Community News: May 2020

May 24 - 30, 2020: Issue 451

This Issue:

Front Page Issue 451 

South West Lovett Bay Coastcare Group Secure Grant

Ross River Fever In Pittwater (Narrabeen, Warriewood and Scotland Island): What You Can Do To Beat Those Mosquitoes

Pictures Storm Swell May 2020: Surfing South Avalon Beach 

Aquatics ‘Operation Crayweed’ Manly: Engaging The Manly Community In Restoring Manly’s Lost Underwater Forests + Newport and Freshwater to come! by Derrick Cruz 

Mona Vale Road Upgrade: The Machines Helping Build The Road – For Younger Readers: This is a story about the road-building machines we included in last Issues’ Pictorial. Some of our younger Readers have asked us ‘but what’s that one and what is it used for?’ so it seems best to put it all in a page for you. We didn’t get ALL the machines being used – but here’s some insights into those we did, and a bit more, for those who want to know more.

Park Bench Philosopher Rowing Australia announce Row to the Moon challenge alongside other National Federations - finishes May 31st: Join in the #moonchallenge – a global challenge to help get a rowing machine to the moon. You will be representing your country and can do as much or as little as you like at any one time. You have until May 31st to hop on your indoor rowing machine and help Rowing Australia, Rowing Canada Aviron, British Rowing and Rowing NZ clock the 384.4 million metres for the #MoonChallenge! 

Reflections by George Repin: Alcohol In Restaurants Before 1955

Food Autumn Tonic Soup This is a simple idea for a soup, more a reminder of what you can easily do to look after you and your loved ones as we head into Winter, and with the long conversation free silence, amid the sounds of slurping that accompanies the eating of this soup, followed by rounds of ‘Beautiful!’, appreciation of the beauty in simple things will have been shared.

Profile Jo Brigden Jones, Olympian 

Jo Brigden-Jones has featured in numerous news reports and magazine articles lately as one of the many working as a paramedic during the COVID-19 pandemic, a career role hard earned and followed with true passion. However here Jo is known as an also passionate paddler and brilliant water woman, who follows through. 

Her ability to exhale and then get up and try again when injury or setbacks in competitions come her way has extended into being a valued and sought after speaker who aims to continue inspiring others once she steps back from upper level representation in competitive sports. Among the younger members of the Sydney Northern Beaches Kayak Club Jo is already on hero status for her paddling as much as her down to earth personality, and possibly very well liked due to those brilliant cakes she creates….

Jo was recently named for the 2020 Olympics Australian Team, now moved to July 2021, which were to be the last prior to her retirement from competition 

In 2011 Jo was working hard to qualify for the 2012 London Olympics. Pittwater Online ran a few insights into her hard work to secure that place in the team – and when her hard work paid off, it was finding the way to fund purchasing the expensive equipment (kayak) needed that became the next obstacle. 

2012 will soon become 2021.  It’s time for a catch-up with one of our areas elite athletes and all else Jo has been doing since 2011.   

The Rock pools that form a feature at the southern ends of five Pittwater beaches remain one of the most popular places to meet up with friends and enjoy a dip or do laps. They are places our children learn to swim, places we can sit and relax, for hours, places where those young and not so young anymore maintain fitness and good health, all year round.

There are still swimming clubs associated with our rock pools; at Palm Beach the Barrenjoey Breakers swim on Mondays, Bilgola pool hosts the oldest, Bilgola Amateur Swimming Club and Citizens' Pool Committee, still running as the Avalon Bilgola Amateur Swimming Club Inc and Mona Vale is home to the famous Pittwater Pirates who are focused on Winter swimming. In the past Newport has been home to swimming events and quite well known swimmers of their times.

We have not included the North Narrabeen pool in this overview as it is situated at the north end of that long stretch of sand - a future page - however:

Rock baths were built at North  Narrabeen Headland at a cost of £494. This is the tenth rock bath built by the council. THE COUNCILS. (1934, January 9). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 13. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article17038853

Musk Lorikeets In Pittwater: Pittwater Spotted Gum Flower Feast - May 2020

Environment South West Lovett Bay Coastcare Group Secure Grant, Musk Lorikeets Feeding In Pittwater, Top Scientist’s Resignation Demands Snowy 2.0 Rethink, Approval Of Snowy 2.0 EIS Sets Appalling Precedents States National Parks Association Of NSW, Snowy 2.0 Approved: Multi-Billion Dollar Boost For Regional NSW, Snowy Water Licence Amendments Open For Public Exhibition, NSW Has Approved Snowy 2.0. Here Are Six Reasons Why That’s A Bad Move, Rock Wallaby Colony Survives In Kangaroo Valley, Wildfires Increasing In Size And Frequency Across Victoria, Fish Faeces Reveals Which Species Eat Crown-Of-Thorns, Weed Cassia Now Flowering: Please Pull Out and Save Our Bush, Please Help Sydney Wildlife Rescue: Donate Your Cans and Bottles and Nominate SW As Recipient, Bird of the Month: Night Heron, Downloadable Shorebirds booklet, Bushcare In Pittwater, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations In Pittwater, Pittwater Reserves++

Inbox News High Five! It's Possible To Create Proximity Online, Subcellular Chatter Regulates Longevity, Researchers Go Cuckoo: Antarctic Penguins Release An Extreme Amount Of Laughing Gas, Managing Mental Health With Yoga: Review Shows Moving Your Body Helps, All Pumped Up For New-Age Rubber, Why Cats Have More Lives Than Dogs When It Comes To Snakebite

A Tale Of Two Frontlines

Noel Kessel is a member of Cottage Point RFS Brigade, his wife Kate works at St.Vincent Hospital. 

''Over the Summer months I and my colleagues spent many days out on the frontline battling the deadly bushfires around the State.'' Noel stated this week

''Just as we thought things were slowing down, another front opened up with the battle against the deadly Covid-19 Virus. It was time for me to hand over the baton to my wife Kate who is a nurse and let her go into battle. Once again a frightening time for all of us, especially our children.''

Photo: RN Kate Kessel who works at St.Vincent Hospital, with her husband Noel Kessel who is a member of Cottage Point Rural Fire Service Brigade. 

COVID-19 Statistics Update

No new COVID-19 cases recorded in Pittwater area (by postcodes roughly corresponding to Pittwater Council area reaching from Palm Beach to Narrabeen and inland to Terrey Hills) since April 9, still with 38 in total.

The only new case of the virus confirmed in the Northern Beaches Council area during the last month (ie since April 19) was recorded on May 12 for postcode 2100 (which includes Allambie, Beacon Hill, Brookvale, North Manly, Oxford Falls and Warringah Mall.)
 
Australia-wide, there have been 7,106 confirmed cases and 102 deaths from the virus – with 6,494 patients having recovered. Thirteen new cases were confirmed in the 24 hours to 9pm on Saturday). Across the country, 1,192,262 tests have been carried out. 

NSW reported 3,086 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the 24-hours to 8pm on Friday, with three new cases confirmed. Fifty patients had lost their lives and 383 patients were still suffering from active cases of the virus. The total number of tests in NSW come to 411, 618. 
 
(Statistics all checked at 9pm on Saturday night.)

Report by Miranda Korzy

Rare Infection From Possum Scratch Prompts Warning

May 20, 2020
NSW Health is urging people to avoid touching possums following the first probable case of the rare disease tularaemia in a NSW resident.

The woman was bitten and scratched by a ringtail possum in a Northern Sydney suburb in early March, and since developed symptoms including swollen lymph glands, fatigue, and a sore throat. Further testing is continuing to confirm the diagnosis.

NSW Health's Acting Director of Communicable Diseases, Ms Keira Glasgow, said that while the disease is highly contagious, most people fully recover with appropriate antibiotics. Tularaemia is an extremely rare bacterial disease, which can be transmitted to humans from infected animals but not from human-to-human.

“The best way to prevent tularaemia is to avoid touching or handling any wildlife,” Ms Glasgow said.

Only two cases of tularaemia have been reported in people in Australia previously, both of whom had been bitten or scratched by possums in Tasmania in 2011. The type of bacteria present in Australia is less virulent than the type seen in North America, and there have been no deaths associated with the disease in Australia.

“If you see sick or injured wildlife, do not pick it up or try to rescue it. Instead, contact the experts at your local licensed wildlife care group or local veterinarian,” she said.

Symptoms of tularaemia include fever, chills, fatigue, body aches, headache and nausea, which appear within two weeks of exposure to the bacteria. People exposed to the bacteria through bites and scratches to their skin will also develop an ulcer at the wound.

“If you have become unwell with these symptoms after recently touching a possum, especially if you were bitten or scratched, it is important to seek medical treatment early,” Ms Glasgow said. In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000).

Worldwide, tularaemia can affect a wide range of animals including rabbits, hares, rodents and wildlife. The infection has only been found in two possums in Australia, which died in separate clusters in 2002 and 2003.

Contact details for local wildlife care groups can be found on the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment website and an app called “IFAW Wildlife Rescue” can be downloaded from the app store.

If you need help for sick, injured or orphaned native wildlife please CALL the Sydney Wildlife Rescue Line on (02) 9413 4300. The rescue line operates 24 hours a day, every day.

The Taronga Conservation Society’s Australian Registry of Wildlife Health is assisting the NSW Health investigation in this rare occurrence of the disease.

Find more information on tularaemia visit: 

Cook For Soibada

Thursday June 4, 2020
from 19:00 - 22:00

This is one of my favourite things! Timorese Puddim. We are going to learn how to make it over Zoom on 4 June. 


Timorese Puddim

The money raised in this first of a series of online cooking lessons will help to pay the wages of the builders in Soibada who are currently working on the construction of classrooms at the training centre. This, in turn, helps them provide food for their families! So not only are we furthering educational opportunities in Soibada but we are supporting families too with jobs and income! Tickets will be $15 please join us! 


Tamara Sloper-Harding OAM
Chair Pittwater Friends of Soibada

New MRBB30 Update

May 18, 2020: Marine Rescue Broken Bay 

Updated photo of our new BB30 build. In the background there have been lots of discussions on small customisations for our vessel to ensure she is just right for us.

Grey Goshawk Taking Chooks In Avalon

Residents report a grey goshawk (Accipiter novaehollandiae) has been witnessed taking their chickens in recent weeks, with one resident posting a photo of the bird on social media this week. Others have spotted the same or a similar bird over the Careel Bay wetlands and fields taking wild rabbits. 

If you do have chickens it may be best to keep them in a coop at present, ditto pet rabbits. 

Grey goshawks vary their prey selection opportunistically. For an Accipiter they select mammals such as rabbits, possums, and bats. Other prey can include small reptiles, and insects. However, the most frequent prey type are most often other birds. Evidence from different parts of the range shows females select larger prey than males, with males largely keeping to small to mid-sized passerines while females often prey on larger prey such as currawongs, gamebirds (including megapodes) and even herons. 

Grey goshawks partner for life, breeding from July to December. Grey goshawks are the largest Accipiters on mainland Australia, at about 40 to 55 cm long, with wingspans of 70 to 110 cm.


Grey Goshawk - photo by Aviceda

Show Us Your Cans Update: Now In These Locations

Supporting our Northern Beaches homeless and disadvantaged communities through coronavirus by providing them with food and other support options. 

Suggestions of what may be needed below

DoggieRescue.com

Pets of the Week

Theodore


AGE/SEX: 2 years / M
BREED: Kelpie X Ridgeback
Theodore is a very gentle slightly timid boy who social with other dogs and has nice doggy manners. He walks well on lead and sits for a treat. He has a short coat and weighs 21.6kg. 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. 

Pookie


This scruffy, lovable 8-year old tabby was found wandering the streets before being rescued. He is the sweetest boy, friendly, affectionate, interested to meet new people and totally laid back and calm. He adjusts very quickly to new surroundings and is not carry-case shy. He is also good with other cats and it is obvious that he originally was in a home because he has very good manners. He is a short haired boy who weighs between 4 and 5 kg.

He comes desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated and microchipped. He is a healthy FIV positive cat. His adoption fee is $220. If you are interested in meeting Pookie, please call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email cats@doggierescue.com. He is located at Ingleside.


Foster Carers Needed
Not everyone is in a position to adopt a dog, which is why DoggieRescue runs a foster program making it easy for caring dog lovers to make an immediate difference.

Meet our top ten doggies desperate for a foster home. These are most frequently doggies who have spent a long time in the shelter and are in urgent need of some quiet time in a loving home.

For further details or to meet all cats, rabbits and dogs at Doggie Rescue call  9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 
Rehoming Organisation No R251000024. 

Laws To Help Grow A 24-Hour Economy

The NSW Government wants to support our  nightlife’s recovery after COVID-19 restrictions are eased. This will create a vibrant and safe 24-hour economy with  risk-based  liquor laws that support business.   

You are invited  to have your say on  the second stage of the  24-hour  economy liquor law reforms. The reforms will deliver key parts of the NSW Government’s response to a NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into Sydney’s Night Time Economy.  

The draft Liquor Amendment (24-hour Economy) Bill 2020 includes proposed liquor law changes. 

The documents below provide the scope of the proposed changes: 
Have your say
Have your say by 11:59pm, Sunday 14 June 2020 on the NSW Customer Service website. 

Your feedback will be published on the NSW Customer Service website if not told otherwise.

Northern Basin First Flush Review

The NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment is seeking feedback on an independent review of the Northern Rivers first flush event.

In mid-January to early February 2020, after record drought conditions, the NSW Government put in place water restrictions to manage the first major water flows after rain fell across the northern Murray-Darling Basin. 

It was the first time NSW managed a first flush event in this way. An independent panel is seeking community feedback on the first flush event and how it was managed.

The panel will make recommendations to improve management of future first flush events, including:
  • the communication of water restrictions to water users and the public
  • decision-making processes, including matters considered when applying the public interest test
  • how prepared the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment — Water, WaterNSW and the Natural Resources Access Regulator were to manage the event.
Have your say
Feedback for the Northern Basin first flush review can be made online.

Have Your Say by Sunday 7 June 2020.

Online consultation
13 May 2020 to 7 June 2020
9:00am to 11:59pm
feedback form - with Terms of Reference.

Helping Councils Unlock Billions In Unspent Infrastructure Funds

May 17, 2020
The NSW Government is making it easier for councils to support communities and unlock billions of dollars in local infrastructure contribution funds to support jobs and stimulate the economy.

Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes said new legislative changes will provide councils with more flexibility to invest funds in vital community infrastructure during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mr Stokes said he would also require some councils with significant funds to prepare a works plan detailing how they will invest money in their accounts over the next 18 months, with the aim of increasing local job opportunities.

“By providing more flexibility with infrastructure contribution funds, councils will be able to quickly invest in vital local infrastructure including public spaces, roads, footpaths and drainage,” Mr Stokes said.

“The time for councils to invest in their local communities is now; releasing just one-third of council-held funds could generate an additional $1 billion of infrastructure spending to support the State’s economic recovery.”

The changes will permit councils to pool funds across contribution plans, allowing them to bring forward planned projects where all the funds may not yet have been received.

“We know local government wants to get these funds out the door and in addition to these changes we have a range of options to help councils invest the funds, including low cost loans, grant funding, and other support for strategic planning and capital works,” Mr Stokes said.

Also announced today are seven projects in Blacktown and The Hills that will be supported by the Government’s $70 million Accelerated Infrastructure Fund.

“This is funding for local roads, public space, stormwater infrastructure, and community facilities which will unlock plans for the development of thousands of new homes and employment land in the North West, and immediately bring down contributions charges,” Mr Stokes said.


Land To Support Veterans Aged Care Facility

May 18, 2020
The NSW Government has approved the sale of a 2.5 hectare block of Crown Land at Noraville, near Norah Head, to the Vietnam Veterans Keith Payne VC Hostel.

Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said the hostel applied to purchase the land that it had under lease to invest in its future and provide more affordable housing options for elderly residents in the region.

“This sale is another example of the NSW Government using innovative solutions to create more affordable housing options across NSW for our communities,” Mrs Pavey said.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the land had only been sold after consultation with the local community.

“Vietnam Veterans Keith Payne VC Hostel is a not-for-profit aged care facility and this 2.5 hectare block of land will secure the hostel’s future by providing room for future expansion,” Mr Crouch said.

“Our region is expected to grow by 95,250 people between 2016 and 2041, and we need all levels of government as well as non-government organisations to meet this need.”

Vietnam Veterans Keith Payne VC Hostel CEO Justin Dover said the land will help cement the hostel’s future on the Central Coast.

“The securing of this land is great news for our facility as it gives us the certainty we need to be able to plan for our future and grow,” Mr Dover said.

“We currently have 76 residents but have the potential for more aged care accommodation. We also run Community Assistance Solutions to provide domestic assistance, meals and other services to elderly residents in the community to support their independence".

NSW Animal Welfare Reform – Issues Paper

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is seeking feedback on key issues affecting animal welfare laws in NSW.

What’s this about?
This is your opportunity to help set the direction for animal welfare policy reform. This is an important step towards modernising welfare laws, which is a key commitment of the NSW Animal Welfare Action Plan.
The discussion paper identifies five focus areas for reform:
  • reviewing the purpose of the Acts
  • defining key terms
  • examining compliance powers and tools
  • setting the right penalties
  • streamlining the framework.
Feedback from the paper will be used to develop policy solutions. DPI welcomes feedback from all community members on these focus areas and any other issues that should be considered in the reform process.

Have your say
There are three ways you can submit your feedback:
Download the Issues Paper - NSW Animal Welfare Reform - Issues Paper (PDF, 2MB)

Consultation closes June 21, 2020

Domestic Violence Support During Covid-19 

NB: Where to get help Fact Sheet is below. Simply click on PDF and 'save as' on your own device

People experiencing domestic violence can be assured police and frontline services are ready to support them and their families as NSW continues to respond to the coronavirus threat.

Member for Manly James Griffin said the Northern Beaches community should not hesitate to seek help and support at this time. 

“If you are in danger or in an emergency call Triple Zero (000),” Mr Griffin said.

“If you are in need of support services, such as housing or counselling, our hard working frontline staff are also available to help those suffering domestic violence.”  

“No person, whether they live on the Northern Beaches or anywhere in Australia, should in live in fear of violence and I urge people to seek the help they need when it is safe to do so.”

Mr Griffin added that perpetrators are on notice and that police have increased efforts to combat violence in the home including more proactive operations to enforce protection orders. 

“Police will continue to conduct Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) compliance checks to keep victims safe.”

NSW Police Force Domestic Violence Corporate Spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Mark Jones, said police are monitoring rates of domestic violence. 

“High-risk and repeat offenders are being targeted by specially trained police to ensure that all orders are strictly followed and complied with and offenders are arrested if violence is detected,” Assistant Commissioner Jones said. 

“Police are also able to vary existing interim or final ADVOs if we know that violence is escalating, without needing to first go to court, so victims are immediately protected.

“NSW Police are working together with government agencies, including NSW Health, to ensure there is no increased health risk to the community in the current environment.”

The NSW Government is constantly adapting as the COVID-19 emergency evolves, which includes various justice, housing and policing responses to combat domestic violence.

Where to get help - March 2020.pdfWhere to get help - March 2020.pdf
Size : 465.979 Kb
Type : pdf

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: May 23, 2020

Click on Logo to access latest PON:  

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Pittwater Sailing Races Set To Recommence In June

Updated as of 0800 on Thursday 21st May 2020: Australian Sailing
  • RECREATIONAL BOATING IS EXEMPT FROM THE 4m2 RULE. HOWEVER, SAILORS NEED TO MAINTAIN 1.5m SOCIAL DISTANCE WHERE REASONBLY PRACTICABLE
  • COMPETITION IS PERMITTED
The NSW Government restrictions announced on Friday 15 May 2020 that restrictions were being updated in the latest Public Health Order.

The NSW Office of Sport has subsequently advised us that it will not be following the National Cabinet endorsed Framework for Rebooting Sport in a COVID-19 Environment developed by the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) on Friday 1 May 2020. It will instead rely solely on the NSW Public Health Orders. Today’s update provide for an exemption from the 4m2 rule for recreational boating, provided that it is still maintained where possible. The Office of Sport has clarified that Sailing events are now also permitted, provided that the Public Health Orders are adhered to.

What does this now mean for our sailing clubs?
  • Get in, Sail and get out;
  • Club activities including racing can resume as long as the Public Health Order is complied with.
  • Outdoor activities only;
  • Limit activities to small individual groups with a maximum of 10 participants (inclusive of coaches and support staff);
  • Practice good hand hygiene before and after sailing;
  • Avoid physical contact;
  • Changerooms, canteens and kitchens should remain closed – arrive dressed and ready to sail;
  • Stay home if you are unwell
  • Don’t share drinks or towels;
  • Sharing of equipment should be avoided and if necessary, should be kept to a minimum;
  • Keep a distance of 1.5 metres where reasonably practicable; and
  • Follow the one person per 4 square metres rule ashore to ensure sufficient physical distancing between people;.
  • Contact Tracing records must be kept.
  • Encourage the use of COVIDSafe App whilst at yourclub

The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club will recommence yacht racing on Saturday 6 June with the rescheduled Lion Island Series.

The rollout of events will be comprised of:
  • The Lion Island Series which will keep with tradition and run each Saturday in June being the 6, 13, 20, 27, followed by the Early Bird Series.
  • The Wednesday Waterford Series will commence on 10 June, weekly till the 26 August.
  • The Centreboard Winter Series will be held on two Sundays of each month commencing on the 14 June through to August. With single and doublehanded crews now allowed.
More details will be provided soon, including NEW Notice of Race and Sailing Instructions, how to enter, crew lists, on water social distancing and crew limitations, however, it is important to note that while social distancing restrictions have been reduced while racing, they still apply at the Club Premises  The Clubhouse will not at this stage be open as normal and we will issue guidance on access to food, drinks, change facilities, etc. shortly.

To assist members ability to go sailing, short-handed and non-spinnaker divisions will be the order of the day until NSW reaches Stage 3 of the Australian Government Framework for a COVID Safe Australia. This approach has been agreed by the major Sydney and Pittwater clubs during this time of transition.

Local Roads And Community Infrastructure

On May 22nd, 2020 the Australian Government announced a new $500 million Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program (LRCI Program).

This program will support local councils to deliver priority local road and community infrastructure projects across Australia, supporting jobs and the resilience of local economies to help communities bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Funding allocations have been calculated in a similar way to how the Roads to Recovery Program and the road component of the Financial Assistance Grants works.

This formula takes into consideration road length and population and is based on recommendations of Local Government Grants Commissions.

Under the program Northern Beaches Council will receive $1,418,332. 

Eligible local road projects could include works involving any of the following associated with
a road:
  • traffic signs;
  • traffic control equipment;
  • street lighting equipment;
  • a bridge or tunnel;
  • a facility off the road used by heavy vehicles in connection with travel on the road 
  • facilities off the road that support the visitor economy; and
  • road and sidewalk maintenance, where additional to normal capital works schedules.
Eligible community infrastructure projects could include works involving:
  • Closed Circuit TV (CCTV);
  • bicycle and walking paths;
  • painting or improvements to community facilities;
  • repairing and replacing fencing;
  • improved accessibility of community facilities and areas;
  • landscaping improvements, such as tree planting and beautification of roundabouts;
  • picnic shelters or barbeque facilities at community parks;
  • playgrounds and skateparks (including all ability playgrounds);
  • noise and vibration mitigation measures; and
  • off-road car parks (such as those at sporting grounds or parks).
The Funding will be available from July 1st, 2020.

Be Safe At Home This Winter

Fire and Rescue NSW's Get Ready for Winter Campaign offers the community to discuss home fire safety.

Deputy Commissioner Fewtrell said winter is the time when we see an increase in residential house fire related fatalities. So it was important residents remember to be careful when using heaters and fireplaces and electric blankets this winter.

“Don’t put your family at risk this winter, check that all your appliances are switched off and ensure that open fires have been fully extinguished. If we all do our bit to minimise the risks in our home, we can all stay safer together”, he said.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott said, with families spending more time at home than ever before it is crucial, we prepare our homes before winter hits.

“FRNSW do a great job in keeping our community safe, now it is our time as NSW residents to do the right thing by our families, listen to the experts and ensure our homes are safe.”

Some simple steps the community can take include:
  • Never ever leave cooking unattended
  • Only working smoke alarms save lives - test your smoke alarm today
  • Keep everything one metre away from your heater
  • Do not overload your power boards with appliances like heaters and electric blankets
  • Strong fire screens should be set up in front of open fires
  • Turn off your electric blanket at night
  • Do not use outdoor heating and cooking equipment inside your home. The use of this type of equipment indoors could lead to the build-up of carbon monoxide which could be fatal
Keep up with our open day activities by visiting www.fire.nsw.gov.au, or the Fire and Rescue NSW Facebook page or by searching for your local station on Facebook.

WINTER FIRE SAFETY WEEKEND CHECKLIST - downloadable PDF (523kb)

First Stage Of Major Upgrade At Curl Curl North Public School Completed 

Monday, 18 May 2020
Member for Manly James Griffin today announced the completion of stage 1 of works on the multi-million-dollar upgrade of Curl Curl North Public School.  

The project when fully complete will deliver an upgraded primary school, with 40 new permanent air conditioned classrooms along with a new hall, library, administration building and upgrades to the external play and sporting areas.  

“I know the students, parents and teachers will be very excited to see the wonderful new facilities,” Mr Griffin said. 

“We want school students in NSW to have the very best education, and providing high-quality school facilities like these is a key part of that.

“I’m thrilled the first stage of the redevelopment is now complete.  

“These great new facilities will benefit the local community for generations to come.

“The upgrade to this primary school means we now have the capacity to accommodate up to 1000 students with these new facilities,” Mr Griffin said. 




The State Government is investing $6.7 billion over four years to deliver 190 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NSW. In addition, a record $1.3 billion is being spent on school maintenance over five years, along with a record $500 million for the sustainable Cooler Classrooms program to provide air conditioning to schools. This is the largest investment in public education infrastructure in the history of NSW.

Museums, Galleries And Libraries To Reopen From 1 June 2020

Museums, galleries and libraries across NSW will be allowed to reopen from 1 June 2020, under an easing of restrictions announced by the NSW Government. 

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said on May 20th this was another important step forward in the reopening of NSW. 

“We cautiously invite our cultural institutions and libraries across NSW to re-open from 1 June 2020, but with strict new protocols in place,” Ms Berejiklian said. 

“NSW is home to some of Australia’s best art galleries and museums and I look forward to them reopening to the public.

“Libraries play an important role in our local communities, providing a safe space for learning and reading and I know many will be pleased to see them reopen.

“I would encourage museums, galleries and libraries to be innovative to ensure strict social distancing is adhered to and good hygiene measures are followed.” 

NSW Health will provide guidance to ensure the museums, galleries and libraries operate in a COVID-19 safe way, including: 
  • exclusion of staff and visitors who are unwell
  • limiting the number of guests to allow for 4 square metres per person
  • providing distance markers for people queuing at service points
  • ensuring adequate handwashing facilities and/or sanitiser
  • online ticketing systems for museums and galleries
  • no groups and tours
  • enhanced cleaning
  • 24 hour quarantine of returns for libraries.

Holiday Travel Restrictions To Be Lifted From June 1st 2020

NSW residents will be able to take a holiday anywhere in NSW from next month, with intra-state travel restrictions to be lifted from Monday June 1st 2020.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Deputy Premier John Barilaro said NSW citizens will be able take recreational trips across NSW, as long as they maintain social distancing and good hygiene.

Ms Berejiklian said lifting the holiday travel restriction will give everyone a much needed break and help get small businesses and the tourism industry moving again.

“This is the day we’ve all been looking forward to since the COVID-19 travel restrictions were put in place earlier this year and I would like to thank everyone for their patience during the past few months of being cooped up at home,” Ms Berejiklian said. 

“I must stress to everyone that, while we want people to enjoy a well-earned holiday, we must do this responsibly and continue to abide by physical distancing measures, as the last thing we want is further outbreaks that will force us to reintroduce restrictions.”

Mr Barilaro said while regional NSW will welcome visitors with open arms, holidaymakers should call their planned accommodation venues and attractions to ensure they will be open and confirm their bookings before travelling.

“COVID could not have come at a worse time for regional NSW, with towns already doing it tough due to bushfires and drought and so I encourage everyone to make plans to safely and responsibly visit their favourite regional holiday destination, or discover a new one,” Mr Barilaro said.

“I encourage holidaymakers to visit local businesses, enjoy local attractions and feast on the best food regional NSW has to offer, and for those not able to get away in June 2020, to start making plans for later in the year when even more businesses will be open.

“I’m very pleased to share that this means we will have a ski season this year, however holidaymakers should be aware that ski resorts will likely need time to put COVID plans into place and you should make contact before visiting.”

Venues are also encouraged to review their booking policies to allow travellers to easily cancel their trip if they have any symptoms. 

A number of caravan parks and camping grounds will be open from June 1st 2020, but travellers should call ahead and confirm bookings, while travellers planning to visit national parks should check NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service for further information. Travellers need to especially practice strong hygiene around shared facilities. 

Travellers from interstate will be able to visit NSW for a holiday from June 1st 2020 but will need to comply with the rules of their home state when returning.

$160 Million In New Projects In North Sydney For More Homes, Parks And Retail

May 19, 2020
St Leonards in North Sydney is set for a major facelift, after the NSW Government approved three major rezoning proposals that will inject almost $160 million in to the suburb and create more than 300 local jobs.

Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes said the green light to North Sydney Council’s rezoning proposals will see more than 500 new homes built in the suburb, as well as new retail outlets, cafés, restaurants, and new and upgraded public parks. 

“St Leonards already boasts a thriving commercial sector and these approvals will pave the way for more people to live close to where they work in a vibrant community hub,” Mr Stokes said. 

The rezoning approvals in St Leonards include:
  • 575-583 Pacific Highway: the site has been rezoned to allow for an 18-storey residential tower that will retain the local heritage of the existing building façade. The proposal will create 63 jobs and inject $31.4 million in to the economy. 
  • 100 Christie Street: the rezoning will provide an upgrade to Christie Street Reserve and allow a 36-storey residential and commercial tower to be built, replacing the existing office building. It will create 164 jobs and inject $82.2 million in to the economy. 
  • 23-35 Atchison Street: the site can now accommodate a 16-storey building, provided a new park is created along Oxley Street and Hume Street Park is upgraded. It will create 92 jobs and inject $46 million in to the local economy. 

Artist impression of apartments at 100 Christie-Street, St-Leonards

Approval of the rezoning proposals will allow development applications to be lodged immediately, and must be within the next six months. 

The three rezoning proposals are part of the NSW Government’s Planning System Acceleration Program, which is fast-tracking planning assessments to keep people in jobs and the economy moving through the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“In the past two weeks alone, the Planning System Acceleration Program has injected more than $2.4 billion into the state’s economy and created opportunities for more than 17,500 jobs,” Mr Stokes said. 

To be considered for an accelerated assessment, the development application (DA) or rezoning must already be progressed within the planning system, deliver a public benefit, demonstrate an ability to create jobs, and be able to commence construction or lodge a DA within six months. 

“The NSW Government has all hands-on deck to ensure ongoing investment in our state and to help provide as many jobs as possible,” Mr Stokes said. 

For more information, visit COVID-19 response and recovery.

South Mosman Wharf Upgrade

Mosman residents are invited to have their say on the NSW Government’s proposed concept design to improve South Mosman Wharf as part of the Transport Access Program.

The proposed wharf design includes a new floating pontoon. A new pontoon would improve the efficiency and safety of wharves for ferries to pick up and drop off passengers.

The pontoon would have a waiting area with a curved roof, seating and glass weather protection panels to provide passengers with a comfortable place to wait for their ferry. It would be connected to land by an uncovered gangway.

The proposed wharf would include a new lift and stairs providing a safer accessible route from street-level to the wharf. New bicycle hoops would be installed.

The new wharf would provide South Mosman with facilities that all members of the community can access.

More information can be found and Feedback can be submitted until 5pm on Friday May 29th via the RMS South Mosman Wharf Upgrade consultation page.



2020 Community Building Partnership Program Now Open

Tuesday May 5th, 2020
Member for Manly James Griffin welcomed yesterday’s announcement that applications are now open for the 2020 Community Building Partnership Program, unlocking $27.9 million for community infrastructure projects across NSW.

Mr Griffin said $300,000 is available for projects in each NSW electorate, including Manly and urged Council, community groups and not-for-profits to apply for the funds they need to deliver projects with social, environmental and recreational outcomes.

“Local sports clubs, charities and schools are just some of the organisations locally that have benefited from this program over many years,” Mr Griffin said.

“If your organisation or club needs extra funding for infrastructure, such as playgrounds, accessible features, equipment or refurbishment, then I’d strongly encourage you to apply.”

The Community Building Partnership program has awarded more than $330 million in funding to 15,000 community projects since it commenced in 2009.

“This program means that you can support your community group to improve the places you meet, train or play,” Mr Griffin said.

“Take the time to prepare and submit your application so your community group doesn’t miss out on a share of $300,000.”

Applications are open from Monday 4 May 2020 and close at 5pm, Friday 12 June 2020. Applicants must read the program guidelines to ensure their club or organisation and proposed project are eligible.

For more information about the NSW Government’s 2020 Community Building Partnership Program, visit the website: www.nsw.gov.au/cbp

COVID-19 Testing

The NSW Government is urging anyone experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 to be tested in a bid to curb the spread of the virus.

COVID-19 symptoms include:
  • - Fever;
  • - Cough;
  • - Tiredness (fatigue);
  • - Sore throat;
  • - Shortness of breath.
If you have COVID-19 symptoms please:
  • - Contact your GP;
  • - Call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222;
  • -  Visit a NSW Health COVID-19 clinic.
The locations of COVID-19 clinics are available here:

In our area:
Mona Vale Hospital
Address: Building 14, Community Health Centre
Coronation Street, Mona Vale NSW 2103
Opening hours: 10am to 6pm, 7 days

Northern Beaches Hospital
Address: 105 Frenchs Forest Road (west), Frenchs Forest, NSW 2086
Rear of Emergency Department (secluded mental health entry)
Opening hours: 9:30am to 6pm, 7 days

May 17 - 23, 2020: Issue 450

This Issue: full list in Contents page 

Front Page Issue 450 

Pictures: Mona Vale Road East Upgrade- May 2020 Pictures Record: The Pittwater Online News May 2020 Pictures for the Record shows images taken on May 10th and 11th, this time starting from the Pittwater RSL end of the upgrade and heading towards Kimbriki and then some views looking East on the return trip. Some of the machinery being used to build the road is included for interested youngsters as well in this pictorial record update. They are using excavators with rock hammers, backhoes, tipper trucks, small cranes, hammer drills, a roller, street sweepers, chainsaws, light vehicles and light towers.

Postcard Pen Pals! An Opportunity For Older People To Reconnect

Aquatics Inaugural NSW Online Junior Surfing Titles Winners Crowned: Format Expanded To Include Longboard, SUP And Bodyboard + Nikon Surf Photo & Video Of The Year Winners Announced - Web Titles for Longboard, SUP and Bodyboard surfers entries close May 29th!

Terrier Of The Outback by Robyn McWilliam

Park Bench Philosopher  Technology, international bonds, and inspiration: why astronomy matters in times of crisis by Prof. Fred Watson

Profile Margie 'Actually, I'm A Mermaid' Charlton (Nee Watt)

Giving back to the community is an ethos many in our community have been surrounded by while growing up, it’s how we were taught to be. Sometimes people are part of surf clubs and fulfil Summer patrols, volunteer at Meals on Wheels cooking or delivering food, or visit the ill, do a stint as Girl Guides selling boxes of biscuits, pull weeds.

Others are not so easily recognised, but they’re there; caring about those around them, picking up the pint of milk for their senior neighbour, giving their time to listen so others know they are heard, filling out the forms for those befuddled by endless questions or arthritic of fingers and wrist, stepping up to ‘woman’ the Australia Day barbecue down at the beach. 

Some people will pick the plastic bag out of the water, return the fish caught in the pool to the sea just because it is in their nature to do so – they care about others, about community, about the world other creatures live in – and this, although they live their lives quietly, makes them champion human beings. Margie Charlton is one of these.

This week a small insight into the youngest daughter of Avalon Beach stalwarts Norma and Max Watt. A mum, a champion of others, a lover of the garden, birds and the ocean – and part of the Barrenjoey Breakers swim group who dive off Palm Beach Rock Pool to enjoy being in the sea. In fact Margie spends so much time in the water, she quite rightly thinks that she may, in fact, be a mermaid. However, at heart, she remains an Avalon Beach girl.

When researching the glorious old steamers and ferries that would act as  flagships for Pittwater Regattas some Readers marvelled at the size of some of the vessels used - the SS Archer (1925 regatta) SS Newcastle (1922, 1923, 1924 and 1927) and the SS Gwydir (1933-35) were all sizeable ships and needed to moor in the deeper parts of the estuary, off Bayview or Scotland Island. 

They also provided on board accommodation for those coming to Pittwater for the regattas, usually held just after Christmas and a round New Years, and would be surrounded by a flotilla of other yachts and cruisers, also acting as a place to sleep for those lucky souls fortunate enough to be able to afford something a bit longer and wider with berths and deck areas for visitors to camp down and enjoy the best place in Sydney.

Accommodation aboard steamers was not unusual, most were built to run up and down the coats of Australia and over to New Zealand, so cabins for those travelling on the longer legs, overnight, were built as part of the fit-outs for these vessels. Even past their commercial use some were repurposed as holiday accommodation locally, those refitted by Mr. Edward Windybanks were offered at the Cowan Creek, while  the Kuring-gai Chase National Park trustees also had a 'houseboat' used for meetings of the Trust and entertaining guests.

This week a look into the almost happened...

Environment Shellebrate World Turtle Day On May 23, 2020, Reconophalt Trial At Elanora Heights and Belrose, Echidna Season, Ecological Devastation Begins In Numbucca State Forest, Australia listened to the science on coronavirus. Imagine if we did the same for coal mining, Dob In A Dodgy Dumper, Marine Estate Management Strategy Progress Report, Great Little Penguin Race - Phillip Island Nature Parks, One Cat One Year; 110 Native Animals: Lock Up Your Pet, It’s A Killing Machine, $150 Million Funding Boost For Bushfire Affected Wildlife And Plants, Planting Biomass Crops For Bioenergy At Tamworth, Scientists Successfully Develop Heat Resistant Coral To Fight Bleaching, It’s Official: Expert Review Rejects NSW Plan To Let Seawater Flow Into The Murray River, Carbon emissions fell during COVID-19; But it’s the shift away from coal that really matters, Centennial Coal Vastly Underestimates Carbon Emissions From Major Mine Projects Over 10 Years, No Drought-Proofing From New Dams, HV Operations To Pay $400,000 After Alleged Water Pollution From Mine, QLD Taxpayers Shouldn’t Subsidise Destructive CSG Expansion, Gunner Bills Territory Taxpayers Again To Subsidise Fracking Industry, Weed Cassia Now Flowering: Please Pull Out and Save Our Bush, Please Help Sydney Wildlife Rescue: Donate Your Cans and Bottles and Nominate SW As Recipient, Bird of the Month: Night Heron, Downloadable Shorebirds booklet, Bushcare In Pittwater, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations In Pittwater, Pittwater Reserves++

Inbox News Excess Coffee Consumption A Culprit For Poor Health, QUT Staff Awarded Associate Fellow (Indigenous), Pofatu: A New Database For Geochemical 'Fingerprints' Of Artefacts, World-First Saliva Test Detects Hidden Throat Cancer, Blood Test A Potential New Tool For Controlling Infections, Potentially Fatal Combinations Of Humidity and Heat Are Emerging Across The Globe, Our Ability To Focus May Falter After Eating One Meal High In Saturated Fat

The Whales Are Back!

Residents report having seen the first Humpback whales heading north this week. Wonderful news!
The first ones were seen off Mona Vale, Bilgola and Avalon Beaches last Sunday, May 10th, and then more have been spotted during the week from Palm Beach. Some were even being spotted of Whale Beach on May 2nd.

It's time to dust off your binoculars and head to your favourite headland lookout or vantage point to enjoy these wonderful creatures on their northerly migrations.



SLS SNB Life Membership For 'Zom'

May 12, 2020: Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches
Congratulations to “The Zom” on his well-deserved honour of SNB Life Membership which was bestowed on him at his home today by Branch President Tracey Hare-Boyd.

Graeme Knox began his officiating career as a boat starter in 1992 and continued in this role until he undertook the transition to announcer in 1999. 

He attended every boat carnival, whether it was Branch, State, ASRL, Ocean Thunder, Aussies or World Titles in his role and few would disagree that he has become one of the most well-known announcers at Carnivals. He has also mentored many other announcers over the years including several from this Branch.

For his contribution to the sport he has been awarded the following accolades:
  • 1996: NSW SLS Award of Excellence for Media
  • 1998: Warringah Council Outstanding Citizen Community Award 
Graeme has also made a significant but indirect contribution to Surf Sports at Branch level through his roles in the New South Wales League of Rowers in addition to the ASRL, both of which developed the sport of Surf Boat rowing, but Zom’s main contribution to our Branch has been in the improvement and promotion of surfboat rowing as a sport. 

Zom was involved with the introduction of many new Surfboat events which have enabled crews from every Club in this Branch to hone their skills in the water. Any advancements in this sport benefits the sport as a whole, including Sydney Northern Beaches Branch.

Zom was the founder the Manly Daily column “Between the Flags” where he listed every new Bronze Member in his column once they had achieved their award.

SNB acknowledges this outstanding achievement and welcomes his to the SNB honour roll.

Pictured here is Graeme with his wife and children. Branch President Tracey Hare-Boyd presenting Graeme with his Life Membership pin.




Saved At Church Point

The Northern Beaches Police Area Command report that at one o'clock in the morning, Wednesday May 13, 2020, a Church Point resident woke to the sound of distant groaning.
After a lengthy search, the 50-year old called police.

Officers scoured the area until they found a man in the water under the commuter wharf. He was barely conscious and clinging to a rope.

The Police pulled him to safety and called for an ambulance. With his body temperature below 30 degrees, the 74-year old was treated for hypothermia and taken to hospital.

Strike Force Welsford Charge Man Over The 1988 Murder Of Scott Johnson

May 12, 2020
Detectives have charged a man over the murder of Scott Johnson, whose body was located near North Head more than 30 years ago.

On the morning of Saturday 10 December 1988, the body of Sydney-based American National, Scott Johnson, was found at the base of a cliff at Blue Fish Point, near Manly’s North Head. Scott was aged just 27.

A coronial inquest in 1989 found Scott had committed suicide, with a second inquest in June 2012 returning an open finding.

The matter was referred for a third inquest and, in 2017, the then-NSW Coroner, Michael Barnes, found that Mr Johnson fell from the cliff top as a result of actual or threatened violence by unidentified persons who attacked him because they perceived him to be homosexual.

Following the inquest, NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller met with Scott’s brother, Steve Johnson, to discuss the case before selecting a specialist team of detectives to investigate the circumstances surrounding Scott’s death under Strike Force Welsford.

Following extensive investigations, Strike Force Welsford detectives arrested a 49-year-old man at Lane Cove about 8.30am today (Tuesday 12 May 2020), before executing a search warrant at a nearby home, where they seized a number of items relevant to the investigation.

Investigators also conducted a forensic search – with the assistance of the Public Order and Riot Squad and the Rescue and Bomb Disposal Unit – at North Head this morning. It has since concluded.

The Lane Cove man was taken to Chatswood Police Station and charged with murder.

He has been refused bail to appear at Parramatta Local Court tomorrow (Wednesday 12 May 2020).

Commissioner Fuller has personally notified Steve, who lives in the United States, of today’s developments.

“Making that phone call this morning is a career highlight – Steve has fought so hard for so many years, and it has been an honour be part of his fight for justice,” the Commissioner said.

“While we have a long way to go in the legal process, it must be acknowledged that if it wasn’t for the determination of the Johnson family, which inspired me and the Strike Force Welsford team – led by Detective Chief Inspector Peter Yeomans, we wouldn’t be where we are today.”

Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said the Johnson family have had to live with the consequences of this calculated crime for more than 30 years. ''I’m pleased we are a step closer in bringing the offender to justice for the deliberate and cruel actions which led to this tragedy.''

“Scott’s family never wavered in the fight for justice; dedicating their time and efforts to Scott’s honour, and today, I hope this arrest can bring them some kind of peace.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved in Strike Force Welsford for their outstanding work investigating this terrible hate crime.”

Reconophalt Trial At Elanora Heights And Belrose

Council has announced this week a trial of the product Reconophalt on parts of Sorlie Road, Frenchs Forest and Elanora Road, Elanora Heights.

Reconophaltis is a road-base alternative that uses processed soft plastics such as shopping bags and chip wrappers to act as a 'glue' that bonds and waterproof roads. Every two-lane kilometre of road containing Reconophalt has the equivalent of 530,000 recycled plastic bags, 168,000 glass bottles and waste toner from 12,500 printer cartridges, according to their website FAQ's.

Reconophalt is a collaboration between road-layer Downer and Close the Loop, with soft plastics supplied to Close the Loop through the RedCycle and Plastic Police collection programs.

The trial commences this month. Council will monitor the cost and performance of the trial to determine whether the Reconophalt material will be used going forward.

In late October 2019 Austroads published a report exploring the benefits and challenges of using recycled plastics in asphalt and sprayed seals on roads. It follows overseas countries such as China and Indonesia banning the import of waste from Australia, leading to a growing interest in using recycled plastics in Australian and New Zealand infrastructure.

“We conducted a comprehensive local and overseas literature review, and found that some waste plastics can be a partial aggregate replacement in bituminous mixes and a binder extender without significantly influencing asphalt properties,” said Christina Chin, Principal Consultant & State Manager (Victoria), Level 5 Design, and principal report author.

"However, most laboratory trials conducted overseas were not performed in accordance with Australian bitumen standards and specifications, and very little is known about the manufacturing processes of the commercially available proprietary products currently being trialled on Australian and New Zealand roads.

“As a result, there are concerns about hazards road workers could be exposed to while handling recycled plastics,” Christina said. “Some plastics, when heated, release toxic emissions such as chloride, formaldehyde, toluene and ethylbenzene. Another major concern is microplastics leaching out from our pavements into waterways, posing a serious threat to our marine life.

''We therefore strongly recommend a precautionary approach until more research has been conducted. A governance framework should be adopted for using recycled plastics on Australian and New Zealand roads containing information about the pavement’s long-term durability; comprehensive health, safety and environmental risk assessments; and storage stability based on Austroads specifications and local working conditions.''  

We also recommend conducting an independent review of the most commonly used proprietary products containing recycled plastics to give road authorities a better understanding of their properties. It is worth calculating the lifecycle impacts of recycled plastic-modified asphalt and comparing these with impacts of conventional asphalt to quantify their sustainability benefits. These can be established by using the Infrastructure Sustainability Materials Calculator developed by the Infrastructure Sustainability Council of Australia.”

Other recommendations in the report include:
  • developing performance-based specifications to allow producers more flexibility to innovate - in return, they are required to provide performance guarantees regarding their products
  • nationally monitoring, assessing and sharing results of road trials conducted in Australia and New Zealand
  • more research into the viability of using recycled plastics in sprayed seals.

Show Us Your Cans Update: Now In These Locations

Supporting our Northern Beaches homeless and disadvantaged communities through coronavirus by providing them with food and other support options. 

Suggestions of what may be needed below

DoggieRescue.com

Pets of the Week

Alice


AGE/SEX: 12 years / F
BREED: Maltese x Shih Tzu
Alice is nervous girl who needs to trust you slowly. She is not confident around other dogs, but slowly getting better. Alice is afraid of being touched so slow gentle hand movements are a must. She is a sweet cuddly girl who loves belly rubs once she trusts you. Alice also can resource guard eg bed or toy so best as only dog in the household. Alice came with a tumour on her mouth and 2 teeth embedded in her lower jaw which have all been removed. Our specialist said it was a very low grade slow growing tumour which should not present her with major issues should it re-occur. She has a low shedding coat and weighs 6.2kg. 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.

George


George is a sweet ginger and white kitten approximately 6 months old and was rescued from Campbelltown Pound. He has adjusted well to life in the shelter and gets on with other cats.
George is located on the Northern Beaches and comes desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested and microchipped. His adoption fee is $220.

If you are interested in meeting George, please call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email 

NB:


Foster Carers Needed
Not everyone is in a position to adopt a dog, which is why DoggieRescue runs a foster program making it easy for caring dog lovers to make an immediate difference.

Meet our top ten doggies desperate for a foster home. These are most frequently doggies who have spent a long time in the shelter and are in urgent need of some quiet time in a loving home.

For further details or to meet all cats, rabbits and dogs at Doggie Rescue call  9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 
Rehoming Organisation No R251000024. 

Laws To Help Grow A 24-Hour Economy

The NSW Government wants to support our  nightlife’s recovery after COVID-19 restrictions are eased. This will create a vibrant and safe 24-hour economy with  risk-based  liquor laws that support business.   

You are invited  to have your say on  the second stage of the  24-hour  economy liquor law reforms. The reforms will deliver key parts of the NSW Government’s response to a NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into Sydney’s Night Time Economy.  

The draft Liquor Amendment (24-hour Economy) Bill 2020 includes proposed liquor law changes. 

The documents below provide the scope of the proposed changes: 
Have your say
Have your say by 11:59pm, Sunday 14 June 2020 on the NSW Customer Service website. 

Your feedback will be published on the NSW Customer Service website if not told otherwise.

Northern Basin First Flush Review

The NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment is seeking feedback on an independent review of the Northern Rivers first flush event.

In mid-January to early February 2020, after record drought conditions, the NSW Government put in place water restrictions to manage the first major water flows after rain fell across the northern Murray-Darling Basin. 

It was the first time NSW managed a first flush event in this way. An independent panel is seeking community feedback on the first flush event and how it was managed.

The panel will make recommendations to improve management of future first flush events, including:
  • the communication of water restrictions to water users and the public
  • decision-making processes, including matters considered when applying the public interest test
  • how prepared the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment — Water, WaterNSW and the Natural Resources Access Regulator were to manage the event.
Have your say
Feedback for the Northern Basin first flush review can be made online.

Have Your Say by Sunday 7 June 2020.

Online consultation
13 May 2020 to 7 June 2020
9:00am to 11:59pm
feedback form - with Terms of Reference.

North Sydney CBD Public Domain Strategy - Stage 2: Open For Feedback

On April 6th 2020, North Sydney Council resolved to exhibit the draft North Sydney CBD Public Domain Strategy - Stage 2 for public comment. The strategy is on exhibition from Thursday 7 May to Monday 22 June 2020.

The Public Domain Strategy forms part of Council’s work to create a more engaging and pedestrian focused CBD that offers a greater range of activities and unique public spaces for workers, residents, students and visitors. The strategy establishes a vision for the centre’s public domain and is being undertaken in two stages. Community engagement commenced in mid-2018 (see related projects).

The Stage 1 Place Book outlined ideas and opportunities for the CBD and was endorsed by Council in May 2019.

Stage 2 has developed these ideas further and identified a suite of projects that create a strong, connected network of public urban spaces and puts forward a framework to deliver these improvements over time. In particular, the strategy:
  • Outlines a vision and a series of goals for the CBD
  • Recognises necessary access improvements that prioritise walking, public transport and cycling, and moves regional traffic away from the centre
  • Establishes a strong pedestrian corridor from North Sydney station to St Leonards Park and a series of east-west laneway connections
  • Identifies opportunities for new and upgraded public space
  • Outlines the process and funding arrangements to deliver the projects.
The strategy identifies 19 projects that reinforce Miller Street as the main, civic spine of North Sydney, deliver over 17,000 m2 of new parks and plazas, create a new and upgraded network of laneways and improve pedestrian safety and amenity. Key projects are:
  • Miller Place: a new 7,450m2 public plaza outside the Metro Station achieved through the closure of Miller Street between Berry St and the Pacific Highway
  • Post Office Square: an intimate new 1,675m2 plaza outside the iconic North Sydney Post Office
  • Tramway Park: converting the under-utilised deck of the tramway viaduct into a 4,650m2 active recreation space
  • Central Laneways: turning Denison, Mount, Hill, Spring and Little Spring Streets into pedestrian areas or shared zones
  • Warringah Land Bridge: an ambitious, long-term project that reconnects North Sydney and reclaims space for people.
Council is seeking community feedback regarding the North Sydney Centre Review – CBD Public Domain Strategy - Stage 2 and the Council’s future vision for the CBD. The strategy and supporting materials are available in the document library.

Next Steps
At the end of the exhibition period a report will be prepared for Council’s consideration accounting for submissions made and any resulting amendments to draft strategy.

HAVE YOUR SAY - Submissions close 22 June 2020

Use the online submission form (here) or alternatively, send submissions to:

Mail - General Manager
North Sydney Council
PO Box 12
NORTH SYDNEY NSW 2059

North Sydney CBD - Miller Place - Artists concept drawing

COVID-19 Testing

The NSW Government is urging anyone experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 to be tested in a bid to curb the spread of the virus.

COVID-19 symptoms include:
  • - Fever;
  • - Cough;
  • - Tiredness (fatigue);
  • - Sore throat;
  • - Shortness of breath.
If you have COVID-19 symptoms please:
  • - Contact your GP;
  • - Call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222;
  • -  Visit a NSW Health COVID-19 clinic.
The locations of COVID-19 clinics are available here:

In our area:
Mona Vale Hospital
Address: Building 14, Community Health Centre
Coronation Street, Mona Vale NSW 2103
Opening hours: 10am to 6pm, 7 days

Northern Beaches Hospital
Address: 105 Frenchs Forest Road (west), Frenchs Forest, NSW 2086
Rear of Emergency Department (secluded mental health entry)
Opening hours: 9:30am to 6pm, 7 days

NSW Animal Welfare Reform – Issues Paper

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is seeking feedback on key issues affecting animal welfare laws in NSW.

What’s this about?
This is your opportunity to help set the direction for animal welfare policy reform. This is an important step towards modernising welfare laws, which is a key commitment of the NSW Animal Welfare Action Plan.
The discussion paper identifies five focus areas for reform:
  • reviewing the purpose of the Acts
  • defining key terms
  • examining compliance powers and tools
  • setting the right penalties
  • streamlining the framework.
Feedback from the paper will be used to develop policy solutions. DPI welcomes feedback from all community members on these focus areas and any other issues that should be considered in the reform process.

Have your say
There are three ways you can submit your feedback:
Download the Issues Paper - NSW Animal Welfare Reform - Issues Paper (PDF, 2MB)

Consultation closes June 21, 2020

Domestic Violence Support During Covid-19 

NB: Where to get help Fact Sheet is below. Simply click on PDF and 'save as' on your own device

People experiencing domestic violence can be assured police and frontline services are ready to support them and their families as NSW continues to respond to the coronavirus threat.

Member for Manly James Griffin said the Northern Beaches community should not hesitate to seek help and support at this time. 

“If you are in danger or in an emergency call Triple Zero (000),” Mr Griffin said.

“If you are in need of support services, such as housing or counselling, our hard working frontline staff are also available to help those suffering domestic violence.”  

“No person, whether they live on the Northern Beaches or anywhere in Australia, should in live in fear of violence and I urge people to seek the help they need when it is safe to do so.”

Mr Griffin added that perpetrators are on notice and that police have increased efforts to combat violence in the home including more proactive operations to enforce protection orders. 

“Police will continue to conduct Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) compliance checks to keep victims safe.”

NSW Police Force Domestic Violence Corporate Spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Mark Jones, said police are monitoring rates of domestic violence. 

“High-risk and repeat offenders are being targeted by specially trained police to ensure that all orders are strictly followed and complied with and offenders are arrested if violence is detected,” Assistant Commissioner Jones said. 

“Police are also able to vary existing interim or final ADVOs if we know that violence is escalating, without needing to first go to court, so victims are immediately protected.

“NSW Police are working together with government agencies, including NSW Health, to ensure there is no increased health risk to the community in the current environment.”

The NSW Government is constantly adapting as the COVID-19 emergency evolves, which includes various justice, housing and policing responses to combat domestic violence.

Where to get help - March 2020.pdfWhere to get help - March 2020.pdf
Size : 465.979 Kb
Type : pdf

 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

Surf Life Saving New South Wales Seeking Inspirational Womens' Stories

July 1 2020 marks the 40th anniversary of women's involvement in active surf lifesaving duties.
Surf Life Saving NSW is celebrating this important anniversary and the achievements of women over the past 40 years. They're asking for help to recognise our trailblazing women by sharing your stories, photographs and videos.

SLS NSW will showcase these inspirational stories throughout the 2020/21 season and create an archive for future generations. 

How you can help Celebrate
  • Email SLS NSW your stories about the women who inspired change in the Surf Life Saving movement
  • Send them your photos and videos here or via WeTransfer to memberservices@surflifesaving.com.au
  • Post photos on Facebook, lnstagram and Twitter using the hastag #WomenInSLS
  • Send photographs, film and newspaper articles to SLSNSW - PO Box 307, Belrose 2085 (they will digitise and return)
Four of the first official women to patrol our beaches were welcomed at Whale Beach SLSC in 1980. (Sara & Jill Peters, Marion Robb and Tina Gowing)

$250 Million Cleaning Stimulus Package To Help Stop The Spread Of COVID-19

April 29, 2020
For information on the stimulus package, or to register your cleaning business, visit the Emergency Cleaning Stimulus Prequalification Scheme: HERE

The new stimulus package will support 550 new and redeployed cleaning businesses to boost the defence against COVID-19 (coronavirus).

The $250 million cleaners’ package will improve the cleaning of public facilities including NSW transport, schools and TAFE while supporting an additional 3000 full-time cleaners by the end of June 2020.

The government funding will support small to medium-sized cleaning businesses by providing temporary employment to help existing contractors with the cleaning task to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Supplementary contracts available to cleaning businesses include:
  • general cleaning in low-risk areas
  • enhanced cleaning for COVID-19 risk reduction
  • environment cleaning of facilities after a suspected COVID-19 diagnosis and cleaning auditing services.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the fresh wave of cleaners provides much-needed social and economic boost to NSW.

“Not only will this package support jobs and businesses, it will also give the public peace of mind that the government is ensuring our public transport and education facilities remain as clean as possible at all times,” Ms Berejiklian said.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the stimulus package will keep people in jobs and businesses in business.

“We’re hiring cleaners, increasing the hours of existing cleaners and redeploying cleaners who would otherwise have lost jobs due to the temporary closure of some public facilities,” Mr Perrottet said.

Cleaning efforts for NSW transport have been increased by 83,000 hours across the network since March 2020.

Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said the government’s package is making meaningful differences to transport across NSW.

“We’ve introduced a number of new measures to ensure our transport network is as clean as possible with crews working through the night to disinfect trains, buses, metro, light rail, ferries, depots and facilities ready for the morning commute,” Mr Constance said.

For information on the stimulus package, or to register your cleaning business, visit the Emergency Cleaning Stimulus Prequalification Scheme: HERE

Fire And Rescue NSW Asks All To Be Safe At Home This Winter

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Fire and Rescue NSW will be moving their 2020 Open Day online to protect both our community and our staff as we head into winter.

This offers Fire and Rescue a great opportunity to show the public what goes on behind closed doors from fire and floods, natural disasters and pandemics. Our Open Day will now run for a week online via Facebook from 10am Saturday 16 May until 4pm Saturday 23 May.

Open Day will not only be an opportunity for the community to have a virtual tour of their local fire station with live demonstrations and Q&A sessions with firefighters but take the public into the inner workings of Fire and Rescue.

Deputy Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell said Fire and Rescue have aligned their Open Day to the Get Ready for Winter Campaign which is the perfect time for communities to get in touch with their local firefighters and discuss home fire safety.

“This Open Day our firefighters will walk you through how to check your smoke alarms and help you come up with a fire escape plan via Facebook live.”

Deputy Commissioner Fewtrell said winter is the time when we see an increase in residential house fire related fatalities. So it was important residents remember to be careful when using heaters and fireplaces and electric blankets this winter.

“Don’t put your family at risk this winter, check that all your appliances are switched off and ensure that open fires have been fully extinguished. If we all do our bit to minimise the risks in our home, we can all stay safer together”, he said.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott said, with families spending more time at home than ever before it is crucial, we prepare our homes before winter hits.

“FRNSW do a great job in keeping our community safe, now it is our time as NSW residents to do the right thing by our families, listen to the experts and ensure our homes are safe.”

Some simple steps the community can take include:
  • Never ever leave cooking unattended
  • Only working smoke alarms save lives - test your smoke alarm today
  • Keep everything one metre away from your heater
  • Do not overload your power boards with appliances like heaters and electric blankets
  • Strong fire screens should be set up in front of open fires
  • Turn off your electric blanket at night
  • Do not use outdoor heating and cooking equipment inside your home. The use of this type of equipment indoors could lead to the build-up of carbon monoxide which could be fatal
Keep up with our open day activities by visiting www.fire.nsw.gov.au, or the Fire and Rescue NSW Facebook page or by searching for your local station on Facebook.

WINTER FIRE SAFETY WEEKEND CHECKLIST - downloadable PDF (523kb)

Healthscope Will Not Renew Six Smaller Health Funds Agreements

The Australian Financial Review reported on Monday May 11th that members of six smaller health funds – including CUA Health and Commonwealth Bank's CBHS Corporate Health – will soon be facing higher out-of-pocket costs at hospitals after they failed to secure a new services agreement with Healthscope.

The nation's second largest private hospitals operator – now owned by private equity – has been in discussions with the Australian Health Services Alliance (AHSA) since November but has failed to reach an agreement for a new three-year contract to provide services to several Australian Health Services Alliance (AHSA) member funds.

AHSA is a peak non-profit that negotiates agreements with private hospitals on behalf of 27 small- to medium-sized health funds. It's the third largest health insurance buying group after Bupa and Medibank.

Six AHSA member funds; Australian Unity, Teachers Health Fund, CUA Health, Reserve Bank Health Society Ltd and Commonwealth Bank's CBHS Corporate Health Pty Ltd and CBHS Health Fund, have been given 45 days’ notice of Healthscope's decision to not proceed with a new contract.

A Healthscope spokesperson said the rate offered by the AHSA was significantly out of step with what other health insurers pay, and insufficient to cover its costs of providing hospital services.

"The decision not to recontract has been made with regard to the future commercial sustainability of our business as we must be appropriately reimbursed for the work our people do every day, and at a rate that allows us to be able to invest in our facilities and equipment so we can continue to deliver world-class care for patients," the spokesperson said.

"This was not a decision we took lightly and is not our preferred option, but we are committed to securing arrangements with private health insurers that maintain the financial viability of private hospitals."

According to the latest Australian Prudential Regulation Authority data only about 44 per cent of Australians have private hospital cover. This has dropped further in the last qurter and the statistics also predate coronavirus responses where many simply will not be able to afford the fees. 

On April 6th, 2020 new research from The Australia Institute showed that Australia’s private health insurers are set to enjoy a windfall of between $3.5 billion and $5.5 billion over the next six months.

“The takeover of private hospitals by Governments, social distancing and other policies to counter corona virus mean that far fewer services will be provided to private health insurance policy holders,” said Roy Harvey, report author and health finance expert.

“Visits to dentists, physios, chiropractors and other services by policy holders will be significantly reduced as a result of social distancing rules and 'stay at home' advice to older Australians.

“This means that the payments that private health insurers would usually make to cover the services provided to their policy holders will not be needed.

“We estimate this will result in a saving to the private health insurers of between $3.5 and $5.5 billion, or up to 50% of their benefit payout.

“Every policy holder will pay, on average, $500 to $750 for services their insurers know they will not be able to use.

You can download the report, 'Private eyes…, hips, etc - Health insurance benefits during the Covid crisis', HERE.

COVID-19: NSW Parliament Passes Pandemic Reforms

May 12, 2020
A special sitting of NSW Parliament will consider a second set of laws to equip citizens, businesses and the justice system to address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Attorney General Mark Speakman will introduce three Bills for debate today.

“The Bills build on legislation enacted in late March and again makes the health and safety of the people of NSW our first priority,” Mr Speakman said.

The Bills include proposals for extraordinary regulation-making powers to enhance social distancing by:
  • The modification or suspension of laws requiring people to hold meetings in person, for example a board meeting or physical examination by a medical practitioner for a particular purpose;
  • The facilitation of wholly electronic signing of documents (the Government continues to consult on what classes of documents will be affected); and
  • The extension of limitation periods to take into account delays caused by the pandemic.
In addition, the Government is proposing a number of other amendments, including the following:
  • Health: The proposed health amendments will expand the ability of individual public health orders to require people to undergo testing or a medical examination and streamline COVID-19 medical research and data collection for a public health register. They will allow for COVID-19-related conditions to be placed on the licences of private health facilities and also for audio-visual link mental health examinations.
  • Justice: Where a judicial officer decides it is in the interests of justice, accused persons will be required to appear in court via video link. Sheriff’s Officers will be given authority to protect court users from the risk of COVID-19 by being able to ask people who display signs of illness, including fever, to leave the court. They may also take the temperature of anyone attending court. When assisting agencies like the NSW Police Force in enforcing Public Health Orders, Sheriff’s Officers will have powers of arrest.
  • Employee Relations: Changes to annual leave and long service leave laws will provide welcome, flexible alternatives to standing down workers. Long service leave will be available in single day periods to shorten working weeks, but maintain income. Local Government sector workers will be able to agree to cash out annual leave, or take it at half or double pay. The employee must have at least four weeks’ leave entitlement remaining after it is cashed out.
  • Treasury: The Government will provide a payroll tax exemption for Job Keeper payments made to workers who have been stood down, and for any extra wages paid to workers that earn less than the Job Keeper payment. This additional payroll tax relief will help keep people in jobs and support businesses who sign up to the Commonwealth’s Job Keeper scheme.
  • Planning: Amendments to the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 will extend the timeframe for when a development consent lapses and when appeals can be lodged in the Land and Environment Court. The amount of time a business can remain empty before it loses its existing use rights will be extended from one to three years. These changes will provide more certainty for the community, business owners and the development industry and support NSW’s economic recovery.
  • Energy and Environment: Amendments to the Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act will allow the EPA to temporarily exempt businesses struggling because of COVID-19 from certain requirements of the container deposit scheme, such as fees, charges and other regulatory requirements. The Bill will also support businesses, tradies and workers in the energy industry by creating a regulation-making power to establish the Energy Security Safeguard. The Safeguard will drive the rollout of technologies such as energy efficient and smart appliances in a way that improves grid reliability and lowers power prices.
  • Better Regulation: A series of amendments to the Strata Schemes Management Act, Community Land Management Act and Retirement Villages Act will remove the need for face-to-face meetings by allowing retirement village committees, owners’ corporations and associations in community schemes to operate electronically. Changes to the Contract Cleaning Industry Act 2010 will temporarily eradicate the 20 week waiting period, to fast track long service payments for those who have permanently left the industry after 5 years.
  • Local Government: Changes will allow councils to apply the rate peg more flexibly and respond to changing economic conditions such as COVID-19, bushfires and drought. The Minister will have the power to limit a council’s general income as an added safeguard against it disproportionately burdening one sector of the community (such as residential, business, agricultural or mining). Subject to certain conditions, the Government is also placing a two-year moratorium on council chambers and offices building works to ensure investment in infrastructure projects (such as roads, bridges, parks and sportsgrounds), which directly benefit the community and contribute to local economic recovery. The changes will also prevent councils taking legal action for outstanding rates for six months for ratepayers experiencing financial hardship, and provide local government workers with flexibility around leave entitlements to help councils minimise job losses and manage and retain staff.
  • Families and Communities: Amendments to the Children’s Guardian Act 2019 will maintain continuity of current child protection regulations relevant to the Children’s Guardian’s functions until 1 March 2021, so that there is no gap in coverage while consultation on new regulations is undertaken. Extending the timeframe for consultation gives stakeholders greater flexibility to provide meaningful input in light of COVID-19 restrictions.
Mr Speakman thanked the people of NSW for the many sacrifices they’ve made to help protect the most vulnerable across the state during this unprecedented health crisis.

“There is no question that the community’s unwavering response has been absolutely crucial to slowing the spread of this horrific virus and avoiding the tragic toll of death and illness experienced overseas,” Mr Speakman said

“The Government is confident these new measures will help protect those hard-won gains and lay the foundations for our state’s successful recovery.”
___________________

NB: All Three Bills were passed by both Houses on the 12th and 13th of May, 2020.  Read the Bills on the NSW Parliament website.

Bills cognate with this main Bill: COVID-19 Legislation Amendment (Emergency Measures—Miscellaneous) Bill 2020, COVID-19 Legislation Amendment (Emergency Measures—Treasurer) Bill 2020

Cognate with main bill: COVID-19 Legislation Amendment (Emergency Measures—Attorney General) Bill 2020

Cognate with main bill: COVID-19 Legislation Amendment (Emergency Measures—Attorney General) Bill 2020

NSW To Ease COVID-19 Restrictions From Friday 15 May

The easing of restrictions will allow more businesses to open up, more people to stay in work and more personal freedoms.

After assessing National Cabinet's new framework, the NSW Government will ease COVID-19 restrictions from Friday 15 May to allow:
  • outdoor gatherings of up to 10 people
  • cafes and restaurants can seat 10 patrons at any one time
  • up to 5 visitors to a household at any one time
  • weddings up to 10 guests
  • indoor funerals up to 20 mourners, outdoor funerals up to 30
  • religious gatherings/places of worship up to 10 worshippers
  • use of outdoor equipment with caution
  • outdoor pools open with restrictions.
Restrictions around regional holidays and other activities will remain in place.

Everyone in the community is encouraged to get tested (even if you only have mild symptoms), stick to the rules about physical distancing and practise good handwashing hygiene.

The NSW Government will closely monitor COVID-19 rates, especially community transmissions, and use this to guide the further easing of restrictions.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said, “Without a vaccine we need to be vigilant, especially when restrictions lift.

“There will inevitably be more cases, so social distancing will become even more crucial.”

The NSW Government will consider steps two and three of the Australian Government's Roadmap to a COVIDSafe Australia in due course.

Local Gums Helping Rescued Koalas

Council's Cooee Newsletter, wherein all things environmental, as well as bushcare updates are shared, arrived this week with some wonderful news.

Leaves from local eucalyptus trees are being used to feed 12 koalas who were rescued during the recent bushfires. Staff from Taronga Zoo will be collecting leaves from the Northern Beaches until the animals can be released back into the wild and fend for themselves.

In January Pittwater Online brought you the wonderful news that a koala had been spotted in a native tree in Belrose. 

If you are out and about and spot any significant wildlife, email or call their Biodiversity Team on 1300 434 434 so they can keep an eye on and register on what lives beside and with us in this wonderful place. 

Native Seedlings For Bega Valley 

In related news, earlier this year, Council donated seedlings to help in the aftermath of the bushfires in the Bega Valley. The community planted hundreds of native plants with assistance from members of our local Freshwater Community Gardens. A healing ceremony was led by Yuin Elder Uncle Max Harrison who performed a smoking ceremony.

South Mosman Wharf Upgrade

Mosman residents are invited to have their say on the NSW Government’s proposed concept design to improve South Mosman Wharf as part of the Transport Access Program.

The proposed wharf design includes a new floating pontoon. A new pontoon would improve the efficiency and safety of wharves for ferries to pick up and drop off passengers.

The pontoon would have a waiting area with a curved roof, seating and glass weather protection panels to provide passengers with a comfortable place to wait for their ferry. It would be connected to land by an uncovered gangway.

The proposed wharf would include a new lift and stairs providing a safer accessible route from street-level to the wharf. New bicycle hoops would be installed.

The new wharf would provide South Mosman with facilities that all members of the community can access.

More information can be found and Feedback can be submitted until 5pm on Friday May 29th via the RMS South Mosman Wharf Upgrade consultation page.



NSW Land Tax Concession Applications Now Open

Landlords providing rent relief for eligible tenants in financial distress due to COVID-19 can now apply for land tax concessions online.

NSW Minister for Finance and Small Business Damien Tudehope said the land tax concessions were part of a wide range of support measures designed to help those in need and to support jobs and business.

“Eligible landlords will be able to apply for a land tax concession of up to 25 per cent of their 2020 land tax liability on relevant properties so long as they pass on the full savings in the form of a rent reduction to their tenants,” Mr Tudehope said.

“The land tax concession is expected to be divided approximately 50-50 with around $220 million going to the commercial sector and a further $220 million expected to benefit the residential sector.”

Once approved, a concession will be applied to any unpaid 2020 land tax notices, and refunds will be issued for payments already made this year. Those refunds are expected to take up to five days to process once determined.
 
Landlords can find out more about eligibility and apply for a tax concession online  and are encouraged to complete their applications before 31 October 2020.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the NSW Government was committed to supporting people, communities and businesses during COVID-19.

“We are doing everything we can to keep people in jobs and businesses in business,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Small businesses severely impacted by COVID-19 restrictions may be eligible for the NSW Government’s $10,000 Small Business Support Fund grant and those with a payroll of $10 million or less can get a 25 per cent payroll waiver for 2019-20.”

To find out more about how the NSW Government is working to bolster health resources, protect jobs and businesses, visit COVID-19 support for businesses and employment. 

2020 Community Building Partnership Program Now Open

Tuesday May 5th, 2020
Member for Manly James Griffin welcomed yesterday’s announcement that applications are now open for the 2020 Community Building Partnership Program, unlocking $27.9 million for community infrastructure projects across NSW.

Mr Griffin said $300,000 is available for projects in each NSW electorate, including Manly and urged Council, community groups and not-for-profits to apply for the funds they need to deliver projects with social, environmental and recreational outcomes.

“Local sports clubs, charities and schools are just some of the organisations locally that have benefited from this program over many years,” Mr Griffin said.

“If your organisation or club needs extra funding for infrastructure, such as playgrounds, accessible features, equipment or refurbishment, then I’d strongly encourage you to apply.”

The Community Building Partnership program has awarded more than $330 million in funding to 15,000 community projects since it commenced in 2009.

“This program means that you can support your community group to improve the places you meet, train or play,” Mr Griffin said.

“Take the time to prepare and submit your application so your community group doesn’t miss out on a share of $300,000.”

Applications are open from Monday 4 May 2020 and close at 5pm, Friday 12 June 2020. Applicants must read the program guidelines to ensure their club or organisation and proposed project are eligible.

For more information about the NSW Government’s 2020 Community Building Partnership Program, visit the website: www.nsw.gov.au/cbp

Echidna Season

Echidna season has begun.  As cooler days approach, our beautiful echidnas are more active during the days as they come out to forage for food and find a mate. This sadly results in a HIGH number of vehicle hits.

What to do if you find an Echidna on the road?

  • Safely remove the Echidna off the road (providing its safe to do so).
  • Call Sydney Wildlife or WIRES
  •  Search the surrounding area for a puggle (baby echidna). The impact from a vehicle incident can cause a puggle to roll long distances from mum, so please search for these babies, they can look like a pinky-grey clump of clay

What to do if you find an echidna in your yard?

  • Leave the Echidna alone, remove the threat (usually a family pet) and let the Echidna move away in it's own time. It will move along when it doesn't feel threatened.

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


Lynleigh Greig, Sydney Wildlife, with a rescued echidna being returned to its home

Creative Kids Expansion Goes Digital

May 6, 2020
From today eligible Creative Kids providers will be able to access up to $5000 in digital adaptation grants to help them offer creative learning activities online thanks to a $1 million injection.

This includes purchasing equipment and internet services to help them transition online so they can provide lessons to children or young people who are at home and can’t attend workshops or classes in person.

The program’s eligible activities are also being expanded to include those which support the 2020 school curriculum, with Creative Kids providers able to supply creative supplies and equipment such as instruments, art and craft supplies and other materials to children or young people.

The changes to the program announced today by Treasurer Dominic Perrottet and Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello include:
  • $1 million in digital adaptation grants of up to $5000 for Creative Kids providers to further support online delivery of Creative Kids programs
  • a toolkit to help providers pivot to online delivery
  • extension of the use of Creative Kids vouchers for online programs and educational materials
  • improved Service NSW website to make it easier for parents to find an online provider.
Mr Perrottet said $1 million in small business grants would help arts and cultural providers deliver programs remotely providing a vital economic boost for small businesses doing it tough and keeping kids connected to quality cultural and creative activities. 

“Whether it’s school education or extra-curricular activities, we want our kids to be able to maximise every opportunity. Creative Kids has been incredibly popular, and these changes will help to ensure that continues,” Mr Perrottet said.

“At times like this, adapting your business can be the key to survival. Our digital adaptation grants will flow to more businesses and sole traders in the arts and creative industries, helping to keep people in jobs and businesses in business in a sector that has been hit hard by COVID-19.”

“They say William Shakespeare wrote King Lear in quarantine, and we want to give our own generation of budding creative geniuses every opportunity to keep honing the creative skills that will enrich our culture in the years ahead.”

Mr Dominello said the updated Service NSW Creative Kids webpage would list the eligible providers and help parents navigate the process.

“In a Covidian world we need to use technology to make life easier for people. That is why we are building a new online navigator that makes it simple and hassle free for parents to identify the right program for their children,” Mr Dominello said.

The Creative Kids program offers families an annual $100 voucher for every school aged child to contribute to registration, participation and tuition costs for performing arts, visual arts, coding, languages, literature, music and other creative and cultural activities.

Applications for the Creative Kids provider grants will open 6 May 2020. To be eligible, grant applicants must:
  • be a Creative Kids Provider
  • the provider must be a small business (have fewer than 20 employees). This also includes non-for-profit organisations
  • clearly demonstrate adaptation and expansion of Creative Kids activities to online delivery
  • describe how this support can maintain or increase voucher redemption during COVID-19
  • meet the objectives of the Creative Kids program.
Find out more information including details on how to apply via Create NSW at: www.create.nsw.gov.au

NSW Government Bill Relief For Energy Customers

Households struggling to pay their energy bills during COVID-19 now have access to additional financial support directly through Service NSW and the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, thanks to a $30 million boost to the Government’s emergency support Energy Accounts Payment Assistance (EAPA) Scheme.

Energy Minister Matt Kean said the NSW Government is doing everything it can to ease cost-of-living pressures during the COVID-19 pandemic and has more than doubled the budget for the EAPA Scheme next financial year.

“For ease of access, residential energy customers can now apply for EAPA vouchers directly through Service NSW and will be called for an assessment without having to leave their house,” Mr Kean said.

“I encourage people that need bill support during this tough time to head to the Service NSW website and register for an energy voucher assessment.”

The EAPA assessment threshold has been temporarily increased so people can receive up to $400 per assessment twice per year, compared to the normal amount of $300.

“This means the annual maximum limit of vouchers for a household with both electricity and gas has increased from $1,200 to $1,600, up by $400,” Mr Kean said.

“We are expecting more people across NSW to need this emergency bill support as they are faced with unexpected changes to income and usage increases while working from home.”

During the assessment for EAPA vouchers, NSW Government representatives will also contact energy retailers with customers to assist with getting customers onto hardship plans, which will further protect customers during this extraordinarily difficult time.

NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the funding for EAPA was part of almost $100 million recently allocated to help our most vulnerable, including $34 million to prevent homelessness, $10 million to support charity programs and $6 million for Lifeline's operations in NSW.

"We are deploying the financial strength of NSW to bolster the health system, keep people in jobs and assist those most in need of help during this difficult time," Mr Perrottet said.

"This funding will help thousands of people meet their energy bills as we head into winter."

People needing further information should visit Service NSW and search 'EAPA'.

At the same time, Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders across NSW are being reminded to apply for the Seniors Energy Rebate now.

“With the COVID-19 virus keeping seniors, who are among the most at-risk in our community, confined to their households and using more electricity, we’re very aware of this extra pressure being applied on their back pockets,” Mr Kean said.

“This NSW Government annual rebate, which will ease electricity costs by $200 a year, has been available since July last year but a majority of those eligible are yet to apply, and we’re urging them to do so now before applications for this financial year close.”

The program extends NSW’s generous energy rebates to Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders for the first time.

In 2019-20 over $329 million is being invested by the NSW Government on energy rebates alone, with almost a third of all electricity customers receiving a rebate.

To be eligible, applicants must hold a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) and be the primary account holder named on the electricity bill.

For more information and to apply online, customers can go to service.nsw.gov.au and type ‘Seniors Energy Rebate’ into the search function.

Customers who are unable to apply online can call Service NSW on 13 77 88. Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders who have already applied this financial year can reapply again from 1 July 2020 for the new financial year.

Messing About In Boats Stories Sought

Ann Howard, popular author is collecting material for a new book, Messin’ About in Boat- small boat stories of Dangar Island, and welcomes contributions 500-1000 words and pics of small boast
 
Thank you and keep well!
 
Ann Howard

May 10 - 16, 2020: Issue 449

This Issue:  

Front Page Issue 449 

Kids Go Back To School In Shadow Of Coronavirus by Miranda Korzy

Northern Beaches Council Draft Budget 2020-2021 Now on Exhibition: Open For Feedback

Streets As Shared Spaces Grants Now Available For Councils: Community Members Ideas Welcomed (temporary activations - pilots - pop ups - interim improvements)

Falinski Calls For Smarter Simpler Regulations Implementation same week as ME Bank Backflip and ASIC Deferral Of Mortgage Broker Obligations Commencements 

New Respiratory Clinic Now Open In Dee Why from the Office of the Member for Mackellar, Jason Falinski MP

Lifesavers Bring CPR Training To Your Living Room: In a first, Surf Life Saving NSW has launched a ground-breaking online CPR training program - their Living Room Lifesavers program has been designed by Surf Life Saving NSW to cater for people working from home and for families wishing to learn CPR together + a great new video demonstrating safe cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) technique during the COVID-19 pandemic

Pictures: Pittwaters' Mother Nature - a Tribute to the Place we all Love for Mothers' Day 2020

Aquatics Broken Bay Water Police: Some History by David Buchanan and Brian Friend OAM

Park Bench Philosopher  World Migratory Bird Day 2020: Birds Connect Our World - BirdLife Australia Offering Critically Endangered Swift Parrot Webinar (May 22nd) + Saving Swift Parrots With Margaret Atwood Video

Reflections by George Repin: FLORIADE – THE NETHERLANDS – 1982

DIY Ideas Blooming Lovely: Late Autumn Planting For Gardens Full Of Colour, Cheer + Great Food For The Table - vegetables, herbs and flowers + the Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 May Madness specials also include last minute gifts for mum

Pittwater COVID-19 Food Outlets Restriction Responses: Take Away from Restaurants and Cafes and Grocers and Food Available From Local Outlets  Local food suppliers and cafes and restaurants are currently adapting to social-distancing requirements and the closure of public spaces to large gatherings. Listed this week are those that have food you can order for take away or delivery and also those who supplied these outlets who also have food available to purchase.

Profile Tommy Knox

The 8th of May is VE Day, Victory in Europe Day, the day celebrating the formal acceptance by the Allies of World War II of Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender of its armed forces on Tuesday, May  8th 1945, marking the end of World War II in Europe and marked each year with services commemorating those who gave their lives. In 2020 it is 75 years since the guns fell silent at the end of the war in Europe. The years of carnage and destruction had come to an end and millions of people took to the streets to celebrate peace, mourn lost loved ones and to hope for the future. 

They were not forgetting those still in conflict until August 15th, when it was announced that Japan had surrendered unconditionally, effectively ending World War II, and remembering that the 8th of May 2020 also marks, for Australians, the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Wewak in New Guinea, where 442 Australians were killed and 1,141 wounded in that last campaign of the 6th Division. 

But after six years of darkness, our UK and USA cousins, with many Australians alongside them, could exhale for moments, dance in the newly returned light. 

At 9.00pm on May 8th 1945, King George VI made a radio broadcast to his people; - 

Today we give thanks to Almighty God for a great deliverance. Speaking from our Empire’s oldest capital city, war-battered but never for one moment daunted or dismayed – speaking from London, I ask you to join with me in that act of thanksgiving. Germany, the enemy who drove all Europe into war, has been finally overcome. In the Far East we have yet to deal with the Japanese, a determined and cruel foe. To this we shall turn with the utmost resolve and with all our resources. But at this hour, when the dreadful shadow of war has passed from our hearths and homes in these islands, we may at last make one pause for thanksgiving and then turn our thoughts to the tasks all over the world which peace in Europe brings with it.

Together we shall all face the future with stern resolve and prove that our reserves of will-power and vitality are inexhaustible.

At dawn, alike here on Anzac Day 2020, buglers and trumpeters took to their streets up and down the UK to sound out the Last Post. This year the Last Post was piped over the internet, services conducted online and the sound of the March through the streets muffled by the need, in the UK, to protect that nations' citizens from a pandemic. The silence made the Remembrance and Tributes more powerful, marked in starker form how so many individuals strove alone and as one for one purpose.

The Royal British Legion, a British charity for veterans of the British Armed Forces, their families and dependants, organised VE Day 75, a three-day international celebration to take place from May 8th to May 10th 2020.

We will remember the members of the Armed Forces and Merchant Navy from many countries who gave their lives or returned home injured in body and mind, the hard-working women and men who operated the factories, mines, shipyards and farms, and ARP wardens, police officers, doctors, nurses, fireman, local defence volunteers and others who toiled day and night selflessly on the home front during difficult frightening and uncertain times.

They called on people across the UK to join in a moment of reflection and Remembrance at 11am on Friday May 8th, the 75th Anniversary of VE Day, and pause for a Two Minute Silence. 

On Anzac Day 2020 Mona Vale hosted a very special parade as 95 year old World War II Royal Air Force Veteran Thomas Knox travelled on his motorised scooter along his home street at 11am so neighbours and relatives could wave and salute this Pittwater RSL Sub-Branch 'Living Treasure'. Tommy would have been among the VE Day celebrations in 1945. Two of his crew members were Australians Hugh Coventry and David Skewe, and they may have had an extra beer that day too. 

This week we hear about Tommys' war service and why he came to Australia in 1950.

History  Grace Brook, 1921-2017 by Paul McGrath and Robin Bayes
In the year 2000, I was completing a university project on Avalon and its early history. I asked my friend Adam Bayes’ Granny Grace to write down some reminisces for me, for it was clear she had lived in Avalon for some time. 

Grace Brook lived at 54 Binburra Avenue Avalon, in a house she built herself in the 1950s. A leafy gardened oasis, she was attracted to its several native fauna and flora. It was clear she had a connection with the Northern Beaches from an earlier time, and her memories reveal this when she talks of frequent Christmas holiday trips with her three sisters to Palm Beach from her childhood home in Lindfield.

She was a woman who loved arts, nature and great relationships in her life (3 marriages and 3 children). She loved the arts – sculpture, painting, books, she loved history - Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci, Marie Antoinette, Mary Queen of Scots, Charles 1 and Alexander the Great among her favourites. She also had a strong connection to the nature and environment of Avalon and the Northern Beaches, which come across in her several cliff and headland paintings, which she would struggle to produce when painting in the elements. 

I have transcribed the memories, as I believe they are an important description of life in early Avalon, and give a good indication of the character of Grace. Also included is the eulogy penned by her son Robin Bayes, and delivered by her grandson Adam Bayes in 2017.

Paul McGrath
May 2020 

Environment Echidna Season, Going Fishing This Weekend?; a Barranjuee sunfish from 1875, Recent Australian Wildfires Made Worse By Logging: UofQ, Saving Energy And Lives: How A Solar Chimney Can Boost Fire Safety, NSW Hunters Provided Licence Relief & Access Back Into State Forests, Heavy Fines For Illegal Firewood Collection In National Parks, Funding Available To Help Restock Our Rivers, Narrabri Coal To Pay $120,000 After Mine Waste Caused Landfill Fires, NSW Government’s Digital Decision A ''Disgrace'' For Communities Suffering From Coal and Gas, Logging Intensity To Increase Six-Fold As Forest Corp Pledges To Maintain Wood Supply, Westpac Climate Policy Leaves Governments In The Dust, Aren’t We In A Drought?; The Australian Black Coal Industry Uses Enough Water For Over 5 Million People, One Small Area Of Ocean Not Changed By Global Warming, More Rescue Missions Possible As Platypuses Rehomed, Subsidies Drive Murray-Darling Basin Extractions As Environment Loses, 6,000 years of climate history: an ancient lake in the Murray-Darling has yielded its secrets, Severe Coral Loss Leaves Reefs With Larger Fish But Low Energy Turnover, Tree Trunks Take A Licking As Koalas Source Water, Scientists Find Highest Ever Level Of Microplastics On Seafloor, Weed Cassia Now Flowering: Please Pull Out and Save Our Bush, Please Help Sydney Wildlife Rescue: Donate Your Cans and Bottles and Nominate SW As Recipient, Bushcare In Pittwater, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations In Pittwater, Pittwater Reserves++

Inbox News World-Class Western Sydney Hospital Building Finished Early, Behind The Scenes At The Kirby Institute's COVID-19 Lab, Sounds Of Silent Space Come To Life In New Soundtrack, COVID-19: Potentially Lifesaving Immunoglobulin Treatment For Seriously Ill Australians, New Medicine Listings On The PBS For Cardiovascular Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Asthma, Lifesaving Ventilators To Be Made Locally, Fossil Reveals Evidence Of 200-Million-Year-Old 'Squid' Attack, Electrical Activity In Living Organisms Mirrors Electrical Fields In Atmosphere

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update: May 9, 2020

Click on Logo to access latest PON:  

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

YM Efficiency Cleanup Completed

Remember June 1st, 2018 when the container ship YM Efficiency lost containers overboard into Australian Commonwealth Waters, on the Newcastle-Port Stephens coast?

Well, on Friday May 8th, 2020 the Australian Marine Safety Authority (AMSA) announced all of the identified shipping containers lost overboard from the YM Efficiency in June 2018, have now been recovered off the Hunter Coast. The salvage operation started in March 2020.

Offshore construction vessel, MV Pride, which carried out the five-week operation, has returned to Port of Newcastle to discharge the final six containers onshore.

It brings an end to subsea operations to recover thousands of tonnes of waste and pollution that has mired Newcastle-Port Stephens coastal communities for almost two years.

The final six containers will be processed by waste crews for salvage, recycling or landfill.


Final six recovered containers have been delivered to shore for processing.


Two containers originally holding 39 steel beams will be processed as scrap metal onshore.

We are thankful to the seafarers who have worked on this operation, and cleaned up our waters.

The total cost of the recovery operation to remove and dispose of 63 containers is about $17 million, which, unless recovered, will be funded from levies collected from the shipping industry.

Since this pollution event occurred in June 2018 AMSA has attempted to engage with the Taiwanese owners of the YM Efficiency, Yang Ming, about their ongoing responsibility to remove the remaining containers from the seafloor.

AMSA’s Chief Executive Officer Mick Kinley said  on Friday that this operation has finally exposed Yang Ming and their insurer’s arguments against removing this pollution as nonsense.

“Yang Ming and their insurers Britannia P&I have tried every trick in the book to attempt to shirk their responsibilities to clean up their mess.

“They said that attempting to remove these containers was dangerous. That was wrong.

“They said trying to remove them would cause more damage to the environment. That was wrong.

“They said that these containers and their contents aren't pollution. There have been tonnes of garbage that show that was wrong too.

“Yang Ming are out of excuses and they should pay up.”

AMSA has commenced legal proceedings in the Federal Court to recover all costs associated with the recovery operation from Yang Ming and their insurers.

Marine Rescue Broken Bays' New Rescue Vessel Grows Apace

Another week and the new rescue vessel BB30 gets closer to completion. 

Thank you again to everyone in the Pittwater community for voting for our project in the NSW My Community Projects.

Marine Rescue Broken Bay.

Update On Coronavirus Measures

Friday May 8th, 2020
The Hon. Scott Morrison, Prime Minister of Australia

The National Cabinet met today to further discuss options for easing restrictions over the coming months, helping prepare Australians to go back to work in a COVID-19 safe environment and getting the economy back to a more sustainable level.

The Chief Medical Officer Professor Brendan Murphy provided an update on the measures underway, the latest data and medical advice in relation to COVID-19.

There have been 6,899 confirmed cases in Australia and sadly 97 people have died. There are now only around 1,000 active cases in Australia, and over the past week, daily infection rates have remained low. Testing remains high, with more than 730,000 tests undertaken in Australia.

We need to continue to have the right controls in place to test more people, trace those who test positive and respond to local outbreaks when they occur. These are precedent conditions to enable Australia to relax baseline restrictions and enable Australians to live and work in a COVID-19 safe economy.

National Cabinet again encouraged Australians to download the COVIDSafe app to ensure that we can protect Australians and reset baseline restrictions. More than 5.3 million Australians have already downloaded the COVIDSafe app. This is an enormous achievement, but more is needed.

National Cabinet will meet again on Friday 15 May 2020.

Re-opening a COVID-safe Australia and economy

The National Cabinet met today to finalise the three-step plan to gradually remove baseline restrictions and make Australia COVID-safe.

Australia has so far been highly successful in ‘flattening the curve’. The number of new COVID-19 cases in Australia each day is very low. We can now begin to take careful steps to ease some of the restrictions that have helped us suppress the spread of this virus.

We are confidently and cautiously taking the first step to lifting restrictions. Our success so far means we have slowed the spread of COVID-19 and built the capacity in our health system to manage the impact of the virus. We can now start to progressively ease the restrictions we have in place. The AHPPC has provided strong advice on the conditions that must be met as we establish COVID safe ways of working and living so that we can reopen parts of the economy in the safest possible way while living with COVID-19. This means that many Australians can start getting out to the shops, undertaking some local trips and travel, visiting playgrounds and public parks, and having friends and family around with a bit more freedom.

But the National Cabinet is very clear: continued suppression of COVID-19 is about collective action. Success depends on maintaining our new community norms – physical distancing, good hygiene practices and downloading the COVIDSafe app to keep us all safe while we are out and about.

For businesses, this also means taking the time to prepare and develop a plan to operate in a COVID safe way to protect their customers and workers. With every one of us playing our part, we should all feel safe and confident in leaving the house and starting to do some of the things we've missed in the last few months – like getting back to work, having a quick bite in a restaurant or cafe, attending auctions and open houses, and participating in group exercise.

Each step we take needs to be underpinned by a strong commitment from all of us to:
  • stay 1.5 metres away from other people whenever and wherever we can
  • maintain good hand washing and cough/sneeze hygiene
  • stay home when we’re unwell, and getting tested if we have respiratory symptoms or a fever,
  • download the COVIDSafe app so we can find the virus quickly, and
  • Develop COVID safe plans for workplaces and plans.
Our success depends on us making these behaviours part of our daily lives during the COVID-19 pandemic to keep us COVID safe.

Australian governments are taking a measured approach. Our three-step plan provides a pathway for jurisdictions to move towards COVID safe communities in a way that best suits their individual circumstances. States and territories are able to move between the steps on the pathway at different times, in line with their current public health situation and local conditions. They'll need to maintain steady case numbers and be able to rapidly contain outbreaks, which we're set to do - with our enhanced testing regime, strengthened health surge capacity, and improved ability to quickly identify people who may have been exposed to the virus.

For each of the major areas of restrictions we have set out three key steps between where we are now and where we want to be.
  • Step 1 will focus on carefully reopening the economy, and giving Australians opportunities to return to work and social activities, including gatherings of up to 10 people, up to 5 visitors in the family home and some local and regional travel
  • Step 2 builds on this with gatherings of up to 20, and more businesses reopening, including gyms, beauty services and entertainment venues like galleries and cinemas.
  • Step 3 will see a transition to COVID safe ways of living and working, with gatherings of up to 100 people permitted. Arrangements under step 3 will be the ‘new normal’ while the virus remains a threat. International travel and mass gatherings over 100 people will remain restricted.
A detailed plan of the steps (PDF 174 KB), as well as a summary (PDF 175 KB), is attached.

Under the three-step plan, states and territories continue to make decisions to their individual circumstances and local conditions.

Jurisdictions may ease restrictions at a different pace. Individuals and business should look to local authorities for the most up to date information, or visit  www.australia.gov.au to be linked to state and territory resources.

Special arrangements will need to be continued in Indigenous biosecurity areas and for vulnerable groups.

National Cabinet also committed – as part of the three-step plan – to regular reviews and stocktake assessments of our progress every three weeks. We will be closely monitoring the situation as restrictions are eased. This will enable us to assess the impact of changes, track progress against our agreed precedent conditions, determine the pace of moving through the steps, and make any further decisions. The AHPPC and National Cabinet were very firm on this. We are prepared for an increase in case numbers or possible outbreaks, but relapse should not be an option. A second wave is not something we can afford to go through. The cost to our people, our economy, our social fabric, is too high. We should look to build success in each step, and move forward safely and with confidence.

So long as Australians keep living and working in a COVID safe way, we'll be able to keep case numbers low and continue taking steps on the pathway to relaxing more restrictions.

National Cabinet's goal is to have a sustainable COVID safe Australia in  July 2020. We've shown what we can achieve when we work together - we flattened the curve. Now, let's work together to get Australia COVID safe.

Statement From The NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian On The National Cabinet

May 8, 2020
NSW welcomes the framework for the further easing of restrictions endorsed today by the National Cabinet.

This framework provides a clear pathway to what citizens can look forward to in coming months.

The NSW Government has already eased a number of restrictions listed under the first stage of the plan.

As I stated earlier this week – there will be no further change to restrictions in NSW this week.

NSW will continue to keep our citizens updated on our path forward.

NSW Land Tax Concession Applications Now Open

May 7, 2020
Landlords providing rent relief for eligible tenants in financial distress due to COVID-19 can now apply for land tax concessions online.

NSW Minister for Finance and Small Business Damien Tudehope said the land tax concessions were part of a wide range of support measures designed to help those in need and to support jobs and business.

“Eligible landlords will be able to apply for a land tax concession of up to 25 per cent of their 2020 land tax liability on relevant properties so long as they pass on the full savings in the form of a rent reduction to their tenants,” Mr Tudehope said.

“The land tax concession is expected to be divided approximately 50-50 with around $220 million going to the commercial sector and a further $220 million expected to benefit the residential sector.”

Once approved, a concession will be applied to any unpaid 2020 land tax notices, and refunds will be issued for payments already made this year. Those refunds are expected to take up to five days to process once determined.
 
Landlords can find out more about eligibility and apply for a tax concession online  and are encouraged to complete their applications before 31 October 2020.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the NSW Government was committed to supporting people, communities and businesses during COVID-19.

“We are doing everything we can to keep people in jobs and businesses in business,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Small businesses severely impacted by COVID-19 restrictions may be eligible for the NSW Government’s $10,000 Small Business Support Fund grant and those with a payroll of $10 million or less can get a 25 per cent payroll waiver for 2019-20.”

To find out more about how the NSW Government is working to bolster health resources, protect jobs and businesses, visit COVID-19 support for businesses and employment. 

NSW Coastal Council Appointed For A New Term

May 8, 2020
Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock has today announced the appointment of the new NSW Coastal Council, to be chaired by Annelise Tuor.

Annelise Tuor has university degrees in both architecture and planning and is a Nationally Accredited Mediator. She was a Commissioner of the Land and Environment Court of NSW for 14 years and has previously held senior positions at the Council of the City of Sydney, where she managed the assessment of major development proposals and the preparation of planning policies.

Annelise has also worked in various branches of the Department of Planning and began her career as an architect and then a planner in private enterprise.

Ms Tuor’s experience in planning and environmental management is wide ranging, with particular expertise in statutory and strategic planning, urban design, heritage, planning law, as well as management, decision making and dispute resolution. 

She was appointed to the former Planning Assessment Commission in August 2017 and is a current member of the Independent Planning Commission.

Ms Tuor is the first female Chair of the Council.

Mrs Hancock said Ms Tuor and the members of the Council all have exceptional expertise and experience in one or more specialist fields relating to coastal management.

"I look forward to working with the new Council which plays a critical role in providing me with expert advice about the development and implementation of coastal management programs by our State's coastal councils," Mrs Hancock said.

The new Coastal Council includes:
  • Ms Annelise Tuor
  • Mr Martijn Gough*
  • Dr Kate Brooks
  • Dr Hannah Power*
  • Ms Pam Dean-Jones*
  • Emeritus Professor Bruce Thom
  • Dr Shay Simpson*
*indicates a newly appointed Council member

Minister Hancock made special acknowledgement to out-going Chair Bruce Thom, saying Emeritus Professor Thom had played a vital role in his tenure as Chair.

"Professor Thom remains on the Council and I'm sure all members of the Council, especially the new generation of coastal experts, will learn from his knowledge and experience.

"The significant contributions of outgoing Council members Ron Cox, Angus Gordon, Jane Lofthouse and Will Glamore are also greatly appreciated," Mrs Hancock said.

The new chair Ms Annelise Tuor said that the Coastal Council plays an important role in helping address the very complex issue of coastal management.

"I look forward to bringing science and expertise of the other council members in advising the Minister on coastal management in NSW," Ms Tuor said.

The NSW Coastal Council provides independent and expert advice on matters relating to the Minister's functions under the Coastal Management Act, and in relation to the development and implementation of coastal management programs by local councils.

Fox At Bilgola Taking Chickens

Bilgola Plateau residents report the loss of chickens to a fox in recent weeks and would like to advise others in the area to ensure their chooks are well locked up at night in fox-proof cages.

The fox is of a substantial size and also been spotted by residents around Bilgola Bends at dusk when commuters are coming home, although there may be more than one preying on these local egg-layers and tick eaters.

If a fox gets into a small run or chicken house and there are a number of birds in there, they can get into a killing 'frenzy' and will kill all of the birds, usually taking only one bird with them. 

A few tips to protect your chickens
Many chicken coops come with relatively sturdy wire mesh however to ensure that foxes cannot break in; it’s wise to install something a bit tougher.

A sturdy steel mesh, like the one pictured below, is suitable for predator proofing. It is too thick for a fox to bite and too small for him to squeeze through. You can find mesh like this at your nearest JBH Hardware store. Simply attach it to outside of the coop using metal cable ties or industrial staples.


Image courtesy of Coconinoco - Flickr

Prevent foxes from digging under
Even if a fox cannot get through the wire, they may be able to access chickens by digging underneath. There are two ways of preventing this:

Attach a permanent mesh bottom to the coop
Putting mesh on the base of the enclosure is an easy and effective way to stop foxes from burrowing underneath. This mesh can have slightly larger holes of around 15cm x 15cm so it gives your chickens a bit of space to reach the grass/dirt underneath. A fox may fit through this gap if the mesh was upright but due to the angle of the burrowing they will not be able to enter when it is used on the base.

Attach a mesh skirt to the bottom of the coop
A skirt of strong wire mesh that goes around the chicken coop (but not under it) can help to prevent foxes from burrowing because it prevents them from digging nearby. If you are going to install a mesh skirt, you must remember that it will make it more difficult to move the coop around the garden.

Fill those gaps
Foxes can manoeuvre themselves through the smallest of spaces so you must ensure there aren’t any gaps around doors, mesh walls or ventilation holes (if there are any).

Prevent foxes from undoing locks
Foxes are clever and will easily knock open simple twist catches so it’s important to check that your coop has slide-latching bolts on any openings.

If you are particularly forgetful or have children that are helping to take care of the chickens, it’s safer to install two locks on the primary doors. This way if one is left open or isn’t secured properly, there is a backup.


Red fox - photo by and courtesy Jonn Leffmann

Tips sourced from My Pet Warehouse and My Chicken Coop.

Echidna Season

Echidna season has begun.  As cooler days approach, our beautiful echidnas are more active during the days as they come out to forage for food and find a mate. This sadly results in a HIGH number of vehicle hits.

What to do if you find an Echidna on the road?

  • Safely remove the Echidna off the road (providing its safe to do so).
  • Call Sydney Wildlife or WIRES
  •  Search the surrounding area for a puggle (baby echidna). The impact from a vehicle incident can cause a puggle to roll long distances from mum, so please search for these babies, they can look like a pinky-grey clump of clay

What to do if you find an echidna in your yard?

  • Leave the Echidna alone, remove the threat (usually a family pet) and let the Echidna move away in it's own time. It will move along when it doesn't feel threatened.

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


Lynleigh Greig, Sydney Wildlife, with a rescued echidna being returned to its home

Creative Kids Expansion Goes Digital

May 6, 2020
From today eligible Creative Kids providers will be able to access up to $5000 in digital adaptation grants to help them offer creative learning activities online thanks to a $1 million injection.

This includes purchasing equipment and internet services to help them transition online so they can provide lessons to children or young people who are at home and can’t attend workshops or classes in person.

The program’s eligible activities are also being expanded to include those which support the 2020 school curriculum, with Creative Kids providers able to supply creative supplies and equipment such as instruments, art and craft supplies and other materials to children or young people.

The changes to the program announced today by Treasurer Dominic Perrottet and Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello include:
  • $1 million in digital adaptation grants of up to $5000 for Creative Kids providers to further support online delivery of Creative Kids programs
  • a toolkit to help providers pivot to online delivery
  • extension of the use of Creative Kids vouchers for online programs and educational materials
  • improved Service NSW website to make it easier for parents to find an online provider.
Mr Perrottet said $1 million in small business grants would help arts and cultural providers deliver programs remotely providing a vital economic boost for small businesses doing it tough and keeping kids connected to quality cultural and creative activities. 

“Whether it’s school education or extra-curricular activities, we want our kids to be able to maximise every opportunity. Creative Kids has been incredibly popular, and these changes will help to ensure that continues,” Mr Perrottet said.

“At times like this, adapting your business can be the key to survival. Our digital adaptation grants will flow to more businesses and sole traders in the arts and creative industries, helping to keep people in jobs and businesses in business in a sector that has been hit hard by COVID-19.”

“They say William Shakespeare wrote King Lear in quarantine, and we want to give our own generation of budding creative geniuses every opportunity to keep honing the creative skills that will enrich our culture in the years ahead.”

Mr Dominello said the updated Service NSW Creative Kids webpage would list the eligible providers and help parents navigate the process.

“In a Covidian world we need to use technology to make life easier for people. That is why we are building a new online navigator that makes it simple and hassle free for parents to identify the right program for their children,” Mr Dominello said.

The Creative Kids program offers families an annual $100 voucher for every school aged child to contribute to registration, participation and tuition costs for performing arts, visual arts, coding, languages, literature, music and other creative and cultural activities.

Applications for the Creative Kids provider grants will open 6 May 2020. To be eligible, grant applicants must:
  • be a Creative Kids Provider
  • the provider must be a small business (have fewer than 20 employees). This also includes non-for-profit organisations
  • clearly demonstrate adaptation and expansion of Creative Kids activities to online delivery
  • describe how this support can maintain or increase voucher redemption during COVID-19
  • meet the objectives of the Creative Kids program.
Find out more information including details on how to apply via Create NSW at: www.create.nsw.gov.au

NSW Government Bill Relief For Energy Customers

Households struggling to pay their energy bills during COVID-19 now have access to additional financial support directly through Service NSW and the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, thanks to a $30 million boost to the Government’s emergency support Energy Accounts Payment Assistance (EAPA) Scheme.

Energy Minister Matt Kean said the NSW Government is doing everything it can to ease cost-of-living pressures during the COVID-19 pandemic and has more than doubled the budget for the EAPA Scheme next financial year.

“For ease of access, residential energy customers can now apply for EAPA vouchers directly through Service NSW and will be called for an assessment without having to leave their house,” Mr Kean said.

“I encourage people that need bill support during this tough time to head to the Service NSW website and register for an energy voucher assessment.”

The EAPA assessment threshold has been temporarily increased so people can receive up to $400 per assessment twice per year, compared to the normal amount of $300.

“This means the annual maximum limit of vouchers for a household with both electricity and gas has increased from $1,200 to $1,600, up by $400,” Mr Kean said.

“We are expecting more people across NSW to need this emergency bill support as they are faced with unexpected changes to income and usage increases while working from home.”

During the assessment for EAPA vouchers, NSW Government representatives will also contact energy retailers with customers to assist with getting customers onto hardship plans, which will further protect customers during this extraordinarily difficult time.

NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the funding for EAPA was part of almost $100 million recently allocated to help our most vulnerable, including $34 million to prevent homelessness, $10 million to support charity programs and $6 million for Lifeline's operations in NSW.

"We are deploying the financial strength of NSW to bolster the health system, keep people in jobs and assist those most in need of help during this difficult time," Mr Perrottet said.

"This funding will help thousands of people meet their energy bills as we head into winter."

People needing further information should visit Service NSW and search 'EAPA'.

At the same time, Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders across NSW are being reminded to apply for the Seniors Energy Rebate now.

“With the COVID-19 virus keeping seniors, who are among the most at-risk in our community, confined to their households and using more electricity, we’re very aware of this extra pressure being applied on their back pockets,” Mr Kean said.

“This NSW Government annual rebate, which will ease electricity costs by $200 a year, has been available since July last year but a majority of those eligible are yet to apply, and we’re urging them to do so now before applications for this financial year close.”

The program extends NSW’s generous energy rebates to Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders for the first time.

In 2019-20 over $329 million is being invested by the NSW Government on energy rebates alone, with almost a third of all electricity customers receiving a rebate.

To be eligible, applicants must hold a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) and be the primary account holder named on the electricity bill.

For more information and to apply online, customers can go to service.nsw.gov.au and type ‘Seniors Energy Rebate’ into the search function.

Customers who are unable to apply online can call Service NSW on 13 77 88. Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders who have already applied this financial year can reapply again from 1 July 2020 for the new financial year.

Messing About In Boats Stories Sought

Ann Howard, popular author is collecting material for a new book, Messin’ About in Boat- small boat stories of Dangar Island, and welcomes contributions 500-1000 words and pics of small boast
 
Thank you and keep well!
 
Ann Howard

Can You Spot Keo Teddy?

Welcome to the newest member of the Keoride On Demand service team  .. . Keo Teddy!


Keo Teddy will be travelling around the Northern Beaches over the next week in our Sprinter Vehicle Ben -  keep a look out and snap a photo if you can spot it and post it in the comments in the special post on our Keoride Facebook page on Monday, and for each one I’ll make a $5 donation to the Northern Beaches Homeless Outreach program. 

Good Bear Hunting! - hint if you are travelling for essential purposes then call our office on 1800 536 743 and ask the friendly Supervisor if Ben and Teddy are out and about.

Eamonn
Keoride.
__________________________________

For those not on the Good Bear Hunting brigade, and now also looking out for Sprinter Vehicle Ben, a reminder that Keoride's On Demand public transport in the Northern Beaches has extended it’s services during the COVID-19 crisis.

Whether it’s food shopping, medical appointments or work related travel, Keoride is offering an extended transport service.

Keoride have added additional hubs to better support the community within it’s service area. They will now drop off and pick up to the following locations during the COVID-19 crisis:
  • Newport Coles and the local pharmacy
  • Woolworths Mona Vale
  • Warriewood Square
  • Elanora Heights pharmacy and IGA
  • Woolworths Narrabeen
  • Mona Vale Hospital
Please note these additional hubs are a temporary offering to support the community during the COVID-19 crisis. These hubs will be in place until further notice.

New Volunteering Platform To Support Our Community

Organisations on the Northern Beaches in need of support and people willing to help are being encouraged to sign up to a new online volunteering platform, designed to support vulnerable people in NSW during COVID-19.

Manly MP Mr Griffin said volunteers are being empowered to provide welfare checks, deliver supplies and offer essential transport to vulnerable people through a new online platform linking community members with charities, NGOs and councils.

“The pandemic is placing a significant strain on volunteer-driven organisations who support our most vulnerable here on the Northern Beaches, and many require more people to help meet the demand,” Mr Griffin said.

“This platform allows you to register your details online and an organisation in your local area will get in touch and offer volunteering opportunities when they arise.” 

The NSW Government has partnered with the Centre for Volunteering to develop the platform which is also operating in Victoria and Western Australia. 

Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Gareth Ward said the platform promotes informal voluntary opportunities that prioritise safety and wellbeing of participants during COVID-19.

“Volunteers are the backbone of our communities and in times of need it is inherent for Australians to rally around each other and do whatever is needed to support those struggling,” Mr Ward said. 

“I encourage any organisation in need of assistance, and any person willing to give up their time to help someone else, to register online today.”

For more information and to register, visit emergency.volunteer.org.au. 

Dog Attack At Palm Beach

An alleged dog attack at Palm Beach has seen a man have “chunks” torn out of his arm. The alleged incident happened last Wednesday at around 8.30am, just north of the Barrenjoey Boating Services at Palm Beach. The Manly Dailys’ Julie Cross reported in the online version of the Daily Telegraph on Friday that Council officials are now investigating.

Palm Beach residents have contacted Pittwater Online frequently during the last few weeks stating Station Beach is being overrun by dogs, with ‘’80% offleash’’ and none of the rangers residents were told would be frequenting the beach to keep eyes on the ‘On-Leash Trial’ process within sight. 

‘’Despite council announcements that this would occur and the trial would be monitored, no enforcement of hours or dogs being on-leash is occurring.’’ one resident stated.

A reminder that the councils’ webpage on dogs and cats states;
‘If you or your dog has been attacked then please report it to Council as a matter of urgency on 1300 434 434.’

There is also available councils’ webpage with help information about dog attacks. 

Under the Companion Animals Act 1998 it is an Offence if a dog rushes at, attacks, bites, harasses or chases any person or animal, whether or not any injury is caused to the person or animal.

Pittwater: Ross River Fever Alert

The West Pittwater Community Association reports that a tradesman working on a building site on Scotland Island recently received a positive test result for Ross River fever.

A second tradesman working on the same site has presented with the same symptoms (not yet tested).

Medical personnel have asked for the local community to be informed and for residents to take preventative measures against mosquito bites and to remove potential breeding sites from around the home such as ensuring water tanks are covered and stagnant water is removed.

Ross River fever is caused by a viral infection, transmitted through mosquito bites.

What are the symptoms?
Many people who are infected with the virus will never develop symptoms.
  • Some people will have flu-like symptoms that include fever, chills, headache and aches and pains in the muscles and joints. 
  • Some joints can become swollen, and joint stiffness may be particularly noticeable in the morning. 
  • Sometimes a rash occurs on the body, arms or legs. The rash usually disappears after 7 to 10 days. 
  • A general feeling of being unwell, tired or weak may also occur at times during the illness. 
  • Symptoms usually develop about 7-10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. 
  • The majority of people recover completely in a few weeks. Others may experience symptoms such as joint pain and tiredness for many months.
Prevention relies on avoiding mosquito bites.

For more information:

Precaution: Need To Reduce Risk Of Ross River Fever At Narrabeen And Warriewood

April 30, 2020: NBC
Council is advising people around the Narrabeen Lagoon and Warriewood Wetlands to take extra precautions against exposure to mosquitoes after Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus were detected in mosquitoes collected at Deep Creek in late March. Ross River virus was also detected from mosquitoes collected at Warriewood Wetlands in early April.

Council together with NSW Health have been proactively trapping mosquitos in the Northern Beaches region since December 2019 in six potentially high risk locations. The program is aimed at monitoring local mosquito activity, to identify if arboviruses are present and what measures can be taken to reduce risk.

Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus spread by mosquitoes to humans. Detection in mosquitoes in the Deep Creek and Warriewood Wetlands indicate the virus’ are present.

Mosquito populations will decline with cooler weather but people should remain vigilant by taking measures to avoid mosquito bites. The risk to the general community is considered low but the risk is greater in areas with a high number of mosquitoes and marsupials present such as bushland and wetland areas.

The community is advised to follow these steps to protect from mosquito bites:
  1. Wear loose-fitting long sleeved shirts and long pants when outside especially around dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. Take special care during peak mosquito biting hours, especially around dawn and dusk.
  2. Wear mosquito repellent to exposed skin using brands that contain either DEET or Picaridin.
  3. Remove potential mosquito breeding sites from around the home by removing stagnant ponding shallow water from saucers, buckets, etc. Mosquitoes like to breed in shallow stagnant water.
Please see the NSW Health factsheet for further information:

Richard Leplastrier - Framing The View 

Revered by architects around the world, Richard Leplastrier’s search for beauty in his career is interwoven with his own life in Pittwater's Lovett Bay.

Richard Leplastrier - Framing the View was filmed over 15 years. It began with filming of the construction of a house in the Blue Mountains, and expanded to houses in Leura, Watsons Bay and Balmain, and visits to Kyoto and the Sydney Opera House, to create a powerful portrait of a seminal figure in Australian architecture. 

WATCH the World Premiere on the ABC on May 12 at 9.30pm. The feature version of the film will be available afterwards on iView for 30 days. 

Director Anna Cater, Writers Anna Cater Producer Susan MacKinnon  Anna Cater. Production Company: Mitra Films Pty Ltd. Photo: Mark Rogers


2020 Community Building Partnership Program Now Open

Tuesday May 5th, 2020
Member for Manly James Griffin welcomed yesterday’s announcement that applications are now open for the 2020 Community Building Partnership Program, unlocking $27.9 million for community infrastructure projects across NSW.

Mr Griffin said $300,000 is available for projects in each NSW electorate, including Manly and urged Council, community groups and not-for-profits to apply for the funds they need to deliver projects with social, environmental and recreational outcomes.

“Local sports clubs, charities and schools are just some of the organisations locally that have benefited from this program over many years,” Mr Griffin said.

“If your organisation or club needs extra funding for infrastructure, such as playgrounds, accessible features, equipment or refurbishment, then I’d strongly encourage you to apply.”

The Community Building Partnership program has awarded more than $330 million in funding to 15,000 community projects since it commenced in 2009.

“This program means that you can support your community group to improve the places you meet, train or play,” Mr Griffin said.

“Take the time to prepare and submit your application so your community group doesn’t miss out on a share of $300,000.”

Applications are open from Monday 4 May 2020 and close at 5pm, Friday 12 June 2020. Applicants must read the program guidelines to ensure their club or organisation and proposed project are eligible.

For more information about the NSW Government’s 2020 Community Building Partnership Program, visit the website: www.nsw.gov.au/cbp

Manly Intersection Upgrade

Belgrave St at Gilbert St
Sun 10 May 2020 - Fri 15 May 2020
Scheduled lane closures for this week.
Sunday (8:00pm to 5:00am) All directions affected
Monday (8:00pm to 5:00am) All directions affected
Tuesday (8:00pm to 5:00am) All directions affected
Wednesday (8:00pm to 5:00am) All directions affected
Thursday (8:00pm to 5:00am) All directions affected

Advice: Check signage. Exercise caution; Allow extra travel time. Alternating (stop/slow) traffic conditions will be in place. The intersection of Belgrave St and Gilbert St will be blacked out and manually controlled by traffic controllers. 

Sewers Needed For Hand Sewn Masks For The Bus, Rail And Tram Workers

We have a few lovely ladies on board to sew masks for the bus and rail workers and I’m starting to get some finished masks returned, however they need loads  (3500) and at this rate it’ll take a month of Sunday’s.  

If there are any Readers who would be interested in making some, I have a pattern and fabric packs for interested people and they can pick them up from my front garden (hung in bags on the garden fence). 

I would prefer people to call or text for futher details.  My phone number is 0417 041 604.  
Thank all in advance.

Jane Russell.

Proposed Rates Reform No Silver Bullet

Friday May 8th, 2020
Proposed reform to increase rate flexibility for councils were minor and would not provide any real immediate financial benefit to the vast majority of NSW councils, Local Government NSW (LGNSW) said today.

The peak body estimated a maximum of five of the State’s 128 councils and their communities would have any power to effect any changes as a result of this government announcement.

LGNSW President Linda Scott said that while the principle of increased flexibility was a good one, reports it would result in rate hikes or help councils and communities recover financially from the pandemic, bushfires or drought demonstrated a real misunderstanding of the proposed reform.

“We are in extraordinary times, and understand there is no public appetite to raise rates: councils are focused on assisting communities and businesses facing financial hardship as the result of the cumulative impacts of drought, bushfire, flood and the COVID pandemic,” she said.  

“This is only about catch-up funding, and it’s only available to councils that have not passed on the full rate peg increase handed down by IPART in previous years,” she said.

“It’s not even really new: the Local Government Act already gives councils the power to catch-up by increasing rates above the IPART rate peg if they haven’t passed on the full rate peg rise in the previous two years.

“The only real difference from this very limited reform is that it extends the catch-up window to 5-10 years.

“In other words, it allows any catch-up of rate revenue already foregone to be spread over a longer period.”

Cr Scott said extending the existing two-year catch-up window to minimise the impact on ratepayers was great in theory.

“Local government certainly welcomes that principle of increased flexibility,” she said.

“We think there does need to be a broad look at widespread tax reform in NSW, as does IPART in its report on the NSW Rating System.

“But this proposed reform is a very long way from a silver bullet.

“The reality is that most councils have been forced into such a difficult financial position over many years that they are consistently forced to pass on the full IPART-approved ‘rate peg’ in order to keep delivering services and local infrastructure.

“That means there is no foregone rate revenue to catch up.”

She said it was difficult to determine whether any council would benefit this year, because councils were still struggling to put together budgets amid future uncertainty created by the pandemic.

“We’ve heard back from roughly one-third of our members since this reform was announced in the media, and so far only one council has indicated it will be provided with any power to effect any changes next year,” she said.

“The most generous extrapolation suggests that fewer than five of the 128 councils across NSW will be able to avoid passing on the full rate peg, which means the reform will have very little meaningful effect.”

Cr Scott said councils were acutely aware of the financial pressures facing their communities, and worked extraordinarily hard to keep rates low while continuing to deliver services and infrastructure.

“Over time, it’s clear the existing ratings system has hampered what can be delivered for communities,” she said.

“This is a welcome first step, but there’s more to do.”

Midwives Deliver Unwavering Support During COVID-19

Ask any midwife about their professional skills and guidance in light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and you will be reminded of the evolving role midwives play in delivering babies into our world.
 
On this International Day of the Midwife (5 May), the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) is highlighting the essential contribution of midwives in response to the current public health crisis.
 
NSWNMA General Secretary, Brett Holmes, said midwives have risen to the challenge of supporting expectant mothers during COVID-19 and adapting their responses to protect both mums and newborns.
 
“The babies being born in this challenging environment are in the best possible hands because they’re being guided, supported and cared for by midwives who are determined to give them the best possible start in life,” said Mr Holmes.
 
“As difficult as the COVID-19 pandemic has been on so many aspects of all our lives and livelihoods, the role of midwives and the tremendous job they do in responding to the maternity care needs of mothers and babies has not wavered.
 
“We want to highlight the resilience of our midwifery members on this International Day of the Midwife and congratulate them on their contribution to the profession.”
 
NSWNMA member and midwife of 30 years, Sue, from Northern Sydney acknowledged the challenge COVID-19 has presented in delivering maternity services, but also recognised some individual benefits.
 
“In the current time of the pandemic, women feel more vulnerable. They have less support from family and friends and less face to face interaction with healthcare providers,” Sue said.
 
“As midwives, we try to fill the void as best we can and give reassurance and care. As a positive without as many visitors the mother and father have more time to bond with their babies and get to know them.”

Emma Gedge, President of NSWNMA Wollongong Hospital branch, has been a midwife for seven years and said the global pandemic had prompted a number of maternity changes but nothing midwives would shy away from.
 
“We have had to think of new ways to ensure mums and babies are able to access services they need. It has changed the way we can provide education as we have to move to online platforms,” said Ms Gedge.
 
“Midwifery is a very hands on role, from supporting birthing women to helping mums to breastfeed, so the pandemic has posed some challenges there.”

DoggieRescue.com

Pets of the Week

Dahlia


AGE/SEX: 3 years / F
BREED: Whippet X Staffy

Dahlia is a very active strong girl. Once she gets rid of the initial excitement about walking she calms down. Dahlia is very mouthy so she needs a family with patience and a calm environment to teach her some manners. They also need to be fit to manage her strength. She is affectionate with people and likes to lick your face. Volunteers say out walking "mostly ignored dogs, looked at them and slightly pulled toward them", "Showed no dog aggression on our walk. Very affectionate" “Very scared of loud noises, trucks and loud cars. One silver car parked on driveway next to car park sped past and shouted out the window – she was so scared she wouldn’t move for 20 minutes". 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. 

Ginger


Ginger is a super friendly and affectionate boy who was hit by a car and it shattered his pelvis. Luckily he came into our care and received a femoral head ostectomy surgery (FHO). He has recovered well and finished his rehab. He is walking normally and looking for a family to love him. He is about 18 months old.
He is a big purrer who loves being patted, being around people and lets you know how lucky he feels to have a second chance.
Ginger is located on the Northern Beaches and comes desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested and microchipped. His adoption fee is $220.

If you are interested in meeting Ginger, please call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email 

NB:


Foster Carers Needed
Not everyone is in a position to adopt a dog, which is why DoggieRescue runs a foster program making it easy for caring dog lovers to make an immediate difference.

Meet our top ten doggies desperate for a foster home. These are most frequently doggies who have spent a long time in the shelter and are in urgent need of some quiet time in a loving home.

For further details or to meet all cats, rabbits and dogs at Doggie Rescue call  9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 
Rehoming Organisation No R251000024. 

North Sydney CBD Public Domain Strategy - Stage 2: Open For Feedback

On April 6th 2020, North Sydney Council resolved to exhibit the draft North Sydney CBD Public Domain Strategy - Stage 2 for public comment. The strategy is on exhibition from Thursday 7 May to Monday 22 June 2020.

The Public Domain Strategy forms part of Council’s work to create a more engaging and pedestrian focused CBD that offers a greater range of activities and unique public spaces for workers, residents, students and visitors. The strategy establishes a vision for the centre’s public domain and is being undertaken in two stages. Community engagement commenced in mid-2018 (see related projects).

The Stage 1 Place Book outlined ideas and opportunities for the CBD and was endorsed by Council in May 2019.

Stage 2 has developed these ideas further and identified a suite of projects that create a strong, connected network of public urban spaces and puts forward a framework to deliver these improvements over time. In particular, the strategy:
  • Outlines a vision and a series of goals for the CBD
  • Recognises necessary access improvements that prioritise walking, public transport and cycling, and moves regional traffic away from the centre
  • Establishes a strong pedestrian corridor from North Sydney station to St Leonards Park and a series of east-west laneway connections
  • Identifies opportunities for new and upgraded public space
  • Outlines the process and funding arrangements to deliver the projects.
The strategy identifies 19 projects that reinforce Miller Street as the main, civic spine of North Sydney, deliver over 17,000 m2 of new parks and plazas, create a new and upgraded network of laneways and improve pedestrian safety and amenity. Key projects are:
  • Miller Place: a new 7,450m2 public plaza outside the Metro Station achieved through the closure of Miller Street between Berry St and the Pacific Highway
  • Post Office Square: an intimate new 1,675m2 plaza outside the iconic North Sydney Post Office
  • Tramway Park: converting the under-utilised deck of the tramway viaduct into a 4,650m2 active recreation space
  • Central Laneways: turning Denison, Mount, Hill, Spring and Little Spring Streets into pedestrian areas or shared zones
  • Warringah Land Bridge: an ambitious, long-term project that reconnects North Sydney and reclaims space for people.
Council is seeking community feedback regarding the North Sydney Centre Review – CBD Public Domain Strategy - Stage 2 and the Council’s future vision for the CBD. The strategy and supporting materials are available in the document library.

Next Steps
At the end of the exhibition period a report will be prepared for Council’s consideration accounting for submissions made and any resulting amendments to draft strategy.

HAVE YOUR SAY - Submissions close 22 June 2020

Use the online submission form (here) or alternatively, send submissions to:

Mail - General Manager
North Sydney Council
PO Box 12
NORTH SYDNEY NSW 2059

North Sydney CBD - Miller Place - Artists concept drawing

COVID-19 Testing

The NSW Government is urging anyone experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 to be tested in a bid to curb the spread of the virus.

COVID-19 symptoms include:
  • - Fever;
  • - Cough;
  • - Tiredness (fatigue);
  • - Sore throat;
  • - Shortness of breath.
If you have COVID-19 symptoms please:
  • - Contact your GP;
  • - Call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222;
  • -  Visit a NSW Health COVID-19 clinic.
The locations of COVID-19 clinics are available here:

In our area:
Mona Vale Hospital
Address: Building 14, Community Health Centre
Coronation Street, Mona Vale NSW 2103
Opening hours: 10am to 6pm, 7 days

Northern Beaches Hospital
Address: 105 Frenchs Forest Road (west), Frenchs Forest, NSW 2086
Rear of Emergency Department (secluded mental health entry)
Opening hours: 9:30am to 6pm, 7 days

NSW Animal Welfare Reform – Issues Paper

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is seeking feedback on key issues affecting animal welfare laws in NSW.

What’s this about?
This is your opportunity to help set the direction for animal welfare policy reform. This is an important step towards modernising welfare laws, which is a key commitment of the NSW Animal Welfare Action Plan.
The discussion paper identifies five focus areas for reform:
  • reviewing the purpose of the Acts
  • defining key terms
  • examining compliance powers and tools
  • setting the right penalties
  • streamlining the framework.
Feedback from the paper will be used to develop policy solutions. DPI welcomes feedback from all community members on these focus areas and any other issues that should be considered in the reform process.

Have your say
There are three ways you can submit your feedback:
Download the Issues Paper - NSW Animal Welfare Reform - Issues Paper (PDF, 2MB)

Consultation closes June 21, 2020

The Federal Environment Protection And Biodiversity Act Review
Late Submissions Will Be Accepted

The Federal Government’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act (1999) (EPBC Act) is currently under review by Professor Graeme Samuel AC, supported by a panel of experts. Pittwater Natural Heritage Association has examined the Act, and believes it is not working properly. 

What is the EPBC Act?

The EPBC Act is the Australian Federal Government’s primary environmental law. It is designed to protect and manage national environmental assets, known as matters of national environmental significance, and other protected matters. This includes nationally and internationally important flora, fauna, migratory species, ecological communities and heritage places. 

It operates alongside other Commonwealth laws and activities and those of state, territory and local governments.

Why are we concerned?

PNHA is concerned because, along with other Australian environmental organisations, we believe that the current act is not giving enough protection to our environment. 

We also are concerned that the review may listen more to those voices that say the Act is restricting their activities, activities which damage our environment. 

Currently almost 1000 species of Australian native plants and animals are categorised as critically endangered, endangered or vulnerable, yet we still see instances of environmental damage caused by activities like coal mining and land clearing.

The Northern Beaches has its share of threatened species listed under the EPBC Act, including:

  • Grevillea caleyi 
  • Giant Burrowing Frog 
  • Angus’ onion orchid 

Endangered Ecological Communities such as coastal upland swamps, and littoral rainforest and coastal vine thickets of eastern Australia are also found in the Northern Beaches area. 


Grevillea Caleyei - Ingleside


Littoral rainforest - Newport

A New EPBC Act

We need a new, stronger EPBC Act which provides a robust framework for upholding environmental protection and accountability. Here are a few items that Environmental organisations believe must be in the new act. 

  • An updated EPBC Act must contain measures to prevent the high extinction rate of native animals, the unacceptable rates of land clearing, and effectively address climate change. 
  • The new Act must focus on both protection and recovery of threatened species and endangered ecological environments all over Australia.
  • There must be enough funding for effective implementation and there must be more compliance monitoring and enforcement of the regulations. We have witnessed failure to monitor compliance of regulations to protect coastal upland swamps and littoral rainforest in the northern beaches area.

PNHA made a submission to the EPBC Act review on the lack of protection under the act for local coastal upland swamps. We encourage readers to make their own submissions as, even though the deadline is 17 April, late submissions will be accepted. 

The address for submissions is https://epbcactreview.environment.gov.au/get-involved#make-a-submission

David Palmer
Pittwater Natural Heritage Association

Domestic Violence Support During Covid-19 

NB: Where to get help Fact Sheet is below. Simply click on PDF and 'save as' on your own device

People experiencing domestic violence can be assured police and frontline services are ready to support them and their families as NSW continues to respond to the coronavirus threat.

Member for Manly James Griffin said the Northern Beaches community should not hesitate to seek help and support at this time. 

“If you are in danger or in an emergency call Triple Zero (000),” Mr Griffin said.

“If you are in need of support services, such as housing or counselling, our hard working frontline staff are also available to help those suffering domestic violence.”  

“No person, whether they live on the Northern Beaches or anywhere in Australia, should in live in fear of violence and I urge people to seek the help they need when it is safe to do so.”

Mr Griffin added that perpetrators are on notice and that police have increased efforts to combat violence in the home including more proactive operations to enforce protection orders. 

“Police will continue to conduct Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) compliance checks to keep victims safe.”

NSW Police Force Domestic Violence Corporate Spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Mark Jones, said police are monitoring rates of domestic violence. 

“High-risk and repeat offenders are being targeted by specially trained police to ensure that all orders are strictly followed and complied with and offenders are arrested if violence is detected,” Assistant Commissioner Jones said. 

“Police are also able to vary existing interim or final ADVOs if we know that violence is escalating, without needing to first go to court, so victims are immediately protected.

“NSW Police are working together with government agencies, including NSW Health, to ensure there is no increased health risk to the community in the current environment.”

The NSW Government is constantly adapting as the COVID-19 emergency evolves, which includes various justice, housing and policing responses to combat domestic violence.

Where to get help - March 2020.pdfWhere to get help - March 2020.pdf
Size : 465.979 Kb
Type : pdf

May 3 - 9, 2020: Issue 448

This Issue: 

Front Page Issue 448 

Pictures: The Chiltern Track by Marita Macrae - the Pittwater Natural Heritage Association may have had to cancel its scheduled free Bird walks and Plant talks through our bush areas but that doesn't mean they cannot share what can be seen - some Chiltern Track wonders this week

Pittwater Steers Clear Of New COVID-19 Infections With Lots Of Testing by Miranda Korzy

Pittwater Enviro Activists Join May Day Convoy Calling For Green Jobs

Aquatics Historic Shipwreck SS Wollongbar II: A coastal freighter torpedoed by a Japanese submarine in WWII has been discovered off Crescent Head in the state’s Mid North Coast.  In 2019, the wreck’s accurate location was reported by Port Macquarie mariners although had been generally known of years prior. Heritage NSW, Department of Premier and Cabinet, undertook the first-ever archaeological inspection of the site in late 2019. This included cutting-edge multibeam and side scan surveys, and the deployment of a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to inspect and photograph the deep site. The survey confirmed the wreck as Wollongbar II.

Park Bench Philosopher  Why You Need A Balcony Garden

Profile Vale Tom Gilbert 4th Of February 1941 - 27th Of April 2020 Tom Gilbert Tribuite

Tom 'Totally' Gilbert passed away peacefully in NBH at  0130hrs on Monday morning. Totally, as he was affectionately known, was a 'man for all seasons' during his life. There are many people on the peninsular that owe a lot to this man especially if their car broke down during the night, their wife had a flat tyre or they need help in some way....Totally was there to help. He was President of the Avalon Bulldogs and did many things for MWDJRL. His father was a Life Member of the MWDJRL and Tom a Life Member of Avalon JRLFC.

Our sincere condolences to his wife Dawn, sons Paul and Glen, daughter, and his nephews and nieces and extended family members.

As requested by the thousands in the community this week, his Profile runs so all may revisit his story in his own words.

The land subdivisions and the building of roads to facilitate these under the Barranjoey Land Company did not stray far from a marketing ideal of exclusivity  and associating itself with Palm Beach in Florida as much as plants and features of the landscape itself: Palm Beach Road, Ocean Road, Pacific Road, Florida Road, Sunrise Road, Northview road...

When the company sold the last of its land holdings to the newly formed Palm Beach Land Company the names of these new developers began appearing as street names...

Artist of the Month May 2020: Lisa Forrest OAM + Extract from new book Glide: Taking the Panic out of Modern Living Glide is the story of what happened when serial-achiever Lisa Forrest (Olympian, TV and radio broadcaster, author, actor, wife, mother) took time out to answer a question that had been weighing her down for years: Why, no matter what she achieved, was she never enough for herself?

Lisa discovered that the get-tough lessons from her years in elite sport were the source of her problem - in fact, they are the source of much of the illness, burnout and mental health challenges we all face today. More surprising is the antidote: self-compassion. Could it be the super-power we've all been looking for?

Drawing on the wisdom of the women who ran Lisa's first swimming club through to contemplative neuroscience, Glide offers remarkably honest and calm insights into navigating the perils of modern living from a woman who has experienced it all.

Environment Seal At Avalon Beach, New Shorebird Identification Booklet available to download, Ella: Green Turtle Rescued From Manly, Council Has Native Plants For Your Home, Eurobodalla Koala Enthusiasts Back Wild Koala Day: Sunday May 3, Snowy River High-Flows To Commence In June, Water Compliance Increasing: NRAR Triples Prosecutions As It Hits Its Second Anniversary, Air quality near busy Australian roads up to 10 times worse than official figures, The government’s UNGI scheme: what it is and why Zali Steggall wants it investigated, Cutting ‘green tape’ may be good politicking, but it’s bad policy. Here are 5 examples of regulation failure, Can’t go outside? Even seeing nature on a screen can improve your mood, Using lots of plastic packaging during the coronavirus crisis? You’re not alone, Snowy 2.0 threatens to pollute our rivers and wipe out native fish, Here are 5 ways to flatten the climate change curve while stuck at home, Bird of the Month by Michael Mannington, Cleaning Up Our Act: Redirecting The Future Of Plastic In NSW - feedback invited, 20-Year Waste Strategy For NSW - have your say,  Weed Cassia Now Flowering: Please Pull Out and Save Our Bush, Please Help Sydney Wildlife Rescue: Donate Your Cans and Bottles and Nominate SW As Recipient, Bushcare In Pittwater, Gardens And Environment Groups and Organisations In Pittwater, Pittwater Reserves++

Inbox News NSW: Accelerated Planning Projects To Deliver Jobs and Boost The Economy, Neglecting GP Research Risks Poor Health Outcomes: MJA, Innovation Helps Build Social Housing Certainty, Feedback Sought On Penrith Employment Lands, New Findings Suggest Laws Of Nature Not As Constant As Previously Thought, Seven Positive Outcomes Of COVID-19, Smart Interventions Reduce Malaria Transmission By 75%, New Understanding Of Asthma Medicines Could Improve Future Treatment

Pittwater COVID- 19 Food Outlets Restriction Responses: Take Away from Restaurants and Cafes and Grocers and Food Available From Local Outlets  Local food suppliers and cafes and restaurants are currently adapting to social-distancing requirements and the closure of public spaces to large gatherings. Listed this week are those that have food you can order for take away or delivery and also those who supplied these outlets who also have food available to purchase.

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update: May 1, 2020

Click on Logo to access latest PON:  

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Pittwater: Ross River Fever Alert

The West Pittwater Community Association reports that a tradesman working on a building site on Scotland Island recently received a positive test result for Ross River fever.

A second tradesman working on the same site has presented with the same symptoms (not yet tested).

Medical personnel have asked for the local community to be informed and for residents to take preventative measures against mosquito bites and to remove potential breeding sites from around the home such as ensuring water tanks are covered and stagnant water is removed.

Ross River fever is caused by a viral infection, transmitted through mosquito bites.

What are the symptoms?
Many people who are infected with the virus will never develop symptoms.
  • Some people will have flu-like symptoms that include fever, chills, headache and aches and pains in the muscles and joints. 
  • Some joints can become swollen, and joint stiffness may be particularly noticeable in the morning. 
  • Sometimes a rash occurs on the body, arms or legs. The rash usually disappears after 7 to 10 days. 
  • A general feeling of being unwell, tired or weak may also occur at times during the illness. 
  • Symptoms usually develop about 7-10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. 
  • The majority of people recover completely in a few weeks. Others may experience symptoms such as joint pain and tiredness for many months.
Prevention relies on avoiding mosquito bites.

For more information:

Precaution: Need To Reduce Risk Of Ross River Fever At Narrabeen And Warriewood

April 30, 2020
Council is advising people around the Narrabeen Lagoon and Warriewood Wetlands to take extra precautions against exposure to mosquitoes after Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus were detected in mosquitoes collected at Deep Creek in late March. Ross River virus was also detected from mosquitoes collected at Warriewood Wetlands in early April.

Council together with NSW Health have been proactively trapping mosquitos in the Northern Beaches region since December 2019 in six potentially high risk locations. The program is aimed at monitoring local mosquito activity, to identify if arboviruses are present and what measures can be taken to reduce risk.

Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus spread by mosquitoes to humans. Detection in mosquitoes in the Deep Creek and Warriewood Wetlands indicate the virus’ are present.

Mosquito populations will decline with cooler weather but people should remain vigilant by taking measures to avoid mosquito bites. The risk to the general community is considered low but the risk is greater in areas with a high number of mosquitoes and marsupials present such as bushland and wetland areas.

The community is advised to follow these steps to protect from mosquito bites:
  1. Wear loose-fitting long sleeved shirts and long pants when outside especially around dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. Take special care during peak mosquito biting hours, especially around dawn and dusk.
  2. Wear mosquito repellent to exposed skin using brands that contain either DEET or Picaridin.
  3. Remove potential mosquito breeding sites from around the home by removing stagnant ponding shallow water from saucers, buckets, etc. Mosquitoes like to breed in shallow stagnant water.
Please see the NSW Health factsheet for further information:

Mona Vale Road East Upgrade - Out Of Hours Work May 2020

We recently made changes to our night work program so more work could be done during the day. However, the activities described below must be completed at night due to daytime traffic volumes and for safety reasons.

Out of hours work is planned from 8pm to 5am on the following dates, weather permitting:
  • Tuesday 5, Wednesday 6 and Friday 8 May
If work is delayed due to wet weather, we will try and work a different night within the same week. We will notify highly impacted residents if there is a change of date.

Work along the eastern end of the project includes:
  • road sawing to install drainage on Mona Vale Road near Walana Crescent, Narrabeen Creek, our main site office and near Daydream Street
  • potholing investigations with a vacuum truck to identify underground services on Mona Vale Road near Daydream Street
  • ongoing road maintenance.
Work along the western end of the project includes:
  • removing rock material from the top of the existing rock cuttings near our site compound (opposite 120 Mona Vale Road), Ingleside Road and Laurel Road
  • road sawing on Mona Vale Road near Manor Road and Lane Cove Road
  • ongoing road maintenance.
We will use excavators with rock hammers, tipper trucks, vacuum trucks, road saws, a roller, street sweepers, light vehicles and light towers. A stop/slow arrangement will be in place with traffic controllers and signage directing traffic.

Extended working hours
You will soon receive a notification about extended working hours. From Monday 4 May 2020 we will be able to work Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from 7am to 6pm. No high noise activities like rock breaking or pile driving will be done outside our standards hours (8am to 1pm on Saturdays).

Enquiries and registering for work updates
Call: 1800 413 640 (24 hour number).
For more information: rms.work/mvreast

If you need help understanding this information, please contact the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 and ask them to call us on 1800 413 640.

Map showing location of out of hours work in Mona Vale Road East

Roadworks This Week At Frenchs Forest: Closures

From 7pm Friday 8 May to 7am Saturday 9 May, the southbound lanes of Wakehurst Parkway from Warringah Rd to Aquatic Dr will be closed for asphalt works. 

Contraflow traffic arrangements will be in place on Wakehurst Parkway with southbound traffic using a northbound lane.

The Warringah Road on ramp to the underpass at Wakehurst Parkway westbound will also be closed as well as one westbound surface lane of Warringah Rd from Rodborough Rd to east of Wakehurst Parkway and one of two right-turn lanes from Warringah Rd eastbound into Wakehurst Parkway southbound.

Manly Intersection Upgrade

Belgrave St at Gilbert St
Sun 10 May 2020 - Fri 15 May 2020
Scheduled lane closures for this week.
Sunday (8:00pm to 5:00am) All directions affected
Monday (8:00pm to 5:00am) All directions affected
Tuesday (8:00pm to 5:00am) All directions affected
Wednesday (8:00pm to 5:00am) All directions affected
Thursday (8:00pm to 5:00am) All directions affected

Advice: Check signage. Exercise caution; Allow extra travel time. Alternating (stop/slow) traffic conditions will be in place. The intersection of Belgrave St and Gilbert St will be blacked out and manually controlled by traffic controllers. 

Send Your Love To Mum Early This Year 

With Mother’s Day almost upon us, Australia Post is encouraging Australians to get their gifts on the way to Mum as soon as possible, so they can reach her by next weekend.

The last four weeks have been some of Australia Post’s busiest ever, as it works hard to process the massive volumes of parcels coming through the network, with more people at home and jumping online for their shopping needs. 

Despite limited flights, social distancing requirements and the substantial increase in parcel numbers, Australia Post is processing record volumes and is pulling out all stops.

It has repurposed and opened 15 new processing facilities and commenced recruitment for 600 casuals into the network and call centre, to assist in managing the continued parcel delivery demand in the country.

Australia Post Executive General Manager Community & Consumer, Nicole Sheffield encouraged all customers to send their Mother’s Day gifts as soon as possible.

“We know that Mother’s Day will be very different for many Australians this year, which is why we’re encouraging people to send their gifts in the next few days to avoid disappointment next weekend,” she said.

For customers using normal Parcel Post, Australia Post has recommended parcels be sent by Friday 1 May for delivery to the west coast and Monday 4 May for the east coast, for delivery before Mother’s Day.

For customers using Express Post, which remains Australia Post’s fastest postal delivery option, parcels can be sent as late as next Wednesday 6 May for major capital cities, for delivery before Mother’s Day on Sunday May 10.

“We are in the midst of an unprecedented April peak right now, consistently having delivered over 2 million parcels each business day the last few weeks – so it’s time to get any presents for Mum in the post as quickly as possible,” Ms Sheffield added.

ANZAC Day Crosses: Donation To Veterans Centre At Dee Why 

Lisa Hewitt reports:
''Just wanted to let everyone know I attended the Veterans Centre in Dee Why today (Thursday April 30th, 2020), where I handed over $7367 as a donation from our community, as a result of the donations from the crosses. 

They were so grateful as they are looking after 132 veterans suffering with PTSD. So a massive thank you to everyone and let’s do it again next year.''
Lisa.

Sewers Needed For Hand Sewn Masks For The Bus, Rail And Tram Workers

We have a few lovely ladies on board to sew masks for the bus and rail workers and I’m starting to get some finished masks returned, however they need loads  (3500) and at this rate it’ll take a month of Sunday’s.  

If there are any Readers who would be interested in making some, I have a pattern and fabric packs for interested people and they can pick them up from my front garden (hung in bags on the garden fence). 

I would prefer people to call or text for futher details.  My phone number is 0417 041 604.  
Thank all in advance.

Jane Russell.

Avalon Community Garden Shed Damaged

This is what members of the Avalon Community Gardens were greeted with on Tuesday, April 28th.




''Since the COVID- 19 lock down began we have had a few incidents a week. This is not done by adults.'' a member of the community co-op garden states.

Building Reforms Must Not Be Delayed

Thursday 30 April 2020
The NSW Government must urgently progress legislation designed to prevent the construction of poor quality or unsafe buildings such as Opal and Mascot Towers, Local Government NSW (LGNSW) said today.

LGNSW President Linda Scott said that without strong building laws in place the rush to fast-track developments and construction in response to COVID-19’s economic impacts created the very real risk that building safety and quality would be compromised.

“We need urgent legislation so that the poor-quality players in the market are not allowed to flourish and these new and fast-tracked developments do not compromise on building safety and quality.”

Cr Scott was speaking after the release of a report by the NSW Parliament’s Public Accountability Committee, which criticised “systemic issues plaguing the building and construction industry and the lack of regulation and oversight by the NSW Government”.

“Now is the time we should be sending a strong signal to the residential construction sector that we want to see quality participants in the construction market.

“Rather than delaying or relaxing regulatory controls, we must ensure this new regime is in place to support the quality players in the market and tighten regulations on the poor performers.”

Cr Scott said LGNSW wrote to the Premier on this issue weeks ago and urged her to listen to the peak body’s calls.

She backed Inquiry recommendations to urgently progress the Residential Apartments (Compliance and Enforcement Powers) Bill,  which strengthens the powers of the Building Commissioner, must be introduced and debated, and for Upper House debate to resume on the Design and Building Practitioners Bill when Parliament sits in May.

The Public Affairs Committee also criticised the Government’s failure to act on flammable building cladding, blamed for the horrific Grenfell building fire in the UK three years ago and an earlier building fire in Melbourne’s Docklands.

“What was clear throughout this inquiry is that it is homeowners who are left in the lurch … it is unacceptable that it is left up to homeowners to manage this with no support from the government,” the Committee said.

It also found self-regulation of the private certification industry had failed, and said the Committee would consider the return of certification to local councils in a further inquiry to commence at the end of the year.

COVID-19 Testing

The NSW Government is urging anyone experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 to be tested in a bid to curb the spread of the virus.

COVID-19 symptoms include:
  • - Fever;
  • - Cough;
  • - Tiredness (fatigue);
  • - Sore throat;
  • - Shortness of breath.
If you have COVID-19 symptoms please:
  • - Contact your GP;
  • - Call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222;
  • -  Visit a NSW Health COVID-19 clinic.
The locations of COVID-19 clinics are available here:

In our area:
Mona Vale Hospital
Address: Building 14, Community Health Centre
Coronation Street, Mona Vale NSW 2103
Opening hours: 10am to 6pm, 7 days

Northern Beaches Hospital
Address: 105 Frenchs Forest Road (west), Frenchs Forest, NSW 2086
Rear of Emergency Department (secluded mental health entry)
Opening hours: 9:30am to 6pm, 7 days

Northern Beaches Hospital Updates

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR:
PATIENTS:
We are now temperature checking all staff and visitors ahead of elective surgery returning to the hospital next week.

These checks will help us ensure the safety of our staff and visitors during this time.

Entry is via the main entrance or emergency department and all other entry points are closed. There is also screening at the dock for deliveries.

The team conducting the checks will take temperatures and ask a few simple questions about wellbeing and possible contact with COVID-19.

Please be patient with our staff conducting the checks.

If you have a high temperature (37.5C or above) or have been unwell with a new cough, sore throat or difficulty breathing, you should call the COVID-19 hotline or visit our COVID-19 clinic for assessment.  

VISITORS:
To ensure the safety of all patients and staff, we need to limit the number of visitors to our hospitals and services. Patients will be asked to nominate one visitor, preferably your next of kin, for the duration of your hospital stay. We understand this will difficult for families, but we need everyone to help to protect patients and staff.

Visitors must NOT have travelled overseas in the last 14 days, NOT been in close contact with a person who has been diagnosed positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days, or have fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath.

Visitors to Patient with COVID-19 (or awaiting results)
In order to provide strict infection control, no visitors will be allow to patients who have a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 or those awaiting test results for COVID-19.

We understand there will need to be some exceptions to this, especially with children and also with extremely unwell patients, so we ask that you talk to your families and if you have any questions, please speak to your clinical care team. 

COVID-19 Testing
Address: 105 Frenchs Forest Road (west), Frenchs Forest, NSW 2086
Rear of Emergency Department (secluded mental health entry)
Opening hours: 9:30am to 6pm, 7 days

Keoride On Demand Extra Hubs

Keoride On Demand public transport in the Northern Beaches is here for you. We will continue to support the community by making it easy and safe to travel during the COVID-19 crisis.

Whether it’s food shopping, medical appointments or work related travel, Keoride our flexible and personalised transport service is at your fingertips.

During this unprecedented time, we have added additional hubs to better support the community within our service area. We will now drop off and pick up to the following locations during the COVID-19 crisis:
  • Newport Coles and the local pharmacy
  • Woolworths Mona Vale
  • Warriewood Square
  • Elanora Heights pharmacy and IGA
  • Woolworths Narrabeen
  • Mona Vale Hospital
Please note these additional hubs are a temporary offering to support the community during the COVID-19 crisis. These hubs will be in place until further notice.

Richard Leplastrier - Framing The View 

Revered by architects around the world, Richard Leplastrier’s search for beauty in his career is interwoven with his own life in Pittwater's Lovett Bay.

Richard Leplastrier - Framing the View was filmed over 15 years. It began with filming of the construction of a house in the Blue Mountains, and expanded to houses in Leura, Watsons Bay and Balmain, and visits to Kyoto and the Sydney Opera House, to create a powerful portrait of a seminal figure in Australian architecture. 

WATCH the World Premiere on the ABC on May 12 at 9.30pm. The feature version of the film will be available afterwards on iView for 30 days. 

Director Anna Cater, Writers Anna Cater Producer Susan MacKinnon  Anna Cater. Production Company: Mitra Films Pty Ltd. Photo: Mark Rogers


NSW Animal Welfare Reform – Issues Paper

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is seeking feedback on key issues affecting animal welfare laws in NSW.

What’s this about?
This is your opportunity to help set the direction for animal welfare policy reform. This is an important step towards modernising welfare laws, which is a key commitment of the NSW Animal Welfare Action Plan.
The discussion paper identifies five focus areas for reform:
  • reviewing the purpose of the Acts
  • defining key terms
  • examining compliance powers and tools
  • setting the right penalties
  • streamlining the framework.
Feedback from the paper will be used to develop policy solutions. DPI welcomes feedback from all community members on these focus areas and any other issues that should be considered in the reform process.

Have your say
There are three ways you can submit your feedback:
Download the Issues Paper - NSW Animal Welfare Reform - Issues Paper (PDF, 2MB)

Consultation closes June 21, 2020

DoggieRescue.com

Pets of the Week

Gabby


AGE/SEX: 5 years / F
BREED: Kelpie X

Gabby is a sweet natured girl who walks well on loose lead. She likes to jog and enjoys a cuddle too. Walkers say "she is such a pleasure to walk and easy to direct and shows no reactivity to other dogs." 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. 

Fred


Fred is a happy boy who is approximately 5-6 months old and was rescued from Campbelltown Pound. He has adjusted well to life in the shelter and gets on with other cats.
Fred is located on the Northern Beaches and comes desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested and microchipped. His adoption fee is $220.
If you are interested in meeting Fred, please call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email 

NB:


Foster Carers Needed
Not everyone is in a position to adopt a dog, which is why DoggieRescue runs a foster program making it easy for caring dog lovers to make an immediate difference.

Meet our top ten doggies desperate for a foster home. These are most frequently doggies who have spent a long time in the shelter and are in urgent need of some quiet time in a loving home.

For further details or to meet all cats, rabbits and dogs at Doggie Rescue call  9486 3133 or email monika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue 
Rehoming Organisation No R251000024. 

Surf Life Saving New South Wales Seeking Inspirational Womens' Stories

July 1 2020 marks the 40th anniversary of women's involvement in active surf lifesaving duties.
Surf Life Saving NSW is celebrating this important anniversary and the achievements of women over the past 40 years. They're asking for help to recognise our trailblazing women by sharing your stories, photographs and videos.

SLS NSW will showcase these inspirational stories throughout the 2020/21 season and create an archive for future generations. 

How you can help Celebrate
  • Email SLS NSW your stories about the women who inspired change in the Surf Life Saving movement
  • Send them your photos and videos here or via WeTransfer to memberservices@surflifesaving.com.au
  • Post photos on Facebook, lnstagram and Twitter using the hastag #WomenInSLS
  • Send photographs, film and newspaper articles to SLSNSW - PO Box 307, Belrose 2085 (they will digitise and return)
Four of the first official women to patrol our beaches were welcomed at Whale Beach SLSC in 1980. (Sara & Jill Peters, Marion Robb and Tina Gowing)

Community Input On The Future Of Plastics And Waste In NSW

The NSW Government is seeking public input on its plan to tackle the use of plastics, reduce waste and pollution, and improve recycling across NSW.

The NSW Plastics Plan and 20-Year Waste Strategy will establish clear pathways on ways to reduce waste, maximise recycling and improve the protection of our environment.

The discussion paper will help establish ways the NSW Government can better manage resources and environmental factors.

The NSW Plastics Plan provides pathways to:
  • phase-out the use of plastics
  • triple the proportion of plastic recycling by 2030
  • reduce plastic litter items by 25% by 2025
  • make NSW a leader in plastics research and development.
The 20-Year Waste Strategy will provide long-term direction for NSW on ways to reduce waste, increase recycling and outline opportunities for future waste and recycling infrastructure.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Environmental Minister Matt Kean have asked for community feedback to help drive sustainable solutions across NSW.

“The community has high expectations that we need to make sure we put in place the best plans for the future. We know that we need to do a better job of dealing with our waste and delivering sustainable solutions,” Ms Berejiklian said.

Have your say on the NSW Plastics Plan and 20-Year Waste Strategy by 8 May 2020.

 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

Please Register Wildlife Road Strikes

We need your help. Thank you for reporting wildlife road fatalities. There is so much wildlife on the move in our area at present due to various pressures. Although we have had pictures sent to us, many of these have no date or location.

There is a database that volunteers maintain but this needs three pieces of information:
  1. The position via GPS or road and suburb
  2. The date
  3. The animal
The details can be entered into the database directly by you at:

The RMS are using this information to plan mitigation. So please, if you can, add the information in directly.

Exhibition Of Draft 2020/21 Plan On Hold Until After Extraordinary Meeting 

Not wanting to create intergenerational debt has been cited by one councillor this week as a reason to not adopt a Motion put forward that rates be reduced by 25%. The call follows on from a similar Motion in the Shoalhaven Shire Council, still cleaning up after bushfires throughout their area, with the loss of homes and thousands of tonnes of materials reported, in their latest (April 30) Recovery Newsletter, still being cleared. This week 1,811 tonnes of waste from bushfire affected homes was cleared.

It should also be noted that in the instance of Shoalhaven that council applied to IPART and was granted a 5% increase in rates, above the peg, which it has not settled on applying, as yet. 

The applying of 25% Rates reduction to this areas’ council rates would mean 44.4 million goes from the Draft 2020/21 Budget, according to council staff, with the flow on affect of either filling that gap through loans or delaying projects, works and reducing services to the community.

The 2.6% allowable under IPART, to all councils, and proposed to be adopted here, is, however, to be reduced, as the draft states 1.3% only will be applied. The increase is to meet the annual rise in costs.

Council has made provision for those who may need relief from paying their rates notices (the last or May Qtr. one issued on April 21st), and has a COVID Rates Specific form for rates for that – HERE. NB: This form states 'Deferral date (no later than 30 September 2020)'.

It is also proposed to delay the 2020/21 First Quarter Rates Notice being issued from August 1st until August 31st and payment due to September 30, as per the NSW Government’s Office of Local Government Circular of April 17th, 2020.

This weeks' council meetings Item 8.1, on which a Rescission Motion has been lodged, also makes provision for cafés and food outlets who pay footpath rental fees, sports organisations et al, with a waiving of those fees from April 1st to September 30th 2020.

There are some councils offering more - Lismore, for example, has settled on 'Commercial use of footpaths – no fees for a period of 15 months from 1 April 2020 to 30 June 2021' to 'allow businesses to re-establish'. Lismore Mayor Isaac Smith said three weeks ago their Council had chosen not to borrow funds at this stage to provide rate relief with Council acknowledging that it is not in a position to increase borrowings, although they did announce just over a week ago an 'inner-city business only' rate drop of 20%. 

Below is the per annum rate rise for each rating category (excluding farmland) in the 2020/21 financial year for Lismore council:
Business (Urban): $79 per annum
Business (Nimbin): $41
Business (Other): $30
Rural Residential: $26
Urban Residential (including village): $21

So, south and north changes are being made - but varied in how they came into the past months (droughts, floods, fires, rural, coastal towns away from capital cities) and how they plan to come out.

All Pittwater Councillors voted for Item 8.1. 

A notice of motion to rescind the resolution was then submitted by Councillors Amon, De Luca and Daley in relation to item 8.1 from that Council meeting of April 28th, 2020. Should their motion be carried a following motion was submitted by Councillors Rory Amon, Pat Daley and Vincent De Luca which proposes a freeze on any increase in rates and domestic waste charges, Councillor and Mayoral fees for the 2020/21 financial year be reduced 20% from the 2019/20 level, being reduced to $24,328 and $70,880 respectively, a 50% reduction in the small fleet vehicle budget for the 2020/21 financial year, and a wage cut of 10% from 2019/20 levels for Council Executive at Director and CEO level for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Crs. Amon, Daley and De Luca are also calling for each Executive Manager to prepare a report outlining their top five measures to reduce their operational expenditure and to investigate this week's  announcement by the Minister for Local Government regarding the NSW Government’s $395 million 'economic stimulus' package for Councils - which is loans, a Council Job Retention Allowance, and funding the $32.76 million increase in the Emergency Services Levy (ESL) for all NSW councils for 2020-21. Councils will still be required to pay their ESL invoices to Revenue NSW, and then the OLG will directly reimburse the 128 councils the 2020-21 increase in the ESL contribution.

The extraordinary meeting takes place on Tuesday May 5th.

The Draft Delivery Program 2020-2024 and Draft Operational Plan and Budget 2020/21 will be exhibited for feedback for 28 days. 

Full report post this week’s extraordinary council meeting – in Issue 449.

Thanks To Ted

Two weeks ago I had a serious body surfing accident at South Mona Vale and I'd like to shout out to a very generous American/Canadian man named Ted.

I fractured my T12 vertebrae and washed up on the beach. 

Along with my partner, Ted looked after me and had to chase down the ambulance. He basically went out of his way to help. 

I have no recollection of what he looks like because I was wrapped up in my own pain. 
All I know is that Ted has 3 teenage kids who waited patiently while he made sure I was ok. 

Also a big thank you to an anonymous guy that ran to the surf club to get the lifeguards who also did a great job keeping me calm and of course a big thanks to the ambos, Blayne in particular, calming me down on the way to hospital. 

I am extremely lucky. I can still walk and after 8 weeks in a brace I should have a 100% recovery. 
If anyone here knows Ted could you please pass on my thanks. I'm eternally thankful for his kind support.

Marc

Worth Discussing?: On The Spot Fines For Irresponsible Dog Owners

Parents of children who write to this news service on a daily basis (lately), or those who are fed up with seeing our wildlife chased out of their homes may be interested in this item found while researching what councils are doing for their residents as coronavirus support measures.

On The Spot Fines For Irresponsible Dog Owners

April 23, 2020: Shoalhaven Council
Shoalhaven dog owners risk a fine for not controlling or registering their dog, as Council reminds the community to take full responsibility for their animals. Shoalhaven City Council has adopted a zero tolerance for unregistered dogs, dog attacks and unsafe dog behaviour.

A dog attack outside of a dog owner’s property, no matter how minor, will now attract a penalty up to $1320. Owners who are also caught with an unregistered dog will be given a $305 on the spot penalty notice.

Council will continue to monitor dog owners to ensure correct control requirements are put in place to ensure the animal is appropriately housed, posing no risk to the community. If your dog is not registered, it is recommended you contact Council immediately and rectify this situation.

Director of Planning Environment & Development Phil Costello said, "All dog owners should ensure their animals are properly secured, especially dogs of a dangerous, menacing or a restricted breed." 

“The safety of our community is not negotiable and reported dog attacks are given high importance by Ranger Services,” he said.

“Rangers will continue to investigate offences and ensure dog owners fully comply with all requirements before permission is given to keep a dog proven to be responsible for dangerous behaviour, including a dog attack,” 

All dogs in NSW must be permanently identified with a microchip before the animal is 12 weeks old or when the animal is sold or given away. All dogs in NSW must be lifetime registered by the time they are six months old. The cost for lifetime registration is $210 (all un-desexed dogs), $58 (desexed dogs) and $25 (Pensioners desexed dog).  There is no pensioner discount if the dog is not desexed.

If a dog owner no longer owns a dog or changes address or contact details, they must advise Council within 14 days. 

Dogs can be registered online once they are microchipped via the NSW Government's pet registry website https://www.petregistry.nsw.gov.au

From: 

More Free Short Courses To Support NSW

April 30, 2020
Thirteen new fee-free TAFE NSW online short courses are available to anyone wanting to upskill during the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.

The additional short courses now available include:
Earlier in April 2020, TAFE NSW announced an initial suite of 21 fee-free short courses to help assist job seekers and workers learn new skills, with over 84,000 people enrolling in the courses.

The NSW Government will use the new courses available to replace those which have reached enrolment capacity to ensure there are 21 accredited courses available to people wanting to study through TAFE NSW.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the additional range of short courses will continue to provide opportunities for people to upskill during COVID-19.

“The incredible uptake to the initial 21 fee-free short courses shows that while many businesses across NSW are in hibernation there is a strong desire to upskill and gain new qualifications during this challenging time,” Ms Berejiklian said.

Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee said more than 33,000 people who enrolled in the fee-free courses were studying at TAFE NSW for the very first time.

To find out more information on courses available, and to enrol, visit TAFE NSW’s Fee-Free Short Courses. At: https://www.tafensw.edu.au/fee-free-short-courses

NSW Government Bill Relief For Energy Customers

Households struggling to pay their energy bills during COVID-19 now have access to additional financial support directly through Service NSW and the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, thanks to a $30 million boost to the Government’s emergency support Energy Accounts Payment Assistance (EAPA) Scheme.

Energy Minister Matt Kean said the NSW Government is doing everything it can to ease cost-of-living pressures during the COVID-19 pandemic and has more than doubled the budget for the EAPA Scheme next financial year.

“For ease of access, residential energy customers can now apply for EAPA vouchers directly through Service NSW and will be called for an assessment without having to leave their house,” Mr Kean said.

“I encourage people that need bill support during this tough time to head to the Service NSW website and register for an energy voucher assessment.”

The EAPA assessment threshold has been temporarily increased so people can receive up to $400 per assessment twice per year, compared to the normal amount of $300.

“This means the annual maximum limit of vouchers for a household with both electricity and gas has increased from $1,200 to $1,600, up by $400,” Mr Kean said.

“We are expecting more people across NSW to need this emergency bill support as they are faced with unexpected changes to income and usage increases while working from home.”

During the assessment for EAPA vouchers, NSW Government representatives will also contact energy retailers with customers to assist with getting customers onto hardship plans, which will further protect customers during this extraordinarily difficult time.

NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the funding for EAPA was part of almost $100 million recently allocated to help our most vulnerable, including $34 million to prevent homelessness, $10 million to support charity programs and $6 million for Lifeline's operations in NSW.

"We are deploying the financial strength of NSW to bolster the health system, keep people in jobs and assist those most in need of help during this difficult time," Mr Perrottet said.

"This funding will help thousands of people meet their energy bills as we head into winter."

People needing further information should visit Service NSW and search 'EAPA'.

At the same time, Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders across NSW are being reminded to apply for the Seniors Energy Rebate now.

“With the COVID-19 virus keeping seniors, who are among the most at-risk in our community, confined to their households and using more electricity, we’re very aware of this extra pressure being applied on their back pockets,” Mr Kean said.

“This NSW Government annual rebate, which will ease electricity costs by $200 a year, has been available since July last year but a majority of those eligible are yet to apply, and we’re urging them to do so now before applications for this financial year close.”

The program extends NSW’s generous energy rebates to Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders for the first time.

In 2019-20 over $329 million is being invested by the NSW Government on energy rebates alone, with almost a third of all electricity customers receiving a rebate.

To be eligible, applicants must hold a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) and be the primary account holder named on the electricity bill.

For more information and to apply online, customers can go to service.nsw.gov.au and type ‘Seniors Energy Rebate’ into the search function.

Customers who are unable to apply online can call Service NSW on 13 77 88. Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders who have already applied this financial year can reapply again from 1 July 2020 for the new financial year.

$250 Million Cleaning Stimulus Package To Help Stop The Spread Of COVID-19

April 29, 2020
For information on the stimulus package, or to register your cleaning business, visit the Emergency Cleaning Stimulus Prequalification Scheme: HERE

The new stimulus package will support 550 new and redeployed cleaning businesses to boost the defence against COVID-19 (coronavirus).

The $250 million cleaners’ package will improve the cleaning of public facilities including NSW transport, schools and TAFE while supporting an additional 3000 full-time cleaners by the end of June 2020.

The government funding will support small to medium-sized cleaning businesses by providing temporary employment to help existing contractors with the cleaning task to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Supplementary contracts available to cleaning businesses include:
  • general cleaning in low-risk areas
  • enhanced cleaning for COVID-19 risk reduction
  • environment cleaning of facilities after a suspected COVID-19 diagnosis and cleaning auditing services.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the fresh wave of cleaners provides much-needed social and economic boost to NSW.

“Not only will this package support jobs and businesses, it will also give the public peace of mind that the government is ensuring our public transport and education facilities remain as clean as possible at all times,” Ms Berejiklian said.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the stimulus package will keep people in jobs and businesses in business.

“We’re hiring cleaners, increasing the hours of existing cleaners and redeploying cleaners who would otherwise have lost jobs due to the temporary closure of some public facilities,” Mr Perrottet said.

Cleaning efforts for NSW transport have been increased by 83,000 hours across the network since March 2020.

Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said the government’s package is making meaningful differences to transport across NSW.

“We’ve introduced a number of new measures to ensure our transport network is as clean as possible with crews working through the night to disinfect trains, buses, metro, light rail, ferries, depots and facilities ready for the morning commute,” Mr Constance said.

For information on the stimulus package, or to register your cleaning business, visit the Emergency Cleaning Stimulus Prequalification Scheme: HERE


The Federal Environment Protection And Biodiversity Act Review
Late Submissions Will Be Accepted

The Federal Government’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act (1999) (EPBC Act) is currently under review by Professor Graeme Samuel AC, supported by a panel of experts. Pittwater Natural Heritage Association has examined the Act, and believes it is not working properly. 

What is the EPBC Act?

The EPBC Act is the Australian Federal Government’s primary environmental law. It is designed to protect and manage national environmental assets, known as matters of national environmental significance, and other protected matters. This includes nationally and internationally important flora, fauna, migratory species, ecological communities and heritage places. 

It operates alongside other Commonwealth laws and activities and those of state, territory and local governments.

Why are we concerned?

PNHA is concerned because, along with other Australian environmental organisations, we believe that the current act is not giving enough protection to our environment. 

We also are concerned that the review may listen more to those voices that say the Act is restricting their activities, activities which damage our environment. 

Currently almost 1000 species of Australian native plants and animals are categorised as critically endangered, endangered or vulnerable, yet we still see instances of environmental damage caused by activities like coal mining and land clearing.

The Northern Beaches has its share of threatened species listed under the EPBC Act, including:

  • Grevillea caleyi 
  • Giant Burrowing Frog 
  • Angus’ onion orchid 

Endangered Ecological Communities such as coastal upland swamps, and littoral rainforest and coastal vine thickets of eastern Australia are also found in the Northern Beaches area. 


Grevillea Caleyei - Ingleside


Littoral rainforest - Newport

A New EPBC Act

We need a new, stronger EPBC Act which provides a robust framework for upholding environmental protection and accountability. Here are a few items that Environmental organisations believe must be in the new act. 

  • An updated EPBC Act must contain measures to prevent the high extinction rate of native animals, the unacceptable rates of land clearing, and effectively address climate change. 
  • The new Act must focus on both protection and recovery of threatened species and endangered ecological environments all over Australia.
  • There must be enough funding for effective implementation and there must be more compliance monitoring and enforcement of the regulations. We have witnessed failure to monitor compliance of regulations to protect coastal upland swamps and littoral rainforest in the northern beaches area.

PNHA made a submission to the EPBC Act review on the lack of protection under the act for local coastal upland swamps. We encourage readers to make their own submissions as, even though the deadline is 17 April, late submissions will be accepted. 

The address for submissions is https://epbcactreview.environment.gov.au/get-involved#make-a-submission

David Palmer
Pittwater Natural Heritage Association

Messing About In Boats Stories Sought

Ann Howard, popular author is collecting material for a new book, Messin’ About in Boat- small boat stories of Dangar Island, and welcomes contributions 500-1000 words and pics of small boast
 
Thank you and keep well!
 
Ann Howard

NSW Students To Transition Back To The Classroom In Term 2

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Sarah Mitchell outlined the plan for students attending NSW public schools to progressively return to face-to-face learning in week three of Term 2.

Ms Berejiklian said health advice continues to be that schools remain open, and parents, teachers and students can be confident that school is safe place.

“We are grateful to all families who kept their children home from school at the end of Term 1 and to teachers who worked tirelessly to deliver education online,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“This allowed us critical time to prepare our schools to develop better online learning options and for considering additional hygiene measures to allow schools to return.

“We know that nothing is more important than a child’s education, and we must begin to return our students to their classrooms in a considered way.

“Under these changes, from week three of Term 2, every student will be attending school for one day a week.

“We will look to increase the number of days students are at school in a staged way and hope to have all children back at school full-time by Term 3.

During the first stage of on-campus learning, parents will be encouraged to keep their children home except on their allocated day of face-to-face learning. Initially, about a quarter of a school’s students are expected to be on site at any one time. The specific days students will be required to attend school each week will vary from school to school and will be clearly communicated to parents.

Classes will be split across schools, allowing schools to appropriately social distance students and teachers.

As always, schools will remain open for students who need them and no child will be turned away from school.

Ms Mitchell said careful consideration had been given to support the school community, providing clarity and certainty on the path forward.

“This plan provides a clear path that balances community concerns with a need to deliver continuity of quality education,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Hand sanitiser will be available in all classrooms and provisions are in place for at-risk teachers to work from home. Drop off, pick up, recess and lunchtimes will also be staggered to ensure social distancing.”

In addition to the staged return to school, the NSW Government has committed up to $95.7 million to help keep casual and temporary school staff engaged in active work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our casual and temporary teachers and other non-teaching staff across NSW schools are critical to our education system, and will help ensure the educational outcomes for our students during this staged return,” Ms Mitchell said.

A cross-sector working group of teachers will also be established to report back to the Minister on recent innovations and educational developments assembled during the COVID-19 period that are suitable to support future educational delivery.

“It’s important that we have an inventory of the cutting edge teaching solutions and recognise the best efforts of our amazing NSW teachers during a difficult time,” Ms Mitchell said.

Domestic Violence Support During Covid-19 

NB: Where to get help Fact Sheet is below. Simply click on PDF and 'save as' on your own device

People experiencing domestic violence can be assured police and frontline services are ready to support them and their families as NSW continues to respond to the coronavirus threat.

Member for Manly James Griffin said the Northern Beaches community should not hesitate to seek help and support at this time. 

“If you are in danger or in an emergency call Triple Zero (000),” Mr Griffin said.

“If you are in need of support services, such as housing or counselling, our hard working frontline staff are also available to help those suffering domestic violence.”  

“No person, whether they live on the Northern Beaches or anywhere in Australia, should in live in fear of violence and I urge people to seek the help they need when it is safe to do so.”

Mr Griffin added that perpetrators are on notice and that police have increased efforts to combat violence in the home including more proactive operations to enforce protection orders. 

“Police will continue to conduct Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) compliance checks to keep victims safe.”

NSW Police Force Domestic Violence Corporate Spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Mark Jones, said police are monitoring rates of domestic violence. 

“High-risk and repeat offenders are being targeted by specially trained police to ensure that all orders are strictly followed and complied with and offenders are arrested if violence is detected,” Assistant Commissioner Jones said. 

“Police are also able to vary existing interim or final ADVOs if we know that violence is escalating, without needing to first go to court, so victims are immediately protected.

“NSW Police are working together with government agencies, including NSW Health, to ensure there is no increased health risk to the community in the current environment.”

The NSW Government is constantly adapting as the COVID-19 emergency evolves, which includes various justice, housing and policing responses to combat domestic violence.

Where to get help - March 2020.pdfWhere to get help - March 2020.pdf
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Johnson Brothers Mitre 10 Update: We're Adapting!

Intending to keep our customers and staff safe, we present some additional ways for both our retail and trade customers to do business with us.

Trade and Retail Pick Up

Express Pick up Mona Vale

  • - Call Johnson Bros Mitre 10 Mona Vale, and we will pick & pack your order and have it ready for you to pick up in 2 hours. (Stocked Lines Only)
  • - Drive into our undercover Trade Drive-Thru area at 73 Bassett St Mona Vale, and your order will be ready for pick-up.
  • - Our team members will help you with your load and finalise payment/paperwork

Express Pick up Avalon

  • - Call Johnson Bros Mitre 10 Avalon, and we will pick & pack your order and have it ready for you to pick up in 2 hours. (Stocked Lines Only)
  • - Drive into our back lane off Bellevue Avenue, and your order will be ready for pick-up.
  • - Our team members will help you with your load and finalise payment/paperwork

Online Retail Stores Go Live

We’ve launched two eCommerce sites offering 2hr pick up in-store and flat rate delivery options on the northern beaches*.

Jbhmv.com.au (Mona Vale)

Jbhav.com.au (Avalon)

With the ability to leave the product on your doorstep, this provides an option of an entirely contactless transaction.

*Flat rate delivery is not available to trade sales, building supplies and trade quantities

** The stock availability is updated nightly, which may mean the stock is unavailable when the order is placed

Trade Delivery to Site

Maybe not new, but certainly worth a mention again!  We can get almost anything delivered quickly onto site. As always ring the trade desk direct on 9999 0333 and let them know what you need!

Final Thought

Like everyone, we have found ourselves in a new and uncertain environment, but we’re setting up (and digging in) for the long haul. 

We want to acknowledge that the decision to retain over 120 staff and meet any future challenges head-on, could not have happened without the continued support you provide us as customers.

Thank you and stay safe,

The Johnson Family

2020 Community Heritage Grants Now Open

Now in its 27th year, the Community Heritage Grants (CHG) program provides grants of up to $15,000 to community groups to help preserve and manage locally held but nationally significant cultural heritage collections.

Since the program began in 1994, more than $7.26 million has been allocated to 1,445 collection preservation and management projects. The program has had a significant impact on safeguarding local but nationally significant collections around the country, from inner cities to the most remote parts of Australia.

Dr Marie-Louise Ayres, Director-General of the National Library of Australia, said ‘the range of community groups receiving the grants has highlighted the incredible diversity of Australia’s people and stories. The grants help to preserve and manage these collections for future generations’.

In past years, projects ranging from preserving indigenous languages to caring for rare meteorological equipment have received assistance under the CHG program. Such support includes significance assessments, preservation needs assessments, conservation activities, collection management and training workshops. These ventures are provided to indigenous and multicultural groups, community organisations such as libraries, archives, museums, genealogical and historical societies.

The National Library manages the Community Heritage Grants Program—which is funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications—with the National Archives of Australia, the National Film and Sound Archive and the National Museum of Australia.

Applications close on Monday 4 May 2020.

To submit an application or find out more information visit nla.gov.au/chg.


Thanks For Samuel Wood Page

Is the person who wrote the excellent item "Samuel Wood Postcards of Pittwater and Manly" that appeared in Issue 421, Sept. 15, 2019, willing to be contacted?  

As the eldest grandchild of Samuel and Ethel Wood, I would like to thank him/her very much.  Much of the information I have already collected for the current book I am writing on the couple, but the article contained things I did not know of. 

Jan Fraser, 
Denmark Hill, 
Ipswich, Queensland.

NB: him/her has contacted Jan; more soon - and thanks for the thanks Jan! - Ed., Pittwater Online