass, drinks and nibbles, tea, coffee and biscuits available.  Gather your friends and enjoy this relaxing evening while supporting your local community.

Bookings may be made directly by completing the form HERE or by calling Maree on 0412 902 020 or by email to zontanb@gmail.com   Book a table of 10 or we will seat you with others.

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 1/6/2016 

click on Logo: 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

International Surfing Day 2016 - Surfrider Foundation Australia Annual Event

Come and join Surfrider Foundation in celebrating the annual International Surfing Day on Saturday, June 25 from 6 PM at Mounties Manly Bowling Club. The event will have a 70's theme featuring...

~ Live Music by Ziggy McNeill & 70's super-band TAMAM SHUD ~

~ Original Morning of the Earth Footage ~

~ 70's Surfing Stories from Surfing Legends ~

~ Environmental Stalls and Recognition ~

~ Auction Items & Raffles throughout the Event ~

** Limited tickets are available – grab your tickets for this intimate evening celebrating surfing here

Surfrider Foundation Australia’s 25th anniversary

For nearly 25 years, Surfrider Foundation has been protecting beaches and waves across Australia. Help Surfrider to celebrate our successes, learn from our losses and eagerly move forward by sending through your stories and photos of your experiences with Surfrider since its foundation toinfo@surfrider.org.au  

If you are not yet a member get join today its only $25 for a full year or better still give your beach YOUR Birthday present join now and renew next BIRTHDAY and pay a dollar for each year you've been surfing. 

Save Scotland Island Kindy

The Scotland Island kindy is a warm and caring early childhood centre that has been in operation for more than two generations. Many children who attend this very fully accredited kindergarten return as carers or to bring their own children. 

Due to the ever-increasing cost of running such a centre, the kindy and accompanying after-school care program are at risk of closure. 

This simply cannot happen. 

Without this very special kindergarten, the children on Scotland Island will not have the opportunity to get a head start on their education and their social development amongst their local peers. If the kindy were to close it would also be a huge blow to the families, staff and community members who have supported the beloved centre over the years. 

With no chance of extra support from the government, we need to raise funds on our own to keep the kindy open. Our goal is highly reachable - but we need your help!

We'd like to invite you to make a contribution, no matter how small, to the Scotland Island kindergarten in order to keep it running for future generations. 

The children thank you!!!

Visit: https://www.gofundme.com/scotlandislandkind 

Fight on the Beaches Christmas in July Charity Ball 2016

Friday July 8th, 2016

Fight on the Beaches Team:  May 4, 2016

Fight on the Beaches has raised over $468 000 over the past 2 years for cancer research. We hope that you will join us this year on Friday 8th July at Miramare Gardens to 'fight for a cure', and to help us to donate even more to cancer research. Having funded 3 cancer researchers over the past 2 years, we will continue to fund cancer research through our fundraising.

Fight on the Beaches is made up of local women who have all been impacted by cancer in one way or another and who want to make a positive difference in the fight against cancer. We are thankful for any contribution, big or small, that will help find a cure for cancer.

You can choose to buy a ticket to the Ball, donate a prize for the Christmas Tree Lucky Dip or Auction, take out one of our fantastic Sponsorship Packages, make a cash donation or, volunteer on the night. We look forward to having you join us in your own way to fight back and find a cure.

We are absolutely thrilled to announce that Richard Wilkins will join Fight on the Beaches as MC on the 8th July to help us in our fight for a cure! Richard is a tireless supporter of various charities and we can't wait to see him on the night!

On Channel Nine's TODAY, Richard presents daily features and interviews from right across the world of showbiz. He's interviewed the cream of the international entertainment industry - from Madonna to The Rolling Stones, and from Andrea Bocelli to Nigel Kennedy.

Richard has hosted a myriad of top rating TV specials from ‘Angelina Jolie: Unbroken and Exclusive’, the eight-hour Millennium Live, the Annual Tropfest Short Film Special and for ten years, the New Year’s Eve Festivities and Fireworks over Sydney Harbour.

In the 2014 Queen’s Birthday Honours List, Richard was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM), for “significant service to the community through a range of charities, and the entertainment industry.”

Tickets at: http://www.fightonthebeaches.com/ 

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Fundraising Dates 2016


                     
June 11:      Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen, 8am to 4pm
June 17:      Mona Vale Hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm
                       Baking, craft, sewing, knitting.

Bushcare in Pittwater 


For further information or to confirm the meeting details for below groups, please contact Council's Bushcare Officer on 9970 1367





BUSHCARE SCHEDULES 
Where we work                      Which day                              What time 

Avalon     
Angophora Reserve             3rd Sunday                         8:30 - 11:30am 
Avalon Dunes                        1st Sunday                         8:30 - 11:30am 
Avalon Golf Course              2nd Wednesday                3 - 5:30pm 
Careel Creek                         4th Saturday                       8:30 - 11:30am 
Toongari Reserve                 3rd Saturday                       9 - 12noon (8 - 11am in summer) 
Bangalley Headland            2nd Sunday                         9 to 12noon 

Bayview     
Winnererremy Bay                 4th Sunday                        9 to 12noon 

Bilgola     
North Bilgola Beach              3rd Monday                        9 - 12noon 
Algona Reserve                      1st Saturday                      9 - 12noon 
Plateau Park                            1st Friday                          8:30 - 11:30am 

Church Point     
Browns Bay Reserve             1st Tuesday                      9 - 12noon 
McCarrs Creek Reserve       Contact Bushcare Officer     To be confirmed 

Clareville     
Old Wharf Reserve                 3rd Saturday                     8 - 11am 

Elanora     
Kundibah Reserve                   4th Sunday                      8:30 - 11:30am 

Mona Vale     
Mona Vale Beach Basin          1st Saturday                   8 - 11am 
Mona Vale Dunes                     2nd Saturday+3rd Thursday     8:30 - 11:30am 

Newport     
Bungan Beach                          4th Sunday                      9 - 12noon 
Crescent Reserve                    3rd Sunday                      9 - 12noon 
North Newport Beach              4th Saturday                    8:30 - 11:30am 
Porter Reserve                          2nd Saturday                  8 - 11am 

North Narrabeen     
Irrawong Reserve                     3rd Saturday                   2 - 5pm 

Palm Beach     
North Palm Beach Dunes      3rd Saturday                    9 - 12noon 

Scotland Island     
Catherine Park                          2nd Sunday                     10 - 12:30pm 
Elizabeth Park                           1st Saturday                       9 - 12noon 
Pathilda Reserve                      3rd Saturday                      9 - 12noon 

Warriewood     
Warriewood Wetlands             1st Sunday                         8:30 - 11:30am 

Whale Beach     
Norma Park                               1st Friday                            9 - 12noon 

Western Foreshores     
Coopers Point, Elvina Bay      2nd Sunday                        10 - 1pm 
Rocky Point, Elvina Bay           1st Monday                            9 - 12noon

 Gone Fishing Gallery at Waterfront Store Church Point

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

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

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

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

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

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

 May 29 - June 4, 2016: Issue 265

Articles This Week 

Front Page Issue 265: RPAYC Sailors at Medemblik - Pittwater Student - Pittwater Student - Avalon Beach SLSC at IRB Premierships - Pittwater Artists Trail Winter Art Exhibition Raffle for Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary - Pittwater Winter 2016: Barrenjoey Isthmus in 1955 and 2016

Daniel Fitzgibbon - Liesl Tesch Secure Bronze At 2016 Para World Sailing Championships In Challenging Week - overview of the event by Richard Aspland - World Sailing

Guringai Festival 2016 – Pittwater Events: May 29 to July 11

Kiama Downs Takes Control Of IRB Premiership by SLS NSW

Project Maratus: Pittwater Connections - these beautiful Australian Peacock spiders are 2-5mm. So far the Project Maratus Group as found at least 4 new species. They've mapped Sydney but are asking all of us to keep an eye out for more and report their location - Australia wide

Aquatics: Coral Reefs Updates (WOD 2016 prelude): Nemo May Be Lost- Mesophotic Coral Ecosystems May Be  Potential 'Lifeboats'- Great Barrier Reef Water Science Taskforce Final Report and New Studies Released May 24-25, 2016

Pictures: Pittwater Student and Land Army Lady Attend Service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Veterans 2016 - 10th annual NSW Commemoration ceremony - Key Address:  His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Ret'd), Governor of New South Wales, Veteran’s Address: Mr David Williams, President NSW Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Veterans & Services Association.

New Car Parks at Warriewood+Mona Vale to Support B-Line Bus Service to Commence Construction in 2016 - details and diagrams - community information session on Mona Vale  on Tuesday 31 May 2016 from 6pm to 8pm

Mobile Wildlife Clinic Fundraiser for Sydney's Northern Beaches: Please Help Save Our Resident Sick and Injured Animals

Pittwater Artists Trail Winter Exhibition 2016: at Avalon Beach SLSC - Friday June 3rd to Sunday June 5th 2016

Artist of the Month: June 2016 Isabelle Wise: Teenager with Talent recently published in a children's picture book shares some of her wonderful Illustrations

Profile: Isabelle Wise Our June 2016 Artist of the Month is Avalon Beach's Isabelle Wise. Belle took part in the Wombat Books Illustration Challenge held last year after an author visit to Maria Regina Catholic Primary School at Avalon in 2014. 

The Wombat Books Illustration Challenge was established in order to provide aspiring young illustrators with the opportunity to be published in a professionally produced children's book and gain an introduction into the world of illustrating. Now studying at Mater Maria Catholic College, Warriewood, this wonderful and talented teenager provides us all with an inspirational look into what’s great about the next generation of our local young adults. 

History:Early Pittwater Schools - From Provisional to Public:- Mona Vale Public school - from Village Green to Greening the Village!

Upgrades and Updates: Issue 265

Issue 265 marks a move into a fresher, Device Friendly site, as requested by Readers who peruse these pages from phones, tablets etc.

The recoding should also enhance the reading pleasure of desktop PC owners.

All past Issues pages, each single one of which averages around 800 thousand revisits annually, are also in the process of being adjusted to this new coding. As there are a few of them this will take a minute... or two. 

We ask you be patient if a previous page doesn't display properly initially.

The adjustments to archived articles and histories will be completed by the end of June 2016 - And then...more smooth sailing!

Thanks for your requests, feedback and support.

Pittwater Online News.
For, About and By Pittwater.

National Sorry Day Message

On National Sorry Day on 26th May 2016, we remember the history of forcible removals of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in our nation and the tragic impact this had upon many Indigenous families.

On behalf of the people of New South Wales, I pay my respects to those members of our community who share the pain of this terrible period of our history.  

One year after the tabling of the report Bringing Them Home in May 1997, the result of a National Inquiry into the Separation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children from Their Families, the first National Sorry Day was held.

In 2000, the day was commemorated by the remarkable sight of 250,000 people participating in the Corroboree 2000 Bridge Walk across Sydney Harbour Bridge, and many people will remember the spirit of unity that brought Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians together on this occasion.

I encourage all Australians, on this day and every day, to embrace the opportunity to come together and share the steps towards healing for the Stolen Generations, their families and communities.

General The Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Ret’d)
Governor of New South Wales

Mobile Wildlife Clinic 
Donate at: www.gofundme.com/22abqws

When our pets get hurt or sick, we rush them to a veterinarian and are happy to pay whatever it takes to make our furry/feathery/scaly family member all better, right?
But what happens to our wildlife when they get sick?  They don't have owners to rush them to the vet or pay for their treatment.   Who takes care of them when they are in pain and in need of care?  

We are Sydney Wildlife  www.sydneywildlife.org.au 
We are an organisation made up purely of volunteers - and we rescue these wild animals and care for them.  However, we are not veterinarians and sometimes they need treatment that can only be provided by a professional veterinary surgeon.   

At the moment we are burdening our local vets with injured wildlife and they are having to bear the medical costs, while our volunteer rescuers bear all other costs.  Wouldn't it be wonderful if there was a service that helped our precious wildlife, our volunteer rescuers and our wonderful vets...?  

We need your help to fund a brand new, state-of-the-art Mobile Wildlife Clinic! 
The Mobile Wildlife Clinic will provide first-class treatment to our injured and sick wildlife.  The clinic will be staffed by veterinarians who are experienced at treating wildlife and the clinic will also provide hands-on training for veterinary students who are all desperate to learn how to treat wild animals.   

Your money will be used to purchase a van, have it fitted out for first aid, consultations and medical emergencies for animals in times of natural disasters.  Your money will also be used to provide training for our future veterinarians.

With so many dangers to face - vehicle-strike, entanglement, habitat loss, attack from feral and domestic animals, human interference etc - our wildlife are in desperate need of our help.  

As you know, myself and many other wildlife rescuers work long and crazy hours to save our wildlife and we don't often ask for help... But this week we reached a crisis point when 10 of our local wallabies were killed on our roads - in just one week!

Please encourage your friends to share this to their pages to get us as much support as possible. We may be able to save what's left of our precious wildlife if we all help with funding a Mobile Wildlife Clinic. 
Our wildlife needs your help. I need your help.
Thank you

Donate at: www.gofundme.com/22abqws

In a world of problems, our Mobile Wildlife Clinic is the answer.  
Thank you for saving their little hurt paws, their sore bodies and their precious little lives.


Beach Clean up at Avalon

Sunday May 29, 2016: 10 a.m.

Did you know that by the year 2050 there will be more Plastic in the ocean than fish?!

Its a frightening statistic but sadly it may well become a reality if we dont start to act now.

Join wanderlightly & Living Ocean for a monthly beach clean as we move along our local beaches keeping keep them Plastic Free.

For our first of many clean ups - meet at Avalon Beach SLSC. 

Bring along a bucket & a pair of gloves for an hour of beach cleaning followed by a coffee and a chat at Nourish cafe.

All welcome!!

For more info email info@wanderlightly.com

Sign up or turn up. See Facebook Event Listing Page here 

A BIG THANK YOU

May 26, 2016: by Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopters

Yesterday Pilot Matt O'Brien dropped into Hoselink at Brookvale to thank CEO Tim Keirath and his team for their ongoing support of the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopters. Hoselink have continued to provide support and product donations to the Life Saver Bases in Sydney and Moruya which enables us to keep your community rescue helicopters in tip top shape! 

A great Australian family owned business helping to look after Australia's longest serving rescue helicopters! 

COUNTERFEIT CURRENCY – ON THE INCREASE

May 23, 2016: Northern Beaches LAC - NSW Police Force

With fake $50 notes circulating on the Northern Beaches - How to spot what's fake and what's not......


Police would like to advise the community that there has been an increase of counterfeit currency being identified in NSW. We would like to inform businesses to be aware of these notes being passed and inform their staff to be vigilant when dealing with cash notes. 

On 17th May 2016 a counterfeit $50 note was attempted to be passed at a local Tweed Heads fast food restaurant. The note was identified as being counterfeit by the staff member before the person of interest drove away from the location. 

If counterfeit notes are identified at the time of being presented, police request that detailed descriptions of the person attempting to pass are obtained and in the event of a vehicle being used then registration details and description of the vehicle is also needed. 

Any member of the community that has information about these counterfeit notes can provide anonymous information to police via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Permaculture Northern Beaches Eco Festival - June 5th, 2016

Join us for our 'World Environment Day' community celebrations! - Next Sunday June 5 at Permaculture Northern Beaches Eco Festival - opposite New Leaf Nursery from 12 till 4pm

www.permaculturenorthernbeaches.org.au

Here is a little teaser vibe...

"R Marine Riley Riv Dog" Competition

R Marine Riley (RMR) is looking for the best boating dogs! 

To enter, please send Jessica a photo of your boating buddy 'RMR Riv Dog' for your chance to win some doggie treats and a beautiful, hand spliced lead, made from recycled boating rope, with your choice of colour!

Every entrant receives a RMR Key Float for participating.  If you have some friends who would like to send in a photo of their "RMR Riv Dog", please share this news with them...www.facebook.com/rmarineriley

Send in your photo's to jessica@rmarineriley.com.au today. Photos will be posted on Facebook and the picture with the most 'likes' by Wednesday, 27th July 2016, wins!

Newport Rugby Club presents “Rugby by the Sea” for the 2016 Ladies Day           

With two weeks to go until we host our Ladies Day at Newport Rugby Club, we invite you to join us for an unforgettable day at Porter Reserve.

The Newport Rugby Club invites you to a day at the “Rugby by the Sea”. This year Ladies Day will be held on Saturday the 4th of June from 1pm, when the Newport Breakers take on Waverley.

With views of the ocean, you will sip champagne, dine on the local produce and catch up with friends. You will be hosted in a spectacular themed venue for 3 hours before making your way down to the VIP Marquee for some first class rugby action and for your chance to win some amazing prizes donated by our sponsors.

When: Saturday the 4th of June from 1pm

Where: Porter Reserve, Newport 

Includes:

Luxury gift bag upon arrival - 3 hour gourmet food and beverage package - Entrance into the VIP marquee - Raffles / lucky door prizes / special guest appearances / DJ and entertainment

Tickets: Tickets are $50 each. Please Click Here to purchase your tickets

Dress: Touch of blue and white - Contact: Nicole Warren

Event information: If you have any questions about the event please email: nicolefisher@hotmail.com 

Tickets will be on sale until midnight on Wednesday the 1st of June, unless sold out prior (This event is expected to sell out – Don’t miss out!)

Free service launched to reduce harmful alcohol use

27 May 2016: Media Release

NSW Health today launched a free alcohol reduction program to help people improve their health by reducing their alcohol consumption.

Dr Jo Mitchell, Executive Director, Centre for Population Health, said NSW Health’s Get Healthy Service now includes an alcohol reduction program, which consists of 10 coaching calls, coupled with alcohol-related education, management and goal-setting strategies.

“The Get Healthy Service is an accessible, free program for anyone who wants to break bad habits and adopt a healthier lifestyle. Participants can set a weight, healthy eating, physical activity or alcohol reduction related goal,” said Dr Mitchell.

“Unhealthy alcohol use has significant short and long-term health implications, including injuries and chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, mental health problems, liver diseases, cancer and cardiovascular diseases,” said Dr Mitchell.

“The social cost of alcohol abuse in NSW is estimated to be $3.87 billion per year.”

Designed for people aged 18 years and over, the alcohol reduction program is aimed at people wanting to reduce their alcohol consumption to reduce risk factors for chronic disease, reduce and maintain a healthy weight and achieve a healthier lifestyle.

All participants will be screened for their alcohol risk at the time of enrolment using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), an internationally validated screening tool. To ensure safe clinical practice, people who are drinking harmful levels of alcohol will be referred to appropriate specialist services such as the Alcohol and Drug Information Service.

To register or for more information about the Get Healthy Servicevisit the Get Healthy Service website www.gethealthynsw.com.au or telephone 1300 806 258.

2016 Focus on Ability Short Film Festival 

Over $140,000 in cash and prizes to highlight the ability of people with a disability. Films cannot be longer than 5 minutes. Australian entries must be submitted by 30 June 2016. More info at focusonability.com

$2 million funding boost to support volunteers

23 May 2016: Media Release - NSW Family & Community Services

More than $2 million will be invested on innovative initiatives to better recruit, support and recognise volunteers in NSW, Minister responsible for volunteering John Ajaka announced today. The NSW Government has released the second NSW Volunteering Strategy 2016-2020. The Strategy was informed by consulting with more than 2,500 people, and builds on the success of the inaugural Strategy.

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our community. The generous and selfless efforts of our more than 2 million volunteers deeply enrich our community,” Mr Ajaka said.

“A key focus of the NSW Volunteer Strategy is making it easier than ever for people to volunteer. We are investing in new and better ways of connecting people who want to make a real difference with organisations who need their support.

“Importantly, the Strategy also continues to place a strong emphasis on celebrating the immense and diverse contribution our volunteers make.”

There are six priority actions under the NSW Volunteering Strategy 2016-2020:

Expand participation in community life through volunteering;

Create digital media avenues to support volunteering;

Develop a mainstream media campaign and local marketing strategies to promote volunteering;

Design and develop new volunteering options;

Build capacity in volunteer organisations to innovate and deliver best-practice volunteer management; and

Enhance programs to recognise the positive contribution of volunteers.

As part of the NSW Volunteering Strategy, a new volunteer recruitment website will be developed that will enable volunteers to find opportunities in their local communities, and support organisations to advertise volunteering roles. Furthermore, a new mainstream media campaign will also be launched to recruit more people to volunteering and help them navigate their way to new opportunities.

The Strategy will also expand and enhance the successful Statement of Principles for the Recognition of Volunteers, which promotes dignity and respect for 800,000 volunteers in NSW, as well as increase support for the Volunteer of the Year Awards and Premier’s Volunteer Recognition Program.

Further information on the NSW Volunteering Strategy, go towww.volunteering.nsw.gov.au.

Jack Johnson Kicks Off the #Wavefor Change: World Oceans Day 2016

Published on 25 May 2016

Join Jack Johnson and many others around the world who are riding the Wave For Change! 

Take the #WaveforChange challenge and take action for the ocean by recording a video of yourself making a promise and doing the wave. Maybe you’ll give up using plastic straws or perhaps you’ll commit to participating in two beach cleanups a year! Sign your commitment by doing the wave and sharing it with the world.

Nominate a carer you know today

27 May 2016: Media Release

Minister for Ageing and Minister for Disability Services John Ajaka today announced that nominations for the 2016 NSW Carers Awards are open.

The NSW Carers Awards are an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the dedication, commitment and valuable contributions of the more than 850,000 unpaid carers across NSW.

Mr Ajaka said that one in ten people in NSW dedicate their time to caring for someone who needs care because of disability, mental illness, a chronic health condition, dementia or ageing.

"Every day carers provide vital unpaid support to members of our community, improving their lives and making a positive impact to the community and the economy as a whole," Mr Ajaka said.

"Chances are you already know someone who cares for a loved one. Show them you care about what they do by nominating them for an award."

The 2015 NSW Carer of the Year, Sheila Openshaw, called on members of the community to nominate a carer they know.

"I am passionate about my role as a carer – it has made me more compassionate, understanding and wise," Mrs Openshaw said. "Being a carer can be very challenging at times, so it means a lot to me to have been recognised for the contribution I have made."

This year, ten awards are available for individuals and organisations to be honoured during Carers Week, which runs from Sunday 16 – Saturday 22 October 2016.

The ten recipients will receive their award at a Carers Week ceremony at Parliament House, where the 2016 NSW Carer of the Year will be announced.

Nominations for the NSW Carers Awards 2016 close on Sunday 10 July at midnight, and can be made online at www.careforacarer.nsw.gov.au/carersawards.

Bright Minds Put to Task to Help Protect our Beachgoers

Sunday, 22 May 2016

Minister for Primary Industries, Lands and Water Niall Blair is calling on the world’s best minds to apply for funding to develop innovative projects to help protect beachgoers from shark attacks.

Mr Blair said new ideas and technologies are being sought to help build on existing technologies as part of the NSW Government’s $16 million Shark Management Strategy.

“We want technology developers, researchers, educational institutions, businesses and individuals to put their hand up for funding to develop a range of technologies for shark mitigation, in particular personal protective devices,” Mr Blair said.

“There is no one solution to detecting and deterring sharks and that’s why we are determined to fund emerging technologies that could become real game changers when it comes to shark mitigation.”

The NSW Government is offering a total of $200,000 to support national or international projects, which are aligned to the strategy, and can increase protection for beachgoers when hitting the water.

Grants are open to national and international applicants, and joint applications are encouraged. To apply for a grant, applicants should complete an Expression of Interest form. Selected applicants will then be invited to complete a full application.

Key areas for funding aligned with the NSW Shark Management Strategy include:

 Personal shark deterrents

 Area-based shark deterrents

 Shark detection methods

 Shark biology relevant to interactions with humans

 Socio-economics of shark/human interactions.

For more information, please visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/sharks 

Remains of six First World War soldiers identified

27 May 2016: Media Release

The Australian Army has confirmed the identification of a further six Australians from the 250 Australian and British World War One soldiers recovered from a mass burial site at Pheasant Wood in France in 2009.

The soldiers newly identified are Second Lieutenant James Benson, Private Justin Hercules Breguet, Private Clifton Sydney Brindal, Private Sidney Broom, Private William Burke, and Private Robert Thomas Maudsley.

The recent identification was facilitated by the Australian Army’s Unrecovered War Casualties Fromelles project team.  The identification brings the total number of named Australians to 150 and contributes another important piece to the history of the Army in the Great War.

The Deputy Chief of Army, Major General Rick Burr, DSC, AM, MVO, said the identification honoured the service and memory of our soldiers.

“The Battle of Fromelles is an important part of our Army’s history and our Nation’s history, and it is a story that we want to complete,” Major General Burr said.

“We have been fortunate to have the interest and cooperation of the Australian community to connect 150 of the soldiers lost at Fromelles with their descendants,”

“Together with the relatives of those who fought at Fromelles, we hope to collect more information to identify the 100 soldiers who remain unknown,”

“The assistance of the community helps us to commemorate our soldiers in the most respectful way, while also connecting current generations of Australians with their military heritage.”

The Battle of Fromelles was the first major battle fought by the Australian Imperial Force in France and is recognised as one of the worst periods in Australia’s military history as the 5th Australian Division suffered more than 5,500 casualties (killed and wounded).

The identification of soldiers killed has been made possible by the Fromelles Project team establishing a register of more than 3,000 relatives and descendants of Australian soldiers killed at Fromelles.

For more information about the six identified soldiers visit the Army website 

Further information about the Fromelles Project is available at: army.gov.au/Our-work/Unrecovered-War-Casualties-Army/Fromelles

The Australian Army’s Unrecovered War Casualties Unit are collecting information about First Australian Imperial Force soldiers who; fought in the Battle of Fromelles, whose date of death is listed between 19 – 20 July 1916, and whose grave is listed as unknown.

Members of the public who have a relative that fits this profile, please register with the Australian Fromelles Project: Email: army.uwc@defence.gov.au

Grant helps charities deter dumpers

May 26, 2016

Charities can apply for a grant to help them deter dumpers, which will save them millions of dollars and thousands of volunteer hours.

The Environment Protection Authority’s Reducing Dumping on Charitable Recyclers project is offering charities grants of up to $7000 each to install surveillance equipment, lighting, fencing and gates to get charity donors to do the right thing.

Environment Minister Mark Speakman said the government had been working with charities to help them manage the cost of disposing dumped unusable goods.

“With charities receiving an estimated two billion items or 300,000 tonnes of goods each year, disposing of the 40 per cent, which are unusable, equates to 120,000 tonnes of waste. The cost alone of getting rid of this rubbish is up to $7 million a year,” Mr Speakman said.

Pat Daley from the EPA Charity Recyclers Reference Group said charities struggled to keep up with the volume of unusable goods dumped on doorsteps of charity shops or around donation bins.

“Charities rely on donations to raise funds for their important work, but the cost of sorting and disposing unusable goods cuts deeply into fundraising efforts,” Mr Daley said.

The grant program is part of the NSW Government’s $58 million commitment to addressing illegal dumping from its Waste Less, Recycle More initiative.

Find out more here: www.epa.nsw.gov.au/grants/charitable-recyclers.

Government House Open Day

On Sunday, 12 June 2016, Government House will open its doors for self-guided tours and Guides will be on hand to answer questions about this 170 year old residence.  

We also invite you to bring a picnic rug, pack your favourite picnic fare, and enjoy the winter sun in the grounds of Government House.

The Government House Gates will open from 10.00 am and close at 4.00 pm. Entry will be by (optional) charitable donation.

Send a birthday message to Her Majesty The Queen  www.royal.uk/messagetothequeen 

 Winter Care Kits 2016

May, 2016 - Mona Vale Library

Mona Vale library will again be a drop-off point for the Winter Care Kits for the homeless people in Sydney. 

The flyer itemises the 8 items which are required to be placed in a large zip lock bag.

Mona Vale library has a stock of the bags - feel free to pick up a free one next time you are in the library

In addition, we are also collecting hand knitted Winter Warmies – gloves, scarves, beanies or socks would be perfect.

Guardianship Regulation 2016

NSW Government: Review of proposed regulation under the Guardianship Act 1987

What's this about?

The Department of Justice invites people who are interested in the proposed change to the ​Guardianship Regulation 2016 to tell us what they think.

The Guardianship Regulation is under the Guardianship Act 1987.

There are three documents that you can read to understand the proposed changes. They are all available to download on the right-hand side of this page.

Proposed Guardianship Regulation 2016​ [PDF, 225kb]

Regulatory Impact Statement [PDF, 166kb]

Easy Read Guide to the Guardianship Regulation changes [PDF, 3.7MB]

Have your say

Submit your feedback by 5pm 14 June 2016 via emailpolicy@justice.nsw.gov.au or write to:

Guardianship Regulation Public Consultation

Executive Director,  Justi​ce Strategy & Policy

Department of Justice, GPO Box 31. Sydney NSW 2001

Please note that a​​ll submissions and comments will be treated as public, and may be published, unless the author indicates that it is to be treated as confidential.​​​​​​​

Formal Submission - Date: May. 18 - Jun. 14, 2016

Consultation website with above documents here

Driving towards zero

Wednesday 25 May 2016: Media Release

Deputy Premier and Minister for Police Troy Grant and Minister for Roads Duncan Gay today launched a new advertising campaign Towards Zero, which highlights the human element of the road toll to help drive down crashes and fatalities.

“We’re facing what can only be described as a state tragedy where too many people are dying on our roads – 38 more than the same time last year,” Mr Grant said.

“A road toll of 164 in less than six months is not just a number – it’s children’s lives that have ended before their time, it’s mums and dads who will never come home again, and it’s grandparents lost to their families forever.

“If this trend continues, there will be more than 60 more people killed in 2016 than 2015 which is horrifying.

“The reality is that as a community we’ve become complacent. We’ve come to accept that people will die on our roads and that’s not good enough. We need to all work together towards zero deaths on our roads.

“We hope the Towards Zero campaign will start a conversation about how many road deaths are acceptable and the role everyone can play preventing them. There is only so much police and government can do, it’s up to every road user to do their bit too.”

Mr Gay said speeding sadly is still killing people despite our extensive efforts to slow people down. Pedestrian deaths have increased in this year's toll even though we have put in place more measures than ever before to protect them.

“Motorists are still flouting the law, regardless of the longest and most intense high-visibility police operations this state has ever seen,” Mr Gay said.

“All of this, and more, is partly funded by the NSW Community Road Safety Fund, a fund created from the money raised from speeding fines. We'll keep funding and in fact, increase our infrastructure build, police enforcement, our education campaigns and investment in safer vehicles and technology, to continue to try and save lives.

“In addition to the NSW Government’s historic $1.2 billion spend in road safety over the past five years, we’re also implementing a number of targeted initiatives to help address some of the emerging issues arising in the road toll:

  • Acceleration of $20 million to roll out rumble strips (road markings on the side of the road that generate noise when driven over), wide centre lines and crash barriers across NSW;
  • $250,000 for in-ground traffic light technology trial at key crossings in the CBD; and
  • $5 million over three years for up to 200 vehicle-activated signs to warn drivers when they are speeding or approaching hazards such as curves.

“I can invest billions into making our road network safer and continue to deliver our road safety programs but I cannot control drivers, riders or pedestrians from making bad choices,” Mr Gay said.

“People need to make smarter choices and think about all the other innocent road users around them.”

The Towards Zero advertising campaign will begin on 29 May.

Pittwater Sailors Competing in Hobie Worlds 2016

Originating in Hawaii in 1976, the Hobie 16 World Championships is a one-design class regatta that tests the skills of the world’s best Hobie 16 catamaran sailors.

Palm Beach Sailing Club and RPAYC members are competing again this year, including World Champions of past Hobie Worlds Rod and Kerry Waterhouse and John Duchatel and Evelyn Curtis. Among the Women’s this year, Olympian Nina Curtis with the very skilful Haylee Outteridge will also compete.

Rod Waterhouse

The 2016 Hobie 16 Worlds are being held in Dapeng, China from the 29th of May to the 13th of June 2016.

Good luck to all competitors!

All Australians in Hobie 16 Worlds for 2016

Hobie® 16 Masters 30 May – 2 June

Michael Butler Patrick Buter

Raymond Cox Rhys Cox

Phillip Epps Caitlyn Epps

Richard Lacey Tristan White

Shane Norris Sam Norris

William Tardrew Nicholas King

Roderick  Waterhouse Kerry Waterhouse

Beau White  Kerrin White

Hobie® 16 Grand Masters & Great Grand Masters  3 June – 5 June

John Duchatel  Evelyn Curtis GM

Murray Peterson  Rhys Cox GM

David Renouf  Rachel Renouf  GM

Christopher Steilberg   Wan Yi Steilberg-Liu  GM

William  Tardrew Nicholas King  GM & GGM

Roderick  Waterhouse Kerry Waterhouse GM

Hobie® 16 Women  3 June – 5 June

Haylie Andrews Amelia MacFarlane

Meagan Bursa Bonnie Butler

Nina Curtis Haylee Outteridge

Katie Peterson Natalie Gray

Krystal Weir Georgia Warren-Myers

Hobie® 16 Youth  3 June – 5 June

 Will Mckenzie Patrick Butler

Glimpse into NSW’s future

May 26, 2016: NSW Government Media Release

NSW’s economy will be worth $1.3 trillion dollars in 40 years’ time, according to a new report that projects demographic, workforce and housing trends across the state.

The Future State: NSW 2056 report provides insight into what NSW might look like in the next 40 years and suggests how it might become an even more attractive place to live and work.

The report is published every five years and projects demographic, workforce and housing trends across NSW over the next four decades. It also provides a long-term projection of the state’s economic and fiscal position.

Key findings from the report:

NSW’s economy will be worth $1.3 trillion dollars, after becoming the first state to be a trillion dollar economy.

The NSW population will rise to 11.2 million people – around 50 per cent more than today.

NSW life expectancy for males will increase from 81 to 89 and 85 to 91 for females.

24 per cent of the population will be aged 65 and over – up from 16 per cent currently.

The health sector will make up the largest share of expenses.

The number of NSW residents aged over 100 will increase by more than tenfold from 1,500 today to around 18,000 in 2056.

1.8 million new homes will be built.

Innovation and the digital age will deliver employment opportunities for regional NSW.

Treasurer Gladys Berejiklian said the report was critical in helping the government identify significant demographic and economic trends which, if ignored, will challenge the ability to provide the future services and quality of life the community has come to expect.

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Trivia Night Saturday 30 July 2016

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc will host the annual fundraising Zonta Trivia Night on 30 July this year.  The evening is in the Pittwater Memorial Hall, Pittwater Road, Mona Vale to start at 7pm.

With the Olympics starting the following Friday we will have an Olympic theme.  Guests may choose to dress with an Olympic or Brazilian touch or just come as you are!  Questions will be broad and general in nature with some Olympic topics – but not all sport!

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches is part of the worldwide service organisation Zonta International. Our local club supports women in need on the Northern Beaches by giving education grants to women, assisting high school students to stay at school, supporting the local Womens’ Refuge and Manly Womens’ Shelter amongst other projects.

This is a fun evening and all proceeds will support our Club’s study grant program.  BYO glass, drinks and nibbles, tea, coffee and biscuits available.  Gather your friends and enjoy this relaxing evening while supporting your local community.

Bookings may be made directly by completing the form HERE or by calling Maree on 0412 902 020 or by email to zontanb@gmail.com   Book a table of 10 or we will seat you with others.

International Surfing Day 2016 - Surfrider Foundation Australia Annual Event

Come and join Surfrider Foundation in celebrating the annual International Surfing Day on Saturday, June 25 from 6 PM at Mounties Manly Bowling Club. The event will have a 70's theme featuring...

~ Live Music by Ziggy McNeill & 70's super-band TAMAM SHUD ~

~ Original Morning of the Earth Footage ~

~ 70's Surfing Stories from Surfing Legends ~

~ Environmental Stalls and Recognition ~

~ Auction Items & Raffles throughout the Event ~

** Limited tickets are available – grab your tickets for this intimate evening celebrating surfing here

Surfrider Foundation Australia’s 25th anniversary

For nearly 25 years, Surfrider Foundation has been protecting beaches and waves across Australia. Help Surfrider to celebrate our successes, learn from our losses and eagerly move forward by sending through your stories and photos of your experiences with Surfrider since its foundation toinfo@surfrider.org.au  

If you are not yet a member get join today its only $25 for a full year or better still give your beach YOUR Birthday present join now and renew next BIRTHDAY and pay a dollar for each year you've been surfing. 

2017 Women's Match Racing World Championship heading to Helsinki, Finland

Sunday 22 May 2016

World Sailing is pleased to announce that the NJK Sailing Center, Finland has been selected to host the 2017 Women's Match Racing World Championship.


Renowned for its Match Racing pedigree, the NJK Sailing Center in Helsinki will host the 2017 Women's Match Racing World Championship boasting a sailing arena located close to the city centre providing excellent viewing opportunities for spectators. 

Together with The Finnish Sailing and Boating Federation and the Finnish Olympic Committee, NJK runs a training centre for elite sailors and has previously hosted the inaugural Youth Match Racing World Championship in 2014. It is also set to hold the first round of the 2016 Women's International Match Racing Series in June.

Head of Events at World Sailing, Alastair Fox said, "In 2014, NJK was chosen to host the first ever Youth Match Racing World Championship and it was a very successful and well run event. World Sailing is confident the NJK Sailing Center can repeat the same success with the Women's Match Racing World Championship and the close race areas to the capital city will draw in spectators to watch and support the crews."

Chair of the Match Racing Committee, Liz Baylis, said, "The Evaluation Panel had the difficult task of choosing between three excellent bids and Helsinki came out on top. With Finland's rich culture in match racing, including a medal performance in the 2012 Olympics, we expect nothing short of an exceptional regatta with great community support and excellent sailing.” 

The 2017 Women's Match Racing World Championship will take place in Finland in a year in which the country celebrates its 100th anniversary of independence. 

Applications for the host venue opened in July 2015 with the Evaluation Panel reviewing all received applications. The World Sailing's Board of Directors then endorsed the recommendation made by the Panel.

The selection of the NJK Sailing Center is subject to a successful site visit and satisfactory contractual arrangements.

Dates will be confirmed and released for the regatta in the near future.

By Richard Aspland - World Sailing

Photo credit: Mick Anderson / Sailingpix.dk

Fight on the Beaches Christmas in July Charity Ball 2016

Friday July 8th, 2016

Fight on the Beaches Team:  May 4, 2016

Fight on the Beaches has raised over $468 000 over the past 2 years for cancer research. We hope that you will join us this year on Friday 8th July at Miramare Gardens to 'fight for a cure', and to help us to donate even more to cancer research. Having funded 3 cancer researchers over the past 2 years, we will continue to fund cancer research through our fundraising.

Fight on the Beaches is made up of local women who have all been impacted by cancer in one way or another and who want to make a positive difference in the fight against cancer. We are thankful for any contribution, big or small, that will help find a cure for cancer.

You can choose to buy a ticket to the Ball, donate a prize for the Christmas Tree Lucky Dip or Auction, take out one of our fantastic Sponsorship Packages, make a cash donation or, volunteer on the night. We look forward to having you join us in your own way to fight back and find a cure.

We are absolutely thrilled to announce that Richard Wilkins will join Fight on the Beaches as MC on the 8th July to help us in our fight for a cure! Richard is a tireless supporter of various charities and we can't wait to see him on the night!

On Channel Nine's TODAY, Richard presents daily features and interviews from right across the world of showbiz. He's interviewed the cream of the international entertainment industry - from Madonna to The Rolling Stones, and from Andrea Bocelli to Nigel Kennedy.

Richard has hosted a myriad of top rating TV specials from ‘Angelina Jolie: Unbroken and Exclusive’, the eight-hour Millennium Live, the Annual Tropfest Short Film Special and for ten years, the New Year’s Eve Festivities and Fireworks over Sydney Harbour.

In the 2014 Queen’s Birthday Honours List, Richard was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM), for “significant service to the community through a range of charities, and the entertainment industry.”

Tickets at: http://www.fightonthebeaches.com/ 

Go Fishing NSW Day 2016 Grants

By NSW Govt. Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries

The inaugural Go Fishing NSW Day was run by DPI in six locations across NSW in December 2015. The Fishing Day was a celebration of recreational fishing, as a fun and healthy pastime for the entire family. A range of fun filled activities was held in each location and many kids and adults were introduced to their first ever fishing experience.

Mark the date for the next Go Fishing NSW Day which will be held on Sunday, 16 October 2016 at a range of new locations. More fun fishing activities are being planned so stay tuned for more details.

Fishing clubs – apply for funding now

Recreational fishing clubs are invited to apply for grants to help run community fishing events and activities in their own local area on the NSW Go Fishing Day - 16 October 2016.

How much can clubs apply for? Grants of up to $2,000 can be applied for.

What can the grants be spent on? Funding can be spent on items required to run a local Fishing Day event and associated activities on 16th October 2016, such as casting and fishing workshops, information sessions and other fishing activities. This includes items such as fishing gear, bait, food and drinks, equipment hire, hire or chartering of specialist fishing services etc. Activities restoring fish habitat on the Fishing Day are also eligible, such as replanting and/or weeding creek banks.

The activities must be scheduled to occur on the 16th October 2016.

How to apply

Download the funding guidelines (PDF, 53.02 KB) for more information

Complete the funding application form (DOC, 147.5 KB)

Forward the application to:

Email: gofishing.nsw@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Mail: NSW DPI

Go Fishing NSW

PO Box 4291

Coffs Harbour Jetty NSW 2450

Who can assist you?

For assistance with completing your application or to find out more about the expression of interest, phone 02 6229 7712 or e-mailgofishing.nsw@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Fishing clubs also wanting to carry out fish habitat restoration activities such as replanting and/or weeding creek banks on the Fishing Day are encouraged to contact DPI Fish Habitat Rehabilitation staff to obtain advice and assistance at fish.habitat@dpi.nsw.gov.au or phone (02) 6626 1396.

Application closing date is 30 June 2016.

All documents at:  dpi.nsw.gov.au/go-fishing-nsw

DoggieRescue.com

Pet of the Week

Courtney

AGE/SEX: 1 year / F
BREED: Kelpie X Whippet
Courtney is a quiet calm girl in a home environment and at the park she loves chasing a tennis ball. She is very smart and needs to be stimulated. She would be great at agility. Courtney is very social with other dogs and does not mind cats. She walks on a loose lead. She is an affectionate girl who loves to jump up and lick your face. She can be picked up by strangers. She does prefer to have her humans around her. She has a short coat and weighs 9.6kg. She came from the pound pregnant and her pup Keira has found a home. She comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DR Vet. Her adoption cost is $450. 

For further details or to meet all dogs at call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 

World Sailing appoint Massimo Dighe as Para World Sailing Manager

Tuesday 24 May 2016

Massimo Dighe, a London 2012 Paralympic sailor, has been appointed as Para World Sailing Manager for World Sailing, the governing body of the sport. 

Dighe campaigned in the Sonar for London 2012, sailing alongside Antonio Squizzato and Paola Protopapa. After finishing 12th at London 2012, Dighe joined the former IFDS Athletes' Council before his appointment to the Para World Sailing Committee in 2015.

The Italian will start work at World Sailing's Executive Office in early July and will be responsible for promoting and developing Para World Sailing with the objective of sailing being reinstated to the 2024 Paralympic Games. 

In addition, Dighe will be responsible for managing and building key relationships within World Sailing and the International Paralympic Committee, integrating Para World Sailing into the Sailing World Cup and supporting the development of the sport from development programs and race officials.

Dighe said, "The International Paralympic Committee's decision to remove sailing from the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games rocked the sport. Since then World Sailing and the Para World Sailing Committee have been working hard to get sailing back into the Paralympic program.

"There is a lot more work to be done to achieve the result and get sailing back where it belongs and I'm excited about tackling the challenge ahead.” 

On the appointment of Dighe, World Sailing Chief Executive Officer Andy Hunt commented, "Massimo continues to be an excellent ambassador for Paralympic sailing, demonstrating passion and commitment for both development and reinstatement back into the Paralympic Games. The appointment of Massimo is a further sign of our commitment to ensure that Sailing is reinstated in the 2024 Paralympic Games. Massimo will play a pivotal role within World Sailing's Executive Office and I look forward to him joining the team.”

By Daniel Smith, World Sailing

Southern Cross Wildlife Care 

       Critter of the Month - May 2016

Pouch-Checking our Marsupials

How many Australian marsupials can you name?  

Marsupials are a class of mammals living primarily in Australasia (although the Americas have a few).  A distinctive characteristic of marsupials is that most of the young are carried in a pouch.  Some well-known Australian marsupials include kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, possums, wombats, bandicoots and Tasmanian devils.  Other marsupials include numbats, bettongs, bilbies, quolls, and quokkas.  The young are often referred to as joeys.  

Brushtail possum joey in his mum’s pouch.
Ringtail joey in her mum’s pouch.

Did you know that if a marsupial is hit and killed on the road, her baby (joey) may still be 100% okay?  The mum’s pouch provides a very safe and protective environment and many babies can remain in the pouch for days after the mum has died.  It is imperative, therefore, to stop and check the bodies of our marsupial mammals to see if there might be a baby on board.  

The most important thing to remember is that you should only stop IF IT’S SAFE FOR YOU AND EVERYONE ELSE ON THE ROAD to do so.  If you are able to pull your vehicle right off the road and not obstruct/impede the flow of traffic and you are not placing yourself or your passengers in any danger, you can then perform a pouch-check.  

Worried that you won’t know what to do?  It helps to be prepared.  We always suggest that every vehicle carry a few little items which will come in handy if you come across a deceased or  injured animal.   

To perform a pouch-check, you will need the following items:

•    A high-visibility vest
•    A box (or a basket)
•    A towel
•    Disposable gloves and/or gardening gloves
•    A torch (in case you do a pouch-check at night)
•    A beanie (to wrap up a joey)
•    Scissors 
•    Safety pin

Boxes are good for holding almost any small marsupial or bird.  Plastic baskets (only $20 at Hot Dollar Shops are a great alternative).  High-vis vests are available at Lowes, Big W and Target.  

What to do:

1.    Once you have pulled over in a safe spot, put on your high-visibility vest.  
2.    Pull the deceased animal well off the road.
3.    Roll the animal onto its back to check if it is male or female.  The boys usually have obvious testes (like 2 cotton-balls);  the female has a pouch (which is less obvious in smaller marsupials such as ringtail possums and bandicoots).
4.    If the animal is male, obviously the pouch-check is unnecessary.
5.    If the animal is female, you should perform the pouch-check, even if rigor mortis has set in as the joey can still be present.
6.    Put on your disposable gloves. 
7.    It may be necessary to really pull the skin of the pouch to check deep down.



How to remove the joey:
1. If there is a joey, it will likely be attached to one of the mum’s teats/nipples.  You cannot simply tear the joey from the nipple as you will injure its jaws,  There are two choices:  pick up the dead mum and baby and take them both to a local veterinarian to help you extract the baby OR cut the teat.  This is why we suggest you carry scissors and a safety pin.  
2. If you cut the teat, you don’t want the baby to swallow it, so you put a safety-pin through the flesh of the teat and then cut below the pin so that the pin stops the baby from swallowing the elongated nipple.
3. Once you have extracted the joey, wrap him/her in a beanie/ jumper/towel and pop it down your shirt for warmth.  The most crucial part of the baby’s survival is warmth.  They cannot even drink fluids until they are warm enough.  
4. Ring your local wildlife rescue organisation and get them to raise the joey. Only registered carers are legally able to raise joeys.  Do not attempt to feed the joey!

Once the pouch-check is complete, we often spray a yellow cross on the animal to show other pouch-checkers that the job has been done.  This prevents 10 people from checking the same body.

Wildlife rescue organisations are well-equipped to raise the joeys.  Southern Cross Wildlife Care, Sydney Wildlife and Wires are the local rescue organisations for the Pittwater area.  

Your first pouch-check might be a little intimidating, but one day you just might come face-to-face with a little joey, with pleading eyes, in need of your help :)

Orphaned wombat joey (her mum was hit and killed on the road, but thankfully some kind soul stopped to check mum’s pouch)


By Lynleigh Greig
Southern Cross Wildlife Care

Avalon Boomerang Bags 2016 Workshops

It was great to see some of our regular volunteers yesterday at our first workshop of the year - thanks everyone for showing up and kicking off the year in style. We look forward to seeing you all at the next workshop on Tuesdays 11:30am- 5pm.

For those of you unable to come to workshops there are many other ways to get involved, just let us know you're willing by leaving a comment or sending us a message.

Pictured is a Boomerang Bag Box as will be provided around Avalon Shopping area full of our Boomerang Bags to "Borrow and Bring Back" Workshops are every Tuesday in Avalon Rec. Centre.

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