Congratulations Narrabeen Sports High: Manly School Girl Cup Winners 2018
Congratulations to Narrabeen Sports High School on taking out the 2018 Manly School Girl Cup at Brookvale Oval On September 18th.
Results from the Manly School Girl Cup finals 2018:3rd VS 4th PlayoffNBSC Cromer defeated Pittwater High School
Grand FinalNarrabeen Sports High School defeated Mater Maria.
Congratulations to all girls for participating in this years competition.
Photos courtesy PlayNRL Sydney Metro
Congratulations to Narrabeen Sports High School on taking out the 2018 Manly School Girl Cup at Brookvale Oval On September 18th.
Results from the Manly School Girl Cup finals 2018:
3rd VS 4th Playoff
NBSC Cromer defeated Pittwater High School
Grand Final
Narrabeen Sports High School defeated Mater Maria.
Congratulations to all girls for participating in this years competition.
Photos courtesy PlayNRL Sydney Metro
Congratulations Layne, Rob And Dave
Pittwater Environment Notes: Issue 378
Urban Tree Canopy Plan Now On Public Exhibition: 100 Thousand Trees Planned
Plan To Protect And Enhance Northern Beaches’ Precious Urban Tree Canopy
How Can You Be Involved?
Tackling The Waste Challenge Head On
Mosses On The Move: Rapid Changes In Antarctica's Daintree
September 25th, 2018: Australian Antarctic DivisionA new study has found sudden and dramatic changes in East Antarctica’s old-growth moss, known as the “Daintree of the Antarctic”.
The 13-year study published in Nature Climate Change was led by researchers from the University of Wollongong (UOW), with support from scientists at the Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) and the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO).
Monitoring of moss beds in the Windmill Islands, near Australia’s Casey research station, began in 2000, as part of a PhD project led by the Division’s Dr Jane Wasley.
Jane Wasley at the Robinson Ridge monitoring site, south of Casey research station. (Photo: Johanna Turnbull)
Dr Wasley said when the researchers returned in 2008, they found the moss beds had turned from bright green to dark red, which is an indication of stress.
“We never really suspected when we embarked on this work that we would observe such dramatic changes in such a short period of time,” Dr Wasley said.
“These slow growing communities are more sensitive to environmental changes than previously thought.”
The researchers also observed a significant change in the composition of moss species at the site, which is consistent with the onset of drier growing conditions.
When the study began, the moss beds were dominated by Schistidium antarctici, an Antarctic endemic species that can survive long periods under water.
By 2013, many areas were being encroached by two other moss species of wider distributions that thrive in drier conditions and are less tolerant to being submerged.
“There has been a change in local growing conditions linked to broader atmospheric changes around East Antarctica over the same period.” Dr Wasley said.
“Local and global climate data shows that parts of East Antarctica have become colder, drier and windier in recent decades, most likely in response to changes in the ozone layer.”
The moss plants themselves were also found to show evidence of drying conditions.
Long moss shoots were dated using a similar approach to that used for tree-rings.
This dating work was carried out by Laurence Clarke, a molecular ecologist with the AAD and Antarctic Climate & Ecosystems Cooperative Research Centre.
Markers within dated sections of the moss shoots revealed that the moss beds have become drier over recent decades.
The work is supported by the University of Wollongong’s Global Challenges Program and the Australian Antarctic Division.
Healthy moss growing at one of the monitoring sites in the Windmill Islands, near Casey station. (Photo: Sharon Robinson)
September 25th, 2018: Australian Antarctic Division
A new study has found sudden and dramatic changes in East Antarctica’s old-growth moss, known as the “Daintree of the Antarctic”.
The 13-year study published in Nature Climate Change was led by researchers from the University of Wollongong (UOW), with support from scientists at the Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) and the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO).
Monitoring of moss beds in the Windmill Islands, near Australia’s Casey research station, began in 2000, as part of a PhD project led by the Division’s Dr Jane Wasley.
Jane Wasley at the Robinson Ridge monitoring site, south of Casey research station. (Photo: Johanna Turnbull)
Dr Wasley said when the researchers returned in 2008, they found the moss beds had turned from bright green to dark red, which is an indication of stress.
“We never really suspected when we embarked on this work that we would observe such dramatic changes in such a short period of time,” Dr Wasley said.
“These slow growing communities are more sensitive to environmental changes than previously thought.”
The researchers also observed a significant change in the composition of moss species at the site, which is consistent with the onset of drier growing conditions.
When the study began, the moss beds were dominated by Schistidium antarctici, an Antarctic endemic species that can survive long periods under water.
By 2013, many areas were being encroached by two other moss species of wider distributions that thrive in drier conditions and are less tolerant to being submerged.
“There has been a change in local growing conditions linked to broader atmospheric changes around East Antarctica over the same period.” Dr Wasley said.
“Local and global climate data shows that parts of East Antarctica have become colder, drier and windier in recent decades, most likely in response to changes in the ozone layer.”
The moss plants themselves were also found to show evidence of drying conditions.
Long moss shoots were dated using a similar approach to that used for tree-rings.
This dating work was carried out by Laurence Clarke, a molecular ecologist with the AAD and Antarctic Climate & Ecosystems Cooperative Research Centre.
Markers within dated sections of the moss shoots revealed that the moss beds have become drier over recent decades.
The work is supported by the University of Wollongong’s Global Challenges Program and the Australian Antarctic Division.
Healthy moss growing at one of the monitoring sites in the Windmill Islands, near Casey station. (Photo: Sharon Robinson)
Manly Ocean Lovers Take The Water In Support Of Marine Sanctuaries
September 24, 2018: NSW Nature Conservation CouncilMore than 110 ocean lovers from the Manly region took to the water on the weekend in support of a Sydney Marine Park that includes no-take sanctuary zones.
Photo by Nick Dawkins
About 80 ocean swimmers from Manly’s Bold and Beautiful group took to Cabbage Tree Bay on Saturday and 30 divers, snorkelers and beach cleaners hit Manly Cove on Sunday. The divers and swimmers all have the same aim: to protect Sydney’s amazing marine life in sanctuary zones as part of a Sydney Marine Park.
The Bold and Beautiful group was set up by people who love ocean swimming and the stunning natural beauty of Cabbage Tree Bay. More than 16,000 people have now swum with the group since it began 10 years ago, with up to 500 people swimming daily during summer.
Fiona Dobrijevich, a daily 6am swimmer, has been ploughing these waters between North Curl Curl and Fairy Bower every day for 25 years, and less regularly for 40. “Despite the vast improvement in water quality, fish only thrive in the marine sanctuary. They don’t know anything about boundaries, but outside of the sanctuary it’s pretty barren. The difference between Freshwater Headland and the Bower in Cabbage Tree Bay is very evident.”
Elaine De Jager is a part-time teacher at local primary schools who swims every day with the 7am group. “Sanctuary zones within marine parks are so important and can only have a positive effect for everyone. The Cabbage Tree Bay area is a nursery for dusky whalers in summer and a breeding ground for giant cuttlefish and Port Jackson sharks in winter time. The kids I teach love hearing about the different animals I encounter each morning and we educate our friends about the amazing marine life we have right here in our blue backyard.”
Divers and snorkelers. A group of around 30 divers, snorkelers and beach cleaners participated in a Dive Against Debris in Manly Cove on Sunday at a regular event run by Dive Centre Manly and PADI Project Aware.
Richard Nichols is owner of Dive Centre Manly and president of Dive Industry Association of Australia. “When the marine sanctuary at Cabbage Tree bay was established 15 years ago it was completely barren,” he said. “There was virtually no marine life left in the bay, and many people asked why would you want to protect something that is so devoid of life? Since the protection was put in place the change has been incredible. The marine vegetation has regrown and the fish life has returned. Because of this is it is now by far the most popular dive location in Sydney because of the abundance of marine life. We urgently need more places like this in Sydney for all ocean users to enjoy.”
Ali Lekyam is a dive master and marine biologist. “It’s very clear that fish numbers are much lower in the harbour compared with the sanctuary zone at Cabbage Tree Bay,” she said. “We need to ensure our marine life has adequate sanctuary zones like Cabbage Tree Bay to help replenish dwindling fish stocks and ensure our marine ecosystems are healthy and resilient. Our precious marine life needs sanctuary zones to grow and reproduce but we also need those areas to be free from plastic if we are to give our marine ecosystems a chance to thrive.”
Sydney Marine Park consultationDespite the government’s statement that sanctuary zones would not be part of the proposed Sydney Marine Park, marine sanctuaries are part of the proposal the public had been asked to comment on.
September 24, 2018: NSW Nature Conservation Council
More than 110 ocean lovers from the Manly region took to the water on the weekend in support of a Sydney Marine Park that includes no-take sanctuary zones.
Photo by Nick Dawkins
About 80 ocean swimmers from Manly’s Bold and Beautiful group took to Cabbage Tree Bay on Saturday and 30 divers, snorkelers and beach cleaners hit Manly Cove on Sunday. The divers and swimmers all have the same aim: to protect Sydney’s amazing marine life in sanctuary zones as part of a Sydney Marine Park.
The Bold and Beautiful group was set up by people who love ocean swimming and the stunning natural beauty of Cabbage Tree Bay. More than 16,000 people have now swum with the group since it began 10 years ago, with up to 500 people swimming daily during summer.
Fiona Dobrijevich, a daily 6am swimmer, has been ploughing these waters between North Curl Curl and Fairy Bower every day for 25 years, and less regularly for 40. “Despite the vast improvement in water quality, fish only thrive in the marine sanctuary. They don’t know anything about boundaries, but outside of the sanctuary it’s pretty barren. The difference between Freshwater Headland and the Bower in Cabbage Tree Bay is very evident.”
Elaine De Jager is a part-time teacher at local primary schools who swims every day with the 7am group. “Sanctuary zones within marine parks are so important and can only have a positive effect for everyone. The Cabbage Tree Bay area is a nursery for dusky whalers in summer and a breeding ground for giant cuttlefish and Port Jackson sharks in winter time. The kids I teach love hearing about the different animals I encounter each morning and we educate our friends about the amazing marine life we have right here in our blue backyard.”
Divers and snorkelers. A group of around 30 divers, snorkelers and beach cleaners participated in a Dive Against Debris in Manly Cove on Sunday at a regular event run by Dive Centre Manly and PADI Project Aware.
Richard Nichols is owner of Dive Centre Manly and president of Dive Industry Association of Australia. “When the marine sanctuary at Cabbage Tree bay was established 15 years ago it was completely barren,” he said. “There was virtually no marine life left in the bay, and many people asked why would you want to protect something that is so devoid of life? Since the protection was put in place the change has been incredible. The marine vegetation has regrown and the fish life has returned. Because of this is it is now by far the most popular dive location in Sydney because of the abundance of marine life. We urgently need more places like this in Sydney for all ocean users to enjoy.”
Ali Lekyam is a dive master and marine biologist. “It’s very clear that fish numbers are much lower in the harbour compared with the sanctuary zone at Cabbage Tree Bay,” she said. “We need to ensure our marine life has adequate sanctuary zones like Cabbage Tree Bay to help replenish dwindling fish stocks and ensure our marine ecosystems are healthy and resilient. Our precious marine life needs sanctuary zones to grow and reproduce but we also need those areas to be free from plastic if we are to give our marine ecosystems a chance to thrive.”
Sydney Marine Park consultation
Despite the government’s statement that sanctuary zones would not be part of the proposed Sydney Marine Park, marine sanctuaries are part of the proposal the public had been asked to comment on.
Nominate Your Unsung Local ‘Eco-Hero’
Winter Survey Shows Decline In Waterbirds In Port Stephens
September 25th, 2018: NSW Office of Environment & HeritageThe most recent survey of waterbirds in the Port Stephens area shows an alarming decline of once-common birds over a 10-year period.
The Office of Environment and Heritage surveys local wading birds and shorebirds twice a year in summer and winter, in conjunction with Hunter Bird Observers Club.
National Parks and Wildlife Service Area Manager Andrew Bond, said tentative results showed the lowest-ever winter count of shorebirds.
"This is our 15th bi-annual survey and while it is hard to say whether the decline is due to local factors in Port Stephens, the trend downwards over the past 10 years is both sad and alarming.
"In general numbers were low for both Australian resident shorebirds as well as migratory birds, but any real decline would only be confirmed by future surveys," Mr Bond said.
"One of the most endangered shorebirds, the Pied Oystercatcher, listed as vulnerable to extinction under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (the EPBC Act), recorded 154 sightings in July 2008.
"Numbers were low but reasonably stable until this year when they crashed to just 92 birds.
Pied oystercatcher - OEH photo
"This is significant because Port Stephens' population of Pied Oystercatchers represents a significant proportion of the NSW population – there are less than 200 breeding pairs left along the entire NSW coastline and in some areas, for example Byron Bay, there are only six known breeding pairs left.
"Other species such as the Bar-tailed Godwit numbers have almost halved over a decade and the increase we have observed in any of the species counted was very small," Mr Bond said.
Bar-tailed Godwit - photo: Gary Dunnet
Shorebird counts are carried out across Australia at around the same time to estimate national populations and track trends.
The winter survey indicates the success of the previous year's breeding season and Port Stephens is well known to be a significant site for shorebirds in New South Wales.
For some species, such as the Eastern Curlew it is considered nationally or internationally important.
However, Alan Stuart from Hunter Bird Observers said one good news story from the results was an increase in successful breeding amongst the critically endangered Beach Stone-Curlew.
"There has been a pair of Beach Stone-Curlews breeding in the area for several seasons now and last season we found a second nest," he said.
Beach Stone Curlew - Dowardee Island Port Stephens 2018 Photo credit Trevor Murray Hunter Bird Observers Club
Many of these endangered shorebirds, especially the Pied Oystercatcher are presently breeding on Port Stephens beaches and beachgoers are urged to tread carefully as chicks and eggs are at risk of being accidently crushed by people and their dogs.
"The eggs and chicks of most shorebirds are almost perfectly camouflaged and laid in open sand, so it's essential that anyone walking at this time of year avoids bird nesting areas," Mr Bond said.
"Shorebirds are also vulnerable to entanglement in abandoned fishing line. People can help by collecting and appropriately disposing of discarded fishing gear.
"Birds exhibiting behaviours like shrill calling, swooping and other diversional behaviours, indicate it is most likely that people or dogs are too close to the chicks or nests," he said.
If you identify a nesting pair of Pied Oystercatchers or any other shorebird over coming months, please register your sighting with the NPWS by calling: 02 4984 8200.
September 25th, 2018: NSW Office of Environment & Heritage
The most recent survey of waterbirds in the Port Stephens area shows an alarming decline of once-common birds over a 10-year period.
The Office of Environment and Heritage surveys local wading birds and shorebirds twice a year in summer and winter, in conjunction with Hunter Bird Observers Club.
National Parks and Wildlife Service Area Manager Andrew Bond, said tentative results showed the lowest-ever winter count of shorebirds.
"This is our 15th bi-annual survey and while it is hard to say whether the decline is due to local factors in Port Stephens, the trend downwards over the past 10 years is both sad and alarming.
"In general numbers were low for both Australian resident shorebirds as well as migratory birds, but any real decline would only be confirmed by future surveys," Mr Bond said.
"One of the most endangered shorebirds, the Pied Oystercatcher, listed as vulnerable to extinction under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (the EPBC Act), recorded 154 sightings in July 2008.
"Numbers were low but reasonably stable until this year when they crashed to just 92 birds.
Pied oystercatcher - OEH photo
"This is significant because Port Stephens' population of Pied Oystercatchers represents a significant proportion of the NSW population – there are less than 200 breeding pairs left along the entire NSW coastline and in some areas, for example Byron Bay, there are only six known breeding pairs left.
"Other species such as the Bar-tailed Godwit numbers have almost halved over a decade and the increase we have observed in any of the species counted was very small," Mr Bond said.
Bar-tailed Godwit - photo: Gary Dunnet
Shorebird counts are carried out across Australia at around the same time to estimate national populations and track trends.
The winter survey indicates the success of the previous year's breeding season and Port Stephens is well known to be a significant site for shorebirds in New South Wales.
For some species, such as the Eastern Curlew it is considered nationally or internationally important.
However, Alan Stuart from Hunter Bird Observers said one good news story from the results was an increase in successful breeding amongst the critically endangered Beach Stone-Curlew.
"There has been a pair of Beach Stone-Curlews breeding in the area for several seasons now and last season we found a second nest," he said.
Beach Stone Curlew - Dowardee Island Port Stephens 2018 Photo credit Trevor Murray Hunter Bird Observers Club
Many of these endangered shorebirds, especially the Pied Oystercatcher are presently breeding on Port Stephens beaches and beachgoers are urged to tread carefully as chicks and eggs are at risk of being accidently crushed by people and their dogs.
"The eggs and chicks of most shorebirds are almost perfectly camouflaged and laid in open sand, so it's essential that anyone walking at this time of year avoids bird nesting areas," Mr Bond said.
"Shorebirds are also vulnerable to entanglement in abandoned fishing line. People can help by collecting and appropriately disposing of discarded fishing gear.
"Birds exhibiting behaviours like shrill calling, swooping and other diversional behaviours, indicate it is most likely that people or dogs are too close to the chicks or nests," he said.
If you identify a nesting pair of Pied Oystercatchers or any other shorebird over coming months, please register your sighting with the NPWS by calling: 02 4984 8200.
Bee Aware Of Foulbrood
The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) has declared American foulbrood (AFB) Awareness Month this October to help keep local bee hives healthy and productive.
DPI plant biosecurity prevention and preparedness manager, Chris Anderson, urged beekeepers across the state to look for symptoms of AFB and take prompt action.
“If there are signs of AFB, dark sunken or perforated caps and dead larvae which rope out of cells, a Vita AFB field test kit can be used to diagnose the disease,” Dr Anderson said.
“Kits are available from beekeeping supply outlets and slide-smear samples can be submitted to NSW DPI for analysis - if there’s a positive diagnosis immediate action to rid hives of disease should be taken.”
AFB is a notifiable disease under the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015, which means once detected, beekeepers, must notify NSW DPI within one working day by calling 1800 084 881.
Dr Anderson said every beehive in NSW should be inspected and if AFB is found the infected bees must be appropriately euthanized.
“Hive ware should be destroyed by burning, or treated with hot wax or irradiation before bees are re-introduced,” he said.
“It is critical hives with disease are isolated from bees until they have been treated.”
Antibiotics treatment of AFB is illegal and NSW DPI biosecurity officers are on the lookout to ensure antibiotics are not being used to mask AFB in hives.
Antibiotic use spreads AFB, creates serious risk of disease to hives across NSW and contravenes the Stock Medicines Act 1989 and the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015.
AFB Awareness Month aims to increase awareness of AFB and promotes best management practices throughout commercial and recreational beekeeping sectors.
The theme, Inspect, Test, Notify, Act is a prompt to help beekeepers get on the front foot in monitoring bees and hives on a regular basis.
AFB tips and information about its symptoms and best management practices are available online, www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/bees
The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) has declared American foulbrood (AFB) Awareness Month this October to help keep local bee hives healthy and productive.
DPI plant biosecurity prevention and preparedness manager, Chris Anderson, urged beekeepers across the state to look for symptoms of AFB and take prompt action.
“If there are signs of AFB, dark sunken or perforated caps and dead larvae which rope out of cells, a Vita AFB field test kit can be used to diagnose the disease,” Dr Anderson said.
“Kits are available from beekeeping supply outlets and slide-smear samples can be submitted to NSW DPI for analysis - if there’s a positive diagnosis immediate action to rid hives of disease should be taken.”
AFB is a notifiable disease under the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015, which means once detected, beekeepers, must notify NSW DPI within one working day by calling 1800 084 881.
Dr Anderson said every beehive in NSW should be inspected and if AFB is found the infected bees must be appropriately euthanized.
“Hive ware should be destroyed by burning, or treated with hot wax or irradiation before bees are re-introduced,” he said.
“It is critical hives with disease are isolated from bees until they have been treated.”
Antibiotics treatment of AFB is illegal and NSW DPI biosecurity officers are on the lookout to ensure antibiotics are not being used to mask AFB in hives.
Antibiotic use spreads AFB, creates serious risk of disease to hives across NSW and contravenes the Stock Medicines Act 1989 and the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015.
AFB Awareness Month aims to increase awareness of AFB and promotes best management practices throughout commercial and recreational beekeeping sectors.
The theme, Inspect, Test, Notify, Act is a prompt to help beekeepers get on the front foot in monitoring bees and hives on a regular basis.
AFB tips and information about its symptoms and best management practices are available online, www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/bees
Koalas In NSW Are Losing Their Homes
Long Reef Guided Reef Walks
Aussie Backyard Bird Count: 22-28 October 2018
Save the date — the Aussie Backyard Bird Count is back from 22-28 October 2018.
The #AussieBirdCount is a great way to connect with the birds in your backyard, no matter where your backyard might be — a suburban backyard, a local park, a patch of forest, a farm, down by the beach, or the main street of town.
To take part all you need is 20 minutes and your favourite outdoor space. Not only will you be contributing to BirdLife Australia's knowledge of Aussie birds, but there are also some great prizes on offer. Head to the website and register as a Counter today! If you’ve taken part before and are registered for this year why not introduce someone else to the wonderful world of birding through this easy, fun, all-ages event? And if you're a teacher, check out our Bird Count curriculum-based lesson plans to get your students (or the whole school!) involved.
If you have questions about the Aussie Backyard Bird Count, please head to our FAQ page, where you’ll find more information about registering, participating, and troubleshooting.
28 days to go — and counting!
Save the date — the Aussie Backyard Bird Count is back from 22-28 October 2018.
The #AussieBirdCount is a great way to connect with the birds in your backyard, no matter where your backyard might be — a suburban backyard, a local park, a patch of forest, a farm, down by the beach, or the main street of town.
To take part all you need is 20 minutes and your favourite outdoor space. Not only will you be contributing to BirdLife Australia's knowledge of Aussie birds, but there are also some great prizes on offer. Head to the website and register as a Counter today!
If you’ve taken part before and are registered for this year why not introduce someone else to the wonderful world of birding through this easy, fun, all-ages event? And if you're a teacher, check out our Bird Count curriculum-based lesson plans to get your students (or the whole school!) involved.
If you have questions about the Aussie Backyard Bird Count, please head to our FAQ page, where you’ll find more information about registering, participating, and troubleshooting.
28 days to go — and counting!
Critically-Endangered Birds Lent A Helping Wing
27 September 2018: Werribee Open Range ZooSixteen Orange-bellied parrots have undergone final health checks at Werribee Open Range Zoo in the lead up to their annual migration from Victoria to Tasmania for breeding season.
However, these birds aren’t preparing to navigate the treacherous trip using their own wing power. The critically-endangered animals are boarding a plane.
This assisted migration and release is one of the ways Zoos Victoria and its conservation partners are trying to save the bird from extinction. There are now less than 30 of these parrots left in the wild.
“This species is on a knife’s edge right now,” said Werribee Open Range Zoo veterinarian Dr Paul Eden, who completed the birds’ health checks this week. “The release is vitally important for this iconic species to survive for future generations.”
Ten of the 16 birds, microchipped and checked for diseases and parasites, are part of an innovative ‘ranching’ program.
Now in its second year, the program sees wild-born birds collected in Tasmania’s South West Wilderness at the end of their breeding season, flown over the Bass Strait, and housed safely at Werribee Open Range Zoo over winter before being returned to Tasmania in spring.
The other six Orange-bellied parrots are captive-bred birds and this release will be their first experience in the wild.
Although this is a critical time for the species, Dr Eden remains positive.
“We’re really pleased with how the birds’ health is looking,” he said. “Once we have the final all clear, they will be flown down to Tasmania. It’s a really exciting time.”
With such a small population left, the birds’ survival depends on innovation and collaboration with partners and the community. In particular, Zoos Victoria works in partnership with DELWP, DPIPWE and the Orange-bellied Parrot Recovery Team.
27 September 2018: Werribee Open Range Zoo
Sixteen Orange-bellied parrots have undergone final health checks at Werribee Open Range Zoo in the lead up to their annual migration from Victoria to Tasmania for breeding season.
However, these birds aren’t preparing to navigate the treacherous trip using their own wing power. The critically-endangered animals are boarding a plane.
This assisted migration and release is one of the ways Zoos Victoria and its conservation partners are trying to save the bird from extinction. There are now less than 30 of these parrots left in the wild.
“This species is on a knife’s edge right now,” said Werribee Open Range Zoo veterinarian Dr Paul Eden, who completed the birds’ health checks this week. “The release is vitally important for this iconic species to survive for future generations.”
Ten of the 16 birds, microchipped and checked for diseases and parasites, are part of an innovative ‘ranching’ program.
Now in its second year, the program sees wild-born birds collected in Tasmania’s South West Wilderness at the end of their breeding season, flown over the Bass Strait, and housed safely at Werribee Open Range Zoo over winter before being returned to Tasmania in spring.
The other six Orange-bellied parrots are captive-bred birds and this release will be their first experience in the wild.
Although this is a critical time for the species, Dr Eden remains positive.
“We’re really pleased with how the birds’ health is looking,” he said. “Once we have the final all clear, they will be flown down to Tasmania. It’s a really exciting time.”
With such a small population left, the birds’ survival depends on innovation and collaboration with partners and the community. In particular, Zoos Victoria works in partnership with DELWP, DPIPWE and the Orange-bellied Parrot Recovery Team.
Statewide Protection For Large Trees In Victoria
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Greening Your Home - Eco Retrofitting The Suburbs - Special Event
There’s no need for a ‘tree-change’ or ‘sea-change’ - Permaculture has made a shift to the suburbs
An extraordinary evening is planned for up to 400 people at Dee Why RSL on Tuesday 9th October at 7pm.
‘Our aim is to better equip residents of the Northern Beaches and beyond to live sustainably in the suburbs.’ said Michelle Sheather, Permaculture Northern Beaches Green Home team leader. ‘Over the last 18 months, PNB’s Green Home project has run dozens of workshops, meetings and courses on organic living, sustainable building, clean energy and wise use of resources.’
The culmination of the project, made possible by a community grant from Northern Beaches Council, is the October 9 special event on Eco Retrofitting the Suburbs. The panel of speakers for one night only, is David Holmgren, Jo Gillies and Costa Georgiadis. The talks will show how ordinary Australians can downshift and retrofit their houses, gardens, and lifestyles to be more sustainable and resilient.
David Holmgren, is one of the founders of permaculture, a leading ecological thinker, teacher, respected writer and speaker. He promotes permaculture as a realistic pathway to sustainability and a powerful way of life. David’s talk will introduce his best-selling new book RetroSuburbia - the downshifter’s guide to a resilient future (2018) that empowers us to make positive changes to everyday actions extending from the household out into neighbourhood and wider community activity.
Jo Gillies is founder and director of Archisoul Architects in Manly. She has worked with clients across the Northern Beaches to design sustainable houses that suit our climate, region and lifestyle. Jo will speak on aspects of sustainable house design including passive solar, energy options and which materials can be used to lessen our environmental footprint. Design efficiencies for existing buildings and how do an eco-friendly retrofit will be discussed. Jo will show that good design principals can create a sense of community and soul for the household.
Costa Georgiadis has been the host of Gardening Australia, the ABC's iconic gardening show, since 2012. He is a landscape architect who has a passion for plants and people. For Costa, soil and water are central to absolutely everything. Costa has written the forward for the book ‘Don’t be afraid to throw open RetroSuburbia on any page at any time and dive into the possible …’ says Costa.
Come along to be part of this great evening. Bookings are essential www.permaculturenorthernbeaches.org.auA donation of $5 is recommended as entry fee.
The talk night will be during the school holidays, older children and teenagers are most welcome with an adult. A raffle with prizes of eco products and a copy of David’s book will be held on the night.
Permaculture is a design system for sustainable living in your home, garden and lifestyle. It originated in Tasmania in the 1970s with co-founders Bill Mollison and David Holmgren and is now practiced worldwide. The word is the merging of permanent/sustainable and culture.
There’s no need for a ‘tree-change’ or ‘sea-change’ - Permaculture has made a shift to the suburbs
An extraordinary evening is planned for up to 400 people at Dee Why RSL on Tuesday 9th October at 7pm.
‘Our aim is to better equip residents of the Northern Beaches and beyond to live sustainably in the suburbs.’ said Michelle Sheather, Permaculture Northern Beaches Green Home team leader. ‘Over the last 18 months, PNB’s Green Home project has run dozens of workshops, meetings and courses on organic living, sustainable building, clean energy and wise use of resources.’
The culmination of the project, made possible by a community grant from Northern Beaches Council, is the October 9 special event on Eco Retrofitting the Suburbs. The panel of speakers for one night only, is David Holmgren, Jo Gillies and Costa Georgiadis. The talks will show how ordinary Australians can downshift and retrofit their houses, gardens, and lifestyles to be more sustainable and resilient.
David Holmgren, is one of the founders of permaculture, a leading ecological thinker, teacher, respected writer and speaker. He promotes permaculture as a realistic pathway to sustainability and a powerful way of life. David’s talk will introduce his best-selling new book RetroSuburbia - the downshifter’s guide to a resilient future (2018) that empowers us to make positive changes to everyday actions extending from the household out into neighbourhood and wider community activity.
Jo Gillies is founder and director of Archisoul Architects in Manly. She has worked with clients across the Northern Beaches to design sustainable houses that suit our climate, region and lifestyle. Jo will speak on aspects of sustainable house design including passive solar, energy options and which materials can be used to lessen our environmental footprint. Design efficiencies for existing buildings and how do an eco-friendly retrofit will be discussed. Jo will show that good design principals can create a sense of community and soul for the household.
Costa Georgiadis has been the host of Gardening Australia, the ABC's iconic gardening show, since 2012. He is a landscape architect who has a passion for plants and people. For Costa, soil and water are central to absolutely everything. Costa has written the forward for the book ‘Don’t be afraid to throw open RetroSuburbia on any page at any time and dive into the possible …’ says Costa.
Come along to be part of this great evening.
Bookings are essential www.permaculturenorthernbeaches.org.au
A donation of $5 is recommended as entry fee.
The talk night will be during the school holidays, older children and teenagers are most welcome with an adult. A raffle with prizes of eco products and a copy of David’s book will be held on the night.
Permaculture is a design system for sustainable living in your home, garden and lifestyle. It originated in Tasmania in the 1970s with co-founders Bill Mollison and David Holmgren and is now practiced worldwide. The word is the merging of permanent/sustainable and culture.
Trout Season Opens This Long Weekend
All Aboard The Driverless Shuttle
26 September 2018: NSW Roads and Maritime Services
The first passengers have ridden on the NSW Driverless Smart Shuttle at Sydney Olympic Park this week, ahead of services starting in the school holidays.
A select group of competition winners from the 2018 Easter Show boarded the vehicle on Olympic Boulevard, opening stage two of the state’s first driverless shuttle trial.
Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Minister Andrew welcomed the milestone.
“I’m very excited to see passengers on these vehicles. We know self-driving cars will play a major role in the future and that’s the future we’re preparing for right now,” Mr Constance said.
In August 2017 the NSW Government, through the Smart Innovation Centre, joined forces with HMI Technologies, NRMA, Telstra, IAG, Sydney Olympic Park Authority, and now the University of Technology Sydney, to conduct a two-year trial of the state’s first highly automated Shuttle.
“The ultimate goal of this landmark trial is to find the best way to harness the next generation of driverless technology and how to make it work for the people of NSW,” Mr Constance said.
“We want to bring customers along on the journey, giving them the opportunity to experience this technology and respond to the vehicle so we can implement the feedback as we work towards a connected and automated future.”
Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Melinda Pavey said it’s a landmark moment for the state.
“We’re on the cusp of optimising our road infrastructure with emerging technologies including driverless vehicles making our roads safer, more efficient and enhancing mobility for customers,” Ms Pavey said.
“Since launching the trial we’ve been working to ensure the Shuttle delivers a safe and comfortable journey, first testing the shuttle’s braking, sensors and communications in the off road environment at Newington Armoury, then after safe and successful operation we progressed testing to public roads around Sydney Olympic Park.”
The Navya shuttle is considered a level four, highly autonomous vehicle designed to carry up to 12 passengers. It can travel up to 40km/h in autonomous mode with features including front and rear cameras, LIDAR, GPS technology and autonomous emergency brakes.
The shuttle will continue to operate on Olympic Boulevard, with members of the public able to book limited free rides over the coming weeks. Transport for NSW will release these dates on the Smart Innovation Centre and trial partner websites with bookings to be available two days a week, before the trial progresses to stage three in early 2019.
Stage three of the Shuttle trial will focus on servicing parts of the Sydney Olympic Park precinct by testing a variety of uses including transporting office workers, residents and other precinct workers.
“We want to use the trial to help develop the systems that will enable automated vehicles to be connected to our infrastructure, like traffic lights and to our customers through their devices and applications,” Mr Constance said.
This trial is part of a growing portfolio of connected and automated vehicle trials in NSW that are exploring how the technology will improve both the safety and mobility of customers in metropolitan and regional NSW.
The NSW Government also recently announced two regional automated vehicles trials in Coffs Harbour and Armidale as well as a trial of partially automated vehicle technology on the Sydney Orbital network.
“There is still some way to go before self-driving vehicles become common place on Australian roads, but as a Government we are ready to take the next step,” Ms Pavey said.
To register for a ride visit here
$52 Million To Deliver Free Meningococcal Vaccine To Teenagers
September 25th, 2018: The Hon Greg Hunt MP, Minister for Health
The Australian Government will invest $52 million to protect Australian teenagers against meningococcal, with the launch of a new free national program for 14 to 19 year olds.
Over 1 million teenagers will receive the free meningococcal A, C, W and Y vaccine, over the next four years.
It will be added to the National Immunisation Program from April 2019 and provided to students aged 14 to 16 years under a school based program.
Adolescents aged 15 to 19 years of age, who have not already received the vaccine in school, will be able to receive the vaccine through an ongoing GP based catch up program.
Meningococcal is a rare but very serious infection that occurs when meningococcal bacteria from the throat or nose invades the body. The consequences are devastating for individuals and their families.
In recent years we have seen a rise in the number of invasive meningococcal disease cases in Australia. In 2017, there were 382 cases reported nationally, compared with 252 cases in 2016 and 182 cases in 2015.
Deaths associated with meningococcal disease have also risen, with 28 deaths in 2017, compared with 11 deaths in 2016 and 12 deaths in 2015.
I am absolutely committed to strengthening Australia’s world-class national vaccination program and urge all Australian parents to have their teenagers vaccinated.
Today’s announcement follows a recommendation from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) to list the meningococcal A, C, W and Y vaccine for adolescents.
The Committee is independent of Government by law and in practice. By law the Federal Government cannot list a new medicine or vaccine without a positive recommendation from PBAC.
Today’s announcement builds on our strong vaccination program. From July 1, every 12 month old in the country is now offered a free ACWY meningococcal vaccine and every mother is given the opportunity to vaccinate against whooping cough with a free vaccine.
Since coming into Government, the Coalition has helped improve the health of Australians by subsidising almost $10 billion worth of new medicines.
Vaccination works and is an effective and safe tool to prevent the spread of many diseases that cause hospitalisation, serious ongoing health conditions and sometimes death.
I encourage everyone to get the facts about immunisation by visiting the Department of Health's website.
UNSW Graduate Personifies The Spirit Of The Invictus Games
September 26, 2018: by Rachel Packham, UNSW
Benjamin Farinazzo has his sights set on rowing and powerlifting glory after suffering PTSD following military service in East Timor.
UNSW Canberra graduate Ben Farinazzo will be competing in the 2018 Invictus Games in Sydney in October.
As a rower and powerlifter, Benjamin Farinazzo is the picture of strength. But as he raises the barbell at this year’s Invictus Gamesin Sydney, spare a thought for the weight that he’s carried on his shoulders since he served in the military.
Farinazzo, a UNSW Canberra graduate, describes his service in East Timor as the highlight of his military career, but it also left him with psychological scars.
“I had the very fortunate opportunity to work closely with the East Timorese people,” Farinazzo says. “It was such a deep human connection I had with those people.”
Farinazzo was in East Timor in 1999, when the Suai Church massacre occurred. Up to 200 people, seeking refuge in the church were killed by the militia. He had the heart-wrenching task of helping locals, many of them children, find the bodies of their loved ones.
UNSW Canberra graduate Ben Farinazzo during his time serving in the military
“That had a deep emotional impact on me,” he says.
“I knew it did at the time, but I didn’t realise the extent to which it had an impact on me. Of course, I came back and bottled it away and got on with my life, but over time that wound continued to fester, to the point where I tried so hard to block those emotions.
“At the same time, you tend to block the other emotions such as joy and happiness, so you don’t feel anything anymore. That led me to a point where I started to consider what life was all about.”
Eventually, the sleep difficulties, nightmares, mood swings and irritability caught up with him.
“You have all these different strategies that you put in place, but unless you address the root cause of it and seek professional help, it can tear away at you,” he says.
Rock bottom
Farinazzo visited an empathetic doctor, who had her own experience as a veteran in Rwanda. He remained stoic even after the post-traumatic stress disorder diagnosis.
“I was like: ‘Alright, what is the three-step strategy that I need to get on top of this thing?’” he recalls. “And she said: ‘Well, it’s a bit more complicated than that’.
“I said: ‘Well, I guess I’ll just see it as a broken arm or something, I’ll just look after it and get on with life.’
“She said ‘Ben, stop. It’s not like that. It’s more like cancer. If you don’t address this thing properly, you will die from it.’ And that was pretty hard.”
Farinazzo sought help, but he was far from out of the woods. While he was being treated, he had a mountain bike accident and broke his neck and back in several places.
“So, I was walking through the valley of the shadow of death and then I well and truly hit rock bottom.”
Through treatment, Farinazzo learnt that his vulnerability could be his saving grace. His first step to recovery was learning to open himself up to people.
Once he opened up about his battle with mental illness, he learnt that he wasn’t alone. He discovered friends and colleagues who were facing their own battles with PTSD, anxiety and depression.
“It’s amazing that once you start becoming open about it, when you start expressing how you’re genuinely feeling, it gives people the confidence and the courage themselves to be open and to be authentic about how they’re feeling, their emotions and the impact it’s having on their lives,” he says.
As part of his recovery, Farinazzo turned to rowing. When he heard about the Invictus Games, it gave him something to aspire to. He decided once he was capable of being out of hospital for at least 12 months he would submit an expression of interest.
He achieved that milestone at the end of last year.
“Then the world changed,” he says.
“As soon as I found out that I was part of the potential selection squad, a fantastic opportunity opened up to then join other potential athletes and to compete at the various selection camps.”
Farinazzo was selected to represent Australia in rowing and powerlifting at this year’s Invictus Games, which start on October 20 in Sydney.
The word ‘Invictus’ is Latin for ‘unconquered’, reflecting the story and the spirit of competitors such as Farinazzo.
“In my experience connecting through the healing power of sport has been invaluable,” he says.
Farinazzo’s renewed strength means the weight on his shoulders no longer feels so heavy.
“The spirit of Invictus is about celebrating the unconquerable human spirit and to me that means being able to stand up authentically, being vulnerable and saying ‘this is who I am – faults, smiles and all’,” he says.
“It’s that wonderful feeling of being inspired by such a great community of athletes around you from around Australia, around the world and everyone in the stands. I can’t wait.”
UNSW Canberra is a Premier Partner and the Official University Partner of Invictus Games Sydney 2018. The Games are an international sporting event for wounded, injured and ill veteran and active service personnel, and highlight the power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and generate a wider understanding of those who serve their country.