Pittwater Online News

September 17 - October 7, 2023: Issue 599

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: September 1, 2023

Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

Scotland Island's Original Wife Swapper?; 'Secret Island' - A new comedy for offshore Pittwater; Island Playgroup; Scotland Island Fire Brigade: Get Ready Weekend; The Tuesday Discussion Group; Scotland Island Café; International Folk Dancing; For sale: steel-hulled cruiser

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Mark Houlder: A Celebration Of His Life

The community will celebrating Mark's life on Thursday 14th of September at 2pm at Avalon Beach RSL.

All Welcome - All Belong.

R.I.P Mark.

Newport SLSC Has A New Beach Wheelchair!

After having our previous beach wheelchair for about 15 years we have upgraded our beach wheelchair this season.

A huge thank you to Rory Amon and Pharmacare for their generous donations in funding our new beach wheelchair which will make the beach more accessible for our community.

Bookings for the chair can be made through Northern Beaches Council as well as directly through the club or come down and speak to one of our patrolling members on the day. 

 

Photos: Newport SLSC

Avalon Library 40th Anniversary Celebrations

Geoff and Collette Searl of the Avalon Beach Historical Society have kindly donated their time to produce several stands of photos dating back to when the library opened and they will be on display as well as photos and oral histories from a number of patrons.  

NB: Pittwater Online is attending the Avalon Community Library 40th event celebrations and will run a report on Sunday October 8th (Issue 600) when the news service returns from the spring School Holidays break.

Retired Police Officers Day 2023: At Mona Vale Police Station 

This annual event was a great success again this year. 

Over 50 retired officers who worked on the Northern Beaches PAC in the past gathered for a lunch BBQ and a catch-up on Wednesday September 9 2023. 

Similar events will take place at other Police Area Commands throughout the state on Thursday. 

''We were hosted by Superintendent Pat Sharkey and his wonderful support team headed by Sgt. Belinda Caddy and Acting Executive Officer Rebecca Jessep. 

Well over 50 Northern Beaches RFPA Members and former NSW Police Officers, including one Police widow, enjoyed catching up with former workmates and an excellent BBQ courtesy of the NB PAC.

Some members travelled from the Central Coast and the Blue Mountains to be there and Members who have passed in the last couple of years were also acknowledged. 

We extend out thanks to Superintendent Sharkey and his team for a wonderful day of great memories.'' - David Whiteman, Chairman of Northern Beaches Retired & Former Police Association

Group photo by Dave Whiteman, past Profile of the Week and a former Newport resident and in first intakes at Pittwater High School, and a retired Member of the NSW Police Force - thanks Dave!

Aboriginal Land Claim For Balmoral Beach Parkland

Mosman Council considered a report in relation to an Aboriginal Land Claim made by the NSW Aboriginal Land Council for a parcel of land at Balmoral Beach at its Meeting Held Tuesday September 5, 2023.  

After lengthy debate and representations from local residents the Council unanimously resolved that, as representative of the Mosman community, it object to the land claim and provide evidence to the Aboriginal Land Claim Assessment Team (ALCAT) that the land has been lawfully used and is required for essential public purposes, and therefore should in no way be considered claimable land.  

A formal submission will be made to the ALCAT in this respect and Council will also seek details of other Aboriginal Land Claims in Mosman.  

The Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council claim for the land was made in 2009. It has only now entered the assessment phase when the Council is notified and given one month to respond. A search of the database for land claims did not bring up the documentation.

The land claim is for the 2690+ square metre Lawry Plunkett Reserve on Balmoral Beach, a popular area of parkland between Botanic Road and Plunkett Road sitting just off of the Esplanade, a chunk of open space estimated to be worth around $100 million. 

Lawry Plunkett Reserve, R64565, was gazetted for Public Recreation - Notified 25/5/1934 and 217/1965 - although the campaign by residents commenced earlier than that:

BALMORAL BEACH.

MOSMAN COUNCIL'S REQUEST.

A deputation from the Mosman Council waited on the Minister for Lands (Mr. Wearne) last night, and asked that the Government resume portion of the land abutting on Balmoral Beach, so that increased accommodation could be made available Dr Arthur introduced the deputation, and Messrs Cocks Scott Fell, Weaver, and Murphy, Ms L A , were the present.

It was pointed out that the Improved capital value of the land in question was £9330, and that the Improvements would realise approximately £2000. The council was prepared to pay £5000 of the amount over a period of five years, and it asked that the Government provide the balance.

Mr Wearne said he had no doubt as to the honesty of the claim, but he was allowed only £10,000 for assistance to parks, and such public resorts as mentioned. Before him he had a list running into hundreds of thousands of pounds from people who said they had claims as strong as that of the Mosman Council.

Also, the Mosman Council had had £41,000 from the Government for similar matters, and no other councils had been assigned to that extent. However, he promised to visit the beach within a few days, and see if portion of the Lawry Plunkett estate, which had been resumed by the Government, could not be disposed of, and thereby meet the council's requirements. BALMORAL BEACH. (1922, July 21). The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954), p. 10. Retrieved from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article16014519

The name derives from Tom Lawry, who owned a large estate at Balmoral, and his brother-in-law’s name. 

The Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council first lodged a claim for the land 14 years ago under NSW’s 1983 Aboriginal Land Rights Act, which allows land councils to claim unused crown land.

The notice of the debate about an “item of Aboriginal significance on community land”, recommended to be “closed to the press and the public”, was listed on page 176 of the 177-page agenda for the council meeting, now no longer available on the Mosman Council website where Agendas and Minutes are usually stored.

“We were a little bit surprised, we spent a week trying to find out what was the legal basis of the confidentiality,” Cr Bendall of Mosman Council explained last week.

“But in the documents we were originally given, we had to agree to not put in the media, not put it to the public, not even tell the residents who are next to the claim that this was happening.”

NSW Parliament’s Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 allows Aboriginal Land Councils to claim Crown Land provided the land fits certain criteria; that it is not being lawfully used or occupied. Unlike Native Title claims, Aboriginal Land Councils do not need to establish cultural association with the land.

If a claim is successful the land is transferred in freehold title – meaning it can be used, sold or developed like any other privately owned piece of land. 

CEO of the MLALC Nathan Moran stated this week he was a “bit bewildered” by councillors saying they “didn’t know about it” as council would have been notified in 2009 when the application was made.

Mr. Moran had his own statement to make about the history of the site, telling the Daily Telegraph that the land should be given back to Indigenous people and stating the land was partially built on “slavery” that went on through the 20th Century.

The Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council CEO stated from the 1910s to the 1960s, young Aboriginal girls were removed from their families, sent to Cootamundra Girls Home and subsequently sent to work as domestic servants in suburbs such as Mosman, Vaucluse, Neutral Bay and Strathfield.

“It turns out the suburb which had the highest concentration of Aboriginal slaves would be the suburb where people were opposing giving the land back,” Mr. Moran said, according to the DT report.

Mr Moran said in an interview with 2GB's Ben Fordham regarding the claim; “The land councils are here to try and acquire what land we can get back within our boundaries to really form the asset base that will pay to sustain our councils.”

Mr Moran explained the MLALC had “in excess of 2500, closer to 3000” undetermined claims, out of nearly 40,000 undetermined claims across the state from all land councils.

Mosman's Living Seawall Officially Opened

August 31, 2023

The first Living Seawall in Mosman has been officially opened at Ellery Park, near The Spit.

The project has already begun providing much-needed habitats for marine organisms along the seawall below the Spit Bridge since its installation earlier this year.

“This Living Seawall is playing a vital role in protecting our marine ecosystem and Council was delighted to support its installation and bring this project to life in Mosman,” Mosman Mayor Carolyn Corrigan said.

“Living Seawalls encourage species to thrive which improves foreshore water quality and so can also indirectly help enhance recreational activities including swimming, fishing and water sports in and around urban waterways so there is a benefit for humans and marine species alike.”

The special modular habitat panels fitted to seawalls increase the surface area for marine life and also provide protective habitats, mimicking features of nature, such as rockpools, crevices and hollows.

The Spit seawall was identified by Mosman Council’s Environment Coordinator Dr Paloma Matis and Living Seawalls as a suitable prominent location and the project was brought to life with $41,000 funding from the Mosman Environmental Foundation.

“These panels enhance habitat structure to support a wide variety of marine species to help the harbour’s biodiversity and ecosystem flourish which is much needed because urban structures, which now make up more than half of Sydney Harbour’s shoreline, have replaced natural habitats,” Dr Matis said.

Living Seawalls in other parts of Sydney Harbour support at least 36 per cent more species, including invertebrates, seaweed and fish, and increase biodiversity more than plain, unmodified seawalls with similar results expected along the nearby Mosman shorelines.

“The Living Seawall at this popular fishing spot is already providing habitat for seaweed and invertebrates, which provide shelter and food for resident and transient fish,” Sydney Institute of Marine Science Living Seawalls Project Manager Dr Aria Lee said.

Visit livingseawalls.com.au for more information about the program.

Get Ready Weekend 2023: Know Your Risk This Bush Fire Season

The risk of bush fires is returning. With several years of wet weather grass and scrub has grown across NSW. Talk to your local RFS members about the likely risk of bush or grass fire in your local area.

In September every year RFS members are out in the community hosting Get Ready Weekend events. Contact your local brigade to find out when and where they are holding an event.

Get Ready Weekend is held across NSW in around 500 locations and its aim is to encourage residents and landowners to plan and prepare for the upcoming bush fire season.

In 2023, the majority of Get Ready Weekend events will be held on the weekend of September 16 and 17.

If you live in an area near grasslands or farms, recent rain has caused widespread grass growth. As this dries out the risk of grassfires increases. Grass fires can start easily and move quickly. Farmlands may be at increased risk.

Even if you live in an area affected by the 2019/20 bush fires, you may be at risk this bush fire season. Many areas are seeing new growth among grasses and shrubs. It takes only a few days of hot dry and windy weather for these to dry out. Fires may start quickly and move quickly.

If you live in an area near bushland that was not affected by recent fires you may be at higher risk this Summer. Recent wet weather has encouraged growth and has hampered efforts for fire agencies to reduce hazards.

With hot and drier conditions expected this Summer, you may be at higher than normal risk of bush and grass fire. Know your risk this bush fire season and prepare well ahead.

Get prepared now at myfireplan.com.au

Review Of Performance Indicators: Local Water Utilities - Have Your Say

The Department of Planning and Environment is seeking feedback on the proposed new annual performance indicators for local water utilities.

The Department of Planning and Environment  – Water Group is seeking feedback on:

• the proposed additional, NSW-specific indicators that are part of the full list of NSW performance indicators
• the proposed list of key performance indicators for focused reporting and benchmarking products on key performance information for utilities and their customers.

The new full list of NSW performance indicators is to replace the annual indicator set the department currently uses for all local water utilities from the 2024 to 2025 reporting year. This aligns with the introduction of the revised National Performance Report indicator set and to give utilities sufficient notice.

Have your say

To review the consultation document and to provide feedback visit the consultation page on their website.

Webinar

A webinar will be held on 12 September from 10:30am to 11:30am. Register your attendance online.

You can have your say until midnight 6 October 2023.‍

ACCC Calls For Views On Australia Post's Proposed Price Increase

September 5, 2023

The ACCC is seeking views on Australia Post’s draft proposal to increase its basic postage rate. Australia Post is proposing to increase its stamp prices by 25 per cent from January 2024.

This change would increase the price of delivering reserved ordinary small letters from $1.20 to $1.50, ordinary large letters up to 125 grams from $2.40 to $3.00 and ordinary large letters between 125 grams and 250 grams from $3.60 to $4.50.

Australia Post is not proposing to increase the price of concession stamps (60 cents each) or stamps for seasonal greeting cards (65 cents).

When assessing the proposed price increase, the ACCC will consider Australia Post’s recovery of efficient costs, including a reasonable rate of return, and how the company's common costs are allocated to the relevant letter segments. In forming its view, the ACCC will consider the responses received during this consultation period.

Australia Post has set out the reasons for its proposed price increase in its draft price notification and supporting materials.

“We would like to hear from consumers, businesses and other stakeholders about their views on Australia Post’s proposed price increase,” ACCC Commissioner Anna Brakey said.

“We will then examine the information provided by Australia Post and the feedback received in the context of our role under the legislation.”

Following the consultation process, the ACCC will release a preliminary view on the draft price notification. Australia Post will then lodge a formal notification of the price rise with the ACCC.

The ACCC is required to assess the proposed price increase in accordance with the Competition and Consumer Act and then notify Australia Post on whether it objects to the proposal. The ACCC does not have the role of approving the proposed price increase.

In addition to the ACCC's assessment, Australia Post must also give written notice of the proposed price increase to the Minister for Communications. It can only increase the basic postage rate if the Minister does not disapprove the proposal within 30 days.

Consultation on the proposed price increase, including a simple and short survey, is now open and closes on 29 September 2023.

Further information, including Australia Post’s draft notification, is available at Australia Post – letter pricing 2023.

Background

Australia Post provides a range of services including the delivery of letters and parcels as well as various financial and retail services. Some of these services are ‘reserved’ to Australia Post. According to the Australian Postal Corporation Act, Australia Post has an exclusive right to the collection and delivery of letters within Australia, subject to certain exceptions.

When Australia Post lodges a formal price notification, the ACCC must make an assessment within 21 days. Australia Post must not increase prices within this period. According to the Competition and Consumer Act, the ACCC can give Australia Post a notice in writing stating that it would have no objection to the proposed increase; or that it would have no objection to a lower price increase. If the ACCC does not give such a notice, it would be an offence for Australia Post to supply the notified service at the higher price.

Given a period of 21 days is too short for an effective consultation and assessment process, Australia Post has agreed to provide a draft version of the price notification to obtain the ACCC’s view before formal lodgement.

The last price notification from Australia Post considered by the ACCC was in 2022.

In 2023, the Australian Government launched a review into the modernisation of postal services. The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts held a consultation process earlier this year for the review and has published preliminary insights on the feedback received.

Avalon Bilgola Swimming Club: Swim Squads – Learn To Swim

The ABASC Swim Program includes weekly race meets plus the provision of swim lessons and stroke correction by Austswim qualified coaches on selected Saturdays throughout the season.

Our main purpose is to teach kids to swim and be water safe.

Saturday squads

Our Saturday squads are for kids and we cater for two groups 1–Learn To Swim candidates, 2–Competent Swimmers who want to improve their stroke and maybe even do better at their upcoming school swimming carnivals.

The squads start at 8am and run to 8.45am in time for the kids to enter their Saturday Swim Meet races.

The squads occur on 8 Saturdays in the season, please check the program or event calendar for this season’s dates

Requirements

We require, for insurance purposes,  that all participants must be registered club members at a cost of $40 per year.

Please register your interest at the registration desk or online: www.avalonbilgolaswimming.asn.au/about/registration

You only need to bring a willingness to learn plus goggles, and if you have flippers/fin and a kickboard bring those too or we can provide some from our bucket.

We swim down at Bilgola Rock Pool, on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, 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.

NBN School Student Broadband Initiative To Help Families

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

The Australian Government has established the School Student Broadband Initiative (SSBI) to provide free home internet for one year for up to 30,000 unconnected families in need with school aged students.

To be eligible you must meet the criteria as follows:

• - have a school aged child living at the premises
• - not have an active nbn® network internet service at home. Having a mobile internet service does not affect eligibility.
• - live in a premises that can access the nbn network via a standard connection. 

Please complete this form to be considered: 93847pfal7v.typeform.com/to/ckglcGEP

Closes 20th September 2023.

Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets Of The Week

Cathy 11yo & Joy 9yo 

Mini Foxy X Chihuahuas

Cathy (Mum) and Joy (daughter) are the sweetest, easiest pair. They are always happy and friendly and very social with other small dogs. They are not anxious and can be left longer hours. They love affection but are not needy and walk well on loose lead. Cathy is smaller, weighing 5.3kg and Joy is taller and weighs 6.1kg. They both have short coats. They suit apartment living and FT workers. All our dogs come with desexing, all puppy vaccinations, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DoggieRescue Vet. Their adoption fee is $900 together

Lady Bug 

5mths Domestic Short Hair

Lady Bug is one of our Bug litter. They arrived as 2 day old kittens. She is a sweet easy to handle kitten who came from the pound with her Mum Queen Bee who is also listed on our web site. She is a little more independent than Fly, her sister. She can get a bit growly over plush toys, so she is not suitable for families with young children. 

All our cats come desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested if over 6 months old and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $220. She is located at Ingleside. 

To find out more call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email  Monika@DoggieRescue.com.  RON R251000024

TAHE Restructure Achieves $4.3bn Net Debt

The NSW Government announced on Saturday September 9th it will slash the State’s net debt by more than $4 billion by beginning the overhaul of the controversial Transport Asset Holding Entity of NSW (TAHE).

The decision will be one of the biggest debt reduction measures in the upcoming state Budget. It is the first move in ending a long-running saga that has embroiled the State’s finances for years. 

Under the changes, the Government will convert TAHE into a non-commercial public non-financial corporation similar to Sydney Trains, NSW Trains and Venues NSW.

TAHE will no longer be a state-owned corporation (SOC). It will not have to make a profit from a public rail system that the government has subsidised for more than 100 years.

The new structure will see TAHE increase its focus on maximising the value of its transport assets, especially surplus land near railway stations that could be repurposed to help solve the State's housing shortage.

The decision to begin the transition to the new operating model this year delivers on Labor’s election commitment to reform TAHE and eliminate billions of dollars of intra-government transactions, which were required under the previous operating model.

It was made after the Government received advice that a further $615 million in funding in 2023-24 was being sought by TAHE under contractual arrangements it has with the Public Rail Operators.

The changes will eliminate this funding requirement. It will also avoid the need for the general government sector to borrow more than $4 billion the former government intended for TAHE under the previous operating model.

Under the new model TAHE will continue to receive necessary funding to maintain a safe, reliable and sustainable network, without accounting trickery.

The Government anticipates the changes will have a budget result impact of negative $384 million over the budget and forward estimates, but interest savings alone on the debt avoided will offset this impact.

TAHE’s new operating model will be implemented in three phases:

• Phase 1: August to December 2023 - The Government will commence transitioning TAHE to not-for-profit status by taking administrative actions under the State Owned Corporations Act.
• Phase 2 - by December 2023 - The Government will introduce an initial wave of legislative changes to allow for the introduction of the new operating model.
• Phase 3 - By June 2024 - The Government will introduce further legislative changes to remove TAHE’s status as a SOC. The corporation will be renamed.  

During the transition, TAHE will partially use its cash balances on hand and operating cash flow to fund its projects and activities, reducing reliance on grant funding.

The introduction of the new TAHE model is likely to see the reversal of the $20 billion write-down that occurred when TAHE began operating, as the State’s rail assets are revalued to reflect the new operating model.

The government will work with the Auditor-General to minimise any delay to the 2022/2023 Total State-Sector Accounts that might result.

The new government states that under the previous government:

• More than $5 billion in intra-government transactions were needed to prop up TAHE’s previous accounting treatment.
• A former Auditor-General labelled TAHE a ‘vehicle of deception’, which hid the true cost of operating the railways from the state’s accounts.
• The Legislative Council’s Public Accountability Committee found that the then NSW government failed to give proper consideration to safety, accountability and risk mitigations prior to creating TAHE.
• Millions of dollars were spent on consulting firms including PWC, KPMG and the Boston Consulting Group propping up the TAHE budget trick.

Treasure Daniel Mookhey stated on Saturday,

“We’re slashing the State’s net debt by more than $4 billion by fixing TAHE.

“This Government prefers to spend the public’s money fixing the state’s essential services, not propping up a budget con that went terribly wrong.

“We’re determined to bring an end to this saga. The State’s reputation for budget honesty was tarnished unnecessarily by the previous government’s decision to use TAHE to hide the true cost of operating the railways from the State’s accounts.”

Nominations Open For NSW Women Of The Year Awards 2024

Nominations for the 2024 NSW Women of the Year Awards are now open.

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said the NSW Government was looking for the most empowering and inspiring women and girls in the state.

“These awards recognise the invaluable contribution to community, industry and society that women in NSW have made through their hard work, dedication and passion. The awards honour our inspirational women with the recognition they truly deserve,” Minister Harrison said.

“We want to continue to empower the next generation of young women to be limitless in delivering positive changes through fortitude in their fields of expertise. We can only achieve this by shining a light on the contributions and achievements of women in our communities.”

The annual awards will put the spotlight on women and girls whose determination, bravery, skill and passion should be celebrated and shared, inspiring others to achieve great things. They celebrate the role models who challenge inequality, innovate and inspire.

The 2024 award categories are:

• Premier’s NSW Woman of Excellence
• NSW Community Hero
• NSW Young Woman of the Year
• NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year

Nominations are also open to recognise and honour young girls in the Ones to Watch Showcase. It will put the spotlight on the rising stars of our community, showcasing 10 exemplary young girls between the ages of 7-15 years old.

“The Ones to Watch showcase will spotlight the next generation of inspiring young women by recognising the potential, resilience and determination of girls who are shaping the future," Minister Harrison said. 

The winners of the awards will be announced at the NSW Women of the Year Awards ceremony on 7 March 2024 as part of NSW Women’s Week 2024. 

Nominate someone now: 

www.nsw.gov.au/women-nsw/awards-and-events/nsw-women-of-year-awards

Nominations close Sunday, 8 October, 11:59pm.

Photo: The 2023 winners of the One to Watch. 

Roadworks

SCHEDULED ROADWORK Power pole/line repairs: Ingleside - Mona Vale Road between Tumburra Street and Chiltern Road; Mon 21 Aug 2023 to Fri 8 Sep 2023, Sun to Wed: 9:00pm to 5:00am, Thu and Fri: 10:00pm to 5:00am. Traffic affected both directions. Advice: Reduced speed limit (40km/h), Check signage, Exercise caution. Contraflow traffic conditions will be in place.

SCHEDULED ROADWORK Resurfacing: Elanora Heights

Kalang Road between Powderworks Road and St Andrews Gate. Road closed both directions

Mon 4 Sep 2023 to Sun 10 Sep 2023: 7:00pm to 5:00am. Delays; 5 minutes. Reported By; Northern Beaches Council. Ph: 1300 434 434, Email: council@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

SCHEDULED ROADWORK Upgrade: Mccarrs Creek Road between West Head Road and Walker Place - Fri 8 Sep 2023 to Thu 14 Sep 2023; 10:00pm to 5:00am and Sun/Mon: 9:00pm to 5:00am.  Advice: Traffic affected both directions. Reduce your speed, Exercise caution, Check signage. Alternating (stop/slow) traffic conditions will be in place. Reported By: Transport for NSW

ROADWORK: Mona Vale - road resurfacing - Darley Street between By The Sea Road and Taronga Place: Mon 28 Aug 2023 to Fri 22 Sep 2023.

Delays; 5 minutes. Advice: Expect delays, Check signage, Exercise caution. Reported By; Northern Beaches Council.

Power pole installation - North Narrabeen; Wakehurst Parkway between Wimbledon Avenue and Mirrool Street, Sun 3 Sep 2023 to Sat 9 Sep 2023 Sunday to Wednesday; 9:00pm to 5:00am, Thursday to Friday; 10:00pm to 5:00am. Traffic affected both directions.

Advice: Reduced speed limit (40km/h), Check signage. Other Advice: Alternating (stop/slow) traffic conditions will be in place to allow motorists to pass in one direction at a time.  Reported By: Transport for NSW.

Lock Up Your Cars: Thieves About

Please Join Us In Celebrating 100 Years  Of  Creative Leisure: 1924 – 2024

What are your memories of Creative Leisure?

Calling past participants in any Creative Leisure Movement activities, to send us your stories or experiences.

Email:  manresa123@optusnet.com.au

By Post: Northern Beaches Creative Leisure & Learning Inc

PO Box 1718  WARRIEWOOD 2102

Phone: 9944 6027

Letters To The Editor

Letters should preferably be 150 to 175 words, but considering the magazines inability to word limit itself - that remains optional.

Letters must include the writer's address and phone number and 'permission to publish'.

Letters should not contain attachments - these will be requested if required to illustrate content/subject.

Letters should be exclusive to Pittwater Online News.

The editor's prerogative includes editing letters for length, grammar or legal reasons, among other considerations. 

Email: pittwateronlinenews@bigpond.com

The Lifeline Classic Is On Again For 2023!

Get on board and raise funds for Lifeline Northern Beaches.

This year, we’re holding the Lifeline Classic on Saturday, 14 October 2023 at Queenscliff Beach. Kick-off at 8am.

The Lifeline Classic is an event for everyone. Join in and raise funds for Lifeline Northern Beaches’ crisis support and suicide prevention services.

There are four ways you can support the Lifeline Classic:

1. Register a team and start fundraising for Lifeline
2. Join a team and help with the fundraising
3. Donate to a team or directly to Lifeline Northern Beaches ($2 and over is tax deductible)
4. Share the event, particularly in support of the teams who are fundraising for Lifeline Northern Beaches

Your support helps Lifeline Northern Beaches save lives from suicide in our local community.

Find out more: www.lifelineclassic.com.au

Need support? Lifeline is here to listen and help. Anytime.

Call 13 11 14 or text 0477 13 11 14.

Ongoing support is available through local services, including counselling, support groups and financial counselling. Visit www.lifelinenb.org.au/get-help

Report Hate Crimes

NSW Police Force: 

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. 

For more information, visit https://www.police.nsw.gov.au/crime/hate_crimes

Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Needs Volunteers

The Auxiliary is looking for new members to help with our fund raising efforts.  New ideas and assistance with our stalls are very welcome.  Contact 0407 216 253 for more information.

The Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary members host a stall at Pittwater Place on the first Saturday of every month from 9am to 3pm selling knitting for babies and children, beanies, bedsocks and scarves for oldies, sewing items, craft and jams, raising funds for the rehabilitation and palliative care units.

Pittwater Online News: Spring School Holidays Break

NSW Community Urged To Be On Alert Amid Rise In Listeriosis

ABHS 40th Anniversary Celebrations

Avalon Public School Band 50th Anniversary

R U OK?Day 2023: September 14

CABPRA Half Yearly Meeting 2023

Elanora Players: The Third Act

Trafalgar Park Newport: Playground Renewal - Feedback Invited

Dogue Avalon To Close

InTune With TonyB 

InTune is a radio programme about our local community, culture and music.

Government Opens Up Sydney New Year's Eve Premium Vantage Points For The Public

Board Applications Open For Central Coast Wetlands - Pioneer Dairy

Breast Cancer Doesn’t Wait – New Campaign Urges Women To Get Screened

Bowel Cancer Screening Push

Volunteers Needed: Meals On Wheels

Become A Volunteer Radio Operator: MRNSW

Manly Jazz Festival To Run Over First Weekend Of Spring School Holidays

JP Public Register

Pittwater Offshore Newsletter: September 1, 2023

Click on Logo to access the latest PON:  

Scotland Island's Original Wife Swapper?; 'Secret Island' - A new comedy for offshore Pittwater; Island Playgroup; Scotland Island Fire Brigade: Get Ready Weekend; The Tuesday Discussion Group; Scotland Island Café; International Folk Dancing; For sale: steel-hulled cruiser

To contact Roy:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

Merinda II + Zephyr Charters Granted Liquor Licences

August Liquor and Gaming NSW Decisions show the Merinda II and Charters have been granted liquor licences for their vessels. Based at Newport in the case of Zephyr, and out of the Boathouse Group running to Patonga, both local businesses cater for those who like dining, and now wining, on the estuary and the routes undertaken. 

Worth remembering when planning upcoming end of year celebrations or something unique for family celebrations.

North Avalon Seniors Development Taking Council To Court - Again

The Developers of the 'seniors' blocks of concrete at 27-29 North Avalon Road lodged a Modification for the development in May 2023, seeking to exclude some of the Conditions of Consent issue by the Land and Environment court. Specifically the Developers want the removal of:

Condition 18 d, 

the removal of Condition 20

and the removal of Condition 20A.

These are:

18. The Applicant is to submit an application for approval for public domain improvement works on Council's roadway, for so much of the approved plans in Condition 1.

d; The upgrade of the existing footpath on the southern side of North Avalon Road, from the western alignment of the existing building at 2 North Avalon Road to the intersection of North Avalon Road and Catalina Crescent, including the upgrade of the kerb ramp connecting to the pedestrian crossing to ensure safe access for seniors and people with a disability.

20. Works to Barrenjoey Road The proposed pedestrian refuge on Barrenjoey Road shall be designed to meet TfNSW’s requirements, and endorsed by a suitably qualified practitioner. The design requirements shall be in accordance with AUSTROADS and other Australian Codes of Practice. The certified copies of the civil design plans shall be submitted to TfNSW for consideration and approval prior to the release of the Construction Certificate by the Certifying Authority and commencement of road works.

The developer is required to enter into a Works Authorisation Deed (WAD) for the abovementioned works. Please note that the WAD will need to be executed prior to TfNSW’s assessment of the detailed civil design plans. Reason: To ensure compliance with the requirements of TfNSW

20A. Amendments to Barrenjoey Road upgrade works The Applicant is to amend the Public Work Plans in Condition 1 in respect of the Barrenjoey Road works, to upgrade the intersection of Barrenjoey Road /North Avalon Road as per Annexure C in the Supplementary Joint Traffic Report dated 20 July 2021 in Condition 1 with the right turn bay and eastern edgeline for the southbound travel lane of Barrenjoey Road required to be relocated to the south-east by 300mm.

In documents lodged with Council the proponents hired experts again state they can rely on Keoride to satisfy not meeting these Conditions of Consent and that even though the development is over the required within 400m for seniors developments to the nearest bus stop, Keoride can set down passengers at an 'upgraded pavement at Catalina Crescent'.

An L& E 'conciliation conference on site' is listed for September 14, and a Directions Hearing for September 21.

Newport Surf Club DA Goes To Court

On the Land and Environment court list for September 8 is a Conciliation Conference (NORTHERN BEACHES COUNCIL v NORTHERN BEACHES COUNCIL (at the control and direction of the Sydney North Planning Panel)) which relates to the Newport Surf Club upgrade proposal.

A Directions Hearing is listed for September 15.

The original application was refused by the Sydney North Planning Panel at the Panel meeting on the 5th of October 2022. 

The refusal is perhaps the first time where the Coastal Management Act 2016, ‘’ An Act to make provision for the ecologically sustainable management, use and occupation of the New South Wales coast; and for related purposes’’, has featured in a local DA determination.

In their Statement of Reasons the SNPP cited matters raised during the September Public Meeting, where it had deferred its determination pending those points being addressed.

This was a list of 12 points and included in considering the suitability of the site when preparing the current proposal, specifically, what design and location options were considered by the Applicant and when and why were they each rejected in favour of the current proposal? In detailing the design and location options the Panel asked that the Applicant demonstrate consideration of:

the Coastal Management Act (CM Act) s 3 - Objects of the Act, and in particular item (g) “to recognise that the local and regional scale effects of coastal processes, and the inherently ambulatory and dynamic nature of the shoreline, may result in the loss of coastal land to the sea (.....), and to manage coastal use and development accordingly, and”;

suitable alternate locations for the Project given that storm inundation will continue to increase as the sea level rises, until such time as maintaining a building on the site and a beach seaward of the building becomes impractical; and

whether only the elements of the existing building that are of high or moderate heritage significance should be retained and whether the additional facilities could be accommodated in a new building that was further landward and consequently less exposed to coastal processes, thereby reducing the length of any coastal protection works.

The Panel also wanted the Applicant to:

• provide a detailed assessment of what the beach and adjacent area may be like following a severe storm now, and in 2050 and 2080 (location of escarpment, wave inundation, loss of trees amenity or infrastructure) once the works are completed.
• And an assessment of the anticipated life of the development/use on the current site, given the sea level will continue to rise beyond the adopted planning period to 2080.
• As well as summary of Coastal Hazard mapping/reporting including present, 2050, 2080 and 2100 “lines”. Advise which one the Applicant and Assessor are relying upon and what sea level rise was used for each? (Ref Carley letter report dated 8/7/21 included as App B to Horton Report on “Coastal Engineering and Flooding”, Fig 15; “SEE” Fig 14 Section 6 page 32 referenced as Horton). Which interpretation is the Applicant relying upon?

The DA presented a section of the building of high or moderate heritage significance as approximately 18.5 metres long (north-south), while the vertical seawall proposed extends along the beach for approximately 100 metres, significantly increasing the impacts. The SNPP asked were other length options considered and for comment on their viability [in accordance with the coastal vulnerability objectives presented in the CM Act, Part 2 section 7(2){c}, (d) (e), (f), (g)].

The SNPP also wanted it confirmed that Secant not Contiguous piles are to be used, for the Council to address the unknowns in the reference notes to Dwg S02 Rev D by Horton. 

The Panel also drew attention to the Assessment Report at Section 2 in the final paragraph which states “Sea Level Rise The impact of sea level rise on beaches in NSW has been comprehensively investigated. These investigations conclude that all beaches will experience recession because of sea level rise. Such impacts at Newport Beach will not be made worse by the existence of coastal protection works of any design, including those proposed as part of this application”. The Applicant and Assessor were asked to please justify this last sentence.

They were also required to define the expected lengths of time that access from the club to the beach will be interrupted now, and by 2080 (when erosion lowers the sand level below the access stairs). Similarly they were asked to define any periods of loss of alongshore access as erosion intersects the vertical wall proposed i.e. entire beach submerged;

Council was also required to provide details of the arrangements for the restoration of the beach in times of erosion and the maintenance of these works as per section 27(1}{b) CM Act. Those arrangements must include the source of any replenishment and the means of replenishment.

And provide details of the legally binding funding for any restoration and maintenance as per section 27(2) CM Act and whether the Council has formally resolved to provide legally binding funding until 2080.

While the above list included a considerable amount of information, the Panel noted much or all of it should be available in project planning documents.

The Panel’s decision to defer determination of the DA was unanimous. The Panel also advised they would determine this matter electronically within 7 seven days after the 5th October reconvened meeting.

At that Meeting the Panel considered all the materials presented again prior to refusing the proposal.

After the September public meeting, the Panel considered refusing the application as insufficient information had been provided to justify the project design and implications for the coastline. However, given the importance of the project and site to the local community, the Panel convened a second public meeting to focus on those particular concerns detailed in the Deferral.

The second meeting on 5th of October did not resolve the Panel’s concerns but did confirm that from the beginning of the project, heritage, car park and open space protection had been emphasised at the expense of considering alternative options for protection and renewal of the Surf Club asset.

Further, the SNPP was not satisfied that: a) the applicant’s written request (application to vary a development standard) adequately addresses the matters required to be addressed under cl. 4.6 (3) of the LEP; and b) the development is in the public interest because it is consistent with the objectives of cl. 4.3 (development standard) of the LEP and the objectives for development in the RE1 — Public Recreation zone.

The Sydney North Planning Panel refused the Council’s DA for Alterations and additions to Newport Surf Life Saving Club, citing the above in the Decision. The decision by the panel’s members was unanimous. 

Following this, on 29 November 2022, the applicant (Council) lodged the current application pursuant to Section 8.2 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 for the review of the Sydney North Planning Panel’s determination of refusal for DA2021/2173.

On May 23rd 2023 the SNPP Panel decided to defer the determination on this review to enable further consideration of complex statutory and policy requirements relating this matter and to ensure that an informed decision can be made.

''When the Panel has considered these requirements, the Panel will determine the matter electronically.'' the proposal page states

''The Panel’s decision to defer the matter was unanimous. The Panel adjourned during the meeting to deliberate on the matter and formulate a resolution.''

The upcoming Conciliation Conference and Directions Hearing dates are also a factor in deferring a decision.

Northern Beaches Police Area Command: Awards

Congratulations to Northern Beaches Police and three community members who were acknowledged at our Northern Beaches Police Area Command awards ceremony for their service and achievements.

On 22 August, 2023 Local Area Commander, Superintendent Sharkey hosted Deputy Commissioner Mal Lanyon APM (Commander Metropolitan Field Operations) and Assistant Commissioner Leanne McCusker APM (Commander, North West Metropolitan Region) who presented a range of awards recognising:   

• Diligent and ethical service over periods of 10 and 15 years 
• Successful investigation of organised crime resulting in the targeting of money laundering and the importation and supply of prohibited drugs 
• Rescuing - at three in the morning - of an unconscious and unresponsive woman from the breaking surf at Manly 
• The successful resolution of a standoff, at height, involving a mental health patient armed with an edged weapon
• CPR conducted for more than half an hour to resuscitate a man found unconscious and unresponsive 
• The Rescue from Long Reef headland of a severely injured man whose paraglider had crashed onto a steep ledge. 

Also recognised were three community members who, with an off duty Police Sergeant, rescued the unconscious driver of a golf buggy that had toppled three metres into a creek.  

As well, presented at the ceremony have been: 

• - a Commissioner’s Safety Award for work in improving the WHS of our officers 
• - a Warrant of Appointment to the Rank of Sergeant – The warrant recognises the valuable contribution these police make to our community through the extensive knowledge, duties, obligations and responsibilities associated with the office. 

Joining senior police in offering their congratulations to the recipients were Local, State and Federal representatives.

Elanora Heights Public School Has A Great Coach

August 26, 2023: EHPS; We are extremely proud of our very own Mr Rosconi for coaching the opens NSWPSSA Rugby Union team to victory! Well done to Malakye who played in the team. Elanora Heights PS are proud of you both!

Sydney North won most of their games and drew the last one.

Day 1:

Sydney North 26 vs South Coast 5

Sydney SSW 12 vs Sydney North 35

Day 2:

Sydney North 21 vs Sydney West 10

McKillop 14 vs Sydney North 26

Day 3:

CIS 19 vs Sydney North 19

 2023 Rugby Union Champions 

🥇Sydney North Schools Sports Association and NSW Combined Independent Schools Sports Council shared the trophy with a 19 all draw🏆

🥉Polding Catholic Schools NSW Sport

Thank you to hosts Sydney South West School Sport Association together with team and carnival management, players, parents and supporters. 

Get Ready Weekend 2023: Know Your Risk This Bush Fire Season

The risk of bush fires is returning. With several years of wet weather grass and scrub has grown across NSW. Talk to your local RFS members about the likely risk of bush or grass fire in your local area.

In September every year RFS members are out in the community hosting Get Ready Weekend events. Contact your local brigade to find out when and where they are holding an event.

Get Ready Weekend is held across NSW in around 500 locations and its aim is to encourage residents and landowners to plan and prepare for the upcoming bush fire season.

In 2023, the majority of Get Ready Weekend events will be held on the weekend of September 16 and 17.

If you live in an area near grasslands or farms, recent rain has caused widespread grass growth. As this dries out the risk of grassfires increases. Grass fires can start easily and move quickly. Farmlands may be at increased risk.

Even if you live in an area affected by the 2019/20 bush fires, you may be at risk this bush fire season. Many areas are seeing new growth among grasses and shrubs. It takes only a few days of hot dry and windy weather for these to dry out. Fires may start quickly and move quickly.

If you live in an area near bushland that was not affected by recent fires you may be at higher risk this Summer. Recent wet weather has encouraged growth and has hampered efforts for fire agencies to reduce hazards.

With hot and drier conditions expected this Summer, you may be at higher than normal risk of bush and grass fire. Know your risk this bush fire season and prepare well ahead.

Get prepared now at myfireplan.com.au

Applications Open For New Crown Cemetery Board

The NSW Labor Government has opened applications for qualified candidates to join a new professional board to help meet the needs of Sydney’s Crown cemetery sector.

The new skills-based board will oversee the Metropolitan Memorial Parks (MMP) Land Manager, which commenced on 1 July 2023 following the merger of three Crown cemetery operators: Rookwood General Cemeteries Reserve Land Manager, Northern Metropolitan Cemeteries Land Manager, and Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Land Manager.

Metropolitan Memorial Parks performs an important public purpose, meeting the burial and cremation needs of the community.

Essential skills and experience being sought from prospective Board members include financial management, governance and risk management, organisational performance, stakeholder management, commercial strategy, and legal skills.

Other desirable attributes include skills and experience in place management, construction, change management and information technology.

The government is also keen to have a diverse and multicultural board that is reflective of the wider community, ensuring different beliefs and cultural practices are considered in relevant matters.

Up to seven Board members including a Chair will be appointed for an initial three years.

For further information visit the Metropolitan Memorial Parks Board application portal or visit https://iworkfor.nsw.gov.au/

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“The former Government left the Crown cemeteries sector in crisis, with many faith groups set to run out of burial space within three years.”

“The NSW Government, alongside administrator Ken Morrison, has hit the ground running with the creation of Metropolitan Memorial Parks. Now, we are looking for talented individuals to join its new Board and work with us to help steer the future of the Crown cemetery sector on behalf of the community.”

“This exciting opportunity will see Board members supported by the government to oversee Metropolitan Memorial Parks’ operations and work on interesting opportunities and challenges, including creating more cemetery space for Sydney, helping rethink the role cemeteries play as shared public open spaces, and engaging with key faith communities and stakeholders to meet consumer needs.”

ABHS 40th Anniversary Celebrations

The Avalon Beach Historical Society will be celebrating its RUBY ANNIVERSARY on 12 SEPTEMBER – almost 40 years to the day since we held our first meeting in the Avalon Beach RSL.

 

As usual there will be little formality other than the election of office bearers for the coming year (and that’s rather informal anyway!) and ‘just a dash’ of General Business. 

We have planned an enjoyable and historic evening with some wonderful photos to illustrate:

 

                       THE HISTORY OF THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY

 

For example (and your interest) we have some from the Observation Tower on top of the RAN Torpedo Testing Station at Taylor’s Point when, in October 1983, we witnessed the 2nd last firing of a torpedo from the station.

 

We also have some great photos of our early Xmas parties held in Palmgrove Park and a ‘member’ Father Christmas. Our get-togethers and outings at Carmel’s By The Sea (Boathouse), Palm Beach RSL before it became Club Palm Beach, Albert’s Hideaway, Ibiza Café and even on board the ‘Barbie-A’ and the ‘Lady Hopetoun’. 

We will also have several members from that first night to assist in the celebrations.

Guests Welcome.

Meetings held in the Avalon Annexe, Dunbar Park.

Geoff Searl OAM
President Avalon Beach Historical Society.

Find out more at: abhs.org.au

Teen Mental Health: Free Parent Seminar

Presented by Dr Kirstin Barchia - Clinical Psychologist

Helping parents and carers with teens who are struggling with mental health challenges

You are invited to a FREE SEMINAR to help equip parents and carers of teenagers who may be facing mental health challenges. 

During this seminar you will learn…

• How to improve your teenager’s resilience in the face of mental health challenges
• How to support your teenager when they are feeling anxious or depressed
• How to support teenagers with ADHD and/or ASD

Seats are limited so please book in using the link below:

www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1103328

DATE: Thursday 7 September 2023 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

WHERE: St Mark's Anglican Church, 1 Kevin Avenue, Avalon Beach

Monika's Doggie Rescue Pets Of The Week

Ricky 

12yo Pomeranian X

Ricky was emaciated when he came from the pound. He came with a warning that he was friendly but will bite when touched near his mouth. Upon vet exam it was clear he had severe dental disease. Since being with us he eats soft soupy food with gusto. He was very hungry and had a very sore mouth. Ricky has had a dental with 18 extractions, gum sutures and he has 9 remaining teeth! Ricky does have some cloudy vision and fly-bitten ears. He would be best suited to a quiet household who understand that life has been tough for him. He has a fluffy coat and came in weighing 3.9kg. If you would like to support Ricky on his journey and help him recover please click here.

All our dogs come desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Also included for the love and health of our dogs is a free Health and Wellness Voucher with our DoggieRescue Vet. His adoption fee is $400. 

Lady Bug 

5mths Domestic Short Hair

Lady Bug is one of our Bug litter. They arrived as 2 day old kittens. She is a sweet easy to handle kitten who came from the pound with her Mum Queen Bee who is also listed on our web site. She is a little more independent than Fly, her sister. She can get a bit growly over plush toys, so she is not suitable for families with young children. 

All our cats come desexed, wormed, F3 vaccinated, FIV/FeLV tested if over 6 months old and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $220. She is located at Ingleside. 

To find out more call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or email  Monika@DoggieRescue.com.  RON R251000024

Roadworks

SCHEDULED ROADWORK Power pole/line repairs: Ingleside - Mona Vale Road between Tumburra Street and Chiltern Road; Mon 21 Aug 2023 to Fri 8 Sep 2023, Sun to Wed: 9:00pm to 5:00am, Thu and Fri: 10:00pm to 5:00am. Traffic affected both directions. Advice: Reduced speed limit (40km/h), Check signage, Exercise caution. Contraflow traffic conditions will be in place.

SCHEDULED ROADWORK Resurfacing: Elanora Heights

Kalang Road between Powderworks Road and St Andrews Gate. Road closed both directions

Mon 4 Sep 2023 to Sun 10 Sep 2023: 7:00pm to 5:00am. Delays; 5 minutes. Reported By; Northern Beaches Council. Ph: 1300 434 434, Email: council@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

SCHEDULED ROADWORK Upgrade: Mccarrs Creek Road between West Head Road and Walker Place - Fri 8 Sep 2023 to Thu 14 Sep 2023; 10:00pm to 5:00am and Sun/Mon: 9:00pm to 5:00am.  Advice: Traffic affected both directions. Reduce your speed, Exercise caution, Check signage. Alternating (stop/slow) traffic conditions will be in place. Reported By: Transport for NSW

ROADWORK: Mona Vale - road resurfacing - Darley Street between By The Sea Road and Taronga Place: Mon 28 Aug 2023 to Fri 22 Sep 2023.

Delays; 5 minutes. Advice: Expect delays, Check signage, Exercise caution. Reported By; Northern Beaches Council.

Power pole installation - North Narrabeen; Wakehurst Parkway between Wimbledon Avenue and Mirrool Street, Sun 3 Sep 2023 to Sat 9 Sep 2023 Sunday to Wednesday; 9:00pm to 5:00am, Thursday to Friday; 10:00pm to 5:00am. Traffic affected both directions.

Advice: Reduced speed limit (40km/h), Check signage. Other Advice: Alternating (stop/slow) traffic conditions will be in place to allow motorists to pass in one direction at a time.  Reported By: Transport for NSW.

Manly Jazz Festival To Run Over First Weekend Of Spring School Holidays

Manly comes alive with the sounds of Australia’s longest running jazz festival, Manly Jazz. Over three music-filled days, the Manly Corso and beachfront as well as the surrounding streets and laneways will become the setting for locals and visitors to enjoy some great music from a range of legendary artists.

Mayor Sue Heins said Manly Jazz is sure to be, once again, a festival that offers something for all jazz and music lovers.

“This iconic festival with its stellar line-up of local and Australian artists, celebrates the diversity and creativity of jazz music.

“Manly Jazz is a signature event for our community and a major attraction for visitors from near and far.

“We are proud to deliver this event for our community and visitors, and look forward to seeing everyone enjoy the music and atmosphere."

Now in its 46th year, the Festival will be held from 22–24 September, and will feature more than 50 outstanding artists across four stages.

“From smooth saxophones and sultry vocals to the roar of big bands on stage, the diversity of talent guarantees an unforgettable experience for every jazz aficionado,” Mayor Heins said.  

Featured artists include:

• Sydney Conservatorium Big Band
• Geoff Bull Finer Cuts with Kate Wadey
• House of Bop
• Big 'Ol Bus Band
• Cope Street Parade
• The Spelunkers
• Blaine Whittaker
• Eamon Dilworth's Crawfish Po' Boys
• JC Stylles & Andrew Dickesons Manhattan Project
• Greasy Chicken Orchestra
• Hot Potato Band
• Tribute to Don Burrows – special guest Johnny Nicol
• Clayton Doley Bayou Billabong
• John Morrison All Stars Featuring John Hoffman
• Queen Porter Stomp
• Andy Firth Quartet
• Celebrating Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers
• Dave MacRae and Joy Yates Quintet
• Andy Gander 4tet
• School and community bands … and so much more!

There will be stages at Manly Beachfront, Sydney Road, Manly Town Hall forecourt, St Matthews Church, plus roving performers along The Corso, laneways and Manly Wharf.  

Visitors are also encouraged to drop into local pubs and venues for even more live jazz music.

There will be eight Manly Jazz official venues and each venue will have its own unique jazz atmosphere and theme.

Manly Jazz is non-ticketed and free to attend. 

Better Entitlements On The Table For Community Service Workers In NSW

The Minns Labor Government stated on Friday August 25 it is moving towards extending the established and successful portable long service leave system in NSW.

The government is taking the first step towards fulfilling its election commitment, establishing a consultation process around the introduction of the system in the community service sector.

The move responds to the rise of insecure work in the disability and community sectors and forms part of the government’s commitment to attract and retain key workers in NSW.

Community sector workers are often employed on short-term contracts with multiple employers and don’t have access to long service leave, despite some working in the sector for more than a decade.  

Led by Industrial Relations Minister Sophie Cotsis, the government will engage with stakeholders, including unions and employers, about the best way to extend the system to the community service sector.

A portable long service leave system for the community sector could follow the model for NSW contract cleaners, introduced by the previous Labor government in 2010, which provides a portable long service entitlement to workers who have performed work in the NSW contract cleaning industry for 10 years, regardless of whether they have worked for multiple employers or as a contractor, and includes casuals.

Our plan will bring NSW in line with other jurisdictions (ACT, Victoria and Queensland) that have already established portable leave schemes for these sectors. NSW cannot be left behind and must value these essential workers.  

The disability sector has an annual turnover of 25% and the highest levels of casualisation in the care economy.  

It is also experiencing a rise in gig work via platforms and apps that provide no leave provisions for workers.  

And 75% of the 250,000 strong social services workforce in NSW are women.

A recent survey conducted by the NSW Council of Social Service said the care sector in NSW could lose up to 120,000 workers over the next 5 years, with poor pay and insecure work driving staff out.

The Minns Government is looking to find a solution to the high level of churn in these sectors, the cost this high turnover brings to employers and the impact it has on the continuity of care to clients. 

The government will start work on the consultation process immediately and aim to have a bill to parliament in early-mid 2024, subject to the consultation process.

The announcement forms the first step towards the government implementing its broader commitment to introduce portable entitlements, including long service leave, for the community sector and gig economy.

Minister for Industrial Relations Sophie Cotsis said:

“There’s a predicted mass exodus in the community services sector. We are setting up a consultation process that cares about what the industry has to say.

“Workers in these industries have felt abandoned by the former government, which deprived them of basic entitlements, affecting their ability to get a loan, secure rental accommodation and support their families.

“We want to be getting the best out of our workforce, and it’s well known that a portable entitlements system for these industries recognises the service of these workers and helps retain staff.”

Lock Up Your Cars: Thieves About

Please Join Us In Celebrating 100 Years  Of  Creative Leisure: 1924 – 2024

What are your memories of Creative Leisure?

Calling past participants in any Creative Leisure Movement activities, to send us your stories or experiences.

Email:  manresa123@optusnet.com.au

By Post: Northern Beaches Creative Leisure & Learning Inc

PO Box 1718  WARRIEWOOD 2102

Phone: 9944 6027

Letters To The Editor

Letters should preferably be 150 to 175 words, but considering the magazines inability to word limit itself - that remains optional.

Letters must include the writer's address and phone number and 'permission to publish'.

Letters should not contain attachments - these will be requested if required to illustrate content/subject.

Letters should be exclusive to Pittwater Online News.

The editor's prerogative includes editing letters for length, grammar or legal reasons, among other considerations. 

Email: pittwateronlinenews@bigpond.com

The Lifeline Classic Is On Again For 2023!

Get on board and raise funds for Lifeline Northern Beaches.

This year, we’re holding the Lifeline Classic on Saturday, 14 October 2023 at Queenscliff Beach. Kick-off at 8am.

The Lifeline Classic is an event for everyone. Join in and raise funds for Lifeline Northern Beaches’ crisis support and suicide prevention services.

There are four ways you can support the Lifeline Classic:

1. Register a team and start fundraising for Lifeline
2. Join a team and help with the fundraising
3. Donate to a team or directly to Lifeline Northern Beaches ($2 and over is tax deductible)
4. Share the event, particularly in support of the teams who are fundraising for Lifeline Northern Beaches

Your support helps Lifeline Northern Beaches save lives from suicide in our local community.

Find out more: www.lifelineclassic.com.au

Need support? Lifeline is here to listen and help. Anytime.

Call 13 11 14 or text 0477 13 11 14.

Ongoing support is available through local services, including counselling, support groups and financial counselling. Visit www.lifelinenb.org.au/get-help

Planned Hazard Reduction Burn

Trafalgar Park Newport: Playground Renewal - Feedback Invited

Dogue Avalon To Close

InTune With TonyB 

InTune is a radio programme about our local community, culture and music.

Investigation Underway Into Vandalism At Pelican Island Nature Reserve: Brisbane Water

Warriewood SLSC Open Days 2023

R U OK?Day 2023: September 14

Website Launched To Raise Community Awareness Of Coercive Control In Domestic Violence

Nominate An Unsung Community Hero

NSW Government Announces Inquiry Into Healthcare Funding

Bowel Cancer Screening Push

August 27 - September 2, 2023: Issue 596

Pittwater Community Groups: