Community News: October 2024

September 29 - October 27, 2024: Issue 635

Front Page Issue 635

Issue 635 - Week Three:

NSW set to welcome Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen CamillaNSW Premier Chris Minns is inviting members of the public to join Their Majesties at the Sydney Opera House on Tuesday afternoon, 22 October - Fleet Review

Avalon to Palm Beach: Proposed Roads - Walkways Safety Changes

Warriewood Community Centre: Build Update-October 2024   + Build photos July to Oct. 1 2024

Bayview Sea Scouts Hall History: Updated with insights provided by 'T of Church Point'

From the Council Chamber - Meeting Held October 8, 2024 by Pittwater Greens Councillor Miranda Korzy

Pictures: A Walk on the Duffy's Wharf Track by Kevin Murray and Joe Mills

2024 NSW Youth Sailing Championships: Local Place-getters + Strong Representation in a Big fleet

Rat poison kills family of 3 kookaburras in Avalon

2024 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race Approaching 100 Entrants: Entries Close October 25 by Di Pearson

Almost 550 people safely returned to shore by Marine Rescue NSW crews in September 2024

Quantock Triumphs in CYCA's Flinders Islet Race Wild Rose Division by Emily McCutcheon

NSW SES, NSW RFS, VRA, Surf Life Saving, NSW Ambulance, Fire & Rescue NSW Members Shine At UK Rescue Challenge 

Social Media's adverse impacts on communities - young people: October 2024 Post-Summit Update

NSW Introduces electronic monitoring for DV Offenders Granted Bail

DIY Ideas Spring Garden Care + A Salad Garden For Children: Inspire them to Grow what they will Eat this Summer

Food Asparagus: Spring Vegetable Recipe Ideas -The new Spring asparagus crops have come in and with the price now cheaper than it was a month ago, and the peak of the variety now readily available, a few insights into this Spring vegetable and a few recipe ideas to try out as sides or main course celebrations of the many ‘fruits’ of Springtime.  Food: October 2024 - Weeks One and Two: 10 Minute Spring Salads

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Issue 635 - Week Two:

Profiles of the Week October 2024 - No.2:  Giles Stoddard's Avalon Honey

Pictures: A Saturday Morning Stroll around Bongin Bongin - Mona Vale's Basin, Mona Vale Beach by Kevin Murray

Three Candidates for Pittwater By-Election 2024 + Information on Early Voting and where, Postal Voting, Declaration of Results: Also - how did they get your phone number/email address?

NSWRFS to Conduct internal Review Into Oxford Falls HR: lower your fire risk with a Bush Fire Survival Plan this Bushfire Season

Reminder: $5 million available for Local Surf Clubs Under Facility Program - James Griffin, Manly MP

Women In Emergency Management & Response  Empowered Through NSW SES Network

Make this Summer your Safest Boating Season yet: Water Rescue Agencies ask all to 'Get on Board'

Local Government Election 2024: Results + Statistics + Pittwater by-election updates

Red and yellow flags Go Up as Volunteer Patrol Season 2024-25 commences

‘Beat the bite’ helps youngsters stay mosquito safe: free book available from NSW Health

Social Media Summit Update: Survey highlights growing concerns 

Environment Whales in Pittwater: Friday October 11 2024, Aurora Australis over Pittwater, Rat poison kills family of 3 kookaburras in Avalon, 42 koalas killed on Appin Rd in the last year: Koala 'visit' to Casula train station a sign of habitat clearing - still no fauna crossings in place, Scotland Island Garden Festival 2024: Sunday October 20, Prepare now for Australia's severe weather season: BOM, Yes nature is complex; But saving our precious environment means finding ways to measure it, Australia is hosting the world’s first ‘nature positive’ summit; What is it, and why does it matter?, Unprecedented peril: disaster lies ahead as we track towards 2.7°C of warming this century, Will the Earth warm by 2°C or 5.5°C?; Either way it’s bad and trying to narrow it down may be a distraction, Australia will protect a vast swathe of the Southern Ocean, but squanders the chance to show global leadership, Whale sharks on collision course as warming seas may force them into shipping lanes – new study, 700 million plastic bottles: we worked out how much microplastic is in Queensland’s Moreton Bay, Ocean protection accounts for 10% of fish in the world’s coral reefs – but we could save so much more, Humpback Whale Pod off Avalon Beach: filmed October 1 2024 - heading south!, New research reveals why the mighty Darling River is drying up – and it’s not just because we’re taking too much water, New video shows sharks making an easy meal of spiky sea urchins, shedding light on an undersea mystery, How we created a beautiful native wildflower meadow in the heart of the city using threatened grassland species, The medicines we take to stay healthy are harming nature; Here’s what needs to change, More consumption, more demand for resources, more waste: why urban mining’s time has come, The biodiversity jukebox: how sound can boost beneficial soil microbes to heal nature, Endure – or peter out? Here’s what Northern Rivers organisers and Stop Adani can teach us about building climate groups, ‘Vegetarian’ possums eat meat when the weather’s cold, Discussion paper: Review and report into the NSW wildlife rehabilitation sector - feedback closes November 30,  Bushfires on the Manly to Barrenjoey Peninsula: MP for Wakehurst Sounds a Warning, Mona Vale Road East Fauna Crossing: A bridge to …where?, Catherine Park Scotland Island Landscape improvements plan: Have Your Say, New Books by local author for Primary students On our natural environment, PNHA AGM 2024 + 30th Anniversary picnic lunch, Katandra Bushland Sanctuary By Night: October 30, Katandra Bushland Sanctuary Open Season 2024, NSW Forestry Industry Action Plan: Have Your Say until October 13, Next steps to tackle problematic plastics for a cleaner and safer NSW: Have Your Say until November 4, It’s magpie swooping season: how to avoid that click near your ear, Select Committee on PFAS (per and polyfluoroalkyl substances) opens for submissions, Aussie Bird Count 2024: 14-20 October, Barrenjoey access trail closed on weekdays until November, NSW community's opinion sought on coal mine regulation, Echidna Love Season, Plastic Bread Ties For Wheelchairs, Volunteers for Barrenjoey Lighthouse Tours needed, Stay Safe From Mosquitoes , Mountain Bike Incidents On Public Land: Survey, Report fox sightings, marine wildlife rescue group on the Central Coast, Watch out - shorebirds about, Possums In Your Roof?: do the right thing, Aviaries + Possum Release Sites Needed, Bushcare in Pittwater: where + when, Friends Of Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment Activities, Gardens and Environment Groups and Organisations in Pittwater, Ringtail Posses, Far south coast of NSW preparing for potential bird flu outbreak in wildlife, Countdown is on for world-leading Australian environmental summit, 'Extinct' mammals return to Sturt National Park, NSW Government grants ACEREZ transmission operator’s licence for Central-West Orana REZ, A name for the state’s newest National Park: Cuttaburra, NSW Government states Koalas protected under agreements with New England landholders, Australia may be facing another La Niña summer, Breathing may introduce microplastics to the brain – new study, Release of zoo-bred birds boosts critically endangered Regent Honeyeater numbers, NSW Consumer Energy Strategy to save money and power across NSW, $1.1 million awarded to NSW Environmental Researchers, Discover the secret lives of grey-headed flying foxes with new flyingfoxcam, Types of land on the Biodiversity Values Map: September 2024 Update, Threatened Species Framework annual report, EPA invests over half a billion dollars to build a circular future, Illawarra illegal tyre dumper caught Red-handed, New funding for Councils to go FOGO, Failure to clean up waste costs Central Coast man nearly $200,000, Supporting businesses to drive down food waste: Info session on October 17, Scientists reviewed 7,000 studies on microplastics; Their alarming conclusion puts humanity on notice, With a million home batteries, we could build far fewer power lines, Our electricity workforce must double to hit the 2030 renewables target; Energy storage jobs will soon overtake those in coal and gas, ‘Breakthrough discovery’: Indigenous Rangers in outback WA find up to 50 night parrots – one of Australia’s most elusive birds, Scientists discover heat-tolerant corals hidden in plain sight; Could it help protect the Great Barrier Reef?, Pittwater Reserves: histories + Notes + Pictorial Walks + more

Inbox News CHOICE Analysis of Car Brands shows they are harvesting then selling your Data, ACCC welcomes introduction of merger reform bill, Federal Court orders Qantas to pay $100m in penalties for misleading consumers: NB - Scam Warning, The Australian government has introduced new cyber security laws; Here’s what you need to know, Research shows people believe lab animals have less mental capacity than other animals, Nobel prize in medicine awarded for discovery of microRNAs, Physics Nobel awarded to neural network pioneers who laid foundations for AI, Building companies feel they must sacrifice quality for profits, Tourism to become $91 billion cornerstone of NSW economy, World first vehicles boost capability for NSW Ambulance, Should you need a permit to protest?; Here’s why that’s a bad idea (and might be unlawful), Government to put pressure on opposition with legislation to ensure NBN stays in public hands, The hidden costs of building a home: what every family should know, Fatima Payman’s new Australia’s Voice party to appeal to the ‘unheard’, Final budget outcome shows 2023-24 surplus of $15.8 billion, Bhutan’s king is set to visit Australia for the first time. Here’s why thousands will line the streets to see him, NSW Government's Property audit finds more sites for over 1,100 new homes: Some sites at Seaforth, NSW Government states Health insurers rorting public hospital beds, There’s a renewed push to scrap junior rates of pay for young adults; Do we need to rethink what’s fair?, NSW will remove 65,000 years of Aboriginal history from its syllabus; It’s a step backwards for education, XEC is now in Australia. Here’s what we know about this hybrid COVID variant, ADHD prescribing has changed over the years – a new guide aims to bring doctors up to speed, Is big tech harming society?; To find out, we need research – but it’s being manipulated by big tech itself, Down and under pressure: US and UK artists are taking over Australian charts, leaving local talent behind,  The design tricks keeping your kids hooked on games and apps – and 3 things you can do about it, Gas supply for Q1 2025 tightens: risk of shortfall in short-term remains; re-shaping of export volumes, Finalists announced for the NSW Health Awards 2024, More paramedics and call takers to join NSW Ambulance, Government boosts access to the contraceptive pill at pharmacies across NSW, $2.1 million to help boost cancer research in NSW, Operational Expenditure Review into icare findings released, Boosting support for children affected by domestic violence: NSW Government, Digital platform regulators release working paper on multimodal foundation models, Joint investment in NSW adult literacy and numeracy, EnergyAustralia to pay $14m for making misleading statements and breaching the Electricity Retail Code, ACCC proposes not to authorise industry code on marketing of infant formula, Australians on fixed wireless services enjoy broadband speed boost, Why are we seeing more pandemics? Our impact on the planet has a lot to do with it, Costly defamation action looms large over Australian newsrooms; It’s diminishing press freedom, What are ‘rent tech’ platforms?; Action on reining in these exploitative tools is long overdue, NSW Government's Property audit finds more sites for over 1,100 new homes: Some sites at Seaforth, NSW Government states Health insurers rorting public hospital beds, There’s a renewed push to scrap junior rates of pay for young adults; Do we need to rethink what’s fair?, NSW will remove 65,000 years of Aboriginal history from its syllabus; It’s a step backwards for education, XEC is now in Australia. Here’s what we know about this hybrid COVID variant, ADHD prescribing has changed over the years – a new guide aims to bring doctors up to speed, Is big tech harming society?; To find out, we need research – but it’s being manipulated by big tech itself, Down and under pressure: US and UK artists are taking over Australian charts, leaving local talent behind,  The design tricks keeping your kids hooked on games and apps – and 3 things you can do about it, Gas supply for Q1 2025 tightens: risk of shortfall in short-term remains; re-shaping of export volumes, Finalists announced for the NSW Health Awards 2024, More paramedics and call takers to join NSW Ambulance, Government boosts access to the contraceptive pill at pharmacies across NSW, $2.1 million to help boost cancer research in NSW, Operational Expenditure Review into icare findings released, Boosting support for children affected by domestic violence: NSW Government, Digital platform regulators release working paper on multimodal foundation models, Joint investment in NSW adult literacy and numeracy, EnergyAustralia to pay $14m for making misleading statements and breaching the Electricity Retail Code, ACCC proposes not to authorise industry code on marketing of infant formula, Australians on fixed wireless services enjoy broadband speed boost, Why are we seeing more pandemics? Our impact on the planet has a lot to do with it, Costly defamation action looms large over Australian newsrooms; It’s diminishing press freedom, What are ‘rent tech’ platforms?; Action on reining in these exploitative tools is long overdue, Get Online Week with AvPals: October 15, "Pittwater at Place" - Craig Burton, Smoky Dawson's heritage listed gates at Ingleside: Fundraiser, Life on the Wait List: Report shows older Australians are going without support, A Call to Volunteer Trainers and Students, Fears government’s Support at Home waitlist promises based on false figures, Registration for Walking Netball Open, Don’t Worry: Take Action, Study reveals Age Pension is not enough – even for homeowners: National Seniors, People digging into retirement savings to pay for essential healthcare a serious risk: COTA, Are private hospitals really in trouble? And is more public funding the answer?, ‘We’re all Muriel’: why we still love Muriel’s Wedding, 30 years on, Pittwater-Narrabeen Parkinson’s Support Group, Manly Sailability needs volunteers, School Email Changes, Record HSC cohort begin exam preparation as the end of Term 3 completes their formal schooling, HSC Online Help Guide, The ‘best comet of the year’ is finally here – here’s everything you need to know, Training programs to plug jobs gap in the visitor economy, Digital platform regulators release working paper on multimodal foundation models, Joint investment in NSW adult literacy and numeracy, Young Australians embrace national online gambling self-exclusion register, TAFE NSW to provide free professional learning for early childhood educators, Newport SLSC's Surf Rowers Youth Development Programme opportunity, Avalon Beach SLSC Surf Boat Crew Opportunity, Study subsidies: NSW’s health workforce, Science To Revive Our Oceans: SIM's has a PHD Opportunity - Operation Crayweed, Daylight saving is about to start; But why do the days get longer?, Is big tech harming society? To find out, we need research – but it’s being manipulated by big tech itself, Limestone and iron reveal puzzling extreme rain in Western Australia 100,000 years ago, Wondering what AI actually is?; Here are the 7 things it can do for you, How do I know when it’s time to replace my running shoes?,  Whale Beach SLSC: New Members Needed, Avalon Bilgola Amateur Swimming Club: 2024/2025 Season, season 3 of She’s Electric competition now open for female surfers, Your Voice Our Future: have your say, School Leavers Support, Word Of The Week: Bird + Bird Words, ‘We’re all Muriel’: why we still love Muriel’s Wedding, 30 years on, TikTok ‘sunburning’ hack won’t heal your acne – but it may put you at risk of skin cancer, The seven greatest cover songs of all time – according to music experts, Open AI’s Strawberry program is reportedly capable of reasoning; It might be able to deceive humans, ChatGPT is changing the way we write; Here’s how – and why it’s a problem, The design tricks keeping your kids hooked on games and apps – and 3 things you can do about it, ‘We nicknamed it Eddy’: what do schools and teachers think of AI in classrooms?, Octopuses work together with fish to hunt – and the way they share decisions is surprisingly complex, Did Romans really fight rhinos? Sports historian explains the truth behind the battle scenes in Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II, The Sorrows of Young Werther at 250: Goethe’s dangerous romantic hero influenced fashion, fiction – and Napoleon, book of the month - October 2024: Encyclopaedia of Biodiversity - 5 Volumes (1st Edition) published in 2000, School Holidays Reading: Blinky Bill, the quaint little Australian, Bilgola Plateau Probus Club Celebrates Their 2nd Birthday, Smoky Dawson's heritage listed gates at Ingleside: Fundraiser, Australian ‘MemoryAid’ project awarded share of $2.9 million as finalists in UK’s prestigious Longitude Prize on Dementia, Are you over 75?; Here’s what you need to know about vitamin D, Retirement villages should be recognised as a financial product, "Pittwater at Place" - Craig Burton, Almost $18 million for world-first Australian research project for heart attack protection, Get Online Week with AvPals: October 15, Number of aged care homes falling short on minutes of care targets deeply concerning, Seniors’ champ Wayne turns grey into gold, New cheaper medicines for autoimmune conditions, cancer, arthritis and heart disease, The dangers of voice cloning and how to combat it, A Call to Volunteer Trainers and Students, Registration for Walking Netball Open, How to archive your photos in the digital age, Is owning a dog good for your health?, Cambodia: journalist arrest signals false dawn for democracy as the country slides into authoritarianism, Six ways to holiday like an old-school travel journalist – without using the internet, An unbroken night’s sleep is a myth; Here’s what good sleep looks like, Softball U16's Team 2025, Is owning a dog good for your health?, The woman who revolutionised the fantasy genre is finally getting her due, The extraordinary life of Alfred Nobel, Six ways to holiday like an old-school travel journalist – without using the internet, How to recognise burnout – and what to do if you’re affected, How 19th-century French novelist Balzac mastered the multiverse long before Marvel, The Terminator at 40: James Cameron’s dark vision is more relevant than ever, What is bankruptcy?, What is special consideration for exams?; How does it work?, Being on TikTok is a modern political necessity; Look no further than Peter Dutton, NASA is launching a major mission to look for habitable spots on Jupiter’s moon Europa, The Australian government has introduced new cyber security laws; Here’s what you need to know, Sound and abundance shape the poetic vision of Judith Beveridge, Clare Wright’s history of the Bark Petitions is a work of intimate storytelling, written with ‘charismatic authority’, In Vogue: the 90s was a boom time for Australian fashion and faces; What happened?, Book of the Month - October 2024: Encyclopaedia of Biodiversity - 5 Volumes (1st Edition) published in 2000,

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Issue 635 - Week One:

Profiles of the Week October 2024 - No.1: Tamara Sloper-Harding OAM: 25 Years After Being Deployed to Timor as part of INTERFET

Former Palm Beach fish & chip shop site DA proposal Update: Plans Supported by Council's Experts, Again

Aquatics: Study shows what stresses Pittwater's seagrass meadows (and the fish that love this estuary habitat)+ Review of Jetty Design to Protect Seagrass

NSW Government delivers millions in funding to support all recreational fishers + fish habitat: Kids Gone Fishing Day through RMYC this October

''Pittwater At Place''- Craig Burton by Pittwater Pathways - John Illingsworth

Hawkesbury Nepean River Coastal Zone Management program: Feedback Sought - community sessions at Church Point, Bayview + Palm Beach this October

Next Generation zero-emissions Freshwater vessels For Manly Ferry route: Narrabeen to return in 2025

Supermarkets Inquiry: Next Phase Commences as ACCC takes Woolworths and Coles to court over alleged misleading ‘Prices Dropped’ and ‘Down Down’ claims

NSW Government Consultation for Aboriginal people on desire for a treaty process: Commissioners appointed

Pictures Paradise Beach Wharf + Taylor's Wharf renewal projects: October 2024 pictorial update - update pics of Paradise Wharf and Pool renewal, pre-renewal Taylors Point wharf + a few others of Pittwater on a Spring Saturday afternoon

Park Bench Philosophers Harry Wolstenholme; Ornithologist Of Palm Beach, Bird Man Of Wahroonga

Profile of the Week Giles Stoddard's Avalon Honey

Spring is the Season when the air is sweet with the scent of a million flowers. In fact, Australia is one of the few countries in the world where flowers bloom all year round. From the bush to the bay, everything from our tallest trees to our mangroves flowers at its time to do so on verges that overlap each other and ensure everything that lives here, interconnected and whole, thrives.

Naturally, no pun intended, a vital element of this is the humble and regal insect we call the bee.

This Issue a few insights into local hives and honey from Avalon Honey gentleman Giles Stoddard. 

Giles is a member of the Northern Beaches Beekeepers Club. The NBBC supports aspiring and experienced beekeepers from Cammeray to Barrenjoey.

About Avalon Honey

Giles sells honey, and also beeswax candles and beeswax wraps from his home at 32 Elouera Road, Avalon Beach. Please follow my bees on social media, as I post there when I have local honey available. It often sells out within weeks of me harvesting, so please also consider finding a local beekeeper near you on the beaches. There’s lots of us!

History Pittwater Electorate Placenames History: from the West to the East

The electoral district of Pittwater was created in 1973 and is named after Pittwater, the estuary the district surrounds. Located in the traditional Liberal stronghold of Sydney's northern beaches, for the majority of its existence it has been a comfortably safe Liberal seat – a ‘blue ribbon seat’.

The first Member for Pittwater was Sir Robert William Askin, then Premier of New South Wales. The Electorate of Pittwater had been created out of a large portion of Askin's old seat of Collaroy, and was the natural place for Askin to transfer to when the seat was abolished. 

The seat was held by New South Wales Opposition Leader John Brogden until his resignation in 2005. The Liberal stranglehold on the seat was lost in the resulting by-election when the Mayor of Pittwater Council, Alex McTaggart, standing as an Independent candidate, defeated the Liberal Paul Nicolau in a landslide.

The seat reverted to form at the 2007 general election, with new Liberal candidate Rob Stokes comfortably regaining the seat for his party. Mr. Stokes held the seat without serious difficulty until the 2023 NSW state election, when he retired on a majority of 20.8 percent, the third-safest in the state for a Coalition-held metropolitan seat.

At the 2023 election, Liberal Party member and former Northern Beaches Council councillor Rory Amon was elected by just a few hundred votes. Mr. Amon was forced to resign a year and a half later. Mr. Amon's departure has triggered a by-election for the seat of Pittwater.

As residents of Pittwater head towards another election on Saturday October 19 to decide who will represent them at a state level, a few insights into the placenames of the Electorate of Pittwater may be of interest.

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter:  September 2024

Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

Contents: Volunteer Drivers Required; The Tuesday Discussion Group; Island Café; Newcomers' Welcome; Whisky Tasting; International Folk Dancing

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

NSW set to welcome Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla 

Photograph by Millie Pilkington 2024.

The NSW Government is honoured to welcome Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla to Sydney during their first official visit to Australia this month and is inviting NSW residents to join the celebration.

NSW Premier Chris Minns is inviting members of the public to join Their Majesties at the Sydney Opera House on Tuesday, 22 October, which will be followed by with an impressive Fleet Review and fly past by the Australian Defence Force on Sydney Harbour.

Members of the public are invited to the Sydney Opera House Forecourt for the special event and the chance to meet The King and Queen. 

The afternoon event [at 4.20pm] will be followed by a Fleet Review on Sydney Harbour including an Australian Defence Force fly-over. Their Majesties, accompanied by the Governor-General, Chief of the Defence Force and Chief of Navy, will conduct a review of His Majesty’s Australian Ships Hobart, Warramunga,Arunta, Gascoyne, and Yarra, which will be anchored in the Harbour.

In celebration of regional NSW, Their Majesties will also attend a Premier-hosted community BBQ in Parramatta, which will showcase the cultural diversity of modern Australia, in particular Western Sydney. Invited guests include community leaders, volunteers, and individuals who have excelled in their field. The event will also showcase produce from NSW with support from the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW.

As part of His Majesty’s engagements, The King will have the opportunity to meet current Australians of the Year (also NSW Australians of the Year 2024), Professor Georgina Long AO and Professor Richard Scolyer AO, to hear first-hand about their world-leading cancer research and treatment.

The Queen will visit a Sydney library and meet students participating in a series of writing workshops, esteemed authors, and recipients of the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition.

The King’s visit to Australia will be His Majesty’s first to a Realm as Monarch. After Australia, Their Majesties will undertake a visit to Samoa and will attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

For more information about the Royal visit and the Sydney Opera House engagement visit: www.nsw.gov.au/royalvisit

Premier Chris Minns said:

“I look forward to hosting Their Majesties at the Western Sydney community BBQ to showcase this state’s rich culinary and cultural diversity, where they will also meet with a range of community organisations and outstanding Australians.

“It is wonderful His Majesty is taking the time to meet with current Australians of the Year (also NSW Australians of the Year 2024), Professor Georgina Long AO and Professor Richard Scolyer AO.

“I invite everyone to head to the Sydney Opera House Forecourt on the afternoon of Tuesday 22 October to attend this special event.”

Please note:

The entry point to the Sydney Opera House precinct will open to the public from 3:00pm and large crowds are expected.

Security screening will be required to enter the Sydney Opera House precinct. 

Please note, no large bags, banners or umbrellas are allowed on site.

There will be a designated accessible viewing area reserved for people with disability and/or accessibility needs to enjoy the event with their family and friends. 

Please be advised that spots are limited. To express your interest, contact the NSW Premier’s Department Event Accessibility & Inclusion team by emailing  accessibility@premiersdepartment.nsw.gov.au

Bilgola Plateau Probus Club Celebrates Their 2nd Birthday

From the moment you stepped into the Newport Bowling club on Friday 4th October, there was a buzz in the air. From the blue and yellow garlands and balloons to the members dressed in the Probus colours of blue and yellow filing in; all was chatter and excitement. All bursting with pride that their club had come so far in 2 years. Distinguished guests included Bruce Larkin from the club’s sponsor Upper Northern Beaches Rotary, Carmen Meehan and Sonia Powell from Sophie Scamps office. 

Members were treated to a special complimentary morning tea. Prizes were given out for the best dressed male and female; lucky door prizes and volunteer of the year. A complex trivia quiz was also held. Members taking the trouble to dress up, all added to the general fun and atmosphere of the morning and provided lively discussions during morning tea.


A section of the 78 strong birthday crowd


L to R: Sonia, Carmen, President Mike, Vice President Di and Bruce Lakin

Report: Mike Musgrave, President BPPC

Avalon Beach to Palm Beach Safety Zone Proposed

Comments opened: Wed 9 Oct 2024
Comments close: Wed 6 Nov 2024
Council is proposing  installing new infrastructure treatments including a kerb build out, traffic calming devices, and signage so that street layouts are designed for safer speeds. Council are also proposing to add a raised pedestrian crossing at Whale Beach Road, near the intersection with Barrenjoey Road, and new street lighting to improve safety and visibility for drivers and pedestrians. In addition, they will re-align pram ramps and improve some lane widths and line marking.

Council also will introduce a 30km/h speed limit in some sections of the Avalon to Palm Beach route (east of Barrenjoey Road - see zone map below). A slower speed is proposed in response to the unique geography and active lifestyles of residents using neighbourhood streets in this area. 



''By establishing a comprehensive 30km/h zone, and a 10km/h zone in high pedestrian beachfront car parking areas, we are taking significant steps to ensure our streets are safer and to encourage active lifestyles. Traffic calming infrastructure treatments, combined with an improved road layout aims to naturally reduce vehicle speeds in line with speed zone changes.'' council's project webpage states

View the plans and provide feedback at: 

Mental Health Month

Member for Manly, James Griffin has thrown his support behind Mental Health Month.

Mr Griffin said during October we are encouraged to watch out for those who may be struggling and needing support.

“This year’s theme, ‘Let’s Talk About It’, prompts us all to reflect on our mental health and overall wellbeing, irrespective of whether we have personally encountered mental illness.

“The Mental Health Month theme emphasises the significance of maintaining good mental health in our daily lives and encourages a proactive approach to seeking help when necessary.

“Research shows how relationships with family, friends and the broader community can greatly improve a person’s psychological wellbeing and overall wellness.”

Mr Griffin said, “The theme, ‘Let’s Talk About It’, highlights the importance of engaging in conversations about mental health and uniting through showing compassion.”

“The Mental Health Month website highlights the need to connect with those around us by reaching out and checking on their wellbeing.

“It also highlights the need for us to be a good listeners by allowing a person-in-need lots of room to talk.

“Continued support is also vital,” Mr Griffin said.

More information on Mental Health Month can be found at: mentalhealthmonth.wayahead.org.au/about-mental-health-month


Cancellation of Northern Beaches Music Festival 2024

Hello faithful friends of live music,
 
It was always going to be tight raising enough funds to cover the costs involved in staging this year’s festival.
 
However, a number of factors have come about which means that we are clearly not going to be in a position to cover these costs on this occasion which tally to approximately $40,000.
 
These factors include:
 
Excessive rise in Council fees and charges - The cost of hiring the Berry Reserve has risen by 227% since 2022 which we were only informed of on 29th September.  Also, the cancellation of Event Grants this year meant that all we could apply for was one of their Arts grants which are not really intended for events like ours.  In any case, the outcome of our application is still not known but is very unlikely to be enough to make a real difference anyway.
 
Very low takeup of Food & Merchandise stall positions - The income from which makes up a significant proportion of the income we need.
 
Reduction in anticipated sponsorships 
 
Rhonda and I were prepared to donate $4,000 of our own money to cover the facility costs which would have meant that all of the ticket sales would be able to go to the artists.  However, to date there have been very few bookings.
 
So, it is with great regret that we feel that we have no choice but to cut our losses and cancel the event for this year.
 
All monies paid by stall holders, sponsors and those who have purchased tickets will, of course, be refunded.
 
At this stage the prospect of future Northern Beaches Music Festivals doesn’t bode well.  It looks like we may well have joined the mass extinction of ‘live music venues and festivals’ which have followed from the Covid epidemic.
 
Indeed live, original music venues appear to be an endangered species.
 
We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience we have caused you and hope that you will understand why this decision had to be made.
 
Regards . . .

Paul Robertson
Executive Producer
Northern Beaches Music Festival
Tuesday October 15, 2024

Mayor and Deputy Mayor elected

Wednesday, October 9 2024
Northern Beaches Councillors elected Sue Heins as Mayor for a 2-year term until September 2026 following a vote by the newly elected councillors at a special Council meeting last evening. 

Cr Ruth Robins was also voted Deputy Mayor for a one-year term. 

This marks the third time Cr Heins has been voted Mayor in the last 16 months and more than 12 years as a councillor. 

Cr Heins is the recipient of the Minister’s Award for Women in Local Government, a current board member of Women’s Healing Sanctuary, founder of business network group Inspiring Women, the former Chair of family violence organisation Women & Children First and previously served as President of the Warringah Chamber of Commerce as a small business operator.  

Mayor Heins said she was looking forward to working with the newly elected Council and staff to deliver for the people of the Northern Beaches. 

“Being elected Mayor of the area I love once more is a true honour,” Cr Heins said.

“I thank my fellow Councillors for their trust in me as we work together to continue the considerable progress made last term and provide the services and infrastructure our community rely on every day. 

“I am thrilled our community has elected 9 women out of 15 councillors and that we are welcoming 8 new faces to the table who will bring fresh ideas and perspectives. 

“We have a duty to protect and enhance all that people love about the Northern Beaches and ensure we manage it carefully to support housing, employment, local business and recreational opportunities while prioritising the protection of our local environment and community services.”

Elected on 13 September and sworn in on 8 October 2024, the 15 councillors of the Northern Beaches Council are:

Pittwater Ward
Cr Rowie Dillon, Cr Miranda Korzy, Cr Mandeep Singh JP

Narrabeen Ward
Cr Vincent De Luca OAM, Cr Robert Giltinan OAM JP, Cr Ruth Robins

Frenchs Forest Ward
Cr Sue Heins, Cr Ethan Hrnjak, Cr Jody Williams

Curl Curl Ward
Cr Joeline Hackman, Cr Nicholas Beaugeard, Cr Kristyn Glanville

Manly Ward
Cr Candy Bingham, Cr Sarah Grattan, Cr Bonnie Harvey


Draft Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy: Proposed amendments

Submissions opened: Fri 11 Oct 2024
Submissions close: Fri 8 Nov 2024
Council is required to adopt a policy concerning the payment of expenses and the provision of facilities to the Mayor and Councillors within 12 months of the election.

The policy must comply with the provisions of the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act), the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 and the guidelines issued by the Office of Local Government (OLG) under section 23A of the Act.

Council have reviewed their Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy (the draft Policy), and propose some amendments to which comply with the above requirements. The draft Policy is based on the OLG’s template policy.

Draft and details at: 

Critical incident declared after man suffers severe burns - Pittwater

Wednesday, 9 October 2024 
A critical incident investigation has been declared after a man sustained significant burns while on a boat on Sydney’s Pittwater.

About 2.55pm today (Wednesday 9 October 2024), police were called to Pittwater, near Scotland Island, following reports of a concern for welfare.

Officers attached to Sydney Water Police spoke with a 61-year-old man regarding the alleged activation of an EPIRB emergency device.

While police were speaking with him, the man is alleged to have picked up a jerry can, pouring the contents of the can over himself while smoking a cigarette, which ignited a fire.

Police officers put out the fire and immediately provided first aid to the man.

He was treated at the scene by Ambulance Paramedics before being taken to Concord Hospital for further treatment. His condition is reported to be critical but stable.

A critical incident team from Nepean Police Area Command will investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The investigation is also subject to an independent review.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

If you need someone to talk to, please call:
  • Lifeline on 13 11 14
  • Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
  • MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
  • Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
  • Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36
  • Headspace on 1800 650 890
  • QLife on 1800 184 527

Proposed lease: KU Avalon Preschool

Thursday, 10 October 2024
What's proposed?
Northern Beaches Council is proposing to grant KU Children’s Services a 10-year lease to continue their childcare operations at KU Avalon Preschool. The land is located at 118a Avalon Parade, Avalon also known as Part Lot 102 of DP785848.

Council is owner of the land and this notice is provided in accordance with Section 47 of the Local Government Act 1993.

Submissions in relation to the proposals may be made by:
  • Filling out a submission box here, via the “Make a submission” button
  • emailing: council@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au
  •  writing to us: 
  • ‘KU Avalon Preschool’
  • Northern Beaches Council
  • PO Box 82, Manly NSW 1655
Please refer to the indicative leased plan below.



All submissions in their entirety are made publicly available in the Public Notification Report. Personal identifying information and content which is discriminatory, hateful or which may defame, offend, insult, humiliate or intimidate will be redacted. 

Submissions close Thursday, 7 November 2024

New multi-use court for Beverley Job Park

Thursday, 10 October 2024
This week marked the opening of a new multi-use hardcourt in Beverley Job Park, Narraweena with young people front and centre in Council’s planning. 

Mayor Sue Heins said feedback from local youth underpinned the projects objectives.

“In 2023, we consulted over 400 local youth about the construction of new facilities at this site. They expressed a strong desire for a multi-use court and so we have delivered. 

“The new space will not only be a place where our young people can come together, stay active, but build a sense of community. 
“This court represents more than just a place to play; it’s a symbol of our commitment to providing safe, accessible spaces for our youth to grow, learn, and thrive.” Mayor Heins said. 

The construction of this space is part of Council’s Open Space and Recreation Strategy – Let’s Play which sets out key directions, priorities and actions for our open spaces and outdoor recreational facilities over 15 years. 

The new outdoor space will include a new multi-use hard court with line marking to accommodate formal and informal recreation, open grassed area with new shade trees, seating and a grassed embankment for viewing of sporting activities.

The total project cost was $390,000. The project was made possible thanks to a $121,000 grant from the NSW Government Crown Reserves Improvement Fund and a $70,000 grant from the NSW Government Local Small Commitments Allocation – Playground and Parks Program. 

NSW Minister for Lands and Property and Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said he is pleased to see this space will be well utilised locally. 

“This is a great investment in a public reserve to provide a safe and inclusive multi-use recreational facility for young people in and around the Narraweena area,” Mr Kamper said.

“Crown reserves support health and well-being by providing public land for recreation such as parks, ovals and sporting facilities, as well as land for community organisations and to protect sensitive areas of environment."


Photo: NBC

Professor Paul Kelly retirement

Statement by: The Hon Mark Butler MP, Minister for Health and Aged Care, October 8, 2024

Today, Professor Paul Kelly has announced his decision to retire from his position as Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of the Department of Health and Aged Care.


Professor Kelly 

Professor Kelly has been CMO since 2020, after joining the department as Chief Medical Advisor in 2019. He has also served as the Head of the interim Australian Centre for Disease Control (CDC) since 1 January 2024.

His expertise, leadership and advice helped Australia successfully navigate the COVID-19 pandemic — the country’s largest public health response in over 100 years.

Professor Kelly’s constant presence, technical expertise, and clear communication provided reassurance to the public and critical advice to governments at a time of extreme uncertainty.

He has also been instrumental in the establishment of the interim Australian CDC, which will better prepare our country for future health threats and leading the development of Australia’s first National Health and Climate Strategy.

It has been a pleasure to work with Professor Kelly over the past three years, and I wish him all the best.

Professor Kelly's last day in the Department will be 21 October 2024. Arrangements to fill the roles of CMO and head of the interim Australian CDC will be confirmed in due course.

School Email Changes

From Day 1 Term 4, students will no longer be able to use their school email address (@education.nsw.gov.au) to access social media, gaming, instant messaging and similar platforms. This means they will also not be able to retrieve password-recovery emails and the like from these platforms.

The NSW Department of Education is making an important change to help keep students safe online, reduce the risk of cyber threats and make sure student email accounts are used for their intended educational purposes only. 

Starting Day 1, Term 4, you won’t be able to use your student email address to sign up for, or recover access to any social media, gaming, instant messaging or similar accounts.

If you have signed up for a social media, gaming, instant messaging or similar account using your student email address, please change to a personal email address on each platform by Sunday 13th October to make sure you don't lose access to the account.

Log in to each account. Go to the account settings and update your email address to a personal one. Add a mobile number too, if you haven’t already.

The department is making this change to ensure all student accounts are being used for their educational purposes, and to help protect you from risks online. Using your personal email address for these platforms instead of your student email address reduces the chances of someone gaining access to information in your school account.

Pharmacists prepared to help Australians quit vaping

On October 1 2024 new vaping reforms came into force to protect Australian kids from the harms of vaping and nicotine dependence. 
 
Therapeutic vaping products will be behind the pharmacy counter, nicotine concentrations and dispensing quantities will be tightly controlled, and they will have plain pharmaceutical-like packaging. Flavours are restricted to tobacco, menthol and mint.
 
The days of bubble gum flavoured vapes covered in rainbows and unicorns are over. The cynical marketing to our children is done.
 
The law will change so people 18 years or older can buy vapes for the purpose of helping to quit smoking or manage nicotine dependence from a participating pharmacy with a nicotine concentration of 20 mg/mL or less without a prescription. However, they must talk with the pharmacist before purchasing.
 
The peak professional body for pharmacists, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA), has worked with the government to develop updated guidelines, education and training for pharmacists to support the government’s tobacco and vaping reforms.
 
The PSA’s updated clinical guidance, Professional practice guidelines for pharmacists: nicotine dependence support (psa.org.au), is published on the PSA’s website.
 
The PSA has delivered a national webinar which over 2,000 pharmacists attended. There will be further face-to-face workshops and online educational products and information for pharmacists to supply therapeutic vaping goods.
 
Importantly, pharmacists will have automatic insurance coverage when supply vaping products for smoking and nicotine dependence.
 
Therapeutic vapes will have similar restrictions to other pharmacist-only products like pseudoephedrine, allergy and asthma medications. Pharmacists will be required to sight photo ID for age verification purposes and, crucially, have that important conversation around the health harms of vaping.
 
The only lawful way to purchase a vape is through a pharmacy.
 
Anyone seeking help to quit smoking or vaping can call the Quitline on 13 QUIT (13 7848), visit quit.org.au, or download the My QuitBuddy app.
________________________________________________________________________________________________

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter:  October 2024

Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

Contents: Tilly: A Devine Mystery; SIRA AGM; The Tuesday Discussion Group; Scotland Island Garden Festival; International Folk Dancing

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Re: Pittwater Online News Issue 624 - Bayview Sea Scouts Hall

Dear Editor

Apologies for delay. I had missed your original article until a friend sent me a copy.


I remember the hall being used as an ambulance station.  My dad built our house at Church Point about 1959 and I used to attend Mona Vale public school. Whenever we drove past the ambulance station I would look to see if the ambulance vehicle was sticking out of the front door.

My dad took me down to join the 1st Bayview sea scouts in November 1962 when I was 10 1/2 so soon after 1st Bayview actually started.  He was told I was too old to join cubs so they allowed me to start scouts at an age younger than 11.  

We were always lucky to have adults willing to donate their time as scout leaders to organise the scout meetings on Saturday mornings and to supervise our use of various watercraft in the afternoons plus to organise and attend various scout regattas, camps and events.  Visits to the navy base at Garden Island was a special attraction.  

The 1st Bayview Sea Scouts would attend district scout camps at the newly completed Ingleside Scout Camp. Our tents were heavy canvas with “P.M.G” for Post Master General stencilled on the sides and not the usual better quality, scout tents.   

Other "water activities centric” scout camps were organised at Portuguese Beach near the Basin on Pittwater. We would often row to and from there in an old ‘double ended’ surf boat that came from Fisherman’s Beach at Long Reef.

My father was a sign writer by trade and made the original “1st Bayview Sea Scouts" sign under the ships wheel on the entry to the scout hall plus signs to various rooms (but not the hall sign shown in your photo) as well as many of the signs used at the new Ingleside scout camp. 

Back then, bottle recycling was practiced as a fund raising activity and we usually classified and stored the empty bottles prior to their collection on the western side of the hall where they were hidden from view.

I thought that the sandstone sea wall actually extended under the hall but not at the same height. Several large, water rats occupied the area behind the wall.

I seem to recall a scout regatta being held at Bayview sometime around 1965 and prior to the one you mentioned in 1975.  We would attend other scout regattas at Sailors Bay, Balmoral, Longueville, Abbotsford and Woollahra.

Attached is this magazine cover of Power Boat & Yachting from August 1965 featuring members of 1st Bayview Sea Scouts.



Who was the source about the history of the scout hall?  I don't recall the “trappings of the ambulance station … to teach cubs and scouts 1st aid” apart from the rooms that the Ambulance left behind. Do you know exactly what those trappings were to help my memory?

T., of Church Point

Bilgola Surf Life Saving Club: Long Weekend at Billy’s 

We got a sneak peak of the glorious Summer ahead with balmy temps & mostly sunny skies! 

With Patrols 10, 12, 6, 13, 14 & 3 on duty keeping our community safe we had maiden patrols for some of our recent SRC group, whales and dolphins frolicking providing entertainment, getting in early with our lifesaver recruiting efforts, visits from SLS royalty and the IRB Crew smashed out some training.

The Clubhouse hosted a couple of events too – busy three days! 
Thanks to all our Volunteers.

See you on the beach soon.


Scotland Island Garden Festival 2024: Sunday October 20


Warringah's Coaches for 2025


Northern Beaches Police Area Command Updates

Courtesy NBPAC: October 11 2024 Update

Police and community working together.
To report criminal activity, please get in touch through 
Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au
All calls are treated in the strictest confidence.

ARRESTS ON THE BEACHES

Brookvale, 10pm Saturday 5th October 2024 – Affray
A 40-year Dee Why man was arrested on Saturday night at a fast food outlet by police called to reports of a disturbance. The intoxicated male will face court next month on charges of affray. Paper work completed, the man was taken home to his parents.

Manly, Tuesday 8th October 2024
A 44-year old Manly man is facing assault charges after an altercation involving staff at a local licensed premises. Police had been called to reports of a staff member being struck several times by a male refusing to leave. After viewing CCTV, officers have charged a man with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and failing to leave licensed premises. He’ll be in Manly court next month.

Brookvale, Wednesday 9th October 2024
A man and teenage boy have been arrested by detectives investigating a street robbery. A 13-year old boy had reported being confronted by three young males who stole clothing. The following day, detectives executed a search warrant on a home at Dee Why where property was seized. A 19-year old Central Coast man has been charged with robbery in company. A 15-year old boy was arrested on Friday with charges to follow. The search continues for a 16-year old local.

Theft of E-bikes
Police patrolling North Steyne on Monday night stopped a man riding an e-bike without a helmet. A search produced bolt cutters, a bike chain and small amount of cannabis. A 46-year old Balgowlah man will face court next month on charges of possessing a prohibited drug, goods in custody suspected of being stolen and possession of the bolt cutters.

e-bikes continue to be a popular target for crooks with thefts recently from Avalon Beach, Manly and North Steyne. The fact that the bikes had been secured with chains was no deterrent. Also stolen through the week has been an electric skateboard left outside a medical practice at North Curl Curl.

Expensive Night Out, Manly Friday 4th October 2024
An 18-year old man has been charged with theft after emptying a keg of beer at a Manly venue. Staff were busy when the man decided to poor himself a glass. However, he didn’t turn off the tap leaving the entire contents of the keg - value $1,000 - to drain away. He’ll be in court next month.

APPEAL FOR INFORMATION

Brookvale, 9.40pm, Sunday 6 October 2024 – Serious assault
A man has been treated in hospital for concussion after being assaulted in a fast food outlet at Brookvale. He’d tried to intervene when a group of about eight young people started playing up with one attempting to steal food. For his trouble, the man was set upon and kicked. CCTV has been viewed and witnesses interviewed. Two of the group are described as being about 15-17 years old, wearing shorts and no shirts. Any information that can lead to us identifying those involved is appreciated.

Collaroy, 3am Monday 7 October 2024 – Theft of alcohol
We’re hoping members of the public can help with investigations into a break-in at a licensed venue at Collaroy. Six young people – four males and two females – smashed a window of the Pittwater Road premises in the early hours of Monday morning. Once inside, they grabbed bottles of alcohol and soft drink, loading them into crates. It’s thought it was a return visit for at least some of the group after a similar break in a week earlier. Several were wearing grey and blue hoodies and at least two were wearing crocs. CCTV footage and forensics are being used in the hunt for those involved.

Narrabeen & Bayview, Saturday 5th & Monday 7th October 2024 
We’re investigating the theft of a small 8 hp outboard motor, taken from a tinnie moored on Narrabeen lagoon. Thieves had cut a padlock to get to the motor.  Two days later, a tinnie and a set of oars belonging to a volunteer group were taken from Bayview.

ALERT
Sextortions
We’ve received several reports of extortions and attempted extortions threatening the disclosure of sexually explicit material. A 16 year old boy has lost several thousand dollars after responding to a demand on a social media app thought to have come from overseas. We’re also investigating reports involving a 15 year old girl and an even younger person as well as a 57 year old woman told by scammers to send bitcoin or they would release certain footage. We remind people to block scammers making these attempts and not pay any money. For more information and help, contact ScamWatch.

Crime Stoppers: 
1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au


Eramboo Artist in Residence program accepting applications

Council and Eramboo Artist Environment are pleased to announce the artist-in-residency 2025 program is accepting applications.

Now in its 11th year the program recipient will enjoy six-months use of a non-residential studio at the Eramboo and $3000 allowance for materials and support toward the resulting installation.

Mayor Sue Heins said through this program, artists can enhance their skills, potentially discover new techniques and develop new ideas.

“Council is proud to continue our support of this program and we’re grateful to Eramboo for its generous funding and guidance to the lucky recipient. 

“The opportunity to network with fellow artists at Eramboo will enhance the experience and possibly lead to new directions.

“Being surrounded by the stunning Australian bushland, Eramboo must be a stimulating yet tranquil setting, inspiring unique creations.

“The Artist in Residence program offers the lucky recipient daily access to a private space at Eramboo, the opportunity to engage with the local artistic community, exhibit the resulting project and provide mentorship for emerging artists,” Sue Heins said. 

Applications for the 2025 artist in residence program are being accepted until 3pm Monday, 11 November 2024. 

If selected, the residency would commence in February 2025 and conclude in July 2025.

Eramboo sits among the bushland setting of World Heritage Ku-ring-gai National Park providing its 8 studios, teaching space and exhibition gallery with inspirational scenery encouraging amazing creations.

For more information about the program or how to apply visit Council's dedicated webpage for this on their website.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

More Australians now eligible for free Shingles vaccination

The Australian Government is expanding one of the most comprehensive and widely available shingles vaccination programs in the world.

The free shingles vaccination is now available to more people over 18 who are immunocompromised due to an underlying health condition or as a side effect of treatment.

This free vaccine will now cover hundreds of thousands of more Australians living with underlying health conditions.
 
The government is investing $57.7 million over 4 years to expand the Shingrix program, which has been available on the NIP since 1 November 2023 to prevent shingles and post-herpetic neuralgia.
 
Free shingles vaccination is already available for people aged 65 and older, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 and older and high-risk immunocompromised adults with certain medical conditions.
 
Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful blistering rash as a result of the reactivation of the same virus that causes chickenpox.
 
While most symptoms typically last 2–3 weeks, shingles can lead to nerve pain that can last for months.
 
Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect yourself from serious complications caused by shingles.
 
Advice is available for health professionals at this link. Patients are encouraged to talk to their immunisation provider about eligibility for this vaccine.
 
Health Minister Butler has stated:
 
“Making the shingles vaccine free for more Australians is not just good their hip pocket, it’s also good for their health.
 
“Without vaccination, almost 1 in 3 Australians will get shingles in their lifetime.
 
“Over 1.3 million Australians have received a free shingles vaccine since the Albanese Government commenced the new Shingles Program on 1 November 2023.
 
“Without listing it on the NIP Australians who are immunocompromised due to an underlying health condition would have to pay up to $560 for their vaccine.
 
“With the expanded eligibility for the free shingles vaccination, the Albanese Government is protecting more at-risk Australians from this debilitating virus.”

Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week

Humphrey
5yo Lab X Mastiff


Humphrey is a very sweet but strong boy. He travelled so well from the pound on the north coast in the car. He sits on command and is very treat motivated. Humphrey is not reactive to dogs in a clinic environment, but he is not a fan of cats. He came from the pound a little thin weighing 34kg. He has a short coat. He suits FT workers and is looking for a house with garden. He is desexed, vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. His adoption cost is $400. 

Luigi and Mario 
4yo Tibetan Spaniel X


Luigi and Mario are sweet affectionate dogs who are not super energetic. They entered the pound together, roaming as strays. They look like possible brothers. They were terrified when they came from the pound as they had been caught on a pole catcher but soon relaxed with us. They have been friendly and easy to handle. They are both very social with small dogs but can get "in your face" with some dogs. They love a relaxed walk with lots of sniffing.

Luigi, the smaller one has a deformed elbow on his right front leg, but he runs without problem. X rays reveal this is most likely congenital. He has just had a dental with only 1 extraction.

Mario, the bigger one came from the pound with heartworm disease. DoggieRescue is committed to seeing this through regardless of when they are adopted.

These two boys want to stay together and enjoy a quiet home. They love each other and they are always playing together. They both have medium coats that need brushing but can be clipped. Luigi weighs 7kg and Mario weighs 10kg. They suit apartment living and would cope with FT workers. They come desexed, vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. Their adoption cost is $1200 together. 

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

Catherine Park, Scotland Island Landscape improvements plan: Have Your Say

Closes: Sunday 13 Oct. 2024

Council have now modified the original concept plans (excluding vehicle access and parking) and are seeking community feedback on the modified design.

Note: Vehicle management will be resolved as part of the Scotland Island Traffic Management Plan review following the recent decision by Transport for NSW.

Community feedback will help council clarify what is important to local residents and park users. Have your say by completing the comment form here: https://yoursay.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/catherine-park-scotland-island


Modified plans: NBC

Daylight saving 2024 start date: Sunday 6 October 2024

Time: 2am Eastern Standard Time (AEST)
Clocks are moved forward by 1 hour to 3am, giving you more daylight in the evening.

Daylight Saving 2025 ends in NSW on Sunday 6 April 2025
Time: 3am Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT)
Clocks are moved back 1 hour to 2am, giving you more daylight in the morning.

Future issues of Pittwater Online News 

Please note the news service will continue in an 'instant publishing' format from October 2024 onwards.

The Contents page is being moved, by the end of October, to the Front Page so Readers may see what's in each Issue via the landing page. 

These changes have been requested for a few years from the legion of subscribers wo read Pittwater Online News on their phones.

Issue Notices will continue to be sent out every Sunday with each add-in for that week, with a complete refresh of all permanent pages mid-month/or as required. 

Each report will continue to be archived, monthly. These archives may be accessed via the links at the base of this page on a month by month basis.

Updated Notices and reports added in will be posted on the PON social media platforms. You can access those at:
  • Pittwater Online News on Facebook - NB: This account was deleted by Facebook on September 22 2024 as it had been anonymously reported during previous weeks, along with the Editor, as being 'fake' (ergo: not really existing in either case). NB 2: Thanks for signing up to receive the Issue Notice as an alternative! NB 3: Should the PON need to post warnings/updates for fires/floods etc., this will be done via these platforms from now on:
  • Pittwater Online News on Instagram
  • Pittwater Online News on X (formerly Twitter)
  • NB 4: 'The reports of my death/non-existence have been greatly exaggerated. Ditto; Pittwater Online News.' AJG/PON Editor.

Carols at the Beach announcement

We are deeply disappointed to share that our much-loved Carols event, will not be held this Christmas. Due to significant increases in production costs over the past couple of years, we are unable to secure the additional sponsorship funding required to host the event.

However, this is not just a financially based decision. Our volunteers are the heart of our surf club, and the demands of organising and managing the event in the lead up, and on the day, are enormous and simply too great for our team to sustain at the busiest time of the surf life saving season.

As a proud community surf club, we know how much this event means to everyone, and it saddens us that we can't continue the tradition.  Instead, we will be focusing our fundraising and volunteering efforts towards the Around the Bends Ocean Swim in March 2025, a vital event that supports the core of what we do as a surf lifesaving club as well as our Centenary celebrations in 2025. We’re excited to channel our energy into making those events a success for our Club and community. 

Additionally, in collaboration with Club and event supporter, McGrath Pittwater, we hope to soon announce a smaller, but just as exciting, community event to take place at the end of Summer.  

We thank everyone for their support, especially to our longstanding Carols major sponsor for many years, McGrath Pittwater.  Thank you also to Johnson Bros and Northern Beaches Council for their past financial contributions which also helped make the Carols event possible.   

To the many local businesses that have generously supported our Christmas Silent Auction, your donated auction items made a significant financial contribution towards the both the Carols event and the Club's solar initiatives. We are so very appreciative for your generous support. 

And to all Club members and members of our Avalon community, we are immensely grateful for the support you’ve shown towards the Carols event over the years. We truly appreciate your understanding of this difficult decision.

Avalon Beach SLSC


NBWS Expands with Narrabeen House 

We are thrilled to announce the expansion of our services with the opening of Narrabeen House, a transitional property that can house up to 90 women in our community. 

This housing program offers studio and one-bedroom units complete with kitchenette, lounge, dining areas, balconies, and courtyards. We offer both furnished and unfurnished options, allowing women to settle comfortably into a new chapter of their lives.

Onsite support coordination staff are available to assist residents with their housing goals and provide guidance throughout their stay. 

If you or someone you know is looking for low-cost accommodation, or if you’d like to learn more about this program, please contact us at narrabeenhouse@nbws.org.au

Northern Beaches Women's Shelter
October 2, 2024


Northern Beaches Police Area Command Updates

Courtesy NBPAC: October 2024

ARRESTS ON THE BEACHES
DRUG SUPPLY:
Manly, 8pm Friday 27 September 2024
Around 8pm last Friday, plain clothes police were conducting patrols as part of Operation FOIL, a statewide operation focusing on knife crime. 

Officers observed what appeared to be a drug deal occurring in Central Avenue at Manly.  Police stopped the car and located more than $3000 in cash, more than 70 grams of MDMA, nearly 40 grams of ketamine and 9 grams of cocaine.  

Police arrested two siblings; a female aged 32 and a male aged 26 from Fairfield.  

They were charged with four counts of drug supply and dealing with proceeds of crime.  

Both were bail refused to appear at Parramatta Local Court on 28th September 2024.  

ROBBERY:
Seaforth, 5pm, Saturday 28th September 2024
Northern Beaches detectives investigating a robbery of a local convenience store in Seaforth last weekend were able to identify a number of local young persons as suspects.  

On Thursday 3rd October 2024, detectives arrested five young males at a North Narrabeen home.   

A 17 year old was charged with 5 counts of robbery in company, face disguised to commit indictable offence and breach of bail.  Two 15 year olds and two 14 year olds were charged with robbery in company.  

Detectives continue with inquiries into the identity of the other three young people present.

POLICE PURSUIT AND CRASH:
Dee Why, 3am Saturday 28th September 2024
Around 3am last Saturday police engaged in a pursuit with a Mazda along Cumberland Avenue, Dee Why where it crashed into a several fences and came to rest on the top of another parked car.  

A 21 year old male climbed out of the car and was arrested by Police.  A 22 year old male was found curled up on the back seat of the car.  

As a result of the crash, a gas main was compromised, resulting in the need to evacuate local residents.  Both males were taken to hospital for a medical assessment.  

On Monday 30th September 2024, the 22 year old male attended Manly Police Station and was charged with the police pursuit, drive whilst licence suspended, various traffic offences and possession of a prohibited drug.  

Police are awaiting the toxicology results before considering further charges.  

The 22 year old will appear at Manly Local Court on 9th October 2024.

Crime Stoppers: 
1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au

ALERT:
SCAM - online shopping
Frenchs Forest, 2pm 28 September 2024
A Frenchs Forest man ordered a complete Nirvana vinyl record box set from the USA and received only one record. Fortunately, the buyer protected himself by using an escrow or third party account (PayPal) for payment and was able to report the issue to PayPal. Police would like to echo the ScamWatch advice for online shoppers to use an escrow account such as PayPal for payment. This adds an avenue for buyer recourse. 

SCAM - gift cards
Cromer, 29 September 2024
Over the course of a year an elderly lady befriended a woman on social media who purported to be an American actress. They developed an online friendship and the ‘actress’ periodically declared she was struggling with money and requested Apple gift cards. The victim bought about $40,000 worth of gift cards. 

A family member detected the scam and reported it to police last month. Police would like to remind the community to treat any online request for gift cards as a red flag and to review the authenticity of any related communication. Further cautionary advice is available on www.scamwatch.gov.au

APPEAL FOR INFORMATION
Break & enter:
Collaroy, 1am, Tuesday 1st October 2024
Can you help with information about the break in at a licensed premises on Pittwater Rd, Collaroy during the early hours of Tuesday.  Around 1am, three people were seen standing on the beach side of the licensed premises.  One smashed a window and climbed into the bar, provided access to their two colleagues.  They took over a $1000 worth of spirits and left.  Police are following on the CCTV. 

Theft of number plates:
Newport, Sunday 29 September 2024
Thieves have taken both number plates from a Toyota station wagon parked in Beaconsfield St, Newport overnight.  Police are concerned about the repeated theft of number plates on the northern part of the peninsula.  If you can help with these incidents or see anyone looking suspicious around vehicles in the area, please get in touch.

Crime Stoppers: 
1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au

Thank You Kerry McEwan

Barrenjoey High school's Kerry McEwan (Head Teacher, HSIE)has left the school at the end of Term 3.

Kerry has been a cornerstone of our community for over 23 years. While her presence will undoubtedly be missed, we wish her the absolute best as she embarks on the next chapter of her life. 

On behalf of the entire school and community, we thank Kerry for her dedication to public education and, most importantly, her invaluable contributions to Barrenjoey High School. 

We wish her all the best in her retirement.... and... we'll see you on the beach Kerry!

 

Marita Macrae and Kerry McEwan at BHS Careel Creek Bushcare Day in 2012

former Palm Beach fish & chip shop site DA proposal Update: Plans Supported by council's experts, again

L & E Court hearing 23 (on-site) & 24 October 2024

Council's lawyers advised residents on Friday September 27 2024 that Council’s experts are satisfied that amended plans, together with the proposed Conditions of Consent, resolve the issues that were raised in the Statement of Facts & Contentions (SOFAC).

The lawyers advise that, given the position of Council’s experts, there is 'not any expert evidence available to support the Council’s continued opposition to the development application in its amended form. In the absence of expert evidence, Council is not in a position to oppose the approval of the amended development application subject to the imposition of appropriate conditions of consent.

Accordingly, in line with the Court’s Class 1 Development Appeals Practice Note, Council will advise the Court that the issues raised by Council have been resolved and, as such, the hearing fixed for 23-24 October 2024 may proceed by way of a Consent Orders hearing.

In a Consent Orders hearing, notwithstanding the views formed by the experts, the Court must be satisfied that an approval is lawful and appropriate having regard to the whole of the relevant circumstances including the proposed conditions.

Further, at a Consent Orders hearing, the Council is required to demonstrate that all relevant statutory provisions have been complied with, that any objection by any person has been properly taken into account and that all objectors have been notified of the proposed Orders and conditions.

The Conditions of Consent are dated September 20 2024.

Council's Lawyers further advise that 'In the opinion of the experts, all relevant statutory provisions have been complied with and all objections received by Council have been properly taken into account.'

The proposed orders are:

1. The Appeal is upheld.
2. Development Application No. DA2022/0469 for the construction of a Shop Top Housing development at 1102 Barrenjoey Road, Palm Beach is approved subject to the conditions.

New LEC Plans and Documents dated July 19 2024 were uploaded to Council's DA webpage for this application.
Visit: DA2022/0469

The applicant was granted leave to rely on these amended plans on July 12 2024.

The Proponents amended documents state:

''The street facing dormer elements breach the 8.5 metre height of buildings standard by 1.8 metres or 21.1% with the street facing parapet breaching the standard by 2.65 metres or 31.1%. The clerestory windows and adjacent roof top plant enclosure breach the height by a 2.5 metres (29.4%) and 2.3 metres (27%).''

 

Roof height breach and Shadow diagram from proponents Council approved plans of September 2024 (dated June 2022) show scale of development alongside Barrenjoey House

The application plans remain unchanged scrutineers of the amended documents have stated. The height breach of 30.47% remains in place, without any reason why. The development breaches the Pittwater Development Control Plan (DCP) in relation to setback from adjoining properties and the roadway.

Because the development adjoins E4 a low-density residential zoning on part of its north side (against the historic Barrenjoey House), its whole east side (rear) and its whole south side, setback is required to be 9 metres, instead of 0-3 metres on the north, 0-5.5 metres at the rear and 0-2 or 3 metres on the south. 

Excavation for the car park on the Barrenjoey Road frontage goes right to the boundary so that no landscaping is possible; the ground floor setback is 2 metres but Clause D12.5 of the DCP requires a setback at the ground floor level of at least 3.5 metres.
The development will interfere with the views from the pre-existing adjoining immediate residential neighbours at 1100 Barrenjoey Road, 1110A, 1110B and 1110C Barrenjoey Road and other properties on the eastern side of the proposed site.

The damage to views is exacerbated by the failure to relocate plant and equipment from the top of the roof of the development, despite requests to do so.

The bulk and scale of the proposal breaches the DCP density control for a block of this size. 

The DCP requires planting of vegetation to minimise bulk and scale of the built form. It also requires canopy trees between the building and its front boundaries where the property faces a waterfront reserve as this does. The DA and modifications do not comply with the DCP in these respects. 

The design of the building is not compatible with the design of the immediate surrounding area. It is located between Barrenjoey House, a heritage listed building, and 1100 Barrenjoey Road, a classic Palm Beach weekender, and opposite a number of classic houses. 

Background - from earlier in 2024
courtesy Palm Beach Whale Beach Association
The Section 34 Conference held in March 2024 was terminated by Commissioner Dickson and the appeal has been listed for hearing on 23-24 October 2024.

The hearing will commence on-site on 23 October 2024 at 9:30am to enable the Commissioner (who may be a new Commissioner) to view the site and surrounds and to hear from any person who wishes to address the Court. The hearing will then proceed in Court.

The applicant submitted amended plans for consideration by the Council and objectors on March 28. While the amended plans were considered to address the contentions raised by Council’s experts, advice from Geotechnical Experts retained by objectors raised issues that are of concern to Council.

As a result of these concerns, the applicant was advised that as the amended plans propose changes to the location of the building on the land and the extent of excavation, full construction plans for the excavation and basement are required.

The applicant agreed to provide the required plans however the Court would not grant the 8 week extension of the s34 conference needed for the plans to be prepared and considered by both Council and the objectors’ consultants.

As a result the s34 conference was terminated.

Council was informed by the applicant that the required plans will be provided and that they intend to amend their application to include the amended plans that were sent to interested persons on 28 March 2024.

When the requested plans were received, Council’s lawyers were instructed to make them available to the objectors’ consultants for comment.

If you wish to address the Court on the first day of the hearing (23 October on-site) would you please advise Council’s lawyers. Chris Gough of Storey & Gough Lawyers

Previous PON updates:
Related

Election Notice 1: Receipt of writ 

2024 Epping, Hornsby and Pittwater State by-elections 
Saturday, 19 October 2024 

On Friday 27 September 2024, I received from the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, the Hon Greg Piper MP, a writ for the election of one Member of the Legislative Assembly for each of the electoral districts of Epping, Hornsby, and Pittwater. 

The writs specify the following dates for the by-elections:  
  • Date of the writs: Friday, 27 September 2024 
  • Day nominations open: Friday, 27 September 2024 
  • Nomination day (close of nominations at 12 noon): Thursday, 3 October 2024 
  • Early voting opens: Saturday, 12 October 2024  
  • Election day: Saturday, 19 October 2024 
  • Return of the writ: Friday, 8 November 2024 
Dr Matthew Phillips  
Acting Electoral Commissioner for New South Wales 

Pittwater by-election: no NSW Labor Candidate

The NSW ALP has advised that after extensive consultations with the leadership of the State Parliamentary Labor Party, local branch members and potential candidates, NSW Labor has decided not to nominate a candidate in the upcoming by-elections.

Narrabeen-Pittwater ALP
Friday September 27 2024

Pittwater Community Alliance: Pittwater By-election Candidate Forum

Everyone is welcome to come along find out more and ask questions about any of the Candidates policy positions. 

WHEN: October 10, 2024 at 7:00pm - 9pm
WHERE: Newport Community Centre, 11-13 The Boulevarde, Newport

Pittwater Community Alliance is a federation of12 major resident and community associations in Pittwater. We assist in representing their interests to protect and preserve the unique environment of Pittwater. Pittwater Community Alliance is independent and has no political allegiance or bias.

Barrenjoey Artwalk 

🟡 DATES - 19 Oct - 3 Nov ‘24 
🟡 WHERE - Avalon village

🟡 DETAILS - local artists will display their artworks throughout Avalon, and every piece of art purchased will help support Barrenjoey High School!

🟡 YELLOW DOTS - retailers & businesses taking part will have a bright yellow sticker displayed outside their shop, marking the presence of an artist's work inside - easily spot which stores are involved!

Artist bios and more at:

🟡 FOLLOW US -
 Barrenjoey.Artwalk

Community support will make all the difference! 

The Barrenjoey Artwalk team

Oxford Falls Fire

Dear Editor,

Saturday’s out of control fire at Oxford Falls demonstrates yet again why we urgently need a rethink of how we manage this country with regard to fire. Explaining that we are ‘running behind on scheduled hazard reduction (HR) burns’ is exactly the problem - not just the running behind, but the fact that there are schedules, made a year or more in advance, hoping the weather will fit the schedule. It so often does not. Underlying this is the way we rely on volunteers, whose time is taxed, lives risked and sometimes tragically lost. 

Australia needs fire, but not large uncontrolled top to bottom canopy fires - these are the fires of the last two centuries. Pre-1788 fire was a tool used coolly, often, and in small doses, with clear intent and perfect control. Doubters need to consider that if wildfires such as we saw in 2019-20 were common pre-1788, Australia would indeed have been terra nulius. But instead it was populated by people who actively managed the land not with fences and ploughs, but with fire.

The ecological and economic arguments for a big shift in funding away from after the event and large risky HR burns to control before the event. Three days of multiple helicopters doing laps from the dams in Elanora to the fire ground will have cost upwards of $150,000. The released carbon will be equivalent to many months normal emissions from the northern beaches. The books will balance better on both carbon and dollars.

It is imperative that we take notice of the growing number of people calling for a return to that ‘on country’ local fire management, and recognise how well it is working where people are allowed to give it a go.

D. C., Elanora Heights

Oxford Falls Bushfire:  Wakehurst MP Sounds a Warning

Wednesday September 25, 2024, in NSW Parliament

Mr Michael Regan, MP for Wakehurst: 

On Saturday 21 September many in the Wakehurst electorate became all too aware of just how vulnerable we are to bushfires. At around 1.30 p.m., a scheduled hazard reduction burn at Meatworks Avenue in Oxford Falls escaped containment lines and quickly gathered pace towards homes in Cromer Heights. As smoke filled the sky, many across the northern beaches wondered if everything was okay. It was not. The situation quickly escalated and, by 3.00 p.m., residents in Cromer Heights were being told that it was too late to leave and they needed to actively monitor their properties for burning embers and put out spot fires. Luckily, no lives or properties were lost, and the fire was quickly contained.

As always, I give a massive thank you to all our firefighters—almost 300 in total and many of them volunteers—and a special shout‑out to Beacon Hill and Belrose rural fire brigades from my electorate. Out‑of‑control bushfires threatening lives and property can seem incongruous with comfortable suburban life in metropolitan Sydney. But on the northern beaches, where there is significant urban-bushland interface areas, the threat is very real. History teaches us this much. There have been numerous bushfires on the northern beaches over the years, including in the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s and 1990s. The most damaging in recent history was in 1994 when 37 homes were destroyed. While the past is instructive, we know it is no longer an accurate indicator of future conditions. In a rapidly warming world, we are now in uncharted territory when it comes to bushfire risk. And conditions will be more challenging, not less.

Greg Mullin, AO, was the Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner from 2003 to 2017 and is a leading voice on bushfire management and risk. He is also a local and has been a volunteer firefighter on the northern beaches since the 1970s. He lays it out like this: Bushfire risk in the area is worsening as a result of climate change, and the effectiveness of traditional mitigation tools such as hazard reduction burning, asset protection zones and construction standards are limited because of the increasing intensity of bushfires. Greg was out with the crews on the weekend and emphasised to my office just how difficult the job for firefighters is now. Just two weeks ago, it was too wet to burn; this week there was a runaway fire. So the window for hazard reduction burning is now small and getting smaller. When speaking with Greg, he said, "Saturday was 24 degrees. Can you imagine a day of 44 degrees and gale force winds?" The reality is we have to confront the likelihood, perhaps inevitability, of that scenario.

I draw attention to the fire on the weekend and future intensifying bushfire risk on the northern beaches to highlight the profound recklessness of the proposed Lizard Rock/Patyegarang planning proposal. The proposal would see a whole new subdivision of at least 450 low-rise homes—with additional granny flats, no doubt—surrounded by bushland in Oxford Falls, very close to where the fire got out of control on Saturday. Greg Mullins' submission to the Lizard Rock/Patyegarang rezoning proposal states:

If established, the new homes will adjoin Garigal National Park and other contiguous areas of bushland comprising coastal heath and dry sclerophyll forest that is highly flammable and results in fast-burning, intense bushfires that produce burning embers that can travel significant distances under the right weather conditions to ignite homes, gardens, and other areas of bushland. There will only be a single lane, narrow road for egress, and this would be rapidly cut off by intense flames in the event of a fire, as it was in 1979 and 1994, preventing evacuation of residents and fire services from entering.

In no uncertain terms, he also states:

The Patyegarang proposed development should not proceed due to extreme, and worsening, bushfire risk and lack of suitable evacuation paths for residents.

I continue to be steadfast in my opposition to the Lizard Rock/Patyegarang rezoning proposal. I share the frustration of many in the community that the proposal remains live in the planning system and that decision‑making for the proposal has been so slow. It is almost a year since the rezoning proposal went on public exhibition in November 2023. Over 1,500 public submissions were received by the department of planning. The original gateway determination stated that the rezoning should be finalised by June 2024. Instead, I learnt through questions on notice that the proponent is being granted an extension to prepare their response to the issues raised by the public and other government agencies during the consultation.

Once they have prepared their response to submissions, the proposal will again go to the Sydney North Planning Panel for a decision. The indicative time frame given for this is towards the end of 2025. This week I have asked further questions on the timeline from here, including when the community submissions and government agency comments on the proposal will be released. In light of all the evidence, further demonstrated on Saturday, how can we possibly, in good conscience, put the lives of residents and firefighters at such risk? This reckless, bushfire trap of a development must not proceed.

Naming proposal: Ronda Alterator Reserve, Warriewood

Closes: Sun 13 Oct 2024 - Provide feedback HERE
This proposal aims to recognise Ronda Alterator OAM for her outstanding contribution to the local community for over 42 years by naming the Reserve located at 3 Boondah Road, Warriewood the Ronda Alterator Reserve.

This Reserve includes four multi-use sports courts, a 1/3 basketball court, an outdoor workout area, undercover picnic table, public toilets, car park, drinking station, seating, lighting and gardens. It is well used by the community for organised sports training and games as well as being very popular for casual use.

The naming proposal is consistent with Council’s Policy for the Naming of our Reserves, Facilities and Roads.

Should the proposal be supported by the community and adopted by Council, we will lodge a proposal to Geographical Names Board of NSW (GNB) seeking formal approval to have the name officially assigned.

Mrs Alterator was a dedicated and valued member of the Narrabeen Youth Club (NYC) for over 42 years, including nine years as the Director. She was honoured with NYC life membership to recognise her commitment and passion to the NYC. Her volunteering contributions to NYC Netball also included President, Vice President, Coach, Net Set Go Coordinator, Umpires Convener and being on the grading committee. Mrs Alterator also volunteered on various Manly Warringah Netball Association committees including grading, competition and coaching committees.



Mrs Alterator’s contributions were recognised with multiple awards, including an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in the General Division on 26 January 2020 for ‘service to netball’. 

Mrs Alterator's community service was not just limited to Netball. Rhonda volunteered on various local P&Cs raising much needed funds for local schools as well as being involved in senior citizen programs. Mrs Alterator passed away on 10 April 2024 aged 82.

Exhibition Notice: 1 Careel Head Road

DA2024/1091
Exhibition Start Date: 18 September 2024
Exhibition End Date: 16 October 2024
Cost of Work:$ 7,246,888

The proposed development consists of the construction of a new three (3) storey mixed use building containing 1 level of early childcare centre, retail/commercial tenancies on the ground floor and a single storey basement carparking located at 1-3 Careel Head Road Avalon Beach.

The proposal will require excavation to a depth of approximately 2.3 meters to enable the construction of a basement car parking.

Documents - reports - plans on this page: HERE
Make a submission/provide feedback - on this page: HERE 


Whale Beach Storm Outlets

The Palm Beach & Whale Beach Association (PBWBA) advises the stormwater drains which empty onto the beach at Whale Beach will be improved this financial year. 

The ‘rock bags’ in the centre drain will be formalised and the pipe enlarged to cope with greater stormwater runoff. 

The drain at the southern end near the amenities block will be investigated and hopefully improvements made at the same time as the main drain.


Stormwater drain – middle of beach. Pic: PBWBA


Stormwater drain – southern end. Pic: PBWBA

Cabbage Tree Road Bayview Safety: Update

Council's Local Traffic Committee have endorsed the final plan in August 2024. Council states works will commence soon to install the safety devices.

In response to residents’ concerns raised during community consultation and to improve safety and reduce the likelihood and severity of accidents at the location of the recent fatality, we proposed additional traffic calming solutions.

The recommended improvements supported by the Local Traffic Committee are:
  1. Installation of a raised threshold with marked cycle ways, warning, and speed advisory signs on Pittwater Road near the intersection with Cabbage Tree Road
  2. Installation of a raised threshold with warning, and speed advisory signs on Cabbage Tree Road in front of No.12 and Bayview Golf Club, between Beaumont Crescent and Binnowee Place.
  3. Installation of a raised threshold with warning, and speed advisory signs on Cabbage Tree Road near Annam Road in front of Bayview Golf Club and Bayview Gardens Retirement Living.
  4. Installation of a safety Guard rail (25m) in front of Bayview Golf Club at the intersection of Cabbage Tree Road with Beaumont Crescent.
  5. Installation of Reflective Pavement Markers (approximately 50m) on centrelines on Cabbage Tree Road between House No.6 Cabbage Tree Road and No.6 Binnowee Place and
  6. Installation of Reflective Pavement Markers (approximately 35m) on centrelines on Cabbage Tree Road south of Annam Road in front of Bayview Golf Club and Bayview Gardens Retirement Living.
  7. Installation of a raised median on Cabbage Tree Road near the intersection with Annam Road.
  8. Installation of curve warning and advisory speed signs on Cabbage Tree Road between No. 24 Cabbage Tree Road and Bayview Gardens Retirement Living
  9. Installation of street lighting in front of No.14A Cabbage Tree Road
  10. Installation of Profile line marking (Audio Tactile) – Type A and retro reflective pavement markers (RRPMs) for centrelines around the bend near Annam Road south - Approx 190m
  11. Installation of Steel Rail Safety Barrier around the tree opposite Bayview Gardens Retirement living – approximately 20 m (location of recent fatality)
Council states ''the changes will improve the speed at which motorists travel, keep motorists within their own lane and improve overall road safety for both motorists and pedestrians.

The installation of a cycle way on either side of the proposed raised threshold on Pittwater Road near Cabbage Tree Road will facilitate safe passage for cyclists on the popular road cycling route.''




Avalon Preservation Association AGM 2024 + Help needed

Speaker: John Dengate – environmentalist, media naturalist, author and TV personality, never happier than when talking about plants and animals and the environment.

A long-term Avalon resident, John will give an illustrated talk on the fascinating wildlife of the Northern Beaches—and his chequered media career. He loves questions.

Date: 7pm, Thursday 7th November: John’s presentation, followed by a short AGM.
Place: Avalon Beach Surf Life Saving club in the Bangalley Bar. Enter via stairs on beach side. Lift access also available via front entrance.

CAN YOU HELP?
APA Committee members:
We have two members retiring and so we have room for more committee members. We are a friendly committee of engaged residents. We meet six times a year, plus an AGM. The NBC sends a representative to part of our meetings to keep us informed of council projects and respond to issues we’ve raised with council. We engage with sister organisations, residents who contact us for help and with government (mainly local government) to represent the Avalon community’s interests.

We particularly need someone to take the Honorary Treasurer position in time for our AGM in November. APA has a bookkeeper.

Our main transaction type is member contributions which are administered together with the membership secretary. The Honorary Treasurer oversees APA finances and provides a report to the committee at our meetings. Our current Honorary Treasurer Ken Roberts will support the transition. We have a modest ‘fighting fund’, built from member contributions. We have very limited outgoings (printing, gifts).

Graphic Designer:
We urgently need someone for one specific task, to assist with designing a new APA Flyer. We have the content (images and text) but need someone to knock it into a suitable electronic file to be handled by a printer (A4 double fold to DL).

PLEASE REPLY TO AVALONPRESERVATIONA@GMAIL.COM IF YOU CAN HELP 

The aims of APA are to
  •  Preserve the natural beauty of the area through promoting proper planning of all future development
  •  Express positively and in appropriate quarters the point of view of residents with regards to any proposed development and to protect the residential amenity of the area
  •  Work with and assist local government in any efforts to improve and beautify the locality and where appropriate instigate such improvements
APA depends on your support. Donations of time, money and expertise always welcome
PO Box 1 Avalon Beach 2107  avalonpreservationassociation.org.au/ and on Facebook



Mental Health Month

Member for Manly, James Griffin has thrown his support behind Mental Health Month.

Mr Griffin said during October we are encouraged to watch out for those who may be struggling and needing support.

“This year’s theme, ‘Let’s Talk About It’, prompts us all to reflect on our mental health and overall wellbeing, irrespective of whether we have personally encountered mental illness.

“The Mental Health Month theme emphasises the significance of maintaining good mental health in our daily lives and encourages a proactive approach to seeking help when necessary.

“Research shows how relationships with family, friends and the broader community can greatly improve a person’s psychological wellbeing and overall wellness.”

Mr Griffin said, “The theme, ‘Let’s Talk About It’, highlights the importance of engaging in conversations about mental health and uniting through showing compassion.”

“The Mental Health Month website highlights the need to connect with those around us by reaching out and checking on their wellbeing.

“It also highlights the need for us to be a good listeners by allowing a person-in-need lots of room to talk.

“Continued support is also vital,” Mr Griffin said.

More information on Mental Health Month can be found at: mentalhealthmonth.wayahead.org.au/about-mental-health-month


Patterson resurfaced - Wollstonecraft avenue footpath in 

Council have been undertaking work in the Avalon Beach village area, including installing sections of turf on Avalon parade heading north and the resurfacing of Patterson Lane.

A little further north the right hand side of Wollstonecraft Avalon Beach has a brand new footpath after works were completed last week.



Warriewood SLSC: New IRB's

On Sunday September 15, despite the blustery conditions, the Warriewood SLSC crew and our very own Pittwater CEO celebrated the wet launch of the club's brand new IRBs—funded by Pittwater RSL.

The new IRB's were named to honour Life Members Rick Harris and Neil 'Dolly' Dyer.

Pittwater RSL stated; '' We’re deeply grateful for their incredible service to the Warriewood SLSC and the local community. 
As the volunteer Surf Life Saving season kicks off, it's the perfect time to brush up on water safety—learn how to spot a rip, swim between the flags, and stay safe this summer!''.



Photo: courtesy Pittwater RSL

School Email Changes

From Day 1 Term 4, students will no longer be able to use their school email address (@education.nsw.gov.au) to access social media, gaming, instant messaging and similar platforms. This means they will also not be able to retrieve password-recovery emails and the like from these platforms.

The NSW Department of Education is making an important change to help keep students safe online, reduce the risk of cyber threats and make sure student email accounts are used for their intended educational purposes only. 

Starting Day 1, Term 4, you won’t be able to use your student email address to sign up for, or recover access to any social media, gaming, instant messaging or similar accounts.

If you have signed up for a social media, gaming, instant messaging or similar account using your student email address, please change to a personal email address on each platform by Sunday 13th October to make sure you don't lose access to the account.

Log in to each account. Go to the account settings and update your email address to a personal one. Add a mobile number too, if you haven’t already.

The department is making this change to ensure all student accounts are being used for their educational purposes, and to help protect you from risks online. Using your personal email address for these platforms instead of your student email address reduces the chances of someone gaining access to information in your school account.

Skippy Goes Train-spotting

Two kangaroos at Kingswood station have decided they want to see what all the fuss is about with these trains.
Hopping through under the nose of this Sydney Trains staff member, he quickly sprang into action, flagging down the incoming train and organising to stop traffic until the roos were gone.
A reminder that if you see anything like this at your station, find train staff and they will make sure the situation is handled safely and efficiently.

Transport for NSW
October 1, 2024

Barrenjoey Headland Amenities

The National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) has developed plans to provide permanent toilets and a water refill station in the Barrenjoey Lighthouse precinct. Designed by Aileen Sage Architects, these new amenities have considered heritage constraints, visual impacts, environmental impact, visitor and access requirements, construction constraints and services provision.

Construction commenced on 8 July 2024 and is expected to be completed in November 2024 (pending weather or other adverse conditions).

Maintenance and upgrades to the access trail will also be carried out as part of these works to improve public access and safety and will include Indigenous interpretation elements along the access track.



Artist’s sketch of new amenities proposed for Barrenjoey Credit: Aileen Sage Architects

Access to Barrenjoey Headland and the lighthouse will remain open during the construction period and access trail upgrade works. However visitors may experience changes and/or restrictions to access including:
  • increased vehicle movements to the headland and the lighthouse via the beach and service road
  • pedestrian access will be retained throughout construction via Smugglers Track
  • the Barrenjoey access trail will be closed Monday to Friday to allow contractors to access the site and undertake maintenance work
  • no visitor access around the south-eastern part of the lighthouse and below the Head Lightkeepers Cottage, this area will be fenced for construction and storage of materials
  • the headland or parts thereof may have temporary closures during helicopter operations to deliver materials (necessary to manage load limits on the access trail).
During construction, visitors can continue to use the temporary amenities which will be decommissioned and removed when the permanent amenities are operational.

National Parks and Wildlife Service worked with Aileen Sage Architects to design the amenities that considered heritage constraints, visual impacts, environmental impact, visitor and access requirements, construction constraints, and services provision.

The proposed amenities include the following features:
  • the building will be set into the landscape, concealed by the landform and native heath
  • screened walls to the front of the building will allow for natural light and ventilation
  • battened screens will be painted in alternating colours to reference the surrounding natural landscape and heritage buildings
  • unisex cubicles will be provided, including baby change facilities
  • drinking water will be provided, including a water bottle drink fountain.
This will provide much-needed facilities for visitors, including those with personal/health requirements, young families and others.

Further details here: Barrenjoey Headland amenities

Mona Vale Place Plan: Update

The Mona Vale Place Plan has been placed on hold pending further direction from the State Government in relation to its current housing reforms.

In December 2023, the State Government released proposed reforms to the State Environmental Planning Policy (Housing) 2021, as outlined in the ‘Explanation of Intended Effect: Changes to create low and mid-rise housing’.

The low-rise and mid-rise housing reforms have the potential to significantly increase housing numbers above those anticipated by Council during the initial phases of the Mona Vale Place Plan. The anticipated increase in dwelling uplift will have a significant impact on the traffic modelling as well as the actions and design concepts proposed in the draft Mona Vale Place Plan.

Council considers it prudent to place the Mona Vale Place Plan on hold until such time the State Government release Stage 2 of the housing reforms.

Council anticipate an announcement will be made in the latter part of 2024.
Previously

PNHA AGM 2024 + 30th Anniversary picnic lunch

When: October 13 Sunday 11.30-2.00

Where: at Katandra Bushland Sanctuary, Lane Cove Rd Ingleside.

David Seymour, chairman of Katandra Bushland Sanctuary – a Crown Reserve - will lead us on a bushwalk through this wonderful wild place. We can choose to follow a short walk of about 1 km or the more challenging 2 km track through rainforest remnants with creeks and fern-fringed pools.

Our famous PNHA cards will be available, still a bargain at $2.00 each.

This is also a chance to renew your PNHA membership if needed. No need to bring cash as we now can accept credit cards.

Thank you very much to all those who have already renewed PNHA memberships and made donations.

October 26 Saturday 7pm to about 9pm: Katandra Bushland Sanctuary By Night.

We will check out nocturnal activity in Katandra’s forest.

Will we see fire-flies as we did last year? Be sure to bring a torch and wear boots.

Please RSVP for these activities to pnhainfo@gmail.com including your mobile number for catering purposes and so we can contact you in case of doubtful weather.

Avalon Bilgola Amateur Swimming Club: 2024/2025 Season

We swim down at Bilgola Rock Pool during the summer months on Saturday mornings.
Races start at 9:00 am, entries close 8:45 am, with events for all the family.

We have a 100/200/400m event then 3 handicap (15/25/50m) events in Freestyle and 2 of the other strokes or 2x50m Relay each morning.



Narrabeen Amateur Swimming Club Season


The 2023-24 season will start on in October and runs until April 2025.

Narrabeen Lakes Amateur Swimming Club is a friendly swimming club that aims to encourage swimming in a non competitive manner. Family togetherness is something the entire club treasures and actively fosters. 

Come and see us at 1:30ish on any Saturday afternoon between October and April at our beloved rock pool at North Narrabeen.

Everyone is welcome at our club - we have a range of swimming abilities and distances, as well as a diverse group of club members that are fun to be around. North Narrabeen rock pool is a glorious sand bottom and we often swim beside fish, and see whales and dolphins off the point.  

Come and give us a try and see if we're the right fit for you!  

To find out more visit: https://www.nlasc.com.au


Life-saving defibrillators available for NSW sports facilities

NSW sporting clubs and organisations have the opportunity to apply for their share of $500,000 in funding from the NSW Government for new life-saving defibrillators.

The equipment is funded under the NSW Government’s Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program which provides up to $3,000 to eligible sporting organisations for the purchase of automated external defibrillators at sports facilities.

Since the Program commenced, more than 2,000 defibrillators have been installed at sports facilities across NSW.

Applications close 27 November 2024 or when funding is exhausted.

For further information, including expanded eligibility criteria, please see the Program guidelines at: www.nsw.gov.au/grants/local-sport-defibrillator-grant-program

$5 million available for NSW Surf Clubs

NSW Surf Life Saving Clubs are set to receive a boost with the NSW Government opening the latest round of its Surf Club Facility Program.

Surf live saving clubs can apply for $5.4 million in funding for new and upgraded facilities with grants up to $1 million available.

The Program aims to keep surf life saving clubs modern and accessible, helping surf life savers to better protect beachgoers.

Projects that encourage the participation of women and girls, people with disability, First Nations peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and LGBTQIA+ are a priority of the Program.

Grants will be awarded across three categories for projects that involve the upgrade, restoration or construction of new surf life saving facilities.
  • Category 1 offers grants up to $100,000 for facility improvement projects and closes on 14 October 2024
  • Category 2 offers grants up to $400,000 for small-medium construction projects and 
  • Category 3 offers grants up to $1 million for large construction projects with both closing on 11 November 2024.

Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:
“With the surf life saving season just a few weeks away, we’re providing an additional $5.4 million to our surf life saving clubs to help them protect swimmers and keep people safe at the beach.”

“This is part of a four-year $16 million commitment from the NSW Government to ensure NSW Surf Life Saving Clubs continue to deliver a world-class service.

“This program is making a real difference with more people from all sections of the community now participating in surf life saving.”

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:
“As the weather warms up we know that the red and yellow flags on our beaches will be a welcome sight and this investment will support our volunteers by providing them with club facilities they need to support communities.

“The NSW Government is investing in new equipment, safety campaigns and upgraded facilities to support surf lifesaving volunteers and the work they do to keep swimmers safe.”

President of Surf Life Saving NSW Peter Agnew said:
“We are pleased to see the NSW Government acknowledge and support the amazing contribution made by our volunteer lifesavers and surf clubs in NSW.”

“Our lifesavers and Nippers deserve safe, secure, and accessible facilities. We have 129 clubs across the state, with over 78,000 members, and this program allows those members, who do such important work volunteering at our beaches, to focus on saving lives.”


2024 Anzac Community Grants applications open

Applications are now open for the 2024 Anzac Community Grants Program.

Grants of up to $3,000 are available for projects that commemorate and educate local communities on the service and sacrifices of current and former military service personnel.

Activities that support the wellbeing of veterans in New South Wales are also eligible for funding.

The $100,000 program is open to individuals and not-for-profit organisations, including local government authorities, ex-service and non-governmental organisations, educational institutions, and Local Aboriginal Land Councils.

Grants cover four categories: local community historical research and education; preservation or display of war memorabilia; public commemorative events; and support the members of the NSW veteran community.

The program has delivered more than over $560,000 in grants funding. since its establishment in 2015.

Last year the program funded a record 91 projects, including:
  • The NSW Soldier On Veteran Community Program, which provides training and resources to veteran volunteers to deliver socially engaged activities and events in the Hunter, Sydney, and Shoalhaven.
  • A brass memorial commemorating Aboriginal war-time service at the Blue Mountains Aboriginal Culture and Resource Centre.
  • An upgrade of the war room at the Woolpack Inn Museum at Holbrook for the preservation and display of war uniforms.
  • A memorial mural for Mount Warrigal Public School.
More information and details on how to apply can be found on www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/ACGP

The 2024 grant round closes at 5pm on Monday 11 November 2024.

Minister for Veterans David Harris said:
“I am pleased to announce the opening of the next round of the Anzac Community Grants Program.

“Honouring and commemorating the service and sacrifice of our ex-serving military personnel is a key component of the NSW Veterans Strategy.

“The Anzac Community Grants Program supports initiatives that recognise veterans’ service, educate the local community on our military history or make a positive impact to the welfare of veterans.

“There are so many incredible organisations honouring veterans through their passionate and dedicated work and I encourage them to apply.”

Ms Leisa Mooney from Mount Warrigal Public School said:
“Thanks to the funding from NSW Government, our school was able to create a remembrance mural, which has helped our school honour the strength, courage, and sacrifice of our service men and women.

“The mural will encourage rich discussion about Australia's involvement in peacekeeping operations and war service throughout history within our classrooms and school community.”


Photo: 2024 Anzac Day 11am March at Avalon Beach led by the 201 Army Cadet Unit

Stronger Together Grants Program

Multicultural and multifaith community groups will be supported to host grassroots festivals and events with Multicultural NSW’s Stronger Together Grants Program now open.

This funding is in addition $500,000 the Minns Labor Government has already invested in almost 80 cultural events and festivals this year.

Eligible organisations can apply for grants of between $5,000 and $20,000 to help organise festivities that celebrate and embrace our state’s vibrant cultural diversity.

Every year hundreds of grassroots not-for-profit organisations across NSW use the Festival and Event grants to celebrate their cultural heritage and share food, music and entertainment with the community.

Multicultural NSW administers the grants on behalf of the NSW Government.

Grant applications close on Friday 11 October, 5pm and an information session is planned for 3 October, 11am.

For more information or to apply, visit:  multicultural.nsw.gov.au/stronger-together-events-festivals/

Northern Beaches Para Surfer Boardriders Inc. First Annual General Meeting

Date: 10th October, 2024
Time: 6.30pm
Location: Pittwater RSL Club

Join us for our inaugural Annual General Meeting (AGM) to celebrate the achievements of our club and shape its future.

As a newly established association, this is a crucial opportunity for members to:
  • Learn about the club's progress and financial performance.
  • Elect new office-bearers.
  • Discuss important matters and propose changes.
  • Shape the direction of our club.
All members are encouraged to attend and we welcome anyone who’s interested in providing expertise and feedback to help this club thrive in "25 🤘🏼🤙🏼

For more information or to RSVP, please email: 

Let's come together as a community and make a positive impact on surfing and disability inclusion.


More Australians now eligible for free Shingles vaccination

The Australian Government is expanding one of the most comprehensive and widely available shingles vaccination programs in the world.

The free shingles vaccination is now available to more people over 18 who are immunocompromised due to an underlying health condition or as a side effect of treatment.

This free vaccine will now cover hundreds of thousands of more Australians living with underlying health conditions.
 
The government is investing $57.7 million over 4 years to expand the Shingrix program, which has been available on the NIP since 1 November 2023 to prevent shingles and post-herpetic neuralgia.
 
Free shingles vaccination is already available for people aged 65 and older, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 and older and high-risk immunocompromised adults with certain medical conditions.
 
Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful blistering rash as a result of the reactivation of the same virus that causes chickenpox.
 
While most symptoms typically last 2–3 weeks, shingles can lead to nerve pain that can last for months.
 
Vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect yourself from serious complications caused by shingles.
 
Advice is available for health professionals at this link. Patients are encouraged to talk to their immunisation provider about eligibility for this vaccine.
 
Health Minister Butler has stated:
 
“Making the shingles vaccine free for more Australians is not just good their hip pocket, it’s also good for their health.
 
“Without vaccination, almost 1 in 3 Australians will get shingles in their lifetime.
 
“Over 1.3 million Australians have received a free shingles vaccine since the Albanese Government commenced the new Shingles Program on 1 November 2023.
 
“Without listing it on the NIP Australians who are immunocompromised due to an underlying health condition would have to pay up to $560 for their vaccine.
 
“With the expanded eligibility for the free shingles vaccination, the Albanese Government is protecting more at-risk Australians from this debilitating virus.”

Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets of the Week

Humphrey
5yo Lab X Mastiff


Humphrey is a very sweet but strong boy. He travelled so well from the pound on the north coast in the car. He sits on command and is very treat motivated. Humphrey is not reactive to dogs in a clinic environment, but he is not a fan of cats. He came from the pound a little thin weighing 34kg. He has a short coat. He suits FT workers and is looking for a house with garden. He is desexed, vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. His adoption cost is $400. 

Luigi and Mario 
4yo Tibetan Spaniel X


Luigi and Mario are sweet affectionate dogs who are not super energetic. They entered the pound together, roaming as strays. They look like possible brothers. They were terrified when they came from the pound as they had been caught on a pole catcher but soon relaxed with us. They have been friendly and easy to handle. They are both very social with small dogs but can get "in your face" with some dogs. They love a relaxed walk with lots of sniffing.

Luigi, the smaller one has a deformed elbow on his right front leg, but he runs without problem. X rays reveal this is most likely congenital. He has just had a dental with only 1 extraction.

Mario, the bigger one came from the pound with heartworm disease. DoggieRescue is committed to seeing this through regardless of when they are adopted.

These two boys want to stay together and enjoy a quiet home. They love each other and they are always playing together. They both have medium coats that need brushing but can be clipped. Luigi weighs 7kg and Mario weighs 10kg. They suit apartment living and would cope with FT workers. They come desexed, vaccinated, heartworm free and chipped. Their adoption cost is $1200 together. 

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

Marine Rescue Broken Bay: Christmas Raffle 2024

HELP SAVE A LIFE ON THE WATER!
Providing critical rescue services to boaters in Pittwater, Broken Bay and offshore, our unit is manned 100% by volunteers and needs to fundraise >60% of all operating costs. 

So, please SUPPORT our great XMAS Raffle 2024 🎄🎄

Top prize - $5000 of Woollies vouchers! (that's a lot of lobster!)
If you feel you can spare the cost of a coffee and cake, glass of wine or whatever your preferred treat, BUY YOUR TICKETS via the QR code or URL below.


Computer Pals NB needs Volunteers

We encourage seniors to explore the benefits and satisfaction of using technology. We teach mostly one-on-one. Our Committee & Instructors are volunteers.

Right now we need more volunteers. Please help if you can:


Entries OPEN for the Hansa World & International Championships 2025: to be held on pittwater


The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club together with International Hansa Class Association is excited to announce the opening of entries for the 2025 Hansa World and International Championships, for both competitors and coaches. 

The event will take place from 23 – 30 March 2025 offering sailors from around the world the opportunity to compete on an international stage.

The 2025 Hansa World and International Championships will bring together sailors, competing in a variety of Hansa classes, including the Hansa 2.3, Hansa 303 (one-person and two-person), SKUD 18 and Liberty class. The event promises thrilling competition while promoting the core values of inclusivity, accessibility, and participation.

Sailors and coaches are encouraged to submit their entries early to secure their spot in this premier sailing event. To enter, visit the official event website at www.hansaworlds.org

The NOR can be found on the event website at - hansaworlds.org/entry

Want to be a volunteer at next year's Hansa Worlds? See the sign up information below:


“We are thrilled to welcome sailors from across the globe to the 2025 Hansa World and International Championships. The Hansa class epitomises inclusivity, and the 2025 event promises to be a fantastic showcase of talent and sportsmanship,” said Robert McClelland, Commodore of the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club.

“The Hansa Class continues to grow around the world and the standard of competitive sailing has increased significantly in recent years,” said International Hansa Class Association Technical Delegate David Staley.

“A number of Para World Sailing Championships will be held in conjunction with the 2025 Hansa Worlds, with results for the para classified sailors extracted from the open fleet competition,” he said.

The Australian Hansa Association advisor’s competitors wishing to charter a boat for the championship should complete the charter boat form available on the event website.

Key Details:

  • Event: 2025 Hansa World and International Championships
  • Date: 23-30 March 2025
  • Location: Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, Sydney AUSTRALIA
  • Classes: Hansa 2.3, Hansa 303 (one-person and two-person), Liberty and SKUD 18
  • Entry Deadline: 30 November 2024

For more details and to stay updated on all aspects of the Hansa World and International  Championships 2025, visit our official event website at www.hansaworlds.org

Follow the International Hansa Class Association on Facebook @hansaworlds 

Catherine Park, Scotland Island Landscape improvements plan: Have Your Say

Closes: Sunday 13 Oct. 2024

Council have now modified the original concept plans (excluding vehicle access and parking) and are seeking community feedback on the modified design.

Note: Vehicle management will be resolved as part of the Scotland Island Traffic Management Plan review following the recent decision by Transport for NSW.

Community feedback will help council clarify what is important to local residents and park users. Have your say by completing the comment form here: https://yoursay.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/catherine-park-scotland-island


Modified plans: NBC

Newport Spring into Summer Festival: Stall Applications Open

The Newport Chamber of Commerce invites passionate local artisans, designers, and creatives to share their unique products with our vibrant community at the Spring into Summer market.

Showcase your creativity with fashion, handmade accessories, beautifully scented soaps, candles, and a diverse range of crafts. From jewellery and art to vintage clothing, photography, and re-purposed treasures, there’s space for all that inspires.                            
The possibilities are endless!

This is your opportunity to connect with locals in a lively, festive atmosphere, with live music, family-friendly activities, and a lively crowd, this festival offers the perfect platform to grow your business and engage with the community.

Don’t miss out—spaces are limited and filling up fast! 
Let’s come together to celebrate the season in style. 
Apply now to reserve your spot and help make this festival an unforgettable celebration.


Community transport services to continue on the Central Coast

Friday September 27 2024
A new provider has been found to deliver services for Central Coast residents impacted by the sudden closure of a major private community transport operator, with Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Community Transport (HKCT) stepping into the breach.

Transport for NSW (TfNSW) is pleased to advise that discussions with the Transport Workers Union are ongoing on the matter of employment of former Community Transport Central Coast Limited (CTCCL) drivers.

CTCCL, an operator contracted to TfNSW, announced last week that it was ceasing its services as of Friday 20 September. It advised that their organisation would go into Members Voluntary liquidation from this Friday 27 September.

After extensive negotiations, CTCCL has entered into an agreement with Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Community Transport, which means they will take on provision of community transport services for eligible clients on the Central Coast.

HKCT has also indicated it will take over operation of the Shirley Shuttle, a non-Transport contracted service.

TfNSW understands the new provider will honour all existing bookings on the Shirley Shuttle until the end of the year.

The NSW Government thanks HKCT for their support of the Central Coast community. Central Coast clients can call 02 4355 4588 to discuss their service needs with the new provider from today. 

Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said:
“This has been an anxious time for all involved and I am glad arrangements can now be put in place to ensure passengers aren’t left in the lurch following Community Transport Central Coast’s decision.

“The NSW Government thanks Hornby Ku-ring-gai Community Transport for stepping up to support community transport users on the Central Coast.

"Community transport is a vital part of the fabric of our region and I’m glad local residents will continue to receive this essential service.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:
"I am pleased to see an agreement has been implemented so quickly, one that will give comfort to those who rely on community transport services on the Central Coast.

"Community transport is an essential part of the Central Coast’s transport network as it allows eligible seniors, pensioners and those with limited access to public transport to get to health services, shopping and stay connected with family and friends.

"The ability to access transport is a social determinant of health and quality of life, which is why community transport in places like the Central Coast is so important as it provides an accessible and affordable option for many people in the region."

Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley said:
“Last week’s sudden closure of Community Transport Central Coast left many frustrated and without a means to move around the community.

“Reliable public transport is crucial to the lives of Coasties and the Government has stepped in to secure a new operator.

“This means passengers won’t be left in the lurch and can continue to access an essential community service.”

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said:
“I know that this has been an anxious experience for Coasties who rely on this service, and I am so glad that a new agreement has been reached that will provide peace of mind for the many community members who rely on this important service.

“For the many community members who use this service, community transport isn’t a luxury, it is a vital connector that ensures that individuals can access essential services, including health care, social connection, and shopping.

“I am thrilled that a solution could be reached so quickly, ensuring that continuity of transport can resume as soon as possible. I welcome Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Community Transport to the Central Coast transport landscape.”

Whale Beach SLSC: New Members Needed

Looking for something fun to do this summer? Join Whale Beach SLSC!
Whaley is running free first aid, bronze medallion & SRC courses starting October 6th for people that join the club and we would love to see you there.

Reasons to become a lifesaver at Whale Beach:
  • - Year round access to the beachfront club house, including gym and accommodation
  • - Lifesavers get a Northern Beaches parking sticker
  • - Free courses to learn practical life saving skills
  • - Be part of the welcoming community and give back 
  • - Get fit & make new friends
  • - It looks great on your CV
Get fit and learn invaluable lifesaving skills over a 8 week program run on Sunday mornings between 8:30-12:30 starting October 6th.
Spaces are limited so sign up now at: HERE


Community News + what ran in each Issue

Community News Pages list articles that ran each week as well as reports run in other pages: Inbox and Environment News archives etc.

March 2013  April 2013 May 2013  June 2013 July 2013 August 2013 September 2013 October 2013 November 2013  December 2013

January 2014 February 2014  March 2014  April 2014  May 2014 June 2014  July 2014  August 2014  September 2014 October 2014  November 2014  December 2014 

January 2015  February 2015 March 2015  April 2015 May 2015  June 2015  July 2015  August 2015  September 2015  October 2015 November 2015  December 2015 

January 2016  February 2016 March 2016 April 2016 May 2016 June 2016 July 2016  August 2016 September 2016 October 2016  November 2016  December 2016  

January 2017  February 2017  March 2017 April 2017 May 2017 June 2017 July 2017  August 2017 September 2017 October 2017  November 2017  December 2017 

January 2018  February 2018 March 2018  April 2018  May 2018  June 2018  July 2018 August 2018 September 2018 October 2018 November 2018  December 2018

January 2019  February 2019  March 2019  April 2019 May 2019  June 2019  July 2019  August 2019  September 2019  October 2019  November 2019   December 2019 

January 2020 February 2020 March 2020  April 2020 May 2020  June 2020  July 2020  August 2020  September 2020  October 2020  November 2020  December 2020

January 2021  February 2021  March 2021  April 2021  May 2021  June 2021  July 2021  August 2021  September 2021  October 2021  November 2021  December 2021

January 2022  February 2022  March 2022  April 2022  May 2022  June 2022  July 2022 August 2022  September 2022  October 2022  November 2022  December 2022

January 2023  February 2023  March 2023  April 2023  May 2023 June 2023 July 2023  August 2023  September 2023  October 2023 November 2023  December 2023

January 2024  February 2024  March 2024  April 2024  May 2024  June 2024 July 2024  August 2024  September 2024

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Pittwater Community Groups: 


Sports (plus Social Members)

Gardens and Environment

Rural Fire Brigades
Services - Community Organisations

Arts and Social

Mona Vale Residents Association

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


JP Public Register

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

Speed humps on McCarrs Creek Rd: share Wildlife Data 

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

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

Letters to the Editor

Letters should preferably be 150 to 175 words, but that remains optional. Letters must include the writer's address and phone number and 'permission to publish'. The editor's prerogative includes editing letters for length, grammar or legal reasons.  Email: pittwateronlinenews@live.com.au

Report Hate Crimes

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

Slow Down: Wildlife Crossing

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


 
Photo: Phoebe the Swamp Wallaby by Jane Notice