community News: November 2021

November 21 - 27, 2021: Issue 519

This Issue: 

Front Page Issue 519 

Local Government Election 2021 Candidates: Pittwater + Narrabeen - we sent out your queries, now you may read their replies

Collaroy Seawall Prompts Calls For Residents To Join In Drawing A Line In The Sand

Canopy Keepers Offer 100 Trees For Avalon Beach 100 Celebration

Monika's DoggieRescue Calendar 2022: Give A Woofa A Chance!

Soliphilia - Sally Mayman: November 23-28 at Art Gallery on Palm Beach

Australian First To Help Save Surfers' Lives

Boobook Owl and Baby Possum Rescue; Spring Babies Helped By A Sydney Wildlife Rescue Volunteer


Aquatics Surf Season Kicks Off At Bate Bay Gold

Park Bench Philosopher Unknown HMAS Sydney II Sailor Named After 80 Years

Food Brunch at Dunes Kiosk, Palm Beach

Inbox News Congratulations To The 2022 NSW Australians Of The Year, New NSW Curriculum Release In A Digital First, Easternmost Roman Aqueduct Discovered In Armenia, Using T Cells To Target Malignant Brain Tumours, Toward 'Off-The-Shelf’ Immune Cell Therapy For Cancer, Mathematicians Derive The Formulas For Boundary Layer Turbulence 100 Years After The Phenomenon Was First Formulated

Environment Line in the Sand at Collaroy: November 27, Phasing Out Single-Use Plastics In NSW, Careel Creek: Dusky Moorhen + Chicks In Residence - Please Keep Your Dogs On Their Leads, Canopy Keepers Offer 100 Trees For Avalon Beach 100 Celebration, November 2021 Forum For Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment: Fishing Bats And Water Rats (Rakali): November 29, North Head Scenic Area Upgrade, Migratory Bird Season, Baby Wildlife Season, Boobook Owl and Baby Possum Rescue; Sydney Wildlife Rescue Volunteer, Petition: Purchase Critical Koala Habitat In Port Macquarie, Gardens Of Stone, Key Piece Of Western Sydney Conservation Puzzle To Be Protected, Ben Boyd National Park To Be Renamed, New Report Shows Australia Failing To Meet Plastic Reduction Targets, Western Sydney Company To Pay $88,000 For Purple Water Incident, BASIX Higher Standards: Feedback Open, Plans Revealed For Riverside Park At Drummoyne, Draft Marine Park Management Plan Released, NAB’s Greenwashing Will Dump Dirty Waste On Communities Fighting Fracking and Gas, A lab-stage mRNA vaccine targeting ticks may offer protection against Lyme and other tick-borne diseases, Climate change: how elephants help pump planet-warming carbon underground, How an ‘atmospheric river’ drenched British Columbia and led to floods and mudslides, I chose the electricity retailer offering the best deal for my home: That’s not what I got, Antarctic bacteria live on air and make their own water using hydrogen as fuel, Are you kidding, India?; Your last-minute Glasgow intervention won’t relieve pressure to ditch coal, The embarrassingly easy tax-free way for Australia to cut the cost of electric cars, The Morrison government’s net-zero plan fails on 6 crucial counts, COP26 failed to address ocean acidification but the law of the seas means states must protect the world’s oceans, We must rapidly decarbonise road transport – but hydrogen’s not the answer, The ocean is essential to tackling climate change; So why has it been neglected in global climate talks?, Bushcare In Pittwater, Community Gardens, Reserves History pages

Lynne Czinner Park At Warriewood; Design and Management Of Park Feedback Sought + Concept For Belrose Bike Park – open until December 12

Australia Post Set To Deliver Christmas Cheer With Santa Mail (post by Dec. 3 ) + Australia Post Releases Christmas Delivery Deadlines

Profile of the Week Luke Whitington

Lovett Bay resident and Artist of the Month for November 2021 Luke Withington is one of Australia's most beloved poets. 

Luke is a business man and grazier with a keen interest in Art. After attending the Australian National University and working for two years in the Department of Foreign Affairs, where he began writing poetry, Luke and his best friend set sail on a cargo boat for Europe. 

He has led a remarkable life spending nearly 20 years in Italy, including two years spent at University of Perugia learning Italian. He went into business with an Italian partner and restored over 100 ancient farm houses and monasteries, mainly in Umbria, with some in Tuscany.

While in Italy he started writing more poetry which led him to Dublin where he restored the 14th Century Norman Castle Portlick situated on the shores of Lough Ree Glasson in County Westmeath.

While there, his keen interest in Art led him to start an Arts Precinct, The Pleasants Factory, in Dublin. 

After 10 years he returned to Australia in 2003.

Since 2004 he has been working to improve the family cattle property Currajugg in the Southern Tablelands breeding Angus Aberdeen cattle. 

In the last two decades he has concentrated his talents in the Arts writing, reading and publishing his poetry in several locations and journals including Manning Clark House Institute ACT, Quadrant Overland, The Canberra Times, Contrappaso Magazine, the Australian love poem anthology and The Canberra poetry anthology, in Florence, Italy, published by the Sigh press, in the Dublin Irish centre for poetry studies and in the Irish independent media.

One of Luke's poems, Bunyah, was included in the tribute to the life of Les Murray.

His most recent work is “Only Fig & Proscuitto - New and Collected Poems“ published by Ginninderra Press with appraisals by Mark O’Connor and Dr Paolo Totaro AM.

A new collection of his poems, What Light Can Do, is scheduled for release in 2022.

This week a few insights into the works and workings of a 21st century Australian Poet.

Local volunteers have been working for months to bring the community Avalon 100 - a celebration of the 100th year of the naming of Avalon as such and the development of Avalon Beach as a community. There are a series of celebrations happening which will run well into 2022. One of the proposed projects is 'Framing Avalon' which seeks to show you images from Avalon's past located in their present places. Led by Jayne Denshire, this project would include the historic summer home of the Grant family, 'Gunjulla'.

The name 'Avalon' for this area, which had previously been known as 'Clareville', Careel Bay and even 'Burnes' beach, first turns up in Warringah Shire Council records in October 1921 when investor in these lands, Arthur Jabez Small makes a request to rename what was the 'Clareville' road and 'Arnold's road to 'Avalon Parade'.

The 11 acres surrounding Gunjulla were purchased in 1919 and a holiday home built by 1920. This Issue a great look into this place and the landscape, with lots of family photos, courtesy of the Grace-Grant Family.

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: November 19

Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

The New SIRA Committee


The Scotland Island Residents Association (SIRA) committee for 2021-2022: Left to right: Mark Martin, Juliet Wills (Secretary), Colin Haskell (President), Sue Armstrong, Duncan Watts, Sharon Dwyer (Treasurer), Janette Davis, Tim Turpin, Robyn Iredale, CB Floyd, Shane O'Neill. Not included in photo: Sharon Kinnison, Boyd Attewell and Fabienne d'Hautefeuille. Photo: Natalie Page, O'Neill Photographics

The AGM for the Scotland Island Residents' Association, held on 14 November, saw few changes to the committee.

The principal office holders remain much the same, with Colin Haskell staying on as president, Sharon Kinnison as vice-president and Juliet Wills as secretary. The one change is that Tim Turpin steps down as treasurer, although he will remain on the committee. The new treasurer is Sharon Dwyer.

Marie Minslow and Brian Rodgers resigned from the committee. Its ordinary members are now: Sue Armstrong, Boyd Attewell, Fabienne d'Hautefeuille, Janette Davis, CB Floyd, Robyn Iredale, Mark Martin, Shane O'Neill, Tim Turpin and Duncan Watts.

Congratulations go the new members of the committee, and our thanks to both departing and continuing members.

Grant Success For SIRA

SIRA has won a major grant which takes the community a step closer to being able to once again make full use of the building vacated by the kindergarten some time ago.

Under the stewardship of Robyn Iredale and the Scotland Island Recreation Club, SIRA had applied to the NSW state government for a grant under its Community Building Partnership program. This is primarily intended to support new community infrastructure, as well as the refurbishment, repair and maintenance of existing facilities.

SIRA has been awarded $48,000 under the scheme. This will be used to buy sun shelters for the Two Catherines Café, which meets outside the Community Hall in Catherine Park on the second and fourth Sunday of each month. It will also fund the installation of lighting for the steps outside the hall. SIRA felt that this was needed because a resident recently broke her leg.

The grant will also be used to buy kitchen equipment for the old kindy building, now known as the Recreation Centre. At the same time, SIRA has secured the agreement of Northern Beaches Council to refurbish the building so that it is better suited to adult as well as child-related recreational activities. The works to be carried out by the NBC include extending the kitchen.



A survey, conducted among island residents, indicated considerable community interest in turning the old kindy into a multi-purpose recreational centre. The plan is that the building will be shared among various groups who will use it for such activities as art workshops, children playgroups and book clubs. Anyone interested in setting up recreational groups should contact SIRA. The Centre will also house a document and photographic archive for the island.  

Around 100 residents regularly attend the café, which has provided paid work for a number of young helpers. The café is otherwise run by volunteers. All funds raised by the café go towards Recreation Club activities.

Photo/News courtesy the PON (above)

Line In The Sand Collaroy

SATURDAY, 27 NOVEMBER 2021 AT 16:00
Event by Surfrider Foundation Northern Beaches
How our beaches and our local coastal communities are being treated has to change!
It's time once more to draw a line in the sand and say NO to beach stealing vertical sea walls.
Join us and send a message to NSW Planning Minister Rob Stokes and Northern Beaches Council.
  • Sand Not Concrete
  • Nourishment Not Damage
  • Public Beach Over Private Interests
#LineInTheSandCollaroy
Come down to Collaroy & Narrabeen, on Saturday 27th November, and look for the Surfrider flags as we spread out along the shore line. Media and a drone shot are scheduled for 4pm so please be there on time.
"This is not public asset protection, It is beach vandalism". - Terry Fitzgerald: more than 50 year Narrabeen surfer.


Photo: Surfrider Foundation Northern Beaches

Resources For Families

The NSW Government is funding a program that will cover the entire Northern Beaches and provide immediate care and new support services to anyone impacted by the suicide of a loved one or friend.
For friends and family, the death of a loved one by suicide is not only heartbreaking and shocking, it can also create new challenges as well as making day-to-day tasks incredibly difficult.

This service we will provide a range of resources for loved ones and families impacted, including counselling to help them access financial assistance and guiding them through the coronial process.
The new services based on the Northern Beaches are being provided by StandBy, Australia’s leading post-suicide support service, in partnership with Jesuit Social Services, Roses in the Ocean and University of New England.

StandBy is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing free face-to face and/or telephone support at a time and place that is best for each individual.

The program offers coordinated evidence-based support and resources (including connections to local services and groups) that is individualised for each person’s unique circumstance. This support is continued for up to two years to ensure those that engage with StandBy are not alone and receive ongoing support.

The state-wide rollout of post-suicide support services is thanks to a joint investment by the NSW and Commonwealth Governments.

To find out more or to access these services, please call 1300 727 247 at any time or visit standbysupport.com.au

CWA Manly Raising Funds For The Homeless This Christmas

The Manly branch of the Country Women’s Association will hold its annual Christmas Stall in The Corso from 9am on Saturday, December 4. 

“CWA of NSW is working with government at all levels to seek urgent action on social and affordable housing,” said Robyn Grennan, President of CWA Manly. “Locally we will raise money at our Christmas stall for homeless programs on the Northern Beaches.

“We will also raise money for the CWA Disaster Relief Fund and Education Grants so we are supporting both local and remote members of our community.” 

The CWA Manly stall will be stocked with a range of beautiful, handmade Christmas decorations and gift ideas, handmade Christmas cards, home-baked treats and delicious preserves. 

For more information please visit the CWA Manly Facebook page or email manlycwa@yahoo.com

Tie-Up Mooring Fees For Bells And Carols Wharves: Have Your Say

The Council currently manage four public wharves across Pittwater and Western Foreshores where residents can tie-up their dinghies. Private watercraft owners are charged fees to use the tie-up facilities on our wharves which are used to keep the areas tidy, safe and accessible.

The upgrading Bells and Carols Wharves on Scotland Island will provide an extra 32 tie-ups at each wharf, bringing the total tie-ups at Bells Wharf to 40 and 74 at Carols Wharf. Once completed, Council will take on the ongoing management of the tie-up moorings at these two locations.

Currently 28 tie-up moorings at Carols Wharf and four tie-up moorings at Bells Wharf are impacted by the low tide. This means that vessels using moorings at these locations will have little or no water underneath them throughout the every month.

Council are proposing two new fees, at a 50 percent reduction from the current annual permit for these ‘shallow tie-up’ (tidal affected) sites.

View the proposed fees here and have your say by:
Submissions close: Sunday 28 November 2021

Men Of League Xmas Function 

Will be at Nth Narrabeen SLSC club commencing at 4pm, on Friday 3rd. December 2021.

The team at MOL have done a wonderful job over the years supporting their fellow members when they are down on hard times. Please make an effort to attend and support this wonderful cause.



2019 MOL Xmas do - photo courtesy Brian Friend OAM

Naming Proposal: Murradjulbi Lane, Avalon

The laneway adjacent to Bellevue Avenue, Avalon is currently unnamed and provides access to the driveway of the residential property at 47 Bellevue Avenue, Avalon; access to Chakana Day Spa at the rear of 45A Avalon Parade; and is used by businesses from 47-55 Avalon Parade as a loading zone.



To improve wayfinding and provide businesses with a specific address to reference Council propose to name the laneway Murradjulbi Lane. It's pronounced Mur-ra-jul-bee and means ‘Singing Bushlark’ Lane.

The name was put forward by the Aboriginal Heritage Office (AHO) and is in the local aboriginal language for road naming purposes within the Northern Beaches Local Government Area.

The naming proposal has been pre-approved by the Geographical Names Board (GNB) of NSW. It is being carried out in-line with guidelines of both the GNB of NSW and Council’s Policy for the Naming of our Reserves, Facilities and Roads.

Council give notice of intention to name this road in accordance with Section 162 of the Roads Act 1993 and Section 7 of the Roads Regulation 2018. View the location map and have your say on this proposal by:

completing the submission form 
emailing council@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au
writing to Council marked: 'Avalon laneway naming proposal - Murradjulbi Lane' PO Box 82, Manly NSW, 1655.
Submissions close Wednesday 8 December, 2021.

NSW Disability Inclusion Plan Unveiled

November 19, 2021
People with disability will live in more inclusive and accessible communities under the NSW Government’s plan to remove systemic and attitudinal barriers to participation in society.

Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Alister Henskens said the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan 2021–2025 strengthens the State’s accessibility framework and outlines work underway to improve outcomes for people with disability.

“NSW leads the nation when it comes to supporting people with disability – we were the first state to implement a Disability Inclusion Plan and have led the nation in the rollout of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS),” Mr Henskens said.

“This four-year plan builds on the work our Government has undertaken to create more accessible and inclusive communities, and provides the blueprint for increasing the social and economic participation of people with disability across NSW.”

Under the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan, all public sector agencies and local councils are required to develop action plans to drive positive change in their communities.

Key deliverables under the Disability Inclusion Plan 2021-2025 include:
These initiatives are examples of the work our Government agencies and local councils are doing to create more inclusive communities, by improving access to services and removing barriers to participating in society,” Mr Henskens said.

Projects delivered under the previous Disability Inclusion Plan include accessible stations along Sydney’s Metro, lift upgrades at TAFE campuses and the Employable Me TV series, which promoted employment pathways for people with disability.

To read the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan 2021-2025, visit www.dcj.nsw.gov.au/dip.

Palm Beach Longboarders: December Comp

We will not be running our November competition due to COVID issues. It would not be fair to run it as only those members who are double vaccinated are permitted. So we will have a cracker Christmas December comp, and call it a season. Details will be posted up here, soon.

We're a longboarding club of mature groms and grommets meeting beachside at 7am on the first Sunday of each month.




Photo: Adriaan van der Wallen
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Statement From Ita Buttrose, ABC Chair, On ABC Complaints Handling Process

November 14, 2021
The inquiry into the ABC’s complaints handling process announced by Senate Communications Committee Chair, Senator Andrew Bragg, appears to be a blatant attempt to usurp the role of the ABC Board and undermine the operational independence of the ABC.

As Senator Bragg is aware, in October the ABC Board initiated an independent review of the ABC’s complaints system by two eminent experts, Professor John McMillan AO, former Commonwealth and NSW Ombudsman, and Jim Carroll, former SBS Director – News and Current Affairs. The terms of reference for the review are comprehensive and wide-ranging.

This review is consistent with the duties of the Board under the ABC Act. Under Section 8 of the Act, the ABC Board has the legal responsibility for developing codes of practice relating to programming matters and to ensure that the gathering and presentation by the Corporation of news and information is accurate and impartial.

The fact that these powers are given to the Board, not to the Government of the day, is a key pillar of the ABC’s operational independence.

This review is well underway and members of Parliament, including Senator Bragg, have already been interviewed as part of the review process. An issues paper will be released shortly and the review will then be seeking public submissions. The review will be rigorous and thorough and its findings will be released by the ABC board in April 2022.

Instead of respecting the integrity of this process, the Senate Committee under the leadership of Senator Bragg has decided to initiate a parallel process. I will leave it to Senator Bragg to explain his motives but the impact of this action is clear. As Chair of the ABC Board I am duty bound to call out any action that seeks to undermine the independence of the national broadcaster.

Once again, an elected representative has chosen to threaten the ABC’s independence at the expense of the integrity of this irreplaceable public service. Any incursion of this kind into the ABC’s independence should be seen by Australians for what it is: an attempt to weaken the community’s trust in the public broadcaster.

This is an act of political interference designed to intimidate the ABC and mute its role as this country’s most trusted source of public interest journalism. If politicians determine the operation of the national broadcaster’s complaints system, they can influence what is reported by the ABC.

A fundamental democratic principle underpinning the ABC has been its independence from interference by those motivated by political outcomes. Politicians, like all citizens, are welcome to criticise anything they find wrong or objectionable that is published by the ABC but they cannot be allowed to tell the ABC what it may or may not say.

Transparency and accountability are important and the Senate Committee performs a vital role. The ABC attends Senate Estimates hearings on multiple occasions every year and answers hundreds of questions on notice. It is extremely regrettable, however, that the Committee has, on this occasion, sought to undertake a task that is not only already underway but also is the legal responsibility of the ABC Board.

When Parliament resumes later this month, I respectfully ask the Senate to act to defend the independence of the ABC, as Australia’s national broadcaster, by passing a motion to terminate or suspend this inquiry until the independent process commissioned by the ABC Board has been completed.

Ita Buttrose AC OBE
Chair, ABC

Pittwater-Warringah SES Training

Last Sunday, November 14th, the NSW SES Warringah / Pittwater Unit ran 'Exercise Lego'; an exercise to engage new members with realistic scenarios and to help longer serving members keep their skills up to date.

All went well and the boat crew even ended up with a real rescue helping to tow a teenager to shore after he ran out of fuel.

To finish the day on a high note some of the new members go to go out on their first real job and help clear a road blocked by large fallen branches.
Great work team - and thank you for your service.



NSW SES Warringah / Pittwater Unit photo

Another First For Marine Rescue Volunteer Pat Fayers 

Those active members of our local Marine Rescue units will be please to hear that a lady we have seen here or visited 'over the bay', Patricia (Pat) Fayers ESM, has received the first ever Unit Life Membership to be presented by the Marine Rescue Central Coast unit. 



Pat was presented with her award by Unit Commander Duncan Coles at a farewell event held at the unit base last weekend. 

Pat has been a valued member of the unit for 23 years since joining the Central Coast division of the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol (RVCP) in 1998.  She was appointed Divisional Commander from 2006 to 2010 and elected as Unit Commander from 2012 to 2014. 

Pat has participated in many rescue operations and has served in positions including Watch Officer, Assistant Quartermaster, radio invigilator and boat licence tester in MRNSW.

In 2009 Pat was awarded the NSW Maritime Medal. She was awarded the Emergency Services Medal in 2013.

Pat is the first woman to be elected to the MRNSW Board, having been elected as a General Director in 2014 for a 3 year term and re-elected in 2017 and again in 2020.

Pat's personal qualities that made her such an outstanding Unit Commander have continued to mark her career as a Board Member and have also left an indelible and ongoing legacy within the Central Coast unit.

While Pat is leaving the Central Coast she will not be lost to MRNSW, continuing as a Board member and joining the Marine Rescue Port Macquarie unit on the Mid North Coast.

LEC Judgement Approves Bilambee Lane Bilgola Plateau Shop Top Housing Proposal

In a decision published November 10, 2021, Macri v Northern Beaches Council [2021] NSWLEC 1685, heard before Commissioner Espinosa, the court has ordered that:

Pursuant to s 8.15(3) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 the Applicant is to pay, on or before 1 December 2021, those costs of the Respondent thrown away as a result of the Court allowing the Applicant to file the Amended Development Application agreed at $15,000.

The updated written request made pursuant to clause 4.6 of Pittwater Local Environmental Plan 2014 seeking to vary the height of buildings development standard in clause 4.3 of PLEP prepared by JV Urban dated 26 October 2021 is upheld.

The updated written request made pursuant to clause 4.6 of Pittwater Local Environmental Plan 2014 seeking to vary the dwelling density development standard in clause 4.5A(2) of PLEP prepared by JV Urban dated 6 September 2021 is upheld, and that the Development Application DA2020/1351 for demolition of existing buildings and construction of a three storey shop top housing development at 1 Bilambee Lane, Bilgola Plateau is approved subject to the conditions in Annexure A.

The judgement may be read in full here.

LEC Judgement Approves Shop Top Housing Development At 62 Old Barrenjoey Road

In a decision published November 9, 2021, 3MAV Pty Ltd v Northern Beaches Council [2021] NSWLEC 1670, heard before Commissioner Espinosa, the court has ordered that:

The Applicant is to pay the Respondent’s costs thrown away pursuant to s 8.15(3) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 in the amount of $1,000.00 within 28 days of the orders being made by the Court.

The appeal is upheld. And that Development consent is granted to Development Application No DA 2020/0903 for the partial demolition of the existing structures and construction of a shop top housing development on land at 62 Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon Beach NSW, subject to the conditions of consent contained at Annexure “A”.

The judgement may be read in full here.

LEC Judgement Approves Shop Top Housing Development At Old Library Site Belrose

In a decision published November 9, 2021, Platinum Property Advisors No 1 Pty Ltd ATF The Trustee for Platinum Property Advisors No 1 Trust v Northern Beaches Council (No. 2) [2021] NSWLEC 1676, heard before Assistant Commissioner Clay, the court has ordered that:

The Appeal was upheld and that Development consent is granted to development application number DA2020/0393 for demolition of existing structures, construction of a mixed use development comprising retail uses and shop top housing containing 49 dwellings, basement car park for 238 vehicles, landscaping and a public square at lot 1 in Deposited Plan 1199795 known as 28 Lockwood Avenue, Belrose subject to the conditions in Annexure A.

The judgement may be read in full here.

Avalon Beach 100th Year Celebration T-Shirts

Help celebrate Avalon Beach turning 100 and pre-order your T shirt now, featuring iconic local artist Bruce Goold’s stunning logo design. Drop in and see Jen at Avalon Art Gallery/Art Depot in the Avalon Cinema arcade until November 30th to place your ore-order. 

Pre order forms are available below and at Avalon Art Gallery-Cinema Arcade: Wed-Sat 10-5 and Sunday 10-2. Order Pick up is Sunday December 19th at Avalon Car Boot Sale – Dunbar Park.

No extra T shirts will be available on the day.

Choose from two options in black or white (see pictures) $40-$45 in sizes from XS to XXL. 
So get your little piece of our 100 years and help support this fundraising effort to make Avalon Beach’s centenary celebrations something to remember.

More on the 100th Celebrations and the brand new Avalon Beach Culture Collective will run in Pittwater Online News On Sunday November 28th - Issue 520

CABPRA AGM 2021

World renowned sailor, Iain Murray will be the Clareville and Bilgola Plateau Residents' Association's   special guest at our AGM on November 30. We are excited to finally organise a get together in person. Put the date in your diary and come along and share a wine afterwards.

Starting 6.30 p.m. at Avalon Sailing Club Tuesday November 30. 
Current Covid protocols apply.

Iain Murray AM was the CEO of Race Management and Race Director of the 36th America’s Cup held in New Zealand in March this year. Iain Murray is a World Cup winning sailor. Amongst many other triumphs, Murray has won the 18ft Skiff World title, the JJ Giltinan International Trophy, for a record six consecutive years from 1977 to 1982. And he has won the Etchells World Cup –  twice.

Iain is a yachting Olympian, an America’s Cup yachtsman and a boat designer – he designed the modern version of the 18ft skiff. And he is a world-renowned sailing manager: he was Regatta Director for the 34th America’s Cup in 2013 and 35th America’s Cup in 2017.



Photo: RSYS

Better Flexibility For More Jobs Close To Home

The NSW Government is paving the way for more jobs closer to home through planning reforms to make it easier for businesses to set up, innovate and grow.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the system for identifying land for commercial and industrial activities had been simplified to provide more certainty, flexibility and support for businesses and their employees.

“The way businesses operate is evolving and that’s been accelerated by the pandemic. We’ve seen how agile and innovative they can be as they’ve found new ways to reach customers and support their communities,” Mr Stokes said.

“Our planning system needs to do the same. We’ve overhauled the employment zones to make it easier for businesses to set up and expand their operations and to compete in the global economy.”

The reforms cut the number of employment zones from 12 to five core zones, with changes to better reflect the way businesses use land, providing better access for their customers and employees.

“Fewer zones that permit more uses mean more investment, less red tape, and better job opportunities closer to home for local communities,” Mr Stokes said.

“This gives certainty to business, councils and the community about what can be built on land across NSW.”

The new zones are:
  • E1 Local Centre: provides for a range of retail business, entertainment, community uses that service a local area;
  • E2 Commercial Centre: large-scale commercial, retail, business and service development in strategic centres;
  • E3 Productivity Support: mix of industrial, commercial, creative, warehousing and emerging new industries that need larger floor space;
  • E4 General Industrial: light and general industrial, warehousing uses providing important services like waste management and concrete batching; and
  • E5 Heavy Industrial: hazardous and industries with odour and noise impacts that need to be separated from other urban areas.

The new employment zones come into effect within the Standard Instrument Principal Local Environmental Plan on 1 December 2021. This allows employment zones to be introduced after references to environment zones are updated, to reduce the risk of misinterpretation where environment zones are currently referred to by just the E prefix in environmental planning instruments. 
See conservation zones for further information:

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Stalls At Pittwater Place

We are finally able to return to Pittwater Place and are having a Christmas stall also at Pittwater Place on Saturday 4th December.

We will be selling sewing, knitting, craft, jam, books from 8am to 3pm outside the Magic Elbow.


New NSW Police Tactical Marine Vessels Launched

The capabilities of the NSW Police Force Marine Area Command have been significantly bolstered with the addition of four new purpose-built marine vessels, valued at more than $4 million.

Premier Dominic Perrottet and Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott joined Deputy Commissioner Mal Lanyon APM today to unveil the new Class 5 rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIBs) as part of an ongoing commitment to providing safer waterways across the state.

Premier Perrottet said this investment forms part of the $29 million Marine Vessel Replacement program and will enhance tactical marine responses.

“These fast response vessels are multifunctional and will strengthen the police marine operational capabilities as we approach the busy summer months,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, police have played an integral role in keeping us all safe. As we return to a sense of normality it is vital police have the equipment to undertake policing, both on land and water.”

Minister Elliott said the Government continues to provide police with the resources they need to enhance operations in NSW and offshore waters.

“With a multi-purpose capability, the RHIBs will be used for criminal detection and counter-terrorism operations, search and rescue, port and maritime security, and high visibility policing,” Mr Elliott said.

“Importantly these vessels will enhance boarding capabilities and fast-roping for police in operational settings.”

Deputy Commissioner Lanyon said officers attached to the Marine Area Command were instrumental in the design of these fit-for-purpose tactical vessels.

“These Class 5 RHIBs are highly-manoeuvrable and are fitted with the latest navigation and communication equipment, as well as surveillance and tracking systems,” Deputy Commissioner Lanyon said.

“Importantly these fast, agile, and responsive vessels are a significant boost to our capabilities to prevent, disrupt and respond to crime on the water.”

Each vessel has two 400hp four-stroke outboard motors and can reach speeds of 53 knots. The vessels feature the newest technology including a forward-looking infra-red (FLIR) camera to assist police crews to search for lost mariners or detect crime threats. The navigation and electronics are supported by the NSW Police Force integrated telecommunication and satellite systems.

The 11-metre RHIBs were built by Sydney-based Zodiac Milpro Australia Pty Ltd. They have a 10-person capacity and will be located in Sydney, San Souci, Newcastle, and Port Kembla but can be deployed as far north as Tweed Heads, and Eden to the south.

Pre-Polling Booths LG Election 2021

Pre-Polling places:
MONA VALE:
Mona Vale Memorial Hall
Pittwater Road, Mona Vale NSW 2103
22 Nov 2021 - 03 Dec 2021
Mon - Sat: 9:00am - 5:00pm

AVALON:
Avalon Recreation Centre
59A Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon NSW 2107
22 Nov 2021 - 03 Dec 2021
Mon - Sat: 9:00am - 5:00pm

New Vacation Care For Balgowlah Families

A new vacation care is coming to Balgowlah to relieve busy and exhausted families just in time for the summer school holidays.

Council is opening a new vacation care service at the existing North Harbour Pre-school after identifying demand for vacation care in the Balgowlah area.

The centre will be offering a pre-school vacation care program from January for children 4-6 years who are starting school in 2022 as well as school aged children aged 5 to 12 years.

Mayor Michael Regan said it would be a big relief for working parents in the Balgowlah area, especially after months of lockdown and online learning.

“The opening of this service couldn’t come at a better time for busy, working families,” Mayor Regan said.

“It’s a win for parents looking for quality, affordable care for their kids. And it’s going to be a blast for the children attending.

“The kids are going to love all of the fun and adventurous activities our educators have planned.”

School aged children can expect exciting excursions to Putt Putt Golf, Warringah Aquatic Centre and Warriewood movies.

Pre-school aged children will enjoy stimulating and educational activities at the centre, including art and craft, sports and outdoor play.

The Balgowlah vacation care service joins three existing Council operated centres offering high quality care for children aged between 5 and 12 years, during school holidays. Council’s other centres are located at Cromer, Forestville and Manly Vale.

The centres operate from Monday to Friday from 7.30am – 6pm during school holidays.

The vacation care programs are disability friendly, with extra support given to children with additional needs so they don’t miss out on all the fun. Please contact our vacation care team to discuss the process of registering your child.

Bookings for the summer school holidays will open on Monday 22 November.

DoggieRescue.com

Pets Of The Week

Tiny


Tiny, a 6yo Great Dane is a very gentle well mannered boy who has had a life of neglect. He is very gentle with people but is not used to lots of pats and cuddles. He is obedient and walks on loose lead. Tiny has many lumps and calluses on elbows and hocks and he came with a lump on his back which has been removed. The right side of his face is a bit droopy but he has good vision. His ears have chronic infection which we are treating and will need a diligent person to keep on top of.  Tiny walks on loose lead and ignores other dogs and cars.  He walks slowly and has a very calm demeanour. He has a smooth coat and weighs 58.8kg, the biggest boy at DoggieRescue! He is underweight ATM.

All our dogs come 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 DoggieRescue Vet. His adoption fee is $400. For details call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email Monika@DoggieRescue.com. RON R251000024

Tweedy


Tweedy is a sweet but shy 12 month domestic short haired girl who is looking for the quiet life and a family with rescue experience to bring her out of her shell. She has a short coat and weighs 3.7kg. She is social with other cats.

All our cats come desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $220. For further details call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email  cats@doggierescue.com  

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.

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. 

Monika’s DoggieRescue’s 2022 Calendar Is Out Now!

Monika’s DoggieRescue’s 2022 calendar has arrived! This is our biggest annual fundraiser and helps us continue to save the lives of dogs and cats on death row in NSW pounds. To date we have saved over 13,000 dogs and are home to around 100 dogs looking for their families. We rely on fundraising like our calendar to keep the doors open so please help us continue to save lives!

This year’s calendar was photographed by our volunteer photographer Dave Pigeon from The Dog’s Pyjamas. Dave has perfectly captured the different faces and emotions of our resident dogs, from Bowie looking hopefully to the future with a family of his own to sad Champ who isn’t sure what to do with himself facing another year without a home of his own.

Winston stars on the cover he found his way to Monika’s DoggieRescue from a Sydney pound and was discovered to be blind, his bandana reminds us all to be kind to those who have extract burdens to bear. Winston was lucky enough to be adopted just before the calendar arrived! 



This year’s calendar features 16 DoggieRescue dogs many of whom are still waiting at the shelter for their families to come.

At $20 the calendar is the perfect gift for dog loving friends and together we save more lives! Do something good for Christmas and give the gift of life.

About Monika’s DoggieRescue 
DoggieRescue is a Northern Beaches based no kill animal shelter, we’ve been in operation since 1998 with the primary objective of saving dogs and cats from death row in council pounds. We do not place a time limit on the lives of the animals we save and are often contacted about the more difficult animals in need. 
You can grab your copy from the shelter or from our website by clicking here:

Sydney Wildlife Recycled Bottles For Wildlife 2021

Sydney Wildlife Rescue is registered for return and earn in NSW. This time it is accessed by an App called My Tomra  - which is the organisation that runs the recycling. 

Once you have downloaded the My Tomra App. Just search “Our Wildlife” you will see Sydney Wildlife Rescue listed. You can set that as the payout. 

So you just scan the bar code from the App  at the recycling machine and the 10c will be donated to Sydney Wildlife Rescue. The machines can be located anywhere in NSW.  

Please have a look it’s a good way to support us to care for wildlife and do your bit to keep Australia Beautiful.

Sport And Recreation Infrastructure Grants Now Open

Applications are now open for the Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Grants program, designed to support the active sporting community on the Northern Beaches. 

There is $100,000 in grants available, with a minimum grant value of $10,000 and a maximum grant value of $50,000.

Eligible, incorporated, not for profit organisations can apply to build new or upgrade existing infrastructure on a Council owned or managed facility that improves local sport and recreation facilities.

Projects must do one or more of these:
  • increase opportunities for participation in sport, recreation and active play
  • improve the viability of sport and recreation groups
  • develop safe, accessible and family-friendly facilities.
Mayor Michael Regan encouraged eligible sporting clubs and organisations to apply.

“We’ve been able to support 14 clubs through this program over the past three years, helping to fund their small to medium-sized projects.

“We helped the Careel Bay Tennis Club with a new sunshade over their children’s play equipment, Manly Warringah Junior Cricket Association with eight new cricket nets at Nolan Reserve and the Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club to make improvements to the change facilities at their Jamieson Park clubhouse.

“I’d encourage all sporting groups to learn more about the grants program and see if there is a way they can be supported.”

Applications close midnight Sunday 28 November. Apply here: 

Tough New Laws To Protect Public Spaces

November 19, 2021
Valuable public spaces across the State will be protected from the scourge of abandoned items including dumped shopping trolleys following the passage of strict new laws through Parliament.

Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock said the Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Act 2021 would finally hold owners responsible.

“These tough new laws provide councils, other public land managers and police with stronger powers and penalties to rid our footpaths, streets, parks, bushland and waterways of abandoned and unattended property,” Mrs Hancock said.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the value of our public spaces to communities across the State and these future-focused laws will ensure they are safe, accessible and enjoyable for generations to come.”

The new laws mean owners and others responsible for private property left in public will face harsh penalties if they don’t remove them within risk-based timeframes.

It is not just shopping trolleys, items such as unregistered and abandoned cars, unattended trailers and stray stock all fall within the bounds of these new laws.

“We are sending a clear message to owners and those responsible for items and animals left in public places – if they don’t do the right thing, they face on-the-spot fines, higher court penalties, rapid seizure action and enforcement orders,” Mrs Hancock said.

“This real and meaningful change will help address the perennial problem of abandoned and unattended shopping trolleys, which are a nuisance and blight on our public spaces not to mention a safety risk.”

The new laws demand owners take quick action to remove unregistered, abandoned and unattended cars and trailers causing problems in our residential streets, particularly in urban areas where parking is scarce.

In rural communities, stronger powers and penalties will help prevent stray stock wandering onto roads and causing tragic accidents.

The strong stance is expected to save NSW councils and communities more than $10 million a year in clean-up costs.

Sun Run 2022

Runners across Sydney are warming up for Sun Run 2022, which will be one of the first major running events to be held since state-wide lockdowns began.

The 7km and 10km running events will be held on Saturday 5 February 2022 and participants are encouraged to raise funds for a cause close to their heart.

Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan invited runners from across Sydney and further afield to enter the Sun Run.

“We are absolutely pumped to host the first major running event in 2022,” Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan said.

“Many major running events and festivals were cancelled or held virtually over the past eighteen months, so we know runners of all ages and levels are desperate to get out there and compete.

“The Sun Run is also a fun day out for families, with kids under 5 running for free.

“With Sydney opening-up again and a new year with new resolutions, it’s a great time to challenge yourself, get back into running and have a lot of fun with family and friends.”

The 7km and 10km course follow the picturesque coast from Dee Why to Manly Beach.

In line with announced easing of restrictions in the NSW Roadmap, Northern Beaches Council is planning to deliver a range of events over the summer period that will encourage residents and visitors to come together safely in our open spaces.

Discounted early bird entries open today which offers participants a $20 saving on their entry fee up until 9 December. With capacity restrictions in place, participants are encouraged to enter early.

For more information or to enter visit sunrun.com.au


$50 Million To Play, Splash And Roam

NSW is set for an outdoor renaissance this summer, with the Government providing $50 million in new and improved parks and public spaces.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said the Government’s economic recovery package would result in more places to play, splash and roam.

“We’re setting aside $50 million for new places to swim or paddle, improved play spaces, and more trails that connect communities to their parklands,” Mr Perrottet said.

“With Greater Sydney offering some of the most beautiful river, lake, and bushland environments, this package will mean everyone can discover more of the hidden gems in their own backyard.

“Lockdown showed us that we need more public spaces that are better connected with more recreation facilities, and that’s exactly what this funding will help achieve.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the $50 million investment would go towards adventure, nature, and water play opportunities.

“While lockdown is over, it highlighted that people living closer to the coastline have far more natural swimming spots than those living in our west,” Mr Stokes said.

“This program will create new opportunities to dive into places like our stunning harbour, Parramatta or Nepean Rivers, take a hike in the bush, or ride along a new nature trail.”

“Children will have more opportunities to play and connect with nature and there’ll be funding to create more community garden and greenway projects for everyone to enjoy.”

The Government’s $50 million Open Space program includes: 
  • Places to Swim ($16.7 million): New swimming and kayaking locations across Greater Sydney’s lakes, rivers, and harbour
  • Places to Play ($16.7 million): Additional public open spaces for play and adventure, for people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds across NSW
  • Places to Roam ($16.7 million): New and upgraded regional trails, better active transport corridors, and connected bushland, parks, and gardens across Greater Sydney.
Expressions of interest (EOIs) are being sought from Metropolitan Greater Sydney councils and eligible NSW Government agencies and entities for pilot projects that can commence immediately. Applicants will be able to submit an EOI via a link on the website from 15 November 2021. Submissions will need to be submitted by 4pm Friday 30 November 2021.

Applications for round 1 grant program for Places to Swim will open 15 November 2021 and close 4 March 2022 at 4pm.

Developer Contribution Transparency A Good First Step; More To Do

A state-wide council campaign to ensure communities do not miss out on important local infrastructure is delivering results, with the NSW Government today going public with the detail of the proposed changes.

Local Government NSW President Linda Scott said the NSW government today placed its proposed Infrastructure Contributions Package on public exhibition for analysis and feedback from councils, property developers and communities.

“This is a real improvement on the rushed and secretive way this proposed package was last month pushed through the lower house of Parliament, buried in other legislation,” Cr Scott said.

The Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment (Infrastructure Contributions) Bill 2021 which passed the lower house gave no guarantees that contributions would be spent where they are collected.

“Infrastructure contributions are made by developers and are a critical co-funding measure to deliver footpaths and cycleways, parks, playgrounds, playing fields, skate parks, basketball courts, libraries, childcare centres and public pools – even street lighting, stormwater and drainage facilities,” Cr Scott said.

“The community expects local infrastructure funds to be invested locally; no-one wants to see infrastructure funds hoarded for potential pork-barrelling.”

More than 200 mayors, councillors and general managers came together last month to express outrage at the proposed reforms – described by the development body Urban Taskforce as a “tax grab”.

LGNSW subsequently launched the Say No To The Contributions Cash Grab campaign, with 67 councils already passing minutes condemning the proposed changes.

“We need the Government to commit in the legislation that infrastructure contributions will be allocated fairly, transparently and locally.

“We need written, legislative guarantees the no council or community will be worse off as a result.

“As these government reforms have switched developer contribution payments to the end of a project, councils need funding to continue their infrastructure program, ensure jobs aren’t lost and parks and playgrounds continue to be built.

“I thank the Minister for continuing to work with LGNSW to ensure no council is financially worse off under these reforms.”

The New framework for state infrastructure contributions is on exhibition for feedback until December 10th, 2021 at: 

Warringah Rugby Club 2021 AGM

Notice is hereby given that the fifty seventh (57th) Annual General Meeting of the Warringah Rugby Club Limited will be held at Pittwater Rugby Club, 1472 Pittwater Road, Warriewood on Sunday, 21 November 2021 at 9.00am.

Nominations of Office Bearers and other Directors must be in writing and be lodged with the Club General Manager at the club at least eight (8) days prior to the Annual General Meeting. Each nomination must bear the signatures of the nominee and two (2) financial members.

Agenda. 
Please click here for the agenda

Proxies.
Proxy forms will be available on request from the office on 0402 192 311 or by email to info@warringahrugby.com.au.

The following points should be noted with respect to proxies.
  • If you are entitled, in accordance with the Constitution of the Company, to attend and vote at a meeting of the Company, you are entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in your place at the meeting.
  • A proxy does not have to be a member of the Company.
  • A proxy appointed by you will have the right to speak at the meeting but is not entitled to vote except on a poll unless the Constitution of the Company otherwise provides.
  • Your proxy will be able to demand or join in demanding a poll. You may specify the manner in which your proxy is to vote and where you do so, your proxy is entitled to vote on the resolution except as you specify.
  • The proxy form must be signed by you personally or by your attorney.
By Order of the Board

Phillip Parsons.
President.

Australian Seabird Rescue Calendar 2022 + Sea Turtle Hospital Expansion

Congratulations to Josh Blank who's image has been selected for the ASRCC 2022 fundraising calendar. Pre-order your calendar today from https://photoplankton.com.au/product/2022-asrcc-calendar/



In 2022 Australian Seabird Rescue are aiming to rebuild and expand our Sea Turtle Hospital due to the rapid increase in sea turtle strandings in NSW.

We are starting our first fundraising campaign to help us get us there - Raffle Raffle Raffle!  Who doesn’t love a good raffle and wait until you see the prizes. 
  • 1st prize - 3 night stay at Elements of Byron for 2 people
  • 2nd prize - 2 tickets for Out of the Blue Adventures, Ballina.
  • 3rd prize - A night in the spa room for 2 at the Ramada Suites, Ballina.
How to purchase a ticket online
- Scroll down and select the number of tickets you would like to purchase followed by Buy Now 
- And follow the payment details. 

If you wish to contribute to this project another way please head to our website to donate. 

The raffle will be drawn 31st Jan 2022.

Grants Available For NSW Small Business Month Events

The NSW Government is helping small businesses bounce back from the pandemic with up to $640,000 in grants available to help organisations host events to generate new ideas and connect with fellow entrepreneurs.

Grants of up to $2,500 for local councils and $3,500 for chambers of commerce, industry associations and not-for-profit groups are available to help them organise events for the fifth NSW Small Business Month in March 2022.

Member for Manly, James Griffin said Small Business Month was a unique opportunity to help the State’s hardworking small business owners by offering events that teach them new skills and inspire them with new ideas.

“Small businesses have been tested like never before with drought, floods, bushfires, the mouse plague and COVID-19. They've made enormous sacrifices to get where we are today and I want to acknowledge their hard work, effort and resilience,” Mr Griffin said.

Minister for Small Business, Damien Tudehope said the theme of this Small Business Month was `Rebuild, Recharge, Renew’.

“This reflects the Government’s determination to help small businesses recover and build a brighter, stronger future.

“The skills, resilience and ambition of NSW small businesses are vital to our economy and our communities,” Mr Tudehope said.

Applications for event grants open on 1 November, and must be submitted by 10 December with organisations encouraged to get online, review the grant guidelines and start preparing applications now. Grants are competitive and applications will be assessed against the published criteria.

The events must adhere to the relevant NSW Health advice, including having a COVID-safety plan, registration of all attendees, limiting the number of people in the venue, and attendees to remain seated as required at all events.

Further details on how small businesses and supporters can participate in NSW Small Business Month will be released in the coming weeks. For more information visit: smallbusinessmonth.nsw.gov.au 

November 14 - 20, 2021: Issue 518

This Issue: full list in Contents page 

Front Page Issue 518 

New Ambulance Station At Mona Vale Hospital Campus Now Open - return of dental services at MVH post-pandemic imminent

Labor Promises Council Demerger Referendum At Launch Of State-Wide Alliance

Pittwater On Notice That Sea Level Rise and Coastal Erosion Threaten Local Beaches - Angus Gordon Talk to APA AGM - by Miranda Korzy


Aquatics An Aquatics Mix: 22nd Annual Newport Surfboat Carnival On November 20th, RPAYC Youth Events + MC38 Nationals 2021 + New Life Members Named By Surf Life Saving Australia +  Surfing NSW Launches The Inaugural Aloha Award In Memory Of John Shimooka + NSW Boardrider Clubs And Surf Schools To Be Eligible For Grants To Encourage Female Participation

Park Bench Philosopher On The Intimate and Character-Revealing Photographs Of Linda McCartney – Paul’s Wife, and A Stunning Artist - The Linda McCartney Retrospective and The Ballarat International Foto Biennale run until January 9, 2022. Bookings are advised.

Environment Flowering Now: Blueberry Ash, Happening Now: Spotted Gums Shedding Bark - Part Of An Endangered Ecological Community, Woolworths Installs Recycled Plastic Seats In Australian Stores, Careel Creek: Dusky Moorhen In Residence - Please Keep Your Dogs On Their Leads, Pittwater Natural Heritage Association (PNHA): Pittwater Nature No:8 , Councils Urged To Get Scrap Together To Turn Food Waste Into Compost, Wild Pollinator Count: November 14-21, November 2021 Forum For Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment: Fishing Bats And Water Rats (Rakali), Draft Marine Park Management Plan Released, Home Gardeners In Sydney Basin To Help Protect Local Fruit And Vegetable Production: Get Your Free Sticky Trap, Migratory Bird Season, Baby Wildlife Season, Blockade Australia Purpose Statement + Actions, NSW, ACT And SA To Be Founding Members Of Net Zero Emissions Policy Forum At Glasgow, NSW National Parks Commits To Net Zero By 2028, Australia's First Renewable Energy Zone Declared, $13 Million To Halve Kooragang Island's Emissions And Support Jobs, New NSW Frog Species 'Hopping' Into Protection, Fine Issued For Emissions From Liddell Power Station, Fines For Coal Mine For Dirty Water Discharge: Whitehaven's Tarrawonga Coal Mine, $40 Million Clean Technology Grants Open, Green Hydrogen Feasibility Study Positions Port Of Newcastle To Drive A More Diverse Hunter Economy, NSW Government Plan To Revitalise Peat Island And Mooney Mooney Released, Grattan on Friday: Scott Morrison has a bingle or two on the campaign trail, White sharks can easily mistake swimmers or surfers for seals. Our research aims to reduce the risk, The ‘Ringo Starr’ of birds is now endangered – here’s how we can still save our drum-playing palm cockatoos, Morrison to link $500 million for new technologies to easing way for carbon capture and storage, As the world surges ahead on electric vehicle policy the Morrison government’s new strategy leaves Australia idling in the garage, Scott Morrison spruiks electric vehicles – but rules out subsidies and an end-date for petrol cars, COP26: cities create over 70% of energy-related emissions. Here’s what must change, Big-business greenwash or a climate saviour? Carbon offsets raise tricky moral questions, Take heart at what’s unfolded at COP26 in Glasgow – the world can still hold global heating to 1.5℃, COP26: what the draft climate agreement says – and why it’s being criticised, Can climate laggards change? Russia, like Australia, first needs to overcome significant domestic resistance, Scott Morrison is hiding behind future technologies when we should just deploy what already exists, Melbourne’s Buildings Could Be Close To Self-Sustaining Through Fully Integrated Solar, To reach net zero we must decarbonise shipping, Feel alone in your eco-anxiety?; Don’t – it’s remarkably common to feel dread about environmental decline, Yes young people are concerned about climate change; But it can drive them to take action, Australian companies are facing more climate-focused ESG resolutions than ever before and they are paying quiet dividends, On Twitter fossil fuel companies’ climate misinformation is subtle – here’s what I’m seeing during COP26, Why the Australian government must listen to Torres Strait leaders on climate change, COP26: meat eating is a big climate issue – but isn’t getting the attention it deserves, COP26: why education for girls is crucial in the fight against climate change, Bushcare In Pittwater, Community Gardens, Reserves History pages

Inbox News 'Cold Bone': Researchers Discover First Dinosaur Species That Lived On Greenland 214 Million Years Ago, A Quantum Leap In Faster and Safer Travel In NSW, First Sod Turned On $80 Million NSW Institute Of Applied Technology For Construction, AFP's Heart and Soul On Display At Canberra Museum And Gallery, Microbiome Discovery Could Help Save Kids’ Hearing, Global Temperatures Over Last 24,000 Years Show Today's Warming 'Unprecedented', Global River Database Documents 40 Years Of Change, Can't Find Your Keys?; You Need A Chickadee Brain

Lynne Czinner Park At Warriewood; Design and Management Of Park Feedback Sought + Concept For Belrose Bike Park

Australia Post Set To Deliver Christmas Cheer With Santa Mail (post by Dec. 3 ) + Australia Post Releases Christmas Delivery Deadlines

Profile of the Week George Repin

On Tuesday 9th November, 2021 family and friends gathered at Mona Vale to celebrate the life of George Dimitri Repin.

As regular Readers would know, George kindly shared his 'Reflections' from 2011 until 2018 in this news service, his last effort was 'Repins In Ladies in Black' when that film was released. This movie of 1950's Australia featured part of the Repin legacy to this country, remarked upon by actress Julia Ormond as the one place in this country you could get a decent cup of coffee in a nation still awash in cups of weak tea. 

Throughout 2019 we reran his great contributions not only because people wanted them run again, but because we were aware he was dealing with a health issue and wanted to give him a boost each time a new one was rerun. The link to his page has still not been taken out of the Issue Notice sent out each Sunday to the many lists of Subscribers. We loved him, love him still.

People from all over the world wrote to Pittwater Online News praising his articles; a gentleman from Japan recalled that he too had taken The Matson Line and loved seeing the Keepsake menus, another in the Netherlands loved his Keukenhof 1954, to see the tulips as they were then, while, closer to home, local indigenous peoples wanted to get in touch with George about his report on Aboriginal Art on Bigge Island as they had not seen the materials he presented, had a request in 2014 from the Art Gallery of NSW for the use of his New Guinea materials when they had an exhibition on Plumes and Pearshells, based on his 2012 The Goroka Show 1958 article. In fact, at times, it felt like this was 'George Repins' Online News!'; and it was good to be a buffer, when required, between those who sought him out and the man himself. There is definitely a Repin fan club in Australia that will not cease as long as we all have within us a need to look towards those who did great things from humble beginnings without much ado nor need for fanfare.

George, being George, would disclaim his efforts even when you explained how he not only connected with an older audience who cherished reliving these times, but also with our younger readership, who are hungry to see what came before them. He didn't ever want the 'AM' listed after his name when his next article ran - descried 'all that rubbish!'. He chose his subjects to be timely in some instances, Anzac Day, Flowers in Springtime. 

When Dr Catherine Hamlin passed away, George's report on his friend, 'Making A difference in Ethiopia', ran again, he could also speak, from personal experience, about Dr Zhisui Li, Chairman Mao’s personal physician from 1954 to Mao’s death in 1976 - in fact he opened the whole world for many of us, and reached hundreds of thousands of people all over Australia and the world, and does still.

Although we loved them all, could not wait for that next one to come in, it is those where he shared insights into his own culture and family that are cherished most - the Russian Fairy Tale Plates,  insights into street photographers, the Russian Ballet and places and people you knew he had frequented or known as a young man. When it was time to give him his space and quietness, the last one loaded into his page was Nicholas Himona, which features his relatives, and was another small private nodding to the Author from the editor. 

George would privately share insights into his family-based subjects - a wonderful privilege. All these great photographs were taken by him - all these wonderful experiences had been lived by him.

A self effacing gentle man who liked to 'get on with it', George was also generous in his help to establish this community noticeboard, introducing the editor to Sir Keith Jones, a former president of the Australian Medical Association (1973- 1976), who was definitely worth the long uphill trek to the RSL Veteran's  Village in Narrabeen in the Winter of 2011, just to meet him, to hear his voice, at Georges' urging of 'you go see him Alison, he's expecting you!'.

Georges' article in the Medical Journal of Australia, (197 (3): 186. || doi: 10.5694/mja12.11000, published online: 6 August 2012) after Sir Keith passed away, underlines his insistence on accuracy and not wasting words. He had remarked on several publications or biographies of his own family, especially his father Ivan, including old articles the editor would dig out of newspapers to show him; 'well that's wrong' and 'they haven't got it right, and I've told them but they still haven't corrected it'. However, he loved it when the editor would track down photos he hadn't seen before to support his stories, or find snippets  that gave him a laugh.

George Dimitri Repin was more than a great friend to this community though - he was also a great friend to the whole of Australia. 

The Tributes given at his Service provide insights into his works and love for his family. 

We thank those who spoke for the privilege of sharing these with his many friends here and overseas, and, as always, and as George encouraged us to, 'put it on the record for the records'.

Avalon Beach 100th Year Celebration T-Shirts

Help celebrate Avalon Beach turning 100 and pre-order your T shirt now, featuring iconic local artist Bruce Goold’s stunning logo design. Drop in and see Jen at Avalon Art Gallery/Art Depot in the Avalon Cinema arcade until November 30th to place your ore-order. 

Pre order forms are available below and at Avalon Art Gallery-Cinema Arcade: Wed-Sat 10-5 and Sunday 10-2. Order Pick up is Sunday December 19th at Avalon Car Boot Sale – Dunbar Park.

No extra T shirts will be available on the day.

Choose from two options in black or white (see pictures) $40-$45 in sizes from XS to XXL. 
So get your little piece of our 100 years and help support this fundraising effort to make Avalon Beach’s centenary celebrations something to remember.

More on the 100th Celebrations and the brand new Avalon Beach Culture Collective will run in Pittwater Online News On Sunday November 28th - Issue 520

CABPRA AGM 2021

World renowned sailor, Iain Murray will be the Clareville and Bilgola Plateau Residents' Association's   special guest at our AGM on November 30. We are excited to finally organise a get together in person. Put the date in your diary and come along and share a wine afterwards.

Starting 6.30 p.m. at Avalon Sailing Club Tuesday November 30. 
Current Covid protocols apply.

Iain Murray AM was the CEO of Race Management and Race Director of the 36th America’s Cup held in New Zealand in March this year. Iain Murray is a World Cup winning sailor. Amongst many other triumphs, Murray has won the 18ft Skiff World title, the JJ Giltinan International Trophy, for a record six consecutive years from 1977 to 1982. And he has won the Etchells World Cup –  twice.

Iain is a yachting Olympian, an America’s Cup yachtsman and a boat designer – he designed the modern version of the 18ft skiff. And he is a world-renowned sailing manager: he was Regatta Director for the 34th America’s Cup in 2013 and 35th America’s Cup in 2017.



Photo: RSYS

Better Flexibility For More Jobs Close To Home

November 12, 2021
The NSW Government is paving the way for more jobs closer to home through planning reforms to make it easier for businesses to set up, innovate and grow.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the system for identifying land for commercial and industrial activities had been simplified to provide more certainty, flexibility and support for businesses and their employees.

“The way businesses operate is evolving and that’s been accelerated by the pandemic. We’ve seen how agile and innovative they can be as they’ve found new ways to reach customers and support their communities,” Mr Stokes said.

“Our planning system needs to do the same. We’ve overhauled the employment zones to make it easier for businesses to set up and expand their operations and to compete in the global economy.”

The reforms cut the number of employment zones from 12 to five core zones, with changes to better reflect the way businesses use land, providing better access for their customers and employees.

“Fewer zones that permit more uses mean more investment, less red tape, and better job opportunities closer to home for local communities,” Mr Stokes said.

“This gives certainty to business, councils and the community about what can be built on land across NSW.”

The new zones are:
  • E1 Local Centre: provides for a range of retail business, entertainment, community uses that service a local area;
  • E2 Commercial Centre: large-scale commercial, retail, business and service development in strategic centres;
  • E3 Productivity Support: mix of industrial, commercial, creative, warehousing and emerging new industries that need larger floor space;
  • E4 General Industrial: light and general industrial, warehousing uses providing important services like waste management and concrete batching; and
  • E5 Heavy Industrial: hazardous and industries with odour and noise impacts that need to be separated from other urban areas.

The new employment zones come into effect within the Standard Instrument Principal Local Environmental Plan on 1 December 2021. This allows employment zones to be introduced after references to environment zones are updated, to reduce the risk of misinterpretation where environment zones are currently referred to by just the E prefix in environmental planning instruments. 
See conservation zones for further information:

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Stalls At Pittwater Place

We are finally able to return to Pittwater Place and are having stalls there on Friday 19th and Saturday 20th November.  Plus a Christmas stall also at Pittwater Place on Saturday 4th December.

We will be selling sewing, knitting, craft, jam, books from 8am to 3pm outside the Magic Elbow.



Newport Surf Boats Carnival: Saturday November 20th

On Newport Beach - part of the SLSNB 2021-2022 Premiership.
First block- 0800-1100 
Opens and Reserves
Second Block - 1100-1400
U23s and U19s
Entries close Monday November 15th


Photo: Bill Sheridan

Pre-Polling Booths LG Election 2021

Pre-Polling places:
MONA VALE:
Mona Vale Memorial Hall
Pittwater Road, Mona Vale NSW 2103
22 Nov 2021 - 03 Dec 2021
Mon - Sat: 9:00am - 5:00pm

AVALON:
Avalon Recreation Centre
59A Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon NSW 2107
22 Nov 2021 - 03 Dec 2021
Mon - Sat: 9:00am - 5:00pm

Collaroy Tennis Club Awarded Best In Metropolitan NSW

Council congratulates Collaroy Tennis Club which was recently awarded Most Outstanding Club in the metropolitan category by Tennis NSW.

The Council-owned club facilities are fully managed and operated by volunteers.

Mayor Michael Regan said it was a great tribute to the volunteers and community involved.

“Collaroy Tennis Club has done a fantastic job in getting the local community involved and making sure their facilities are first class and ensuring everyone feels part of the club, no matter their skill or ability.”

Collaroy Tennis Club President Vito Cincinnato said it was the first time a tennis club on the Northern Beaches had won the award.

“Collaroy Tennis Club celebrated its 99th anniversary this year and we have approximately 56,650 players use the courts every year, almost twice the normal state usage.

“I’m very proud of what we have achieved. We try to focus on fun, friendliness, and inclusiveness, and membership has increased 50% in the last 18 months.

“It is our strategic goal to have a program of continuous facility improvement that meets both the tennis and community expectations.

“The club undertakes several tennis programs for disadvantage groups in the community, including Rally4Ever, a tennis and fitness program for the homeless and people with mental health concerns.

“We are the only tennis club on the Northern Beaches with wheelchair access and a Mapei hardcourt which can be used by wheelchair players.

“By the end of year, the club will also be the only club in the Northern Beaches to be fully sustainable in its electricity requirements.”


Photo: Northern Beaches Council

New Vacation Care For Balgowlah Families

A new vacation care is coming to Balgowlah to relieve busy and exhausted families just in time for the summer school holidays.

Council is opening a new vacation care service at the existing North Harbour Pre-school after identifying demand for vacation care in the Balgowlah area.

The centre will be offering a pre-school vacation care program from January for children 4-6 years who are starting school in 2022 as well as school aged children aged 5 to 12 years.

Mayor Michael Regan said it would be a big relief for working parents in the Balgowlah area, especially after months of lockdown and online learning.

“The opening of this service couldn’t come at a better time for busy, working families,” Mayor Regan said.

“It’s a win for parents looking for quality, affordable care for their kids. And it’s going to be a blast for the children attending.

“The kids are going to love all of the fun and adventurous activities our educators have planned.”

School aged children can expect exciting excursions to Putt Putt Golf, Warringah Aquatic Centre and Warriewood movies.

Pre-school aged children will enjoy stimulating and educational activities at the centre, including art and craft, sports and outdoor play.

The Balgowlah vacation care service joins three existing Council operated centres offering high quality care for children aged between 5 and 12 years, during school holidays. Council’s other centres are located at Cromer, Forestville and Manly Vale.

The centres operate from Monday to Friday from 7.30am – 6pm during school holidays.

The vacation care programs are disability friendly, with extra support given to children with additional needs so they don’t miss out on all the fun. Please contact our vacation care team to discuss the process of registering your child.

Bookings for the summer school holidays will open on Monday 22 November.

SIRA AGM 2021 And Barbecue

Sunday, 14 November
AGM: Scotland Island Fire Station, 10 - 12 noon
Barbecue: Catherine Park, 12 - 2 pm
Due to COVID restrictions, SIRAC (the SIRA Committee) decided to delay the Annual General Meeting by one month so that more people can attend. It will now be held on Sunday, November 14, 10 am to 12 pm. It is likely that attendance by Zoom will be available as an alternative to attendance in person.

After the AGM, you are invited to attend a gathering in the park (with appropriate social distancing) from 12 noon to 2 pm. Sausages (including vegetarian options), salads and rolls will be provided. BYO drinks, but the Two Catherines Café is also open that day, and will stay open until 1 pm.

Information about nominations for the 2022 committee will be sent out shortly via SIRA News and on social media. Start thinking about who you’d like to nominate! SIRA encourages all islanders  – including newcomers – to become involved.


DoggieRescue.com

Pets Of The Week

Homer 

Boxer X Staffy 
12 mths old


Homer is bouncy happy fun loving affectionate boy. He is great with other dogs and is very playful. He enjoys the company of kids and women but can be nervous of certain types of men. He walks well on lead. He had a neurological issue which affected his movement which has been corrected surgically. MRI reveals he has a anachnoid cyst with adiverticulum and syringomyelia. This is the most complex surgery we have ever had done on a DR dog. Surgery has been a huge success and he now runs and plays like a normal dog. Homer is looking for an active female household. He has a short coat and weighs 18.8kg. All our dogs come 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 DoggieRescue Vet. His adoption fee is $400.To find out more contact DoggieRescue on 9486 3133or email Monika@DoggieRescue.com.

Arctic 

12mths old


Arctic is sweet very gentle long haired boy, part albino. He is deaf but that does not stop him enjoying life. He is looking for an indoor life with someone who loves brushing cats. He was born Nov 20. Arctic is a confident boy who would be happy to be the only cat in the household. His adoption fee is $220.All our cats come desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested and microchipped. For further details call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email  cats@doggierescue.com  

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.

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. 

Funding Boost For Local Sport

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes is encouraging sporting clubs in Pittwater to apply for funds under the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program.

More than $4.6 million in grants will be allocated across NSW for community sport development and upgrades to local sporting facilities.

The program aims to increase regular and on-going participation in sport and structured physical activity, remove barriers to participation, help sporting clubs provide quality service to their members, and increase the amount of well-managed facilities in local communities.

“Community sport is a big part in the physical and mental wellbeing of many Pittwater residents and it’s fantastic it’s recommenced locally after the recent lockdown,” Rob Stokes said today.

“These grants are a great opportunity for local clubs to apply for a funding boost and I’m looking forward to seeing this year’s projects.”

Applications close at 1pm on Friday 19 November 2019, and further information about the program is available at www.sport.nsw.gov.au/local-sport-grant-program

The NSW Government has also announced a $25 million Sport and Recreation and Community Rebuild Package to help support the recovery of community sport following the impact of COVID-19. Further information is available at www.sport.nsw.gov.au/recoverypackage

Monika’s DoggieRescue’s 2022 Calendar Is Out Now!

Monika’s DoggieRescue’s 2022 calendar has arrived! This is our biggest annual fundraiser and helps us continue to save the lives of dogs and cats on death row in NSW pounds. To date we have saved over 13,000 dogs and are home to around 100 dogs looking for their families. We rely on fundraising like our calendar to keep the doors open so please help us continue to save lives!

This year’s calendar was photographed by our volunteer photographer Dave Pigeon from The Dog’s Pyjamas. Dave has perfectly captured the different faces and emotions of our resident dogs, from Bowie looking hopefully to the future with a family of his own to sad Champ who isn’t sure what to do with himself facing another year without a home of his own.

Winston stars on the cover he found his way to Monika’s DoggieRescue from a Sydney pound and was discovered to be blind, his bandana reminds us all to be kind to those who have extract burdens to bear. Winston was lucky enough to be adopted just before the calendar arrived! 



This year’s calendar features 16 DoggieRescue dogs many of whom are still waiting at the shelter for their families to come.

At $20 the calendar is the perfect gift for dog loving friends and together we save more lives! Do something good for Christmas and give the gift of life.

About Monika’s DoggieRescue 
DoggieRescue is a Northern Beaches based no kill animal shelter, we’ve been in operation since 1998 with the primary objective of saving dogs and cats from death row in council pounds. We do not place a time limit on the lives of the animals we save and are often contacted about the more difficult animals in need. 
You can grab your copy from the shelter or from our website by clicking here:

Grants Available For NSW Small Business Month Events

The NSW Government is helping small businesses bounce back from the pandemic with up to $640,000 in grants available to help organisations host events to generate new ideas and connect with fellow entrepreneurs.

Grants of up to $2,500 for local councils and $3,500 for chambers of commerce, industry associations and not-for-profit groups are available to help them organise events for the fifth NSW Small Business Month in March 2022.

Member for Manly, James Griffin said Small Business Month was a unique opportunity to help the State’s hardworking small business owners by offering events that teach them new skills and inspire them with new ideas.

“Small businesses have been tested like never before with drought, floods, bushfires, the mouse plague and COVID-19. They've made enormous sacrifices to get where we are today and I want to acknowledge their hard work, effort and resilience,” Mr Griffin said.

Minister for Small Business, Damien Tudehope said the theme of this Small Business Month was `Rebuild, Recharge, Renew’.

“This reflects the Government’s determination to help small businesses recover and build a brighter, stronger future.

“The skills, resilience and ambition of NSW small businesses are vital to our economy and our communities,” Mr Tudehope said.

Applications for event grants open on 1 November, and must be submitted by 10 December with organisations encouraged to get online, review the grant guidelines and start preparing applications now. Grants are competitive and applications will be assessed against the published criteria.

The events must adhere to the relevant NSW Health advice, including having a COVID-safety plan, registration of all attendees, limiting the number of people in the venue, and attendees to remain seated as required at all events.

Further details on how small businesses and supporters can participate in NSW Small Business Month will be released in the coming weeks. For more information visit: smallbusinessmonth.nsw.gov.au 

Sydney Wildlife Recycled Bottles For Wildlife 2021

Sydney Wildlife Rescue is registered for return and earn in NSW. This time it is accessed by an App called My Tomra  - which is the organisation that runs the recycling. 

Once you have downloaded the My Tomra App. Just search “Our Wildlife” you will see Sydney Wildlife Rescue listed. You can set that as the payout. 

So you just scan the bar code from the App  at the recycling machine and the 10c will be donated to Sydney Wildlife Rescue. The machines can be located anywhere in NSW.  

Please have a look it’s a good way to support us to care for wildlife and do your bit to keep Australia Beautiful.

Sport And Recreation Infrastructure Grants Now Open

Applications are now open for the Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Grants program, designed to support the active sporting community on the Northern Beaches. 

There is $100,000 in grants available, with a minimum grant value of $10,000 and a maximum grant value of $50,000.

Eligible, incorporated, not for profit organisations can apply to build new or upgrade existing infrastructure on a Council owned or managed facility that improves local sport and recreation facilities.

Projects must do one or more of these:
  • increase opportunities for participation in sport, recreation and active play
  • improve the viability of sport and recreation groups
  • develop safe, accessible and family-friendly facilities.
Mayor Michael Regan encouraged eligible sporting clubs and organisations to apply.

“We’ve been able to support 14 clubs through this program over the past three years, helping to fund their small to medium-sized projects.

“We helped the Careel Bay Tennis Club with a new sunshade over their children’s play equipment, Manly Warringah Junior Cricket Association with eight new cricket nets at Nolan Reserve and the Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club to make improvements to the change facilities at their Jamieson Park clubhouse.

“I’d encourage all sporting groups to learn more about the grants program and see if there is a way they can be supported.”

Applications close midnight Sunday 28 November. Apply here: 

Call For Entries: North Sydney Art Prize 2022

Entries are now open for the North Sydney Art Prize 2022, a major biennial arts event showcasing some of the best in contemporary art by emerging, mid-career and established artists.

Artists from across Australia are invited to submit entries for the 16-day exhibition to be held from 14 to 29 May 2022 at the iconic Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability in Waverton. This unique site enables broad participation and accommodates the inclusion of all mediums.

Indoor and outdoor works will be selected for exhibition in the Caretakers Cottage, Artist Studio, Platform, tunnels, 25 chambers and surrounding parklands. All proposals for the tunnels and chambers must first be discussed with the Curator prior to the submission of entries.

Due to the nature of this unique post-industrial site installation, site specific and sculptural works are encouraged.

Awards to the value of $41,000 with six award categories including:
  • Major Open Award $20,000
  • Award for Sculpture $12,000
  • Site Specific Award $5,000
  • Emerging Artist Award $2,000
  • Work/on with Paper Award $1,000
  • Award for Drawing $1,000
North Sydney Council acknowledges and sincerely thanks Australian Catholic University, Primrose Park Art & Crafts Centre Inc and the Royal Art Society of NSW for their generous sponsorship of the North Sydney Art Prize.

Entries close November 30th 2021. 


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

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

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

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

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

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: November 1

Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Poor Water Quality - Offensive Odours At Warriewood

Residents of Warriewood valley along with Surfrider Foundation Northern Beaches have reported bad odours in the valley and polluted waters offshore, related to the Warriewood Treatment plant this week. High rainfall has exacerbated the problem and this is likely to impact on Warriewood and Turimetta beaches with tides. 

A Beachwatch alert of poor water quality at Birdwood Park, Narrabeen Lagoon, is in place with the advice to avoid swimming in this area at present.

Similar alerts are currently in place for Barrenjoey Beach (Station Beach) and Bayview baths. As a general precaution, swimming in Pittwater should be avoided for up to three days following rainfall or for as long as stormwater is present.

NSW Water has reported algae blooms along the Sydney coast, which may appear as brown or reddish slicks at the water surface. As a precaution, direct contact with the algae should be avoided as it can cause skin and eye irritations. It is expected the algae blooms will dissipate with changes in tide and wind conditions.

You can check on your local beach or swimming area before going swimming at:  www.environment.nsw.gov.au/beachapp/PittwaterBulletin


Newport Residents Association AGM 2021 

Finally we are back and our next meeting is our AGM Tuesday evening 16th November 2021
 7.00 pm Activity Room 1, Newport Community Centre, The Boulevard, Newport NSW

PLEASE NOTE THAT UNDER COVID RULES ALL IN ATTENDENCE HAVE TO BE DOUBLE VACCINATED

If you would like to stand for a committee position please complete the nomination form obtained from this link and bring with you to the meeting.

Hear presentations from Simon Barlow of the Save Robertson Road campaign and Selena Webber, local Architect and NRA member. We then invite you to tell us what you think. Please come and contribute, this is very important.


Tie-Up Mooring Fees For Bells And Carols Wharves: Have Your Say

The Council currently manage four public wharves across Pittwater and Western Foreshores where residents can tie-up their dinghies. Private watercraft owners are charged fees to use the tie-up facilities on our wharves which are used to keep the areas tidy, safe and accessible.

The upgrading Bells and Carols Wharves on Scotland Island will provide an extra 32 tie-ups at each wharf, bringing the total tie-ups at Bells Wharf to 40 and 74 at Carols Wharf. Once completed, Council will take on the ongoing management of the tie-up moorings at these two locations.

Currently 28 tie-up moorings at Carols Wharf and four tie-up moorings at Bells Wharf are impacted by the low tide. This means that vessels using moorings at these locations will have little or no water underneath them throughout the every month.

Council are proposing two new fees, at a 50 percent reduction from the current annual permit for these ‘shallow tie-up’ (tidal affected) sites.

View the proposed fees here and have your say by:
Submissions close: Sunday 28 November 2021

Men Of League Xmas Function 

Will be at Nth Narrabeen SLSC club commencing at 4pm, on Friday 3rd. December 2021.

The team at MOL have done a wonderful job over the years supporting their fellow members when they are down on hard times. Please make an effort to attend and support this wonderful cause.



2019 MOL Xmas do - photo courtesy Brian Friend OAM

Naming Proposal: Murradjulbi Lane, Avalon

The laneway adjacent to Bellevue Avenue, Avalon is currently unnamed and provides access to the driveway of the residential property at 47 Bellevue Avenue, Avalon; access to Chakana Day Spa at the rear of 45A Avalon Parade; and is used by businesses from 47-55 Avalon Parade as a loading zone.



To improve wayfinding and provide businesses with a specific address to reference Council propose to name the laneway Murradjulbi Lane. It's pronounced Mur-ra-jul-bee and means ‘Singing Bushlark’ Lane.

The name was put forward by the Aboriginal Heritage Office (AHO) and is in the local aboriginal language for road naming purposes within the Northern Beaches Local Government Area.

The naming proposal has been pre-approved by the Geographical Names Board (GNB) of NSW. It is being carried out in-line with guidelines of both the GNB of NSW and Council’s Policy for the Naming of our Reserves, Facilities and Roads.

Council give notice of intention to name this road in accordance with Section 162 of the Roads Act 1993 and Section 7 of the Roads Regulation 2018. View the location map and have your say on this proposal by:

completing the submission form 
emailing council@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au
writing to Council marked: 'Avalon laneway naming proposal - Murradjulbi Lane' PO Box 82, Manly NSW, 1655.
Submissions close Wednesday 8 December, 2021.

Palm Beach Longboarders: December Comp

We will not be running our November competition due to COVID issues. It would not be fair to run it as only those members who are double vaccinated are permitted. So we will have a cracker Christmas December comp, and call it a season. Details will be posted up here, soon.

We're a longboarding club of mature groms and grommets meeting beachside at 7am on the first Sunday of each month.




Photo: Adriaan van der Wallen

Sun Run 2022

Runners across Sydney are warming up for Sun Run 2022, which will be one of the first major running events to be held since state-wide lockdowns began.

The 7km and 10km running events will be held on Saturday 5 February 2022 and participants are encouraged to raise funds for a cause close to their heart.

Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan invited runners from across Sydney and further afield to enter the Sun Run.

“We are absolutely pumped to host the first major running event in 2022,” Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan said.

“Many major running events and festivals were cancelled or held virtually over the past eighteen months, so we know runners of all ages and levels are desperate to get out there and compete.

“The Sun Run is also a fun day out for families, with kids under 5 running for free.

“With Sydney opening-up again and a new year with new resolutions, it’s a great time to challenge yourself, get back into running and have a lot of fun with family and friends.”

The 7km and 10km course follow the picturesque coast from Dee Why to Manly Beach.

In line with announced easing of restrictions in the NSW Roadmap, Northern Beaches Council is planning to deliver a range of events over the summer period that will encourage residents and visitors to come together safely in our open spaces.

Discounted early bird entries open today which offers participants a $20 saving on their entry fee up until 9 December. With capacity restrictions in place, participants are encouraged to enter early.

For more information or to enter visit sunrun.com.au


$50 Million To Play, Splash And Roam

NSW is set for an outdoor renaissance this summer, with the Government providing $50 million in new and improved parks and public spaces.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said the Government’s economic recovery package would result in more places to play, splash and roam.

“We’re setting aside $50 million for new places to swim or paddle, improved play spaces, and more trails that connect communities to their parklands,” Mr Perrottet said.

“With Greater Sydney offering some of the most beautiful river, lake, and bushland environments, this package will mean everyone can discover more of the hidden gems in their own backyard.

“Lockdown showed us that we need more public spaces that are better connected with more recreation facilities, and that’s exactly what this funding will help achieve.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the $50 million investment would go towards adventure, nature, and water play opportunities.

“While lockdown is over, it highlighted that people living closer to the coastline have far more natural swimming spots than those living in our west,” Mr Stokes said.

“This program will create new opportunities to dive into places like our stunning harbour, Parramatta or Nepean Rivers, take a hike in the bush, or ride along a new nature trail.”

“Children will have more opportunities to play and connect with nature and there’ll be funding to create more community garden and greenway projects for everyone to enjoy.”

The Government’s $50 million Open Space program includes: 
  • Places to Swim ($16.7 million): New swimming and kayaking locations across Greater Sydney’s lakes, rivers, and harbour
  • Places to Play ($16.7 million): Additional public open spaces for play and adventure, for people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds across NSW
  • Places to Roam ($16.7 million): New and upgraded regional trails, better active transport corridors, and connected bushland, parks, and gardens across Greater Sydney.
Expressions of interest (EOIs) are being sought from Metropolitan Greater Sydney councils and eligible NSW Government agencies and entities for pilot projects that can commence immediately. Applicants will be able to submit an EOI via a link on the website from 15 November 2021. Submissions will need to be submitted by 4pm Friday 30 November 2021.

Applications for round 1 grant program for Places to Swim will open 15 November 2021 and close 4 March 2022 at 4pm.

Developer Contribution Transparency A Good First Step; More To Do

A state-wide council campaign to ensure communities do not miss out on important local infrastructure is delivering results, with the NSW Government today going public with the detail of the proposed changes.

Local Government NSW President Linda Scott said the NSW government today placed its proposed Infrastructure Contributions Package on public exhibition for analysis and feedback from councils, property developers and communities.

“This is a real improvement on the rushed and secretive way this proposed package was last month pushed through the lower house of Parliament, buried in other legislation,” Cr Scott said.

The Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment (Infrastructure Contributions) Bill 2021 which passed the lower house gave no guarantees that contributions would be spent where they are collected.

“Infrastructure contributions are made by developers and are a critical co-funding measure to deliver footpaths and cycleways, parks, playgrounds, playing fields, skate parks, basketball courts, libraries, childcare centres and public pools – even street lighting, stormwater and drainage facilities,” Cr Scott said.

“The community expects local infrastructure funds to be invested locally; no-one wants to see infrastructure funds hoarded for potential pork-barrelling.”

More than 200 mayors, councillors and general managers came together last month to express outrage at the proposed reforms – described by the development body Urban Taskforce as a “tax grab”.

LGNSW subsequently launched the Say No To The Contributions Cash Grab campaign, with 67 councils already passing minutes condemning the proposed changes.

“We need the Government to commit in the legislation that infrastructure contributions will be allocated fairly, transparently and locally.

“We need written, legislative guarantees the no council or community will be worse off as a result.

“As these government reforms have switched developer contribution payments to the end of a project, councils need funding to continue their infrastructure program, ensure jobs aren’t lost and parks and playgrounds continue to be built.

“I thank the Minister for continuing to work with LGNSW to ensure no council is financially worse off under these reforms.”

The New framework for state infrastructure contributions is on exhibition for feedback until December 10th, 2021 at: 

Warringah Rugby Club 2021 AGM

Notice is hereby given that the fifty seventh (57th) Annual General Meeting of the Warringah Rugby Club Limited will be held at Pittwater Rugby Club, 1472 Pittwater Road, Warriewood on Sunday, 21 November 2021 at 9.00am.

Nominations of Office Bearers and other Directors must be in writing and be lodged with the Club General Manager at the club at least eight (8) days prior to the Annual General Meeting. Each nomination must bear the signatures of the nominee and two (2) financial members.

Agenda. 
Please click here for the agenda

Proxies.
Proxy forms will be available on request from the office on 0402 192 311 or by email to info@warringahrugby.com.au.

The following points should be noted with respect to proxies.
  • If you are entitled, in accordance with the Constitution of the Company, to attend and vote at a meeting of the Company, you are entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in your place at the meeting.
  • A proxy does not have to be a member of the Company.
  • A proxy appointed by you will have the right to speak at the meeting but is not entitled to vote except on a poll unless the Constitution of the Company otherwise provides.
  • Your proxy will be able to demand or join in demanding a poll. You may specify the manner in which your proxy is to vote and where you do so, your proxy is entitled to vote on the resolution except as you specify.
  • The proxy form must be signed by you personally or by your attorney.
By Order of the Board

Phillip Parsons.
President.

Australian Seabird Rescue Calendar 2022 + Sea Turtle Hospital Expansion

Congratulations to Josh Blank who's image has been selected for the ASRCC 2022 fundraising calendar. Pre-order your calendar today from https://photoplankton.com.au/product/2022-asrcc-calendar/



In 2022 Australian Seabird Rescue are aiming to rebuild and expand our Sea Turtle Hospital due to the rapid increase in sea turtle strandings in NSW.

We are starting our first fundraising campaign to help us get us there - Raffle Raffle Raffle!  Who doesn’t love a good raffle and wait until you see the prizes. 
  • 1st prize - 3 night stay at Elements of Byron for 2 people
  • 2nd prize - 2 tickets for Out of the Blue Adventures, Ballina.
  • 3rd prize - A night in the spa room for 2 at the Ramada Suites, Ballina.
How to purchase a ticket online
- Scroll down and select the number of tickets you would like to purchase followed by Buy Now 
- And follow the payment details. 

If you wish to contribute to this project another way please head to our website to donate. 

The raffle will be drawn 31st Jan 2022.

Development Assessment Processes In Local Councils: Assessment Stage

By Audit Office of NSW
The Audit Office of New South Wales is planning to commence an audit in 2021-22 into the development assessment (DA) process in local councils. 

The audit will assess the extent to which the assessment of DAs by selected councils aligns with relevant legislation and relevant guidance from the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment and the Independent Commission Against Corruption. 

This audit is open for submissions and we welcome information regarding insights and experiences with the DA process including the assessment of DAs by local councils. 

Contributions will be accepted until 10 am 23 November 2021.

Any person or entity, including local councils, can make a submission. Submissions could include what local councils do well, or what they could improve in the DA process to ensure the process is efficient, effective and done in compliance with relevant laws and policy.  Those making submissions should consider that the Auditor-General cannot question the merits of government policy objectives. The Auditor-General focuses on assessing whether activities undertaken by government authorities are efficient, effective, economical and in compliance with the law.

Councils to be audited have not yet been identified. Councils to be audited will be selected during audit scoping and planning. Local councils subject to performance audits are selected based on targeted, objective criteria relevant to the audit topic.

We will consider your contribution in the context of the role of the Audit Office, other audit evidence and its relevance to the topic, and may not reference it in the tabled report. We will not publish your name or other identifying details, or your contribution, in our reports or on our website.



 

Click on logo above to visit their website.

November 7 - 13, 2021: Issue 517

This Issue: 

Front Page Issue 517 

2020-21 State Of The Beaches Report: Birdwood Park - Bilarong Reserve Still 'Poor' For Water Quality

Rally To Launch Demerge NSW Alliance: Tuesday November 9, 2021

Teens Calm Thinking - Action During Surf Incident At Newport Demonstrates Value Of Bronze Medallion

2022 NSW Surf Life Saving Championships To Be Hosted Here: 24 February through to 13 March

Covid Safety Restrictions Ease As Vaccinations Rise In NSW + NSW Embraces 1 November Roadmap Milestone + Dominic Perrottet and Daniel Andrews Agree To Open Borders Between NSW And Victoria


Kimberley Country - by Robyn McWilliam

Aquatics 2021 24 Hour Row For Mental Fitness Raises The Roof In Letting All Know 'You're Not Alone - Wherever And Whenever'!

Park Bench Philosopher  The Landscapes Of Pittwater As Shown Through The Colonial Wandering Sketcher Artist   

DIY Ideas Mow For Your Bros. This Movember: Some Lawn Care Tips To Keep Your Grass Greener This Summer - Aerate, Worm Up!, Fertilise, Watering, Mowing Basics

Environment A letter to school strikers from ‘the physicist behind net zero’, Long Reef: Special By Any Measure, Manly Stormwater, Pittwater Natural Heritage Association (PNHA): Pittwater Nature No:8, Native Bees - Community Webinars, Avalon Preservation Association AGM 2021, Wild Pollinator Count: November 14-21, November 2021 Forum For Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment: Fishing Bats And Water Rats (Rakali), Draft Marine Park Management Plan Released, Home Gardeners In Sydney Basin To Help Protect Local Fruit And Vegetable Production: Get Your Free Sticky Trap, Migratory Bird Season, Baby Wildlife Season, Winning Hawkesbury Photos Make 2022 Calendar, Torres Strait Peoples Suing Australian Government Over Climate Change Inaction, Illegal Bike Track At Mount Keira To Be Closed And Rehabilitated, NSW Land Management Report 2018-2020, Land Clearing In NSW Must End For Australia To Meet Its New COP26 Deforestation Pledge, Return Of Indigenous Farming, Foods And Fire Could Help Regenerate Australia, Billions Of Dollars From Overseas Is Helping Exploit Australian Fossil Fuels, One Year On: Royal Commission Recommendations Left Burning, PM Presented An Unbelieved Climate Con To COP26: Climate Council, Legislating Emissions Targets Would Be A Step Forward For NSW, $40 Million Clean Technology Grants Open, Wildlife First Response Training For Firefighters, ‘Bunyip Bird’ Takes Centre Stage At 2022 Australian Bittern Summit, Western Sydney Wildlife Crossing A Success, St John’s Wort Spreading In Warrumbungle Shire, ECNT And EDO Take Keith Pitt’s Fracking Grants To Federal Court, Fracking Companies Targeting Polluting Shale Oil On Lake Eyre Basin Floodplains, Early Decision Opposes Bundaberg Coal Mine Proposal, Rylstone Residents Celebrate Recommendation Against Releasing Their Backyard To New Coal Mining, Dial-A-Dump Fined For Tracking Sediment From Eastern Creek Site, Warragamba Dam Raising Project EIS On Public Exhibition, NSW Government Plan To Revitalise Peat Island And Mooney Mooney Released, COP26: it’s half-time at the crucial Glasgow climate change summit – and here’s the score, 5 major heatwaves in 30 years have turned the Great Barrier Reef into a bleached checkerboard, Australia’s refusal to sign a global methane pledge exposes flaws in the term ‘net-zero’, COP26: global deforestation deal will fail if countries like Australia don’t lift their game on land clearing, Forests can’t handle all the net-zero emissions plans – companies and countries expect nature to offset too much carbon, Can selective breeding of ‘super kelp’ save our cold water reefs from hotter seas?, Global emissions almost back to pre-pandemic levels after unprecedented drop in 2020 new analysis shows, Australia is about to be hit by a carbon tax whether the prime minister likes it or not; except the proceeds will go overseas, Closing the loophole: a minimum wage for Australia’s farm workers is long overdue, Bushcare In Pittwater, Community Gardens, Reserves History pages

Inbox News New RFS Helicopters And Aviation Centre Of Excellence For Regional NSW, Becoming Silent; The Sounds Of Birds In Spring Show A Decline, Number Of Premature Deaths Worldwide Caused By Consumption In G20 Nations: 78,000 premature deaths of infants, Final Route Announced For The Dungowan Dam Pipeline, Sydney Set For Thousands Of New Homes: Wilton Growth Area + Rhodes Place Strategy, Increased Frequency Of Extreme Ice Melting In Greenland Raises Global Flood Risk, Researchers Boost Human Mental Function With Brain Stimulation, Shipwreck Reveals Secrets Of 17th -Century Dutch Seafaring Domination: Batavia - Western Australia, The 5:2 Diet: A Good Choice For Gestational Diabetes

Lynne Czinner Park At Warriewood; Design and Management Of Park Feedback Sought + Concept For Belrose Bike Park

Australia Post Set To Deliver Christmas Cheer With Santa Mail (post by Dec. 3 ) + Australia Post Releases Christmas Delivery Deadlines

Profile of the Week Terry Kirkpatrick - North Palm Beach SLSC

North Palm Beach SLSC is celebrating 75 years of serving the community this Season. Originally formed among those who camped in Governor Phillip Park, a series of near accidents caused a group of these campers and local families to form patrols at this end of Palm Beach. In 1939 the 'Barrenjoey Surf Life Saving Club' was established, originally set up in the Beacon Store (located opposite the current  Barrenjoey Boat House) and was made 'officially' the North Palm Beach SLSC in 1946. 

This quiet end of the peninsula becomes very popular over Summer, people like stepping into a quiet green area where, if you look up to the headland, the view has not changed that much in over a140 years. This is a unique Sydney club, whose patrol areas stretch to a National Park, and made popular by its use in well-known television drama Home & Away.

North Palm Beach Surf Life Saving Club has always been at the forefront of lifesaving innovation. Many of the patrolling procedures techniques and items of equipment that have become the standard ways of doing things these days were pioneered on North Palm Beach. This was largely due to necessity. The lifesavers at North Palm Beach had the longest area of beach in Sydney to patrol with only a relatively small number of active members. Not only that, the nearest ambulance had to come from Narrabeen and on busy weekends it could take up to two hours for medical assistance to be available.

In the 1980s Dr Yeo the Spinal Surgeon from Royal North Shore Hospital worked with the lifesavers at North Palm Beach to develop the techniques and equipment for dealing with spinal injuries in the surf. He spent hours in the surf while the club members experimented on him using various neck supports and trialling different techniques for moving the patient out of the water. Many of these techniques have been adopted by Surf Life Saving and are used on beaches throughout Australia.

In the days before the radio repeater network the club was the first to use UHF (Ultra High Frequency) radios to cover the vast distance patrolled. 

North Palm Beach SLSC was one of the first clubs to introduce roving patrols where members walked the length of the beach away from the traditional flagged area and it was the first Surf Club to own a four wheel drive vehicle and to use it as an integral part of patrolling the beach.

In the late 1970s North Palm Beach SLSC joined with Palm Beach and Whale Beach Surf Life Saving Clubs to operate a jet-boat service for the northern part of the peninsula. The lifesavers at North Palm Beach were also among the first clubs to use IRBs rubber ducks as integral patrol equipment in the 1980s. The use of IRBs and jet boats made it much easier to patrol the large water area covered by the club and provide assistance to the many swimmers windsurfers and kite surfers that use the stretch of beach at the base of Barrenjoey Headland. Also during the 1980s many members of North Palm Beach were among the first volunteer crew on the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service. As part of the Sydney 2000 Olympics lifesavers from North Palm Beach SLSC provided specialist water safety in Sydney Harbour for the triathlon events. 

New Members are needed for this surf club beneath Barrenjoey. YOU can Train for your Bronze Medallion or become a First Aider while making new friends and making a difference. 

Find out more at: www.northpalmbeach.com.au/joining
Website: www.northpalmbeach.com.au
On Facebook: www.facebook.com/northpalmbeachslsc

This week a few insights from North Palm Beach SLSC Member Terry Kirkpatrick on why this is the best surf club for him. 

Have you ever wondered why Warringah Shire Council suggested the name 'Hale smith for a new street at Bayview? Or who Jack Holding, born and raised in Mona Vale and honoured on Mona Vale Park's Memorial was?

Remembrance Day 2021 will be honoured on Thursday 11th of November - this Issue, we Remember Them

Rally To Launch Demerge NSW Alliance  

Pittwater de-amalgamation supporters will join the launch this week of a new state-wide group committed to giving residents of merged local government areas a say in whether they want to return to their former councils.
 
The official launch of the Demerge NSW Alliance will take place at the “Tree of Knowledge” in the Domain, immediately behind NSW Parliament House, on Tuesday (November 9) at 12 midday. 
 
The Demerge NSW Alliance (DNA) is a new coalition of citizens and community groups including Protect Pittwater as well as Sydney’s Inner West, north to the Mid North Coast and south to Bombala.
 
It will champion the demerger of councils that were undemocratically and forcibly amalgamated by the state government in 2016, including a large number that are failing to deliver financially.
 
Amongst speakers at the launch will be:
Labor MP Greg Warren
Greens MP David Shoebridge
Shooters, Fishers and Farmers MP Robert Borsak
Independent MP Dr Joe McGirr
Grantley Ingram (Save Bombala & DNA)
Brian Halstead (DNA)
Phil Jenkyn (Save Our Councils Coalition)
Inner West Mayor Rochelle Porteous and representatives of other merged councils.
 
Protect Pittwater chairman Bob Grace said the group supports DNA and called on Pittwater residents to join the launch.
 
“Protect Pittwater is not going away and the demerger movement will gain new strength from this state-wide alliance,” Mr Grace said.
 
“Pittwater councillors have failed to make any attempt to bring back a separate Pittwater.
 
“We will not stop until we have our own council back.”
 
Protect Pittwater recently wrote to councillors in the Pittwater ward asking them to put up a motion at their Northern Beaches Council meeting for a demerger poll at the December 4 local government election. 
 
The DNA is supporting a demerger poll which the Inner West Council has voted to hold at the election.
 
DNA will:
  • Support candidates in upcoming council elections who commit to giving their community a say on demerging
  • Support parliamentarians who commit to enacting legislative changes to introduce binding plebiscites on demerging 
  • Campaign in upcoming state by-elections to promote candidates that support changing the legislation. 
If you would like to join the Pittwater contingent at the launch and would like to take a Protect Pittwater banner with you, please contact Sue Young on 0402 979 025.
 

Centenary Of May Gibbs’ Little Obelia Opened

In celebration of the publication centenary of May Gibbs' Little Obelia, Nutcote has curated a multi-platform exhibition reflecting on the impact and influence of May Gibbs. 

Pittwater's Selena Griffith,  Exhibition curator, said she was inspired by the love that fans of May Gibbs display, and the incredible detail in May Gibbs’ illustrations, which are so accurate that most of the plants and animals can be scientifically identified. 

In the afternoon, as Patron, Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC, Governor of New South Wales, and Mr Dennis Wilson, attended the opening exhibition commemorating the Centenary of May Gibbs’ Little Obelia, at May Gibbs’ Nutcote. 

Running throughout November 2021 until April 2022, the centenary celebrations will include a series of events and an exhibition in Nutcote House and its beautiful harbourside garden. 

For further information, visit: www.maygibbs.com.au



 Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC, Governor of New South Wales and Selena Griffith at the opening.

Extension To Call Out Blue Plaque Nominations To Celebrate Our State's Heritage

Due to the strong interest in the NSW Blue Plaques Program, communities across the state will have an additional two weeks to nominate heritage places linked to notable personalities and events for recognition.  

Local Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of the Legislative Council (MLCs) have been asking their communities to provide suggestions on sites which represent a significant story, person or event.

The deadline for Blue Plaque nominations from MPs and MLCs has been extended to the 14th of November, giving communities additional time to make suggestions to their local member.

Minister responsible for Heritage Don Harwin said the response from communities about the much-loved program has been wonderful.

“Suggestions for Blue Plaques are coming in from across the state,” Mr Harwin said.

“Behind every plaque is a story. We want everyone to be involved in making suggestions to their local MP or MLC so we can recognise the people and places in history that matter most to local communities.

“We want to hear the stories and recognise local people, buildings and places, and the important historical events that happened across our communities. There are hidden gems with stories that deserve to be told.”

MP for Pittwater Rob Stokes said ''Many travelling through the UK have noticed the historical notes on blue plaques which provide additional charm and insight to a local area.''

“This is a great opportunity to highlight the fascinating historical points of interest in our community, and right throughout NSW.”

MPs and MLCs will now have until November 14th 2021 to submit their nominations to Heritage NSW for consideration.

The NSW Blue Plaques program is delivered through Heritage NSW.


There are a few pages focused on Pittwater's History listed in the Contents page if you're looking for inspiration and ideas.

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Stalls At Pittwater Place

We are finally able to return to Pittwater Place and are having stalls there on Friday 19th and Saturday 20th November.  Plus a Christmas stall also at Pittwater Place on Saturday 4th December.

We will be selling sewing, knitting, craft, jam, books from 8am to 3pm outside the Magic Elbow.



Pre-Polling Booths LG Election 2021

Pre-Polling places:
MONA VALE:
Mona Vale Memorial Hall
Pittwater Road, Mona Vale NSW 2103
22 Nov 2021 - 03 Dec 2021
Mon - Sat: 9:00am - 5:00pm

AVALON:
Avalon Recreation Centre
59A Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon NSW 2107
22 Nov 2021 - 03 Dec 2021
Mon - Sat: 9:00am - 5:00pm

NB: Pittwater Online News' 2021 Local Government Election Candidates report will run Sunday November 21st. Candidates who wish to be included in this are asked to email their interest, if they have not already done so, by no later than November 8th to: pittwateronlinenews@live.com.au


Local Council Elections are on Saturday 4th Dec!  
It's mandatory to vote so you may as well make your vote count. Want to know where your candidates stand on climate in the post-Covid recovery? 
 
We are collaborating with community groups across the northern beaches to give a platform to the people vying to represent us. 
 
The forum will allow candidates the chance to outline their (or their party’s or group’s) approaches to issues of the environment and the related economics – issues that are of particular concern to people in our community as we emerge from Covid and face concurrent global challenges.  
 
We want the answer to the questions: The Environment. Who will fix it? Who will fund it? 
 
The Northern Beaches is divided into 5 wards, so get a free ticket for your ward.  
 
When: 7:30 – 8:30pm 
Online via Zoom. 
 
NARRABEEN:           Mon 15th Nov www.bit.ly/2022narrabeen 
PITTWATER:          Tues 16th Nov www.bit.ly/2022pittwater 
FRENCHS FOREST:  Wed 17th Nov www.bit.ly/2022frenchsforest 
MANLY:                  Thurs 18th Nov www.bit.ly/2022manly 
CURL CURL:          Fri 19th Nov www.bit.ly/2022curly 


Avalon Preservation Association AGM 2021

Speaker: Angus Gordon OAM
“Global warming, is it real?”
The 2021 Annual General Meeting for Avalon Preservation Association (APA) will be held from 7.00pm on Thursday 11 November 2021 at the Avalon Beach surf life saving club.

Our special guest speaker is Angus Gordon OAM. Angus will talk on the controversial and very timely topic “Global Warming, Is it Real?”

Angus was General Manager of Pittwater Council from 1996 to 2005. He has a Master’s degree in Water and Coastal Engineering. In 2018 Angus received the Medal of the Order of Australia for “service to environmental management and planning, and to the community”.

Over the past 40 years he has undertaken projects in all states of Australia and in a number of overseas countries in coastal engineering, coastal zone management and flood management and engineering.
Angus has served as a UN expert and was tasked with the development of the NSW Coastal Protection Act.


Angus Gordon OAM. AJG pic.

Due to the current health situation, APA will hold the AGM strictly in line with the NSW Public Health Orders in force at the time. This may restrict the number of members and guests able to attend and guests may need to check in with a QR code, wear facemasks and show that they have been fully vaccinated.

Funding Boost For Local Sport

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes is encouraging sporting clubs in Pittwater to apply for funds under the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program.

More than $4.6 million in grants will be allocated across NSW for community sport development and upgrades to local sporting facilities.

The program aims to increase regular and on-going participation in sport and structured physical activity, remove barriers to participation, help sporting clubs provide quality service to their members, and increase the amount of well-managed facilities in local communities.

“Community sport is a big part in the physical and mental wellbeing of many Pittwater residents and it’s fantastic it’s recommenced locally after the recent lockdown,” Rob Stokes said today.

“These grants are a great opportunity for local clubs to apply for a funding boost and I’m looking forward to seeing this year’s projects.”

Applications close at 1pm on Friday 19 November 2019, and further information about the program is available at www.sport.nsw.gov.au/local-sport-grant-program

The NSW Government has also announced a $25 million Sport and Recreation and Community Rebuild Package to help support the recovery of community sport following the impact of COVID-19. Further information is available at www.sport.nsw.gov.au/recoverypackage

Grants Available For NSW Small Business Month Events

The NSW Government is helping small businesses bounce back from the pandemic with up to $640,000 in grants available to help organisations host events to generate new ideas and connect with fellow entrepreneurs.

Grants of up to $2,500 for local councils and $3,500 for chambers of commerce, industry associations and not-for-profit groups are available to help them organise events for the fifth NSW Small Business Month in March 2022.

Member for Manly, James Griffin said Small Business Month was a unique opportunity to help the State’s hardworking small business owners by offering events that teach them new skills and inspire them with new ideas.

“Small businesses have been tested like never before with drought, floods, bushfires, the mouse plague and COVID-19. They've made enormous sacrifices to get where we are today and I want to acknowledge their hard work, effort and resilience,” Mr Griffin said.

Minister for Small Business, Damien Tudehope said the theme of this Small Business Month was `Rebuild, Recharge, Renew’.

“This reflects the Government’s determination to help small businesses recover and build a brighter, stronger future.

“The skills, resilience and ambition of NSW small businesses are vital to our economy and our communities,” Mr Tudehope said.

Applications for event grants open on 1 November, and must be submitted by 10 December with organisations encouraged to get online, review the grant guidelines and start preparing applications now. Grants are competitive and applications will be assessed against the published criteria.

The events must adhere to the relevant NSW Health advice, including having a COVID-safety plan, registration of all attendees, limiting the number of people in the venue, and attendees to remain seated as required at all events.

Further details on how small businesses and supporters can participate in NSW Small Business Month will be released in the coming weeks. For more information visit: smallbusinessmonth.nsw.gov.au 

A Boost For The Manly Visitor Economy Is On The Way

November 1, 2021
A new Manly Tourism and Events Co-operative, ‘Experience Manly’ has launched to help Manly’s struggling visitor economy rebound post Covid-19.

Member for Manly, James Griffin said the ‘Experience Manly’ co-operative, formed out of the Manly Tourism and Economic Recovery Taskforce, was a practical initiative that would have lasting benefits for the Manly visitor economy and local businesses. The launch coincides with the ‘Feel New’ NSW Government tourism campaign.

Mr Griffin said, “Despite perceptions, the Manly tourist economy has consistently underperformed compared to both the National and Sydney averages. For over a decade, tourists on average have spent less in Manly than elsewhere in Sydney. That is not a sustainable approach.” 

“81% of visitors only contribute 18% of all tourist spending. Some would see this as a problem, but it is in fact a significant opportunity. Manly offers a diverse and compelling destination and experiences like nowhere else. We don’t need more visitors, we need more yield from those who do visit. It’s time to redouble our efforts.” Mr Griffin said.

“With the launch of the NSW Government’s ‘Feel New’ campaign, it is an ideal time for us to promote tourism in Manly and launch ‘Experience Manly. The Tourism and Economic Recovery Taskforce identified key gaps in supporting our visitor economy, and the absence of a not-for profit body to help secure funding to support local events and operators is a clear need,” Mr Griffin said.

Experience Manly will be led in a voluntary capacity by renowned local Hospitality operator, Matt Clifton.

“Experience Manly is a locally founded independent Not-For-Profit public platform dedicated to strengthening Manly’s brand, its economic vitality, and social prosperity.  It is an opportunity to leverage local, state and federal support through partnerships. It will be innovative, strengthen communication to potential visitors, and be a conduit direct to our community.  Manly has so much to offer, and we will use this platform to champion and promote Manly as the world class destination that it is”, said Mr Clifton.

The NSW Government has unveiled its new tourism campaign to entice visitors to the State and re-energise them to feel new.

Developed by Destination NSW in consultation with the state’s visitor economy stakeholders, the ‘Feel New’ campaign showcases the abundant natural wonders and vibrant cultural experiences on offer across Sydney and NSW.

Premier, Dominic Perrottet said the new tourism campaign would accelerate the recovery of the NSW visitor economy following years of hardship through drought, bushfires, floods and the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The ‘Feel New’ campaign is a key pillar of the NSW Government’s Visitor Economy Strategy 2030, which aims to make NSW the premier visitor economy of the Asia Pacific,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Experience Manly will support the Manly Business Chamber, Northern Beaches Council Destination Management Plan and local operators in securing government funding to deliver events and activations for Manly. It is an idea borne out of the Taskforce and a practical way to continue its good work.” Mr Griffin said.  

To view the Destination NSW ‘Feel New’ campaign watch the video below and for more information and travel inspiration go to visitnsw.com to make you #feelNSW.

Inquiry Into Gay Hate And Transgender Hate Crimes Between 1970 And 2010 Announced

November 4, 2021
The NSW Government has announced it will establish an inquiry into gay hate and transgender hate crimes.  The announcement follows the recommendations of a report by the Legislative Council’s Standing Committee on Social Issues tabled in May this year.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said, “These crimes represent one of the darkest times in our recent history. They were callous, brutal and cowardly. As I said in Parliament recently, ‘LGBTI members of our community have suffered grave injustices that were not acceptable in the past and they are not acceptable now. Where there is still work to be done to address these injustices, we will do it.’ This is the first step to address them.”

Special Minister of State Don Harwin said, “Justice for the victims, their families and friends has been slow. Many still carry with them the physical and emotional scars of these vile attacks. The inquiry recommended by the Committee will help to bring some closure for the families and healing to the thousands of others, including myself, who experienced the threat of violence or an actual assault. It’s a simple matter of justice.”

The Legislative Council’s Standing Committee on Social Issues ‘Inquiry into Gay Hate and Transgender Hate Crimes Between 1970 and 2010’ began in 2018. Their report has three Findings and five Recommendations and all have been supported by the Government. A copy of that report can be found on the NSW parliament website.  

Chair of the Legislative Council Inquiry Shayne Mallard said, “The long road to this moment is a tribute to Kay Warren and those who lost loved ones. Kay’s son Ross disappeared at Mark’s Park in 1989 and she never gave up the fight for justice. Those responsible for these crimes are now middle aged and many remain unpunished. This inquiry is the right way to address the concerns of the community and hopefully bring some of the offenders to justice. My great thanks to all those who supported and helped our Inquiry and to my colleagues.”

Details of the inquiry and terms of reference will be announced shortly.

Online Service To Match Jobseekers To Jobs

November 3, 2021
Thousands of job-seekers will have access to free career guidance and employment advice to help match their skills to job growth trends, thanks to an $11.4 million investment from the NSW Government.

In launching Careers NSW today, Premier Dominic Perrottet said the online service aimed to get people into work faster with tailored assistance that included access to volunteer industry experts in emerging and critical industries.

“NSW is the State of opportunity and has attracted businesses and industries from all over the world, strengthened by investments including the Aerotropolis, and our record infrastructure boom,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Careers NSW will supercharge our pandemic recovery by ensuring every jobseeker in NSW has online access to career advice regardless of their experience or education, so they can take advantage of the jobs of the future.”

One-on-one access to dedicated careers specialists and more than 40 industry volunteers will be available in a pilot across four regions - Western Sydney, South Western Sydney, the Mid North Coast and the state’s North West - ahead of the full rollout in 2022.

Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geoff Lee said the pilot will initially target 10,000 people in key regions and scale up to include school students from the middle of next year.

“The Careers NSW service will make lifelong career information accessible for all people seeking to upgrade skills or change careers and guide them to the industries offering employment and opportunities,” Mr Lee said.

“The pilot program launching today enables residents in four priority regions to book appointments on the Service NSW website, receive tailored advice with a careers specialist and/or talk to an expert already working in the industry they’re looking to enter to set them on a pathway to employment success.”

Minister for Digital and Customer Service Victor Dominello said customers could access a self-service portal which contains a number of resources designed to help people identify their skills, passions and values, as well as learn about prospective industries.

“People want to make informed decisions about their career path, which is why we’re making it easier to explore the industries and occupations they are interested in and the opportunities they present,” Mr Dominello said.

“This includes the ability for customers to compare courses and academic providers and find the study option that suits their learning preferences and location.”

Careers NSW was a key recommendation in the Review of the NSW vocational education and training sector led by Mr David Gonski AC and Professor Peter Shergold AC, released earlier this year.

Professor Peter Shergold AC said Careers NSW will help people navigate their lifetime employment journey.
 
“It will also be the cornerstone of a comprehensive state-based career information and guidance ecosystem that will support people to make informed decisions,” Professor Shergold said.

Sport And Recreation Infrastructure Grants Now Open

Applications are now open for the Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Grants program, designed to support the active sporting community on the Northern Beaches.

There is $100,000 in grants available, with a minimum grant value of $10,000 and a maximum grant value of $50,000.

Eligible, incorporated, not for profit organisations can apply to build new or upgrade existing infrastructure on a Council owned or managed facility that improves local sport and recreation facilities.

Projects must do one or more of these:
  • increase opportunities for participation in sport, recreation and active play
  • improve the viability of sport and recreation groups
  • develop safe, accessible and family-friendly facilities.
Mayor Michael Regan encouraged eligible sporting clubs and organisations to apply.

“We’ve been able to support 14 clubs through this program over the past three years, helping to fund their small to medium-sized projects.

“We helped the Careel Bay Tennis Club with a new sunshade over their children’s play equipment, Manly Warringah Junior Cricket Association with eight new cricket nets at Nolan Reserve and the Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club to make improvements to the change facilities at their Jamieson Park clubhouse.

“I’d encourage all sporting groups to learn more about the grants program and see if there is a way they can be supported.”

Applications close midnight Sunday 28 November. Apply here: 

DoggieRescue.com

Pets Of The Week

Scooter


Scooter is a 9yo Foxy X Cattle boy. He is friendly happy dog who is social with other dogs. He needs gentle handling and would do best in a calm quiet environment. He is nervous of some men. He loves his walks and gets excited when he sees the lead. He has been neglected in the past and is nervous of people touching him from behind. He has had a dental with 1 extraction. He has having medicated washes to manage his allergy issues. Scooter walks on loose lead but barks at dogs going past and ignores cars. He walks at a good pace. Walkers say: Easy to direct and control around other dogs. He has a short coat and weighs 11.6kg. He would be best in a home where someone is usually home and has had rescue experience.

All our dogs come 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 DoggieRescue Vet. His adoption fee is $400. For more details call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email Monika@DoggieRescue.com. RON 251000024

Morgan 


Morgan is 3yo sweet and friendly boy who has to have a had a tough time in his past. He has a grade 3 heart murmur and came to us with over groomer issues related to stress.  He is a gentle sweet boy who may swipe when anxious. Morgan has had his tail amputated from self-mutilation. He is recovering very well, with lots and purrs and belly rubs. He weighs a tiny 3.6kg. He is looking for an experienced owner living is a quiet environment. 

All our cats come desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested and microchipped. His adoption fee is $220. 

For further details call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email  cats@doggierescue.com  

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.

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. 

NRMA & SCIA Launch New Report Into Disabled Parking

November 1, 2021
The NRMA and Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) have today released new research which highlights that the supply of accessible parking spaces across NSW is drastically lagging behind the number of mobility parking permits being issued.

The ‘Where Do I Park’ report highlights that despite the number of mobility parking permits increasing by 60 per cent since 2007 to almost 400,000 licence holders, there have been no attempts to keep pace with the growth in accessible spaces in public and private car parks.

In NSW, almost 10 per cent (8%) of drivers either hold a mobility parking permit or travel with someone who does and that figure is expected to continue to rise. Shopping centres only require two per cent of parking spaces to be accessible, with residential zones requiring just once per cent.

Where Do I Park highlights that in 2020/21 12,992 people were fined for stopping in a disabled parking area without a current permit displayed.

The NRMA and Spinal Cord Injuries Australia are calling for long overdue improvements and a review of the suitability of accessible parking spaces and enforcement of mobility parking violations to reduce barriers for people with a disability to access mobility parking spaces.

The report recommends an audit of existing parking spaces to ensure they comply to design standards. This will mean safer and easier access for drivers and passengers entering and exiting vehicles.

NRMA Road Safety Expert Dimitra Vlahomitros said for people with restricted mobility, being able to use an accessible parking spot as a driver or a passenger is a game changer.

“This joint report between the NRMA and SCIA provides a clear roadmap towards improving the mobility for Australians by providing more better built parking spaces and ensuring people who abuse disabled parking spaces are caught and fined,” Ms Vlahomitros said.

"Not only are there are not enough accessible parking spaces in most public and private parking lots to meet demand, despite hefty penalties and demerit points for offending drivers the supply of accessible spaces is further strained by the misuse of accessible parking spaces.

"Nearly 13,000 people were slapped with a fine and lost a demerit point last financial year for stopping in a mobility parking area without a current permit displayed. This number is too high.

“The message is simple; if you don’t have a permit or if the permit holder is not in the car, don’t park there.”

Spinal Cord Injuries Australia CEO, Dianne Lucas says, “Twenty three percent of Spinal Cord Injuries Australia’s workforce have a physical disability, most of which need to drive to be independent. It’s important that city planning further accommodates for a growing population of drivers with disabilities.”

One of those is Community Engagement Lead, Susan Wood, who has had paraplegia since birth, “I’ve been a driving for over 20 years and although there has been progress when it comes to inclusion for people with disabilities, it is slow. Integrating people with disabilities is more than meeting a minimum quota, it means fully embracing that accessibility needs to be our future.”

Where Do I Park also calls for the use of technology to help people find and reserve accessible parking spaces. The NRMA supports efforts to introduce compulsory real-time data for parking to be accessible through the NSW Government’s app and the myNRMA app.

The Where do I Park report is calling for:

1. More accessible parking spaces and improved ratio of accessible parking spaces

2. Real-time data for every private and council-held accessible parking space across NSW.

3. An audit of the suitability of accessible parking spaces

4. More enforcement of accessible parking laws and targeted education campaigns

5. Harsher penalties for repeat accessible parking offenders.

6. Signage displaying the demerit point penalty near accessible parking spaces to deter drivers from parking illegally.

7. Encourage private car park operators to allow police or other authorised enforcement officers access to their property to enforce accessible parking laws.

Click here to view the full Where Do I Park report.


Sydney Wildlife Recycled Bottles For Wildlife 2021

Sydney Wildlife Rescue is registered for return and earn in NSW. This time it is accessed by an App called My Tomra  - which is the organisation that runs the recycling. 

Once you have downloaded the My Tomra App. Just search “Our Wildlife” you will see Sydney Wildlife Rescue listed. You can set that as the payout. 

So you just scan the bar code from the App  at the recycling machine and the 10c will be donated to Sydney Wildlife Rescue. The machines can be located anywhere in NSW.  

Please have a look it’s a good way to support us to care for wildlife and do your bit to keep Australia Beautiful.

Call For Entries: North Sydney Art Prize 2022

Entries are now open for the North Sydney Art Prize 2022, a major biennial arts event showcasing some of the best in contemporary art by emerging, mid-career and established artists.

Artists from across Australia are invited to submit entries for the 16-day exhibition to be held from 14 to 29 May 2022 at the iconic Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability in Waverton. This unique site enables broad participation and accommodates the inclusion of all mediums.

Indoor and outdoor works will be selected for exhibition in the Caretakers Cottage, Artist Studio, Platform, tunnels, 25 chambers and surrounding parklands. All proposals for the tunnels and chambers must first be discussed with the Curator prior to the submission of entries.

Due to the nature of this unique post-industrial site installation, site specific and sculptural works are encouraged.

Awards to the value of $41,000 with six award categories including:
  • Major Open Award $20,000
  • Award for Sculpture $12,000
  • Site Specific Award $5,000
  • Emerging Artist Award $2,000
  • Work/on with Paper Award $1,000
  • Award for Drawing $1,000
North Sydney Council acknowledges and sincerely thanks Australian Catholic University, Primrose Park Art & Crafts Centre Inc and the Royal Art Society of NSW for their generous sponsorship of the North Sydney Art Prize.

Entries close November 30th 2021. 

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: November 1

Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Remembrance Day Service 2021: Pittwater RSL Cenotaph

Pittwater RSL Sub-Branch Club can proceed with our annual Remembrance Day Service 2021, at the Club. The Service will be held at the Lower Cenotaph on Thursday 11 November 2021. The Service will commence at 10:20am.  Last Post at 11am.

The community is welcome to attend, but they have to provide proof of double vaccination, and check in with QR Code, masks and social distancing.


Tie-Up Mooring Fees For Bells And Carols Wharves: Have Your Say

The Council currently manage four public wharves across Pittwater and Western Foreshores where residents can tie-up their dinghies. Private watercraft owners are charged fees to use the tie-up facilities on our wharves which are used to keep the areas tidy, safe and accessible.

The upgrading Bells and Carols Wharves on Scotland Island will provide an extra 32 tie-ups at each wharf, bringing the total tie-ups at Bells Wharf to 40 and 74 at Carols Wharf. Once completed, Council will take on the ongoing management of the tie-up moorings at these two locations.

Currently 28 tie-up moorings at Carols Wharf and four tie-up moorings at Bells Wharf are impacted by the low tide. This means that vessels using moorings at these locations will have little or no water underneath them throughout the every month.

Council are proposing two new fees, at a 50 percent reduction from the current annual permit for these ‘shallow tie-up’ (tidal affected) sites.

View the proposed fees here and have your say by:
Submissions close: Sunday 28 November 2021

Men Of League Xmas Function 

Will be at Nth Narrabeen SLSC club commencing at 4pm, on Friday 3rd. December 2021.

The team at MOL have done a wonderful job over the years supporting their fellow members when they are down on hard times. Please make an effort to attend and support this wonderful cause.



2019 MOL Xmas do - photo courtesy Brian Friend OAM

Avalon Boomerang Bags Update

We are looking for volunteers to help man our stall at the Avalon Chamber of Commerce celebration Day on Saturday the 4th December. So please shoot us an email if you can help out. 
Many thanks in advance.


Look at these babies, created by volunteer Sally Jetson.  Just divine and worthy of their own pop up shop!


You can purchase Bought To Support Boomerang Bags.  Pop into the Avalon Recreation Centre on Tuesdays between 11.30 am - 3pm and check out the brilliant bag creations.

Palm Beach Longboarders: December Comp

We will not be running our November competition due to COVID issues. It would not be fair to run it as only those members who are double vaccinated are permitted.

So we will have a cracker Christmas December comp, and call it a season. Details will be posted up here, soon.

We're a longboarding club of mature groms and grommets meeting beachside at 7am on the first Sunday of each month.




Photo: Adriaan van der Wallen

Poppies To Set Sail This Remembrance Day

As the sun sets on 11 November 2021 Paul Graham, a veteran of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines who fought in Malaysia and the Suez Canal conflict, will stand in Circular Quay for the fifth time in as many years to watch red poppies bloom over Sydney Harbour.



The image of the iconic Sydney Opera House illuminated with poppies in Flanders’ Field is now world-famous thanks to Mascot RSL sub-Branch member, Paul Graham.

While selling poppies to fundraise for the partner charity of RSL NSW, RSL DefenceCare, Mr Graham was asked numerous times what the flowers symbolised. Appalled, he decided to take action to educate Australians about Remembrance Day, formerly known as Armistice Day, and why we pause on 11 November at 11am to remember those that have served, and are still serving, for their country.

In 2015, Mr Graham successfully lobbied Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore, the Sydney Opera House Trust, and the then Premier of NSW, Mike Baird, to project poppies onto the Opera House sails on 11 November to mark the day guns fell silent on the Western Front signalling the end of World War I. The NSW Government continues to support the project each year.

“I hope all those who see the spectacular sight of the illuminated sails will take the time to pause and remember the contribution of all servicemen and women,” Mr Graham said.

In 1921, the Returned Soldiers and Sailors Imperial League of Australia imported one million silk poppies, made in French orphanages, to fundraise on Armistice Day. Each poppy was sold for a shilling: five pence was donated to a charity for French children, six pence went to the League’s own welfare work, and one penny went to the League’s national office.

One hundred years later, the RSL continues to raise funds to support veterans and their families by selling poppies on Remembrance Day. Whether you’re out and about in your community or staying safe at home, please buy a poppy from an RSL member or volunteer or donate online to the Poppy Appeal to signify your respect and support for veterans and current serving members of the Australian Defence Force.

RSL NSW President Ray James, and Afghanistan veteran and RSL Australia ambassador, Peter Rudland, will join the NSW Minister for Veterans for a special Remembrance Day service at dawn.

The official NSW Remembrance Day service will be held at the Cenotaph at Martin Place, Sydney. The service will be live streamed by the Department of Premier and Cabinet and RSL NSW.

$50 Million To Play, Splash And Roam

NSW is set for an outdoor renaissance this summer, with the Government providing $50 million in new and improved parks and public spaces.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said the Government’s economic recovery package would result in more places to play, splash and roam.

“We’re setting aside $50 million for new places to swim or paddle, improved play spaces, and more trails that connect communities to their parklands,” Mr Perrottet said.

“With Greater Sydney offering some of the most beautiful river, lake, and bushland environments, this package will mean everyone can discover more of the hidden gems in their own backyard.

“Lockdown showed us that we need more public spaces that are better connected with more recreation facilities, and that’s exactly what this funding will help achieve.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the $50 million investment would go towards adventure, nature, and water play opportunities.

“While lockdown is over, it highlighted that people living closer to the coastline have far more natural swimming spots than those living in our west,” Mr Stokes said.

“This program will create new opportunities to dive into places like our stunning harbour, Parramatta or Nepean Rivers, take a hike in the bush, or ride along a new nature trail.”

“Children will have more opportunities to play and connect with nature and there’ll be funding to create more community garden and greenway projects for everyone to enjoy.”

The Government’s $50 million Open Space program includes: 
  • Places to Swim ($16.7 million): New swimming and kayaking locations across Greater Sydney’s lakes, rivers, and harbour
  • Places to Play ($16.7 million): Additional public open spaces for play and adventure, for people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds across NSW
  • Places to Roam ($16.7 million): New and upgraded regional trails, better active transport corridors, and connected bushland, parks, and gardens across Greater Sydney.
Expressions of interest (EOIs) are being sought from Metropolitan Greater Sydney councils and eligible NSW Government agencies and entities for pilot projects that can commence immediately. Applicants will be able to submit an EOI via a link on the website from 15 November 2021. Submissions will need to be submitted by 4pm Friday 30 November 2021.

Applications for round 1 grant program for Places to Swim will open 15 November 2021 and close 4 March 2022 at 4pm.

NSW Government Appoints Property Services Commissioner

November 4, 2021
The NSW Government has appointed John Minns as the state’s first Property Services Commissioner in a move that will herald a new era of trust and engagement between the real estate industry, its regulator and consumers in NSW.

Minister for Better Regulation Kevin Anderson said Commissioner Minns will be a fundamental part of ensuring a strong, vibrant property sector, responsive to the needs of property services professionals and one that has the highest compliance and professional standards for the benefit of consumers.

“The real estate industry contributes $100 billion and over 37,000 jobs to the NSW economy. That is why it is critical to have the right processes in place to allow the NSW Government to support this thriving industry whilst maintaining the highest protections for consumers,” Mr Anderson said.

The Property Services Commissioner will reflect the successful model taken by the Building Commissioner to reform the building and construction sector and work with the Property Services Expert Panel and the NSW Government to drive positive reform to support consumers, and streamline services delivered by the regulator to agents and property service professionals.

“John brings more than 25 years’ experience as a real estate business owner and agent. Most recently he was Managing Director of  Canberra-based Independent Property Group and is a previous Director of Academy of Real Estate Services where he worked to improve professional development and training opportunities,” Mr Anderson said.

“The NSW Government is always looking for new ways to update and modernise property services regulation and we are excited to have someone with such passion for the industry lead us through this process.”

Commissioner Minns said he is excited by the opportunity to work with the Property Services Expert Panel to bolster the real estate industry.

"At a time of unprecedented change and rapid digital transformation, I am looking forward to working with leaders across the industry to deliver improved consumer outcomes, a vibrant and sustainable NSW property sector and continued innovation,” Mr Minns said.

Chris Duggan, Chair of the Property Services Expert Panel said he is delighted with the appointment of Commissioner Minns.

“This is an important step forward for our real estate industry and members of the Panel look forward to working with Commissioner Minns in the weeks and months ahead,” Mr Duggan said.

The Property Services Commissioner will sit independently of Fair Trading and will report directly to the Secretary of the Department of Customer Service and Minister for Better Regulation..

Commissioner Minns will commence his appointment on 6 December, 2021.

Developer Contribution Transparency A Good First Step; More To Do

A state-wide council campaign to ensure communities do not miss out on important local infrastructure is delivering results, with the NSW Government today going public with the detail of the proposed changes.

Local Government NSW President Linda Scott said the NSW government today placed its proposed Infrastructure Contributions Package on public exhibition for analysis and feedback from councils, property developers and communities.

“This is a real improvement on the rushed and secretive way this proposed package was last month pushed through the lower house of Parliament, buried in other legislation,” Cr Scott said.

The Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment (Infrastructure Contributions) Bill 2021 which passed the lower house gave no guarantees that contributions would be spent where they are collected.

“Infrastructure contributions are made by developers and are a critical co-funding measure to deliver footpaths and cycleways, parks, playgrounds, playing fields, skate parks, basketball courts, libraries, childcare centres and public pools – even street lighting, stormwater and drainage facilities,” Cr Scott said.

“The community expects local infrastructure funds to be invested locally; no-one wants to see infrastructure funds hoarded for potential pork-barrelling.”

More than 200 mayors, councillors and general managers came together last month to express outrage at the proposed reforms – described by the development body Urban Taskforce as a “tax grab”.

LGNSW subsequently launched the Say No To The Contributions Cash Grab campaign, with 67 councils already passing minutes condemning the proposed changes.

“We need the Government to commit in the legislation that infrastructure contributions will be allocated fairly, transparently and locally.

“We need written, legislative guarantees the no council or community will be worse off as a result.

“As these government reforms have switched developer contribution payments to the end of a project, councils need funding to continue their infrastructure program, ensure jobs aren’t lost and parks and playgrounds continue to be built.

“I thank the Minister for continuing to work with LGNSW to ensure no council is financially worse off under these reforms.”

The New framework for state infrastructure contributions is on exhibition for feedback until December 10th, 2021 at: 

SIRA AGM 2021 And Barbecue

Sunday, 14 November
AGM: Scotland Island Fire Station, 10 - 12 noon
Barbecue: Catherine Park, 12 - 2 pm
Due to COVID restrictions, SIRAC (the SIRA Committee) decided to delay the Annual General Meeting by one month so that more people can attend. It will now be held on Sunday, November 14, 10 am to 12 pm. It is likely that attendance by Zoom will be available as an alternative to attendance in person.

After the AGM, you are invited to attend a gathering in the park (with appropriate social distancing) from 12 noon to 2 pm. Sausages (including vegetarian options), salads and rolls will be provided. BYO drinks, but the Two Catherines Café is also open that day, and will stay open until 1 pm.

Information about nominations for the 2022 committee will be sent out shortly via SIRA News and on social media. Start thinking about who you’d like to nominate! SIRA encourages all islanders  – including newcomers – to become involved.


Warringah Rugby Club 2021 AGM

Notice is hereby given that the fifty seventh (57th) Annual General Meeting of the Warringah Rugby Club Limited will be held at Pittwater Rugby Club, 1472 Pittwater Road, Warriewood on Sunday, 21 November 2021 at 9.00am.

Nominations of Office Bearers and other Directors must be in writing and be lodged with the Club General Manager at the club at least eight (8) days prior to the Annual General Meeting. Each nomination must bear the signatures of the nominee and two (2) financial members.

Agenda. 
Please click here for the agenda

Proxies.
Proxy forms will be available on request from the office on 0402 192 311 or by email to info@warringahrugby.com.au.

The following points should be noted with respect to proxies.
  • If you are entitled, in accordance with the Constitution of the Company, to attend and vote at a meeting of the Company, you are entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in your place at the meeting.
  • A proxy does not have to be a member of the Company.
  • A proxy appointed by you will have the right to speak at the meeting but is not entitled to vote except on a poll unless the Constitution of the Company otherwise provides.
  • Your proxy will be able to demand or join in demanding a poll. You may specify the manner in which your proxy is to vote and where you do so, your proxy is entitled to vote on the resolution except as you specify.
  • The proxy form must be signed by you personally or by your attorney.
By Order of the Board

Phillip Parsons.
President.

Australian Seabird Rescue Calendar 2022 + Sea Turtle Hospital Expansion

Congratulations to Josh Blank who's image has been selected for the ASRCC 2022 fundraising calendar. Pre-order your calendar today from https://photoplankton.com.au/product/2022-asrcc-calendar/



In 2022 Australian Seabird Rescue are aiming to rebuild and expand our Sea Turtle Hospital due to the rapid increase in sea turtle strandings in NSW.

We are starting our first fundraising campaign to help us get us there - Raffle Raffle Raffle!  Who doesn’t love a good raffle and wait until you see the prizes. 
  • 1st prize - 3 night stay at Elements of Byron for 2 people
  • 2nd prize - 2 tickets for Out of the Blue Adventures, Ballina.
  • 3rd prize - A night in the spa room for 2 at the Ramada Suites, Ballina.
How to purchase a ticket online
- Scroll down and select the number of tickets you would like to purchase followed by Buy Now 
- And follow the payment details. 

If you wish to contribute to this project another way please head to our website to donate. 

The raffle will be drawn 31st Jan 2022.

ORRCA's 'Seas The Day' 2022 Calendar Now Available

A huge thank you to all who entered ORRCA's first ever ‘Seas the Day’ Calendar Photographic Competition. 

Every entry has helped raise awareness and funds for ORRCAs vital marine mammal rescues and research. 

A special congratulations to our twelve winners who will feature in our ORRCA Calendar for 2022. A special mention to Ann Scarrett whose photo will feature on the front cover. 

It is with much appreciation and thanks from the ORRCA team to our wonderful judge, Darren Dew for his generous support and tough decision making.

To everyone involved, you inspire others to care for our precious marine mammals. Thank you so much!

And the winners are: 
Ales Zib-Poole – January Fur seal
Selina Guckenbiehl – February Orca x3
Elissa Chan – March Seal swimming
Sharyn Coffee – April diving Seal
Michelle Barry – May - Minke
Ann Skarratt – June Humpback breach
Maree Jackson – July Southern right whale mother and calf
Robert Smith – August Humpback mother and calf
Peter Wandmaker – September Dugong mother and calf
Jamen Percy – October Humpback 
Bonita Holmes-Nuu – November Common Dolphin
Jodie Lowe – December Humpback breach
CONGRATULATIONS EVERYONE! 



To order your copy of our 1st ORRCA ‘Seas the Day’ Calendar, please visit the ORRCA Events page of our website and follow the link:  www.orrca.org.au/orrca-event

Monika’s DoggieRescue’s 2022 Calendar Is Out Now!

Monika’s DoggieRescue’s 2022 calendar has arrived! This is our biggest annual fundraiser and helps us continue to save the lives of dogs and cats on death row in NSW pounds. To date we have saved over 13,000 dogs and are home to around 100 dogs looking for their families. We rely on fundraising like our calendar to keep the doors open so please help us continue to save lives!

This year’s calendar was photographed by our volunteer photographer Dave Pigeon from The Dog’s Pyjamas. Dave has perfectly captured the different faces and emotions of our resident dogs, from Bowie looking hopefully to the future with a family of his own to sad Champ who isn’t sure what to do with himself facing another year without a home of his own.

Winston stars on the cover he found his way to Monika’s DoggieRescue from a Sydney pound and was discovered to be blind, his bandana reminds us all to be kind to those who have extract burdens to bear. Winston was lucky enough to be adopted just before the calendar arrived! 



This year’s calendar features 16 DoggieRescue dogs many of whom are still waiting at the shelter for their families to come.

At $20 the calendar is the perfect gift for dog loving friends and together we save more lives! Do something good for Christmas and give the gift of life.

About Monika’s DoggieRescue 
DoggieRescue is a Northern Beaches based no kill animal shelter, we’ve been in operation since 1998 with the primary objective of saving dogs and cats from death row in council pounds. We do not place a time limit on the lives of the animals we save and are often contacted about the more difficult animals in need. 
You can grab your copy from the shelter or from our website by clicking here:

Development Assessment Processes In Local Councils: Assessment Stage

By Audit Office of NSW
The Audit Office of New South Wales is planning to commence an audit in 2021-22 into the development assessment (DA) process in local councils. 

The audit will assess the extent to which the assessment of DAs by selected councils aligns with relevant legislation and relevant guidance from the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment and the Independent Commission Against Corruption. 

This audit is open for submissions and we welcome information regarding insights and experiences with the DA process including the assessment of DAs by local councils. 

Contributions will be accepted until 10 am 23 November 2021.

Any person or entity, including local councils, can make a submission. Submissions could include what local councils do well, or what they could improve in the DA process to ensure the process is efficient, effective and done in compliance with relevant laws and policy.  Those making submissions should consider that the Auditor-General cannot question the merits of government policy objectives. The Auditor-General focuses on assessing whether activities undertaken by government authorities are efficient, effective, economical and in compliance with the law.

Councils to be audited have not yet been identified. Councils to be audited will be selected during audit scoping and planning. Local councils subject to performance audits are selected based on targeted, objective criteria relevant to the audit topic.

We will consider your contribution in the context of the role of the Audit Office, other audit evidence and its relevance to the topic, and may not reference it in the tabled report. 

We will not publish your name or other identifying details, or your contribution, in our reports or on our website.


October 31 - November 6, 2021: Issue 516

This Issue: full list in Contents page 

Front Page Issue 516 




Aquatics Abalone Poacher At Mona Vale Prosecuted In Manly Court + Applications Open To Refresh The Face Of Fishing Environments

First New Emerald Class Ferry Now In Service

Little Obelia Centenary Celebration: Exhibition At Nutcote Opens November 6-7

Australia Post Set To Deliver Christmas Cheer With Santa Mail (post by Dec. 3 ) + Australia Post Releases Christmas Delivery Deadlines

Artist of the Month November 2021: Luke Withington Sometime Woody Point resident Luke Withington is one of Australia's most beloved poets. Luke is a business man, grazier and poet with a keen interest in Art. After attending the Australian National University and working for two years in the Dept. of Foreign Affairs Luke and his best friend set sail on a cargo boat for Europe. Since 2004 he has been working to improve the family cattle property Currajugg in the Southern Tablelands breeding Angus Aberdeen cattle. In the last two decades he has concentrated his talents in the Arts writing, reading and publishing his poetry in several locations and journals including Manning Clark House Institute ACT,  Quadrant Overland, The Canberra Times,  Contrappaso Magazine and several Irish, Italian and Australian Poetry Anthologies. His most recent work is “Only Fig & Proscuitto - New and Collected Poems“ published by Ginninderra Press with appraisals by Mark O’Connor and Dr Paolo Totaro AM. His Profile will run later in November, for now; dive deep into some of his poems.

Park Bench Philosopher The Bus To Palm Beach: Some History + Extras  a rerun of a 2020 page on this subject as local bus services revert to being privately operated this week

Inbox News Transport For NSW Partner With Motional To Lay Foundations For A Driverless Future Robotaxi Service, Rein In Behaviour Around Horses On The Road, Urgent Need To Tighten Rules On Use Of 'Surgeon' To Protect Public Safety Warns AMA, Australia Needs A Strategy To Minimise Climate Change Health Burden, New Study Suggests That Breastfeeding May Help Prevent Cognitive Decline, Dragging Your Feet? Lack Of Sleep Affects Your Walk, New Research Finds Air Pollution Reduces Sperm Counts Through Brain Inflammation, Coffee And The Effects Of Climate Change, Researchers Discover A Way To Increase The Effectiveness Of Antibiotics, Super Cool Building Materials Prove Powerful Arsenal Against Climate Change

Environment Echidnas Are Out And About; Please Slow Down, Bioluminescence Seen This Week, Sparkling dolphins swim off our coast but humans are threatening these natural light shows, Careel Creek Birds: Aussie Backyard Bird Count 2021 Local Stats, Boaties Be Aware As Whale Season Winds Down, Sydney Wildlife Mobile Care Unit:  Meet Pteri., Applications Open To Refresh The Face Of Fishing Environments, Tuckeroo Becoming Troublesome In Pittwater, Avalon Preservation Association AGM 2021, November 2021 Forum For Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment: Fishing Bats And Water Rats (Rakali), Baby Wildlife Season + Birds Migrating season, Sweet Release For Critically Endangered Regent Honeyeaters, Big Boost To National Parks In Western NSW, NSW To Lead The Way On Net Zero Buildings, New RAA Board Members Appointed To Deliver For Rural NSW, Grattan on Friday: The weather gets choppy with Joyce and Morrison’s climate contradictions, The ‘97% climate consensus’ is over. Now it’s well above 99% (and the evidence is even stronger than that), Drying land and heating seas: why nature in Australia’s southwest is on the climate frontline, Fewer than half of Australia’s 150 biggest companies have committed to zero emissions by 2050, What’s behind News Corp’s new spin on climate change?, Australia’s net-zero plan fails to tackle our biggest contribution to climate change: fossil fuel exports, If all 2030 climate targets are met the planet will heat by 2.7℃ this century, Australia’s stumbling last-minute dash for climate respectability doesn’t negate a decade of abject failure, How much do marine heatwaves cost?; The economic losses amount to billions and billions of dollars, Scott Morrison’s deal with the Nationals must not ignore land stewardship – an attractive, low-hanging fruit, Bushcare In Pittwater, Community Gardens,  Reserves History pages

Profile of the Week Ángel R. López-Sánchez
Dr Ángel R. López-Sánchez is an Astrophysicist and Science Communicator working at the Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO) and the Department of Physics and Astronomy of the Macquarie University (MQ) in Sydney. His research is focused in the analysis of star formation phenomena in galaxies of the Local Universe, especially in dwarf starbursts and spiral galaxies, using multi-wavelength (UV, optical, IR, radio) data. He presented his PhD Thesis at University of La Laguna and the Instituto Astrofisica de Canarias (Spain) in 2006.  

Dr. López-Sánchez is passionate science communicator who continuously gives talks and public lectures, writes popular science articles, podcasts the Skyentists and organises science communication events and stargazing activities. 

You can find out more at:

Website: angelrls.wordpress.com
On Twitter: El_Lobo_Rayado 
Flickr: www.flickr.com/people/angelrls/
The Skyentists: soundcloud.com/theskyentists

Dr López-Sánchez is a recognised expert in the study of how the gas is converted into stars in nearby galaxies and how this affects galaxy evolution. He leads the "HI KOALA IFS Dwarf galaxy Survey" (Hi-KIDS) program, that uses the instrument KOALA at the 3.9m Anglo-Australian Telescope (AAT) to dissect 80 gas-rich nearby dwarf galaxies to understand their assembly story.

Ángel joined CSIRO's "Astronomy and Space Science" in 2007 to work on the “Local Volume H I Survey” (LVHIS) program, performing radio-interferometric observations of gas-rich galaxies at the Australian Telescope Compact Array. In 2011 he joined the AAO and MQ combining instrumentation support, research, lecturing, and outreach. 

He is a founding member of the Spanish Researcher in Australia-Pacific (SRAP-IEAP) association. He is a globally-recognised science communicator, with visibility in Spanish and Australian printed, broadcast, and social media (one of the Top-100 most-followed astrophysicists in Twitter). His stunning astronomy time-lapse videos have received 1/4 million views in YouTube and have been used by the ABC, BBC, TVE (Spain), US TV channels, and in Science Museums worldwide. He is also a passionate amateur astronomer that uses his own equipment for capturing the beauty of the Cosmos, - some of these images ran as the October 2021 Artist of the Month to celebrate the much needed and run during the recent pandemic safety measures, After Dark Photo Competition: Northern Beaches. This inspired us all to get outside and look up!

This week a small insight into the work of a resident who has followed their passion to the point where the sky is, literally, no longer the limit.

This History of the Modern Surfboat has been compiled and written by Bert Hunt, Life Member Moruya Surf Club & Australian Surf Rowers League; our thanks to Bert and the ASRL for permission to re-run this October 2021 Feature.

The first weekend of racing will begin with SLS SNB's Super Saturday, on the 13th of November!  Round 1 of the Surf Boats Premiership will be held at Freshwater Beach. Round 2 will be held at Newport Beach on November 20th.

This document has been extensively researched to the point of reasonable accuracy with a lot of input from Surfboat people from each State and many hours spent on web and other searches. Apologies in advance to any boat builder missed, or for any detail not completely correct, as this paper is a best attempt to create a running history of surfboat evolution.

The motivation for creating this document was to give due recognition to each and every surfboat builder across many decades. Our sport has always been totally indebted to these builders for their knowledge, passion and craftmanship in the continuing evolution of the iconic Australian Surfboat. To each of the builders, we the rowers and sweeps, say thank you.

92 Year Old Club Champion

Lovely article by Tony Webeck in PGA Australia on October 28th about Alan Welch. 
Alan is a long time Monash Country Club member. He was a member of Monash's first Masters Pennant team in 1984 and for many years after. The team made the final in 1988.

Tony writes:
It’s not often that the C Grade Club Champion gets a standing ovation, but Alan Welch is not your regular club champion.

The 92-year-old last weekend claimed the C Grade Club Championship crown at Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club on the Gold Coast, winning his third and final match on Sunday 4&3 to secure the title.

His opponent in the final was 32 years his junior, Alan having celebrated his 92nd birthday in July.

A founding member of Latrobe Golf Club as a 17-year-old, Alan’s golf accomplishments abound with club championships and foursomes victories over the past eight decades but at Sanctuary Cove on Sunday evening, as he made his way through the crowd from the back of the room, something beautifully spontaneous happened.

One by one members stood to applause, as much in recognition of Alan’s most recent triumph as for the inspiration and joy he brings to members of all ages.

“I felt almost embarrassed because while I’m the age that I am I’m still pretty fit,” Alan revealed two days later, still somewhat surprised at the flood of well wishes and emails that his win elicited.

Coached in his early days in the game by legendary Australian figure Ossie Pickworth, Alan estimates that he has broken his age 80-odd times, including 18 times in 2020 alone.

Along with the exercise it helps to keep him young at heart and provides an example to other elderly members within the club.

“I received numerous e-mails from people and said that if my win can inspire other senior people then I’m very happy about that,” Alan adds.

“I wouldn’t be able to play if we couldn’t use carts but even getting in and out of the cart, walking from the green to the tee, I think it keeps you healthy.

“If I can encourage and inspire other people to get out I’m very pleased with that.

“It’s a great game, I’ve played it all those years and you meet a lot of nice people.”


Congratulations Alan! 
Everyone here is thrilled for you.



Photo courtesy: PGA  Australia and Sanctuary Cove

Getting Into The Swim Of Things With The Narrabeen Challenge – Sydney’s First Ocean Swim Of The Season 

With Sydney coming to life after lockdown, the Narrabeen Challenge is set to kick off the first ocean swim of the season to be held at Narrabeen Beach on Sunday 7 November 2021.

Narrabeen Beach SLSC will host the popular event which has been running for more than 10 years. With two course distances available, swimmers as young as 12 are eligible to compete in the shorter ocean swim taking place on the day.

Narrabeen Beach SLSC Challenge organiser, Wayne Schwebel, said as with previous years, swimmers have a choice of the traditional 1.8 kilometre course as well as a shorter 800 metre option. 

“Due to increasing demand, the 800 metre course is open to swimmers aged 12 years and over. However, the 1.8 kilometre course will still require swimmers to be at least 15 years of age,” Mr Schwebel said.

The 800 metre course will kick off at 10am with the aim of attracting novice ocean swimmers. This event is often also used as a warm up for more experienced swimmers who are keen to participate in the 1.8 kilometre course at 11am.

Both swims start in front of the Narrabeen Beach Surf Life Saving Club with the main event following a course in the shape of a “Marie Antoinette” champagne glass.

The shorter event will follow the southern part of that course. However, the route may be altered on the day depending on conditions.

Each swim aims to offer two beach break negotiations - one out and one back. Prizes will be presented to winning swimmers in the various age categories. While wetsuits may be worn for the events, swimmers who wear them will not be eligible for prizes.

Online entries are available until 3pm on Saturday 6 November 2021 or you can register at Narrabeen Beach on the day between 8am – 9.30am. A briefing of the events will take place at 9.40am. 

Online registration costs $30 to enter one event or $35 for entrants who sign up on the day. Online registration for both events is $45, or $50 on the day.

A cloakroom will be available for swimmers to leave personal belongings during the swim. In addition to a BBQ, the Narrabeen Beach SLSC kiosk will also have food and drinks available for swimmers, supporters, friends and family.

As with previous years, safety standards for the swim will be in accordance with SLSC guidelines and Maritime Service requirements. In keeping with NSW Health requirements, entrants are required to be fully vaccinated to compete.

Proudly supported by Zoggs, this event is organised by Narrabeen Beach SLSC with proceeds going towards the provision of emergency lifesaving equipment for the Club.

Further details: oceanswims.com/event/narrabeen-beach-challenge                                       

COVID-19 Location Alerts Via Service NSW App

October 29, 2021
Residents can now receive push notifications on COVID-19 case locations on the Service NSW app so they are alerted to potential exposure risks as soon as possible.

The enhancement is in addition to the red icon that appears in the check-in history of a person who has been to a venue on the same day as a confirmed COVID-19 case.

People who receive a push notification or see a COVID-19 case alert in their check-in history should monitor for symptoms and get tested immediately if they feel unwell. They do not need to self-isolate, unless contacted by NSW Health.

Minister for Digital and Customer Service said with over six million active users of the Service NSW app, COVID-19 case alerts were another digital service to make life easier for people as NSW lifts health restrictions.

“COVID-19 case alerts in the Service NSW app makes it easy for NSW residents to see if they may have been in contact with or visited a venue of a positive case and provides a link to relevant health advice,” Mr Dominello said.

“We have continued to work on increasing the functionality of the Service NSW app and this is an additional service not seen in any other state or territory.”

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said NSW Health contact tracers would still contact positive cases and close contacts to provide them with testing and isolation advice.

“Our high vaccination rates have been a game changer for managing COVID-19 and enabled us to ease restrictions, but we must remain vigilant,” Mr Hazzard said.

COVID-Safe check-in information is securely stored on a Service NSW database for the sole purpose of contact tracing by NSW Health. Information is deleted after 28 days and is not shared with any third parties.

There are more than 500 COVID-19 testing locations across NSW. Customers should visit COVID-19 clinics to find their nearest clinic or contact their GP.

Bilgola Bends Development Lands Update 

At its meeting held Tuesday October 26th Council resolved to write to the Hon. Rob Stokes, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and Minister for Transport and Roads seeking Transport NSW agreement to transfer ownership of No’s 513, 515 and 519 Barrenjoey Road, Bilgola to Northern Beaches Council to be added to public reserve. 

This was due to concerns about the sensitive environmental nature of these properties and following the recent submission of a development application at 521 Barrenjoey Road, Bilgola. 

Council staff undertook a desk top assessment of zoning and ownership of all land in the Bilgola Bends precinct and found that, in addition to the above lots, there is other land on the northern side of the Bilgola Bends that is owned by TfNSW, those lots being 523, 525, 527, 529-531, 533 and 535 Barrenjoey Rd.
 
If the land (513, 515 and 519) is transferred to Council, staff state the ongoing management and maintenance of the land would result in a cost to Council estimated to be in excess of $50,000 per annum. 

The transfer of several properties to Council to be included as reserve, would ensure there was no further residential development on these lots and help retain the local character and improve environmental outcomes in the area. 



Image: 521 Barrenjoey road at present - Google maps image.

Candidates Encouraged To Get A Head Start

Prospective candidates for the 2021 NSW Local Government elections can start their nomination applications now. 

Nominations are the process by which candidates can have their name included on ballot papers. They can be lodged online from Monday, 25 October 2021 and close at 12 noon on Wednesday, 3 November 2021.

NSW Electoral Commissioner John Schmidt said nominations can now be made entirely online for the first time at local council elections via the Commission’s Nominations Online Management System (NOMS). At previous Local Government elections, submitting nominations was a purely paper-based process.

“I encourage anyone planning to nominate to get started on their nomination today. The system is open and we have information on our website to help prospective candidates through every step of the process,” he said.

“Candidates can get their applications ready online now so when nominations officially open Monday, 25 October, all they’ll need to do is press submit.”

Candidates may be nominated by either a registered political party or two electors.

Candidates and groups can only accept political donations or make payments for electoral expenditure before 4 November 2021 if they have already registered (not just lodged their nomination) with the Electoral Commission

Access to the Nominations Online Management System and hard copy forms are available from elections.nsw.gov.au or by calling the candidate helpdesk on 1300 022 011.

Information about nominations is available in the NSW Electoral Commission’s Candidate Handbook. Late nominations cannot be accepted. Lodgement of paper nominations forms may be made at returning offices. Opening hours for these offices are available on our website.
_______________________________________

Pre-Polling places:
MONA VALE:
Mona Vale Memorial Hall
Pittwater Road, Mona Vale NSW 2103
22 Nov 2021 - 03 Dec 2021
Mon - Sat: 9:00am - 5:00pm

AVALON:
Avalon Recreation Centre
59A Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon NSW 2107
22 Nov 2021 - 03 Dec 2021
Mon - Sat: 9:00am - 5:00pm

NB: Pittwater Online News' 2021 Local Government Election Candidates report will run Sunday November 21st. Candidates who wish to be included in this are asked to email their interest, if they have not already done so, by no later than November 8th to: pittwateronlinenews@live.com.au

Narrabeen RSL Re-Opening

The Razza will open on Wednesday November 3rd.
Sunk Cocktail Bar on Saturday November 6th

The Restaurant will be open for dining  from 5pm Wednesday - Friday. and from Midday through to dinner Saturday and Sunday.

Dates are already filling up for November and December so we encourage you to book a space! 
Check out our website for November operating hours. 

For all bookings email  sunknarrabeenrsl@gmail.com
We can wait to see you!


No Rat Poisons Please

Local wildlife carers are asking residents to please not use rodenticides to rid their yards of rats. Powerful owls and other owl species feed on the rats and mice in our area. When they eat a pest that has been treated with these chemicals they can take days to die, horribly. SGARs cause internal bleeding, and accumulate in the body, including the liver.

This is especially important at this time of year when fledglings are requiring lots of food and their parents are working hard to provide it.

To keep the rat problem at bay some experts state you can use the power of smell - peppermint oil, chili powder, citronella, and eucalyptus are the most common natural rodent repellents.

You can also do a few fixes around the house to make it less attractive for them:
  • Don’t allow rubbish to overflow
  • Ensure your bin lids are closed, with no holes or cracks
  • Vermin proof your premises by making sure there are no cracks, crevices, holes or other potential access points
  • Ensure access to cupboards containing food and food preparation materials are blocked
  • Make certain pet food is eaten soon after it is placed out and removed as soon as practicable
  • Ensure your home, shed and yard is free from overgrown vegetation and rubbish. Remember to trim vegetation away from roofs and external walls
  • Restrict access to water or water sources

Boat Trailer Parking Problem Opposite Newport PS

A resident has written to Pittwater Online News during the past weeks regarding the parking spaces where parents park to take their youngsters into class opposite Newport Public School as these have had 9 of the 10 available spots filled with boats on trailers, or trailers themselves. 




Although measures were taken as far back as 2015 to commence introducing a requirement that owners not use these areas as their own personal parking area for extended periods, requiring them to move them, they are simply moved to another street and can become a traffic hazard.

The problem has been exacerbated during the past several months as people convert garage spaces into gyms or extra rooms for recreation during lockdowns, meaning they cannot use their garage as a garage. 

However, elsewhere, in Singapore for instance, those wishing to purchase a car for private use were required to show proof of a place to garage that vehicle before the application was approved.

As around 20% of the boats and trailers currently utilising these spaces in our streets are from outside of our area, a more permanent workable solution along the Singapore example is being suggested for this local problem - permanently eliminating the need for council rangers to be continuously monitoring what is where and when and allowing spaces where parents and children need to access their school to be reclaimed.

Keoride Becomes Wheelchair And Pram Friendly

Member for Pittwater and Minister for Transport and Roads Rob Stokes announced this week the Keoride fleet will be boosted to enable wheelchair and pram access.

New vehicles, called Ponchos, will commence operating with the existing Keoride fleet this week. The Ponchos will feature innovative kerb-kneeling technology, providing level entry for all passengers.



“Pittwater’s Keoride is the most successful on-demand public transport service in Australia – and it’s now getting even better,” Rob Stokes said.

“These improvements not only make Keoride wheelchair and pram friendly – but the new vehicles are still compact enough to negotiate our narrow local streets.

“Keoride is well-suited to Pittwater’s challenging geography – and the service has unlocked the transport independence of many residents living in areas not accessible by traditional buses.

“More than half a million trips have been delivered locally on Keoride since its launch by the NSW Government in November 2017.

“Thank you to all our local Keoride team members for your service to our community,” Rob Stokes said.

The accessible Keoride vehicles can be selected as an option when booking from 31 October. More information is available by calling Keoride on 1800 536 743.



Local Council Elections are on Saturday 4th Dec!  
It's mandatory to vote so you may as well make your vote count. Want to know where your candidates stand on climate in the post-Covid recovery? 
 
We are collaborating with community groups across the northern beaches to give a platform to the people vying to represent us. 
 
The forum will allow candidates the chance to outline their (or their party’s or group’s) approaches to issues of the environment and the related economics – issues that are of particular concern to people in our community as we emerge from Covid and face concurrent global challenges.  
 
We want the answer to the questions: The Environment. Who will fix it? Who will fund it? 
 
The Northern Beaches is divided into 5 wards, so get a free ticket for your ward.  
 
When: 7:30 – 8:30pm 
Online via Zoom. 
 
NARRABEEN:           Mon 15th Nov www.bit.ly/2022narrabeen 
PITTWATER:          Tues 16th Nov www.bit.ly/2022pittwater 
FRENCHS FOREST:  Wed 17th Nov www.bit.ly/2022frenchsforest 
MANLY:                  Thurs 18th Nov www.bit.ly/2022manly 
CURL CURL:          Fri 19th Nov www.bit.ly/2022curly 


‘Neighbourhood Watch In Pittwater’ To Launch Updated Model On Monday November 1st 2021

In response to concerns from the community, ‘Neighbourhood Watch in Pittwater’ is launching on Monday November 1st. 

Neighbourhood Watch is a community-based crime prevention program which aims to improve the quality of life within a neighbourhood, by minimising preventable crime and promoting closer community ties. 

Michael Gencher, Coordinator for Neighbourhood Watch in Pittwater said, “We have come to rely on CCTV and technology to deter and detect crime, and in doing that we have let real-life observation, awareness, and ‘looking after each’ other decline.” 

The program relies on the community, community groups and the police working together in a partnership to achieve these aims. 

Traditionally, the focus of Neighbourhood Watch has been on reducing crime by directly involving the community in activities that promote safety, or assist with the detection of crime - observation and awareness. 

‘Neighbourhood Watch in Pittwater’ is launching a modernised model to include not only community-based crime prevention, but additional programs to address a greater scope of issues and concerns affecting our community – for example: 

  • Looking after Seniors, and fostering a greater understanding of compassion between generations 
  • Bullying 
  • Depression 
  • Drug and alcohol use, and early intervention 
  • Peer pressure, and promotion of friendship skills 
  • Social media 
  • Social isolation and depression. 

Michael Gencher, Coordinator for Neighbourhood Watch in Pittwater, said “It’s becoming obvious to many of us in the Community that there are growing problems, issues and concerns. 

"When I approached Neighbourhood Watch, my thinking was to create the social connections that I see grow at Surf Life Saving Clubs, within the fabric of the wider community. 

''Connecting Pittwater Residents through the Neighbourhood Watch programs, in collaboration with other community groups, helps us build a vibrant, safe and secure life for the whole Pittwater community." Mr. Gencher said

Neighbourhood Watch in Pittwater will be working with the vision that a connected community is a safer and healthier community - delivering better wellbeing for residents by providing an added sense of connection, safety and security.

Michael is a Mona Vale local, a father, husband, business owner, vice president of Mona Vale SLSC and a candidate for Pittwater in the upcoming local council elections with Your Northern Beaches Independent Team. 

To establish a connected, informed and empowered community this updated model invites all residents to get involved. 

Contact Neighbourhood Watch in Pittwater for more information via email at  nwpittwater@gmail.com 

Or follow the Neighbourhood Watch in Pittwater Facebook page at:
www.facebook.com/Neighbourhood-Watch-in-Pittwater


Michael Gencher

Conservation Action Plans

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service is seeking your feedback on draft Conservation Action Plans for Assets of Intergenerational Significance.
A key pillar of the Threatened Species Framework is the declaration of important habitat of threatened species as Assets of Intergenerational Significance.

Assets of Intergenerational Significance are declared to bolster protections for an area of exceptional value – natural or cultural.

Practically, it means that the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service will have increased ability to prioritise management at these sites and identify emerging threats early so interventions can take place rapidly.

Conservation Action Plans set out:
  • key risks to the declared area of habitat for the threatened species
  • priority actions to reduce risks to this important habitat – such as dedicated feral animal control or fire management, or the establishment of insurance populations
  • actions to measure and report on the health/population of the threatened species (metrics).
Have your say by Monday 8 November 2021.

There are three ways you can submit your feedback, listed below.
  1. Online consultation ; 25 October 2021 to 8 November 2021
  2. via email; info@environment.nsw.gov.au
  3. Formal submission - Address: Manager, Threatened Species, Biodiversity and Ecological Health Branch, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Tallow Beach Rd, Byron Bay NSW 2459
Currently, there are 8 Conservation Action Plans open for public comment:
  • Asterolasia elegan (PDF 552KB)
  • Botany Bay bearded orchid (PDF 62KB)
  • Caley's grevillea (PDF 63KB)
  • Grey grasswren (PDF 46KB)
  • Haloragodendron lucasii (PDF 692KB)
  • Nielsen Park she-oak (PDF 63KB)
  • Prostanthera gilesii (PDF 88KB)
  • Wollemi Pine (PDF 70KB)

Vales Point Power Station Exemption Application

The NSW EPA are seeking feedback on Delta Electricity’s application for a further exemption to the limits for emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) at the Vales Point Power Station.

As part of the EPA’s assessment process they are seeking community feedback to help inform our determination of Delta Electricity’s application. The application, additional information, expert advice, and submissions received as part of the consultation process will all be considered by the EPA before a final decision on the application is made.

Delta Electricity has applied to the NSW EPA to be exempt from meeting the limits set out in the Protection of the Environment Operations (Clean Air) Regulation 2021 for nitrogen oxides for 5 years up until 1 January 2027. The EPA is carefully assessing the application in line with its statutory obligations.
Feedback closes November 10.

Frances Belle Parker Commissioned For Coast Walk Public Art Program

October 26, 2021
The Council is pleased to announce artist and proud Yaegl woman Frances Belle Parker has been selected for the Aboriginal Art & Storytelling Project, the first major commission for the Coast Walk Public Art Program.

The Northern Beaches Coast Walk spans 36km of coastline between Manly and Palm Beach as a continuous path that passes beachfronts, spectacular headlands, residential communities, and coastal villages.

Mayor Michael Regan said Council was thrilled to have Frances Belle Parker create work for the Project.

“It is a significant project that celebrates Aboriginal culture and connects people to the landscape, to each other and to the past, present and future.

“We are excited to see how Frances’ artwork will develop and respond to Aboriginal culture, the local community and natural surrounds of our extensive coastline.

“Her project will enrich Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people’s experience of the region, without compromising environmentally fragile and culturally sensitive sites.”

For the Aboriginal Art & Storytelling project, Council invited Aboriginal artists to submit proposals for a series of contemporary public artworks and visual storytelling systems to highlight the significance of Aboriginal culture and place along the Coast Walk.

The project also intends to promote awareness of Aboriginal places and stories among the broader public.

Frances Belle Parker is from Maclean, New South Wales. She is deeply inspired by her Mother’s land (Yaegl land) and the Island in the Clarence River that her Mother grew up on, Ulgundahi Island.

“This is an amazing opportunity to be able to create public artwork that tells a deeper part of the coastline’s story,” Frances said.

“Through engagement with the Northern Beaches Aboriginal community, I hope we can tell stories that are relevant as well as convey the underlying messages of the country and the people who walked this land before us.”

“I plan to explore the themes of middens and the whale songlines through the artwork.

“I’ll also be using some elements of my cousin’s work, the late Jessica Birk, who lived on the Northern Beaches and loved everything about it. In a sense the work becomes a tribute to the amazing artist she was.”

Frances has been a practising artist for the last 20 years coming to prominence after winning the Blake Prize in 2000, making her the youngest ever winner and the first Indigenous recipient in the prize’s history.

Since then she has exhibited nationally and internationally, undertaken art residencies in China and Andorra and worked on several public art projects.

Frances completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts through UNSW, and a Bachelor of Visual Arts (Honours) and a Masters of Indigenous Studies (Wellbeing) both through Southern Cross University.

Most recently Frances designed and screened her digital work Angwirri on the sails of the Sydney Opera House on 26 January 2021.

Image Credit: Frances Bell Parker

Frances is working with UAP Australia, and with independent curator Tess Allas, to realise this project.

Frances’ artwork is currently in the design development stage. She is engaging with local Aboriginal stakeholders and communities and aims to finish the artwork in 2022.

The sites for the artworks will be determined during the consultation phase.

Sport And Recreation Infrastructure Grants Now Open

Applications are now open for the Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Grants program, designed to support the active sporting community on the Northern Beaches.

There is $100,000 in grants available, with a minimum grant value of $10,000 and a maximum grant value of $50,000.

Eligible, incorporated, not for profit organisations can apply to build new or upgrade existing infrastructure on a Council owned or managed facility that improves local sport and recreation facilities.

Projects must do one or more of these:
  • increase opportunities for participation in sport, recreation and active play
  • improve the viability of sport and recreation groups
  • develop safe, accessible and family-friendly facilities.
Mayor Michael Regan encouraged eligible sporting clubs and organisations to apply.

“We’ve been able to support 14 clubs through this program over the past three years, helping to fund their small to medium-sized projects.

“We helped the Careel Bay Tennis Club with a new sunshade over their children’s play equipment, Manly Warringah Junior Cricket Association with eight new cricket nets at Nolan Reserve and the Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club to make improvements to the change facilities at their Jamieson Park clubhouse.

“I’d encourage all sporting groups to learn more about the grants program and see if there is a way they can be supported.”

Applications close midnight Sunday 28 November. Apply here: 

DoggieRescue.com

Pets Of The Week

Havana


Havana is a 10 week old Gt Dane X Staffy girl. Her Mum Hope came from the pound pregnant and gave birth to 10 beautiful pups born 17 Aug. Hope is a smaller than a pure Gt Dane but we expect her pups might be bigger than her. We do not know who Daddy was but understand he was also a large breed dog. She comes with desexing, 3x puppy vaccinations, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DoggieRescue Vet. Her adoption fee is $800.

Sage


Sage is a 6-7yo tabby female. She was adopted from us as a kitten and recently returned. She is sweet but timid and would suit a quiet household. She has really starting coming out of her shell and often welcomes visitors to our cattery now. She comes desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV tested and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $220. For further details call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email  cats@doggierescue.com  

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.

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. 

Pittwater Outriggers Club Back On The Water

It's great to be back.
Strong winds didn't deter our first group of OC paddlers getting back onto the waterways this morning.
Join up now and come and enjoy scenic surrounds like these.



Outrigger canoe paddling is an exciting, exhilarating and challenging experience which promotes fitness, teamwork and general well-being through a healthy outdoor lifestyle. Come and join us paddling on the pristine waters of Pittwater.

New Seniors Housing Development Proposals Lodged With Council

Mona Vale - 7 and 8 Coronation Street, Seniors Development -  DA2021/1841 - $ 4,632,564, lodged 8/10/2021

Frenchs Forest - 58 Forest Way - Demolition works and construction of a senior housing development, DA2021/1814 - $ 1,694,793, lodged 8/10/2021

Collaroy - 4 Alexander Street  - Demolition works and construction of a seniors housing development, DA2021/1805 - $ 5,246,223, lodged 7/10/2021; The proposal has been referred to Heritage as the subject property adjoins a heritage item, ie:  Collaroy Cinema

Collaroy - 18 Alexander Street - Demolition works and construction of a housing development comprising five (5) self-contained apartments including basement car parking pursuant to SEPP (Housing for Seniors or People with a Disability) 2004, DA2021/1766 - $ 2,069,059, lodged 5/10/2021

SES Commissioner To Chair Australasian Fire And Emergency Services Council

One of state’s most experienced first-response leaders has been appointed as the new President of the Australasian Fire and Emergency Services National Council (AFAC), the National Council for fire and emergency services in Australia and New Zealand.

SES Commissioner Carlene York APM is the ninth AFAC President and is both the first SES Commissioner and the first woman to hold the position. 


Commissioner Carlene York APM. AFAC image

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet congratulated Commissioner York on her appointment and welcomed stronger collaboration between the emergency services to keep communities resilient and safe.

“Commissioner York has led the NSW SES for two years after a distinguished career of almost 40 years with the NSW Police Force,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Her experience as NSWPF’s Northern Region Commander – where she coordinated the emergency response to storms, tornadoes, bushfires and floods – demonstrates she is the outstanding choice to lead AFAC.”

Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said as SES commander, Commissioner York now leads both 9,000 dedicated SES volunteers and 33 members representing fire, emergency and land management agencies across Australia and New Zealand.

“This year alone, the SES has responded to the Hawkesbury-Nepean flood emergency in March and, only a few weeks ago, members responded to freak storms and tornadoes in Central NSW and southern Sydney,” Mr Elliott said.

“It’s a tribute to the experience and skills of Commissioner York, that she been chosen for this position and understands the pressures staff and volunteers face during a crisis.”

Minister for Mental Health, Regional Youth and Women Bronnie Taylor welcomed the appointment of Commissioner York as the first female AFAC President, and Chair of the AFAC Council.

“Woman have made incredible contributions to combat agencies for a long time, so I am really pleased to see this reflected in the well-deserved appointment of Commissioner York,” Mrs Taylor said.

Commissioner York replaces FRNSW Commissioner Paul Baxter.

Commissioner Baxter is stepping down from the AFAC Board after nine years, and five years as AFAC President. 

“Commissioner York’s appointment reflects the integration of SES into AFAC and our priority on diversity and inclusion. The past few years have shown us that we need to be ready for anything, and Commissioner York’s appointment represents the cultural shift required to meet the challenges of the future,” he said.

AFAC CEO Stuart Ellis said: 
“I am very grateful for the support and guidance from Commissioner Baxter during his time as AFAC President. Commissioner York’s appointment begins an exciting new chapter for fire and emergency services in Australia and New Zealand and her leadership will be a significant asset to the AFAC National Council.”

Commissioner York was voted in as AFAC President at the AFAC National Council meeting on October 27th  2021. The AFAC National Council comprises 33 members representing fire, emergency and land management agencies across Australia and New Zealand.

Sydney Wildlife Recycled Bottles For Wildlife 2021

Sydney Wildlife Rescue is registered for return and earn in NSW. This time it is accessed by an App called My Tomra  - which is the organisation that runs the recycling. 

Once you have downloaded the My Tomra App. Just search “Our Wildlife” you will see Sydney Wildlife Rescue listed. You can set that as the payout. 

So you just scan the bar code from the App  at the recycling machine and the 10c will be donated to Sydney Wildlife Rescue. The machines can be located anywhere in NSW.  

Please have a look it’s a good way to support us to care for wildlife and do your bit to keep Australia Beautiful.

Call For Entries: North Sydney Art Prize 2022

Entries are now open for the North Sydney Art Prize 2022, a major biennial arts event showcasing some of the best in contemporary art by emerging, mid-career and established artists.

Artists from across Australia are invited to submit entries for the 16-day exhibition to be held from 14 to 29 May 2022 at the iconic Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability in Waverton. This unique site enables broad participation and accommodates the inclusion of all mediums.

Indoor and outdoor works will be selected for exhibition in the Caretakers Cottage, Artist Studio, Platform, tunnels, 25 chambers and surrounding parklands. All proposals for the tunnels and chambers must first be discussed with the Curator prior to the submission of entries.

Due to the nature of this unique post-industrial site installation, site specific and sculptural works are encouraged.

Awards to the value of $41,000 with six award categories including:
  • Major Open Award $20,000
  • Award for Sculpture $12,000
  • Site Specific Award $5,000
  • Emerging Artist Award $2,000
  • Work/on with Paper Award $1,000
  • Award for Drawing $1,000
North Sydney Council acknowledges and sincerely thanks Australian Catholic University, Primrose Park Art & Crafts Centre Inc and the Royal Art Society of NSW for their generous sponsorship of the North Sydney Art Prize.

Entries close November 30th 2021. 



Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: November 1

Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Warriewood Residents Association Annual General Meeting 2021

The WRA AGM will be held November 4th, 2021, commencing at 7.30 pm. The Meeting will be held via Zoom this year. The Agenda will be in accordance with the Associations' Constitution.

Please RSVP by November 2nd via email to warriewoodcommunity@bigpond.com

If you have friends who may wish to join please contact the Treasurer via the above email address.

Remembrance Day Service 2021: Pittwater RSL Cenotaph

Pittwater RSL Sub-Branch Club can proceed with our annual Remembrance Day Service 2021, at the Club. The Service will be held at the Lower Cenotaph on Thursday 11 November 2021. The Service will commence at 10:20am.  Last Post at 11am.

The community is welcome to attend, but they have to provide proof of double vaccination, and check in with QR Code, masks and social distancing.


Tie-Up Mooring Fees For Bells And Carols Wharves: Have Your Say

The Council currently manage four public wharves across Pittwater and Western Foreshores where residents can tie-up their dinghies. Private watercraft owners are charged fees to use the tie-up facilities on our wharves which are used to keep the areas tidy, safe and accessible.

The upgrading Bells and Carols Wharves on Scotland Island will provide an extra 32 tie-ups at each wharf, bringing the total tie-ups at Bells Wharf to 40 and 74 at Carols Wharf. Once completed, Council will take on the ongoing management of the tie-up moorings at these two locations.

Currently 28 tie-up moorings at Carols Wharf and four tie-up moorings at Bells Wharf are impacted by the low tide. This means that vessels using moorings at these locations will have little or no water underneath them throughout the every month.

Council are proposing two new fees, at a 50 percent reduction from the current annual permit for these ‘shallow tie-up’ (tidal affected) sites.

View the proposed fees here and have your say by:
Submissions close: Sunday 28 November 2021

Men Of League Xmas Function 

Will be at Nth Narrabeen SLSC club commencing at 4pm, on Friday 3rd. December 2021.

The team at MOL have done a wonderful job over the years supporting their fellow members when they are down on hard times. Please make an effort to attend and support this wonderful cause.



2019 MOL Xmas do - photo courtesy Brian Friend OAM

Avalon Boomerang Bags Update

A few of us are coming in to sew this Tuesday which is Melbourne Cup Day, so please feel free to join us if you wish to.

We are also looking for volunteers to help man our stall at the Avalon Chamber of Commerce celebration Day on Saturday the 4th December. So please shoot us an email if you can help out. 
Many thanks in advance.


Look at these babies, created by volunteer Sally Jetson.  Just divine and worthy of their own pop up shop!


You can purchase Bought To Support Boomerang Bags.  Pop into the Avalon Recreation Centre on Tuesdays between 11.30 am - 3pm and check out the brilliant bag creations.

Palm Beach Longboarders: December Comp

We will not be running our November competition due to COVID issues. It would not be fair to run it as only those members who are double vaccinated are permitted.

So we will have a cracker Christmas December comp, and call it a season. Details will be posted up here, soon.

We're a longboarding club of mature groms and grommets meeting beachside at 7am on the first Sunday of each month.




Photo: Adriaan van der Wallen

Community, Arts And Creativity And Environmental Grant Recipients Announced

October 29, 2021
Council has announced the successful recipients of the 2021/22 Community and Environmental Grants Programs who will share in almost $290,000 in funding to support projects and initiatives that deliver direct benefit to our community.

Of the applicants, 20 have been awarded an Arts and Creativity Grant, 12 a Community Development Grant and 10 an Environmental Grant for either full or partial funding. A further five have been approved for multi-year funding.

Mayor Michael Regan said all three grant programs will foster a more connected, creative and sustainable Northern Beaches.

“Our Grants Programs have resulted in many amazing projects being delivered across the beaches.

“A small subsidy can make a real difference to individuals and community-based organisations.

“We have lots of talented people in our community generating significant bottom-line economic value, jobs and shared enjoyment.

“The Arts and Creative grant stream specifically provide vital support to the arts sector assisting our creative people to bring to life their great ideas. This support is especially needed given the impact the pandemic has had on this sector.

“As Council has limited direct service provision, the Community Development Grants support those most vulnerable in our local area providing projects and initiatives that focus on improving equality and reducing disadvantage.

“Our local communities know their local environments better than most and I’m confident the Environmental Grant winners will do a great job to manage, conserve and protect our natural habitats, land, rivers, wetlands, coasts and the species they support,” Mayor Regan said.

Council has received a record number of applications for the 2021/22 Program with 145 eligible Arts and Creativity, 100 Community Development and 23 Environmental applicants submitted.

The successfully funded projects will be notified this week and need to be delivered between November 1st 2021 to December 31st 2022 as part of the grant conditions.

Worth noting among the Environmental Grants are Avalon Beach Surf Lifesaving Club Inc.; Carbon Neutral Surf Club 2023, Pittwater Natural Heritage Association; Palmgrove Park Avalon Spotted Gum, Endangered Ecological Community (EEC) Restoration and Deborah Collins; Avalon Beach 100 Trees, 100 Years.

Click on the links above to see the wide spectrum of exciting projects resident will see delivered next year - the musical projects chosen under the Arts 'sound' brilliant!

Developer Contribution Transparency A Good First Step; More To Do

October 28, 2021
A state-wide council campaign to ensure communities do not miss out on important local infrastructure is delivering results, with the NSW Government today going public with the detail of the proposed changes.

Local Government NSW President Linda Scott said the NSW government today placed its proposed Infrastructure Contributions Package on public exhibition for analysis and feedback from councils, property developers and communities.

“This is a real improvement on the rushed and secretive way this proposed package was last month pushed through the lower house of Parliament, buried in other legislation,” Cr Scott said.

The Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment (Infrastructure Contributions) Bill 2021 which passed the lower house gave no guarantees that contributions would be spent where they are collected.

“Infrastructure contributions are made by developers and are a critical co-funding measure to deliver footpaths and cycleways, parks, playgrounds, playing fields, skate parks, basketball courts, libraries, childcare centres and public pools – even street lighting, stormwater and drainage facilities,” Cr Scott said.

“The community expects local infrastructure funds to be invested locally; no-one wants to see infrastructure funds hoarded for potential pork-barrelling.”

More than 200 mayors, councillors and general managers came together last month to express outrage at the proposed reforms – described by the development body Urban Taskforce as a “tax grab”.

LGNSW subsequently launched the Say No To The Contributions Cash Grab campaign, with 67 councils already passing minutes condemning the proposed changes.

“We need the Government to commit in the legislation that infrastructure contributions will be allocated fairly, transparently and locally.

“We need written, legislative guarantees the no council or community will be worse off as a result.

“As these government reforms have switched developer contribution payments to the end of a project, councils need funding to continue their infrastructure program, ensure jobs aren’t lost and parks and playgrounds continue to be built.

“I thank the Minister for continuing to work with LGNSW to ensure no council is financially worse off under these reforms.”

The New framework for state infrastructure contributions is on exhibition for feedback until December 10th, 2021 at: 

Ivanhoe Park To Become A Green Community Hub

October 27, 2021
Following consultation, the Council has approved the Ivanhoe Park Masterplan and Plan of Management, celebrating the natural and heritage value of the popular Manly park.

Mayor Michael Regan said the draft Masterplan respects the history and heritage value of the Park and reflects the unique landscape of the site.

“Under our Masterplan, Ivanhoe Park will be transformed into a 'green' community hub; a safer, accessible and more enjoyable park for everyone in the community. This will encourage greater use which will provide social, physical and cultural benefits for the community.

"There will be a new central lawn area with grass terraces, improved entry into the Park and an upgraded path system, better fencing and border gardens and the Scout Hall will get a major facelift.

"The grandstand named after Tony Miller, is planned to blend in rather than being the dominant feature of the park. It would provide equitable access, fit for purpose change rooms, storage, amenities and security. It will be subject to State or Federal Government funding.

“The Masterplan will also protect and enhance the State Heritage listed landscape character of the Park and support the native and Victorian plantings found in the Botanic Gardens.”

Council will now proceed to reclassify the Scout Hall for community use and will submit a Conservation Management Plan to the Heritage Council of NSW for approval.

The Masterplan and Plan of Management have been the subject of comprehensive community engagement, receiving 82% support when final draft versions were publicly exhibited in August to September this year.

It is expected that the Landscape Masterplan will take five to six years to implement in stages. The proposed Grandstand can only proceed with funding from the Federal or State Government.

The Conservation Management Plan contains policies that will assist in preserving the park's heritage and sets a planning framework for any future development that may take place within the Park.

Reminder To Register Your Short-Term Rental

Holiday home providers have been reminded to register if they want to rent out their properties once regional travel is permitted on November 1st.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said new rules for short-term rental accommodation (STRA) providers also come into effect on November 1st, requiring holiday homeowners to register their property before it is rented.

“With restrictions easing and summer on the horizon, our regions are set to boom with holidaymakers, and many of them will be staying in short-term rental accommodation,” Mr Stokes said.

“We already have more than 12,000 properties registered on the NSW Planning Portal, and we’re encouraging everyone to sign up, so they don’t miss out on the expected swell of visitors.”

“The new rules provide minimum standards for a previously unregulated industry, ensuring safety for renters, certainty and amenity for neighbours, and additional revenue for homeowners.

“It’s been a long time coming and we gave everyone an additional three months to get their properties up to scratch, to ensure they’re safe and ready to welcome guests.

“Registration is straightforward and enables a sector worth $30 billion annually to operate and thrive under a clear set of standards.”

All registered STRA homes have until March 1st next year to meet fire and safety requirements, such as clear evacuation diagrams, fire alarms, extinguishers, and emergency contacts. Everyone must also have a COVID-safe plan in place and adhere to NSW Fair Trading’s Code of Conduct.

For more information and to register, visit the short term rental accommodation web page.

Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) 2022-2026

Council would like feedback on how they can make life easier for people living with disability on the Northern Beaches.

Council want to know how they can:
  • help you feel more included in the community
  • make it easier for you to get around on the Northern Beaches
  • make it easier for you to work or volunteer
  • improve the way we deliver services and communicate with you.
Whether you are a person living with disability, a person with caring responsibilities, a service provider or an interested community member, Council want to hear from you.

Everyone is welcome to do the community survey, however, some of the questions are more relevant to people with a lived experience of disability. Feel free to skip the questions that don’t apply to you and share ideas for a more inclusive and accessible Northern Beaches.

Fun Fair To Be Hosted By SLS SNB

Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches will be hosting a Fun Fair on Sunday the 12th of December at Pittwater Rugby Park. This will be a great day out for with something for every age – rides and games, Ninja obstacle course, a petting zoo, plenty of food and drink to enjoy, live music at the end of the day and numerous stalls full of goodies for your Christmas shopping.

If you are interested in setting up a store and joining this fun day out please contact jen@surflifesaving.net.au

Newport Rugby AGM 2021

Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of Newport Rugby Club Inc. will be held at the Porter Reserve Club House, Burke Street, Newport on Saturday, November 6, 2021 at 12:00pm.
 
Nominations for Office Bearers and Other Directors can be lodged with the 2021 Committee by email at newportrugbyclub@gmail.com 

No Members, other than those who have paid their annual subscriptions and other monies due to the Club, shall be entitled to vote at the Annual General Meeting.

It would be great to have you all there. We will also be having drinks at 1pm with the playing, coaching and wider group so we can celebrate the "almost" year. 

The AGM will be followed by End of Season Beers.

Jake Osborne.
President.

Tritag At Newport This Summer

This summer we are hosting Tuesday night and Thursday night competitions of Tritag. This is a minimal contact low risk attack based rugby union game that incorporates the skill set and fabric of tradition running rugby. Watch the video here. 

Mens comp to be held on Thursday nights from November onwards at Porters

Send an email to info@tritagrugby.com with your name and age group to register interest. 

Avalon Preservation Association AGM 2021

Speaker: Angus Gordon OAM
“Global warming, is it real?”
The 2021 Annual General Meeting for Avalon Preservation Association (APA) will be held from 7.00pm on Thursday 11 November 2021 at the Avalon Beach surf life saving club.

Our special guest speaker is Angus Gordon OAM. Angus will talk on the controversial and very timely topic “Global Warming, Is it Real?”

Angus was General Manager of Pittwater Council from 1996 to 2005. He has a Master’s degree in Water and Coastal Engineering. In 2018 Angus received the Medal of the Order of Australia for “service to environmental management and planning, and to the community”.

Over the past 40 years he has undertaken projects in all states of Australia and in a number of overseas countries in coastal engineering, coastal zone management and flood management and engineering.
Angus has served as a UN expert and was tasked with the development of the NSW Coastal Protection Act.


Angus Gordon OAM. AJG pic.

Due to the current health situation, APA will hold the AGM strictly in line with the NSW Public Health Orders in force at the time. This may restrict the number of members and guests able to attend and guests may need to check in with a QR code, wear facemasks and show that they have been fully vaccinated.

SIRA AGM 2021 And Barbecue

Sunday, 14 November
AGM: Scotland Island Fire Station, 10 - 12 noon
Barbecue: Catherine Park, 12 - 2 pm
Due to COVID restrictions, SIRAC (the SIRA Committee) decided to delay the Annual General Meeting by one month so that more people can attend. It will now be held on Sunday, November 14, 10 am to 12 pm. It is likely that attendance by Zoom will be available as an alternative to attendance in person.

After the AGM, you are invited to attend a gathering in the park (with appropriate social distancing) from 12 noon to 2 pm. Sausages (including vegetarian options), salads and rolls will be provided. BYO drinks, but the Two Catherines Café is also open that day, and will stay open until 1 pm.

Information about nominations for the 2022 committee will be sent out shortly via SIRA News and on social media. Start thinking about who you’d like to nominate! SIRA encourages all islanders  – including newcomers – to become involved.


Warringah Rugby Club 2021 AGM

Notice is hereby given that the fifty seventh (57th) Annual General Meeting of the Warringah Rugby Club Limited will be held at Pittwater Rugby Club, 1472 Pittwater Road, Warriewood on Sunday, 21 November 2021 at 9.00am.

Nominations of Office Bearers and other Directors must be in writing and be lodged with the Club General Manager at the club at least eight (8) days prior to the Annual General Meeting. Each nomination must bear the signatures of the nominee and two (2) financial members.

Agenda. 
Please click here for the agenda

Proxies.
Proxy forms will be available on request from the office on 0402 192 311 or by email to info@warringahrugby.com.au.

The following points should be noted with respect to proxies.
  • If you are entitled, in accordance with the Constitution of the Company, to attend and vote at a meeting of the Company, you are entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in your place at the meeting.
  • A proxy does not have to be a member of the Company.
  • A proxy appointed by you will have the right to speak at the meeting but is not entitled to vote except on a poll unless the Constitution of the Company otherwise provides.
  • Your proxy will be able to demand or join in demanding a poll. You may specify the manner in which your proxy is to vote and where you do so, your proxy is entitled to vote on the resolution except as you specify.
  • The proxy form must be signed by you personally or by your attorney.
By Order of the Board

Phillip Parsons.
President.

New Guide To Assist The Community To Stage Events

Council has adopted a guide to support the community to stage events including how to plan, manage and deliver them on the Northern Beaches.

Mayor Michael Regan said events are the lifeblood of our community, bringing people together.

“There is no doubt events bring people together, connect our community and provide a sense of civic pride. They also are a great way to boost our local economy.

“We have hundreds of amazing locations and venues to choose from across the beaches to stage everything from markets to fun runs, concerts to food festivals and everything in between.

“The Guide to Events on the Northern Beaches will support third party operators along with community groups, providing an outline to deliver safe and successful events that not only meet their objectives, but also those of the Northern Beaches Event Strategy 2018-2023.

“The Guide includes key areas such as planning for an event, making an application, what factors organisers should consider along with providing template documents, quick tips and useful contacts.

“We all can’t wait to get some form of normality back to our lives and events can play a key role in bringing people together post COVID, whilst also supporting our local businesses who have suffered so much through lock down,” Mayor Regan said.

The 35-page Guide also includes information about the types of permits and approvals that may be required when staging an event at a Council venue or one of our many open spaces.

Council will also be exploring whether more events could be exempt from needing development consent as part of the preparation of the new Northern Beaches LEP.

For a full list of available venues or to apply to hold your event visit Council's webpage at:

Australian Seabird Rescue Calendar 2022 + Sea Turtle Hospital Expansion

Congratulations to Josh Blank who's image has been selected for the ASRCC 2022 fundraising calendar. Pre-order your calendar today from https://photoplankton.com.au/product/2022-asrcc-calendar/



In 2022 Australian Seabird Rescue are aiming to rebuild and expand our Sea Turtle Hospital due to the rapid increase in sea turtle strandings in NSW.

We are starting our first fundraising campaign to help us get us there - Raffle Raffle Raffle!  Who doesn’t love a good raffle and wait until you see the prizes. 
  • 1st prize - 3 night stay at Elements of Byron for 2 people
  • 2nd prize - 2 tickets for Out of the Blue Adventures, Ballina.
  • 3rd prize - A night in the spa room for 2 at the Ramada Suites, Ballina.
How to purchase a ticket online
- Scroll down and select the number of tickets you would like to purchase followed by Buy Now 
- And follow the payment details. 

If you wish to contribute to this project another way please head to our website to donate. 

The raffle will be drawn 31st Jan 2022.

ORRCA's 'Seas The Day' 2022 Calendar Now Available

A huge thank you to all who entered ORRCA's first ever ‘Seas the Day’ Calendar Photographic Competition. 

Every entry has helped raise awareness and funds for ORRCAs vital marine mammal rescues and research. 

A special congratulations to our twelve winners who will feature in our ORRCA Calendar for 2022. A special mention to Ann Scarrett whose photo will feature on the front cover. 

It is with much appreciation and thanks from the ORRCA team to our wonderful judge, Darren Dew for his generous support and tough decision making.

To everyone involved, you inspire others to care for our precious marine mammals. Thank you so much!

And the winners are: 
Ales Zib-Poole – January Fur seal
Selina Guckenbiehl – February Orca x3
Elissa Chan – March Seal swimming
Sharyn Coffee – April diving Seal
Michelle Barry – May - Minke
Ann Skarratt – June Humpback breach
Maree Jackson – July Southern right whale mother and calf
Robert Smith – August Humpback mother and calf
Peter Wandmaker – September Dugong mother and calf
Jamen Percy – October Humpback 
Bonita Holmes-Nuu – November Common Dolphin
Jodie Lowe – December Humpback breach
CONGRATULATIONS EVERYONE! 



To order your copy of our 1st ORRCA ‘Seas the Day’ Calendar, please visit the ORRCA Events page of our website and follow the link:  www.orrca.org.au/orrca-event

Monika’s DoggieRescue’s 2022 Calendar Is Out Now!

Monika’s DoggieRescue’s 2022 calendar has arrived! This is our biggest annual fundraiser and helps us continue to save the lives of dogs and cats on death row in NSW pounds. To date we have saved over 13,000 dogs and are home to around 100 dogs looking for their families. We rely on fundraising like our calendar to keep the doors open so please help us continue to save lives!

This year’s calendar was photographed by our volunteer photographer Dave Pigeon from The Dog’s Pyjamas. Dave has perfectly captured the different faces and emotions of our resident dogs, from Bowie looking hopefully to the future with a family of his own to sad Champ who isn’t sure what to do with himself facing another year without a home of his own.

Winston stars on the cover he found his way to Monika’s DoggieRescue from a Sydney pound and was discovered to be blind, his bandana reminds us all to be kind to those who have extract burdens to bear. Winston was lucky enough to be adopted just before the calendar arrived! 



This year’s calendar features 16 DoggieRescue dogs many of whom are still waiting at the shelter for their families to come.

At $20 the calendar is the perfect gift for dog loving friends and together we save more lives! Do something good for Christmas and give the gift of life.

About Monika’s DoggieRescue 
DoggieRescue is a Northern Beaches based no kill animal shelter, we’ve been in operation since 1998 with the primary objective of saving dogs and cats from death row in council pounds. We do not place a time limit on the lives of the animals we save and are often contacted about the more difficult animals in need. 
You can grab your copy from the shelter or from our website by clicking here:

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Stalls At Pittwater Place

Our Avalon Mothers’ Day stall was most successful raising $2,400 which we will spend on outdoor furniture for the new Palliative Care Centre.

“Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary members will be holding stalls at Pittwater Place, Mona Vale on the first Saturday of the month for the rest of the year, selling knitting, sewing, craft, jams and books, from 8am to 3pm.”


Development Assessment Processes In Local Councils: Assessment Stage

By Audit Office of NSW
The Audit Office of New South Wales is planning to commence an audit in 2021-22 into the development assessment (DA) process in local councils. 

The audit will assess the extent to which the assessment of DAs by selected councils aligns with relevant legislation and relevant guidance from the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment and the Independent Commission Against Corruption. 

This audit is open for submissions and we welcome information regarding insights and experiences with the DA process including the assessment of DAs by local councils. 

Contributions will be accepted until 10 am 23 November 2021.

Any person or entity, including local councils, can make a submission. Submissions could include what local councils do well, or what they could improve in the DA process to ensure the process is efficient, effective and done in compliance with relevant laws and policy.  Those making submissions should consider that the Auditor-General cannot question the merits of government policy objectives. The Auditor-General focuses on assessing whether activities undertaken by government authorities are efficient, effective, economical and in compliance with the law.

Councils to be audited have not yet been identified. Councils to be audited will be selected during audit scoping and planning. Local councils subject to performance audits are selected based on targeted, objective criteria relevant to the audit topic.

We will consider your contribution in the context of the role of the Audit Office, other audit evidence and its relevance to the topic, and may not reference it in the tabled report. 

We will not publish your name or other identifying details, or your contribution, in our reports or on our website.