Articles This Week
Mona Vale Road Upgrade: Stage One Completed
24 December 2014
Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today said construction has been completed on stage one of the Mona Vale Road Upgrade Project.
Work commenced in October on the introduction of additional lanes between Foley Street and Daydream Street at Mona Vale to assist with traffic flow and help improve motorist safety.
Meanwhile, community feedback on the recently published concept designs for stages 2 and 3 is currently being reviewed and necessary land acquisitions along the corridor are being completed.
“This initial stage of works has started the ball rolling on this massive project,” Rob Stokes said today.
“The road has been widened, additional lanes have been added and the roundabout has been reconfigured to help improve traffic flow.
“Importantly, an enforcement area is now available for NSW Police to monitor vehicles travelling east towards Mona Vale.
“This is the first major capital improvement to Mona Vale Road in over a decade.
“Whilst this is a huge project, and much more needs to be done, it’s a welcome Christmas present for Pittwater residents.
“Landscaping works are scheduled to be carried out in the New Year - but all changed traffic conditions have now been lifted.
“Further details on all three stages of the Mona Vale Road Upgrade Project is available by visiting www.rms.nsw.gov.au/projects/sydney-north/mona-vale-road
“Thank you to everyone for their patience and understanding whilst these improvements were introduced,” Rob Stokes said.
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With the year drawing to a close it’s my pleasure to provide you with a recap of some of the key announcements made during 2014 to help benefit our community.
These announcements cover long-overdue improvements to Mona Vale Hospital, as well as enhancements to our local surf clubs, roads and essential services.
Key highlights included:
Work completed on the construction of Mona Vale Hospital’s new 26-bed Beachside Rehabilitation Unit;
Work completed on the construction of Mona Vale Hospital’s new 10-bed Emergency Short Stay Unit;
Construction underway on Mona Vale Hospital’s new 3-storey Community Health Building;
Construction completed on Mona Vale Hospital’s new outdoor rehabilitation and assessment facility
The refurbishment of Mona Vale Hospital’s hydrotherapy pool building;
Work completed on Stage One of the Mona Vale Road Upgrade Project and concept designs on display for Stages Two and Three;
Dozens of new Police graduates assigned to the Northern Beaches Police Command;
Funding provided for the launch of a new fortnightly garden waste collection service for Pittwater Council residents;
Declaration of Sydney’s newest State Park surrounding Narrabeen Lagoon;
Commencement of a new Express CBD bus service for Warriewood Valley residents;
Work completed on the major renovation of Avalon Beach Surf Life Saving Club
Funding provided for the completion of a new multi-storey public car park at Mona Vale;
Funding provided for path upgrades and restoration works at Barrenjoey Headland;
Funding provided for new Rural Fire Service vehicles;
Road resurfacing works completed along the Bilgola Bends;
Work nearing completion on the expansion of the Palm Beach Ferry Wharf;
New pedestrian safety fencing installed along the Narrabeen Bridge on Pittwater Road;
$125 million allocated for the introduction of a new Northern Beaches Bus Rapid Transit System;
Improvements completed to the Berry Reserve recreation precinct at Narrabeen;
$400 million allocated towards vital road infrastructure improvements necessary for the new level-5 metropolitan hospital at Frenchs Forest;
Funding provided for major upgrades to the Kimbriki Resource Recovery Centre at Terrey Hills;
There are various other projects currently in the planning phase and I look forward to these commencing throughout 2015.
Rob Stokes MP
Member for Pittwater
Palm Beach Wharf Upgrades Complete
Upgrades to Palm Beach Wharf are complete and all sections of the wharf are ready for use. Minor works will continue however these will not interfere with access or use of the facility. The project was made possible with the financial support from the NSW Government. Council would like to thank the local community and users of the wharf for their patience during the construction period.
Background
The wharf upgrade was required for a number of compelling reasons:
•There were real safety concerns with the existing wharf structure.
•It will improve boarding efficiency and travel times and will improve commuter experience and safety.
•It provides a wharf that is accessible to people with a disability.
The NSW Government contributed $1.5 million to the project - the remainder was funded by Council’s capital works budget.
Design Constraints
The wharf was designed having regard for the following identified constraints, including:
•Disabled access: The new wharf is required by law to be accessible to people with a disability.
•Sea level rise: The wharf has been designed for future sea level rise from projected climate change.
•Designed to withstand the effects of existing and predicted wave/wind conditions
•Design decision to retain the historic shelter sheds, notwithstanding that neither these features or the wharf have any formal heritage listing.
Overview
In summary, the existing ferry wharf was upgraded and converted to a stepped wharf with ramps. The wharf was extended to approximately 18m further into Pittwater at its western end. The proposal involved the demolition and re-construction of about 33m of the length of the existing wharf.
The proposed design adopted the following features:
•Retention of the landward section of the existing Wharf, where the water depth is less and the lack of ferry or wave impact has meant that deterioration of the structure is considerably less.
•Retention of the traditional shelter shed near the land edge due in part to the strong visual imagery that it imparts to the Wharf. This will include replacing the existing damaged outer end of the wharf.
•Rebuilding of the outer end of the Wharf in a more efficient format, to upgrade its operational efficiency and capacity for ferry passengers, recreational boating and dinghy mooring.
•Relocation of the outer shelter shed to towards the centre of the Wharf where it can service a greater number of embarking passengers.
•The new structure has steel piles that are sheathed with protective rubber and finished with a white conical capping.
•Provision for accessible ramps along the new section of the wharf. The ramps are wider than the existing wharf, to ease congestion when passengers are arriving and departing the wharf.
The Hon. Bronwyn Bishop MP 5th Honorary Patron of The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club
Tuesday, 23 December 2014
I am pleased to advise that The Hon. Bronwyn Bishop MP has accepted the Club’s invitation to become The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club’s 5thHonorary Patron.
This initiative was driven by members via a recommendation emanating from the Membership Committee in recognition of Bronwyn’s outstanding contribution to the Club, Mackellar and the broader Australian communities over her many years of public service.The bestowal of this honour is of course taken very seriously, indeed it has not been offered for some time. The previous Patron was Sir Roden Cutler, (1981-2002) and prior to him King George V, King Edward VII and of course, Prince Alfred.
Bronwyn recognises the long and distinguished history of The RPAYC and its great contribution to the sport of sailing enriching the lives of its members and the community in Mackellar.
In accepting this honoured role, Bronwyn greatly looks forward to her continued involvement with the Club.
Ian Audsley
Commodore
Couta Boat Nationals - RPAYC Teams head to Sorrento Vic
The Couta Boat Association and SSCBC welcome Division 1 & 2 Couta Boats to compete for the 2014 National Championship in waters off Sorrento and or Capel Sound. A maximum of 4 races are planned.
Team RPAYC will be represented By Team Southerly skipper Terry Moran, Team Sylvia skipper Larry Eastwood and Team Emily skipper Bob Chook Fowler. Good luck to all teams.
MON 29TH DECEMBER – SESSION 1 : Warning Signal: First Race, 1200 HRS. Subsequent races to follow back to back. A maximum of 2 races can be held in one session.
TUES 30TH DECEMBER – SESSION 2: Warning Signal: First Race, 1200 HRS. Subsequent races to follow back to back. A maximum of 2 races can be held in one session.
WED 31ST DECEMBER Provision for resale 1000 HRS
If in the event that a total of 3 races have been completed, the committee will not use the provision for re-sail , results will be calculated on the scores of the 3 completed races.
Link to Couta Nationals - http://ift.tt/1CEngFM; and http://ift.tt/eA8V8J
Southern Cross Wildlife Care - Critter of the Month - January 2015
Forgotten e-waste: finding new lives for old tech at Christmas
This Christmas, Pittwater Council and Planet Ark and are asking residents to think about how many old, unused tablets and mobiles they have lying around the house that could be recycled.
With Christmas a week away, the festive season is in full swing as is the tradition of giving and receiving gifts.
Technology gifts—smartphones, tablets and PCs—are more popular than ever before and with that we have to ask: ‘Where do the old gizmos go?’
While opening a new gadget might satisfy the Christmas wish list and provide a short-term high, it comes with a hefty environmental impact.
This Christmas, Pittwater Council and Planet Ark and are asking residents to think about how many old, unused tablets and mobiles they have lying around the house that could be recycled.
Mayor Jacqueline Townsend asked residents to be mindful of the impacts on the environment this Christmas.
“If you or a family member receive an electronic gift, please make sure you re-home or recycle the old gadget”, she said.
Planet Ark’s ‘The 12 DOs of Christmas’ has some great tips on making environmentally–friendly choices and holding an eco Christmas.
With mobile devices becoming increasingly popular, it is important to look at ways of making sure the non-renewable resources that go into making them are kept in use, by recycling them through government-certified recycling programs.
“We are constantly refreshing our technology, especially at this time of year,” says Planet Ark Spokesperson Rebecca Gilling.
“Many of the materials and components found in these gadgets are rare and can be harmful to the environment if sent to landfill, so it’s important to recycle them responsibly.”
Drop off and collection points for all these items, along with the 12 DOs of Christmas action sheet, are available on recyclingnearyou.com.au, a comprehensive household recycling directory that lists local options under a dedicated Pittwater page.
Batteries are another electronic item prevalent at Christmas, as they are used to power new toys, cameras and gadgets. Buying rechargeable batteries and chargers can be a great way to lessen the impact of single-use batteries.
For more information, visit planet Ark’s RecyclingNearYou.com.auwebsite or call 1300 733 712
New Years Eve fireworks over Pittwater
Celebrate your New Year in Pittwater, with great vantage points at Pittwater’s many foreshore reserves and venues.
Pittwater Council is pleased to once again be involved in the New Year’s Eve celebrations in Pittwater with the fireworks event being held on 31 December.
The fireworks event has been organised by the Newport Arms, The Royal Motor Yacht Club, The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club and Pittwater Council with displays at 9pm and midnight.
General Manager Mark Ferguson invites families to take advantage of the many foreshore parks and reserves.
“Bring along your picnic blanket and refreshments and enjoy the family-fun celebrations.
“Having a stunning fireworks display locally is a great opportunity for our local families to enjoy New Year festivities without having to travel into the city to watch them on Sydney Harbour.
“Both the 9pm and midnight displays will be visible free-of-charge from anywhere in Pittwater,” Mr Ferguson said.
Mr Ferguson reminded local residents and visitors that there was an alcohol prohibited zone in place at Rowland Reserve, Bayview from 6am on 31 December until 6am on 1 January 2015.
Local residents attending the celebrations either on land or on the water in the vicinity of Rowland Reserve also need to be aware of the 150m firework exclusion zone in place (with no people or vessels permitted in this area). Visitors are to be guided by signage in the area on the night.
The fireworks display at 9pm will last approximately 10-15 minutes and the display at 12 midnight will continue for around 20 minutes.
Both displays will be set off from the vicinity of Rowland Reserve, Bayview.
Is Your Pool Safe?
As swimming pool laws have changed it’s time to ask yourself: ‘Is my pool fence safe?’
The Royal Life Saving Society research reveals the majority of drowning deaths in young children are related to problems with child safety barriers.
It’s hard to believe that over the past decade, 60 children have drowned in backyard swimming pools; 70 children have neurological damage as a result of immersion, and 1000 children have been admitted to a hospital as a result of immersion.
With so many Pittwater homes with swimming pools, it’s vital they are safely enclosed from wandering children.
From April 29, 2015 all properties with a swimming pool or spa that are sold or leased must have a valid swimming pool certificate of compliance. To obtain yours, contact Pittwater Council or an accredited certifier. There are checklists for pool owners at swimmingpoolregister.nsw.gov.au orwww.bepoolsafe.com.au
Palm 2 Palms Charity Ride
The Palm to Palms Charity Ride is the brainchild of five guys from Newport Surf Club on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Tom Kellaway, Alex Brown, Lachy Brook, James Brook and Tom Howes set out with a plan to do something a little bit different. They wanted to raise money to support their surf club and to assist in helping the club manage the increasing costs of protecting Australia’s Beaches.
They saw an opportunity to not only help their surf club but also to help other charities too, but also create an event that could bring people from all walks of life together to do something totally different……
Get 100 people to ride from North Palm Beach Surf Club at the foot of Barrenjoey headland at the mouth of the Hawkesbury to the North of Sydney down the coast passing every surf club in Sydney all the way to Burning Palms Surf Club, just to the North of Wollongong, the last surf club in Sydney. An ambitious ride of 130 km’s, passing 36 surf clubs all to coincide with the final day of surf patrols for the 2014/2015 patrol season.
And so the Palm to Palms Charity Ride was born. The fundraising target was set……. $100,000. Each rider to pay an entry fee of $100 for the ride, and upon entry, set out and fundraise a further $900 to help us reach our goal.
On April 26th, at North Palm Beach Surf Club, the journey begins…..Get on board and help us support our local community…… See you on the bike!
1000 Ladies
This year The Layne Beachley Aim for the Stars Foundation received just over 1,000 applications for scholarships from a range of talented girls and women across Australia. We have been overwhelmed by the number of passionate, committed and dedicated females courageous enough to ask for some financial support and mentoring to achieve their goals. These applications are being reviewed by the Foundations Board and the successful recipients will be announced on both our website and social media by Friday 30th January 2015. We look forward to introducing these girls and women to you soon.
Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 21/12/2014: click on Logo.
To contact Julian: editor@scotlandisland.org.au
Council - Christmas - New Years
Pittwater Council’s last meeting of the year will be held on Monday 15 December, with meetings resuming Monday 2 February 2015. The Development Unit will begin meetings at the end of January 2015.
Our offices will be closed from 1pm on Christmas Eve, Wednesday 24 December and will re-open for normal hours from Monday 29 to Wednesday 31 December. Council offices will also be closed on Thursday 1 and Friday 2 January 2015 returning to usual operating hours on Monday 5 January. Outside our opening hours you can contact Council on the out-of-hours service by calling 9970 1111.
Pittwater ocean swims
Ocean swimmers, young and old are in training for the Pittwater Ocean Swim series which kicks off on Sunday 14 December at Bilgola with a 1.5km swim. The remaining swims run on Sundays throughout January 2015; Newport on 4 January, Avalon on 11 January, Mona Vale on 18 January, finishing up with the Palm Beach to Whale Beach ‘Big Swim’ on Sunday 25 January.
Swimmers who compete in three of the swims will go into a draw for a trip for two to Byron Bay (including air fares and three night’s accommodation) to compete in the Byron Bay swim. Council staff will be at the ocean swims manning container recycling bins at the start and finish lines; preventing the plastic water bottles ending up in landfill.
Embrace the walk of shame - don’t drive the morning after a big night!
'Hungover? You’re Over’ is a new northern beaches drink driving awareness campaign which puts the focus on the issue of driving the morning after a ‘big night.’ It’s a time many people are not aware that they might still be over the legal driving limit.
The campaign is targeting those who have no idea that their blood alcohol level is likely to still be high the ‘morning after’ - so it’s critical people do not get behind the wheel too soon after indulging in alcoholic drinks.
Alcohol can remain in your system long after the last drink. More than 15,000 drivers blew over the legal driving limit between the hours of 5am and 1pm over the past five years. (NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research).
The joint campaign is an initiative of Pittwater Council, Manly Council, Warringah Council, Northern Sydney Local Health District & Northern Beaches Liquor Accord.
People joke about the ‘walk of shame’ where the morning after a big night a person might be walking home wearing the same clothes they’d worn the night before. It’s time to embrace the walk of shame as a logical alternative for getting behind the wheel, where you are risking your life – and the lives of others.
“One line we want people to take note of is ‘Good Morning RBT, Goodbye Licence’. That’s the reality of being over the limit the morning after the big night,” said Rob McConnell, President of the Northern Beaches Liquor Accord.
Councils are inviting local cafes to support the ‘Hungover? You’re Over’ campaign by displaying promotional material. For more information call Michelle Carter on 9970 1196.
Articles This Week
Bungan Lane car park open
A new multi-storey car park at Bungan Lane Mona Vale opens to the public today (19.12.2014).
The new facility will provide 219 car parking opportunities to the Mona Vale town centre.
Pittwater Mayor Jacqueline Townsend said the new facility, which took just over 12 months to complete, meets the demands for additional parking in Mona Vale which have increased due to new business and residential growth, and also will support future growth of the commercial centre.
Cr Townsend said she understands how frustrating it was for residents and visitors driving around Mona Vale looking for a car spot close to the village.
“The car park is a great outcome for the people of Mona Vale and Pittwater visitors. Residents and businesses needed it, which is why it’s such an important project.
“This facility is a big step in the right direction for the future of Mona Vale, and will help transform it into Pittwater’s vibrant and accessible town centre.
“The building is a great outcome for Bungan Lane too—it looks great,” said Cr Townsend.
Pittwater Council General Manager Mark Ferguson agrees.
“The facility will consolidate Mona Vale as Pittwater’s strong retail-commercial town centre,” he said.
The car park is complete with eight accessible car spaces and a further three pram-friendly spaces with accessible ramp access to Bungan Lane, all on the ground floors. The upper floors have stair access including two enclosed stair wells to the ground floor.
The car park also provides vehicle and pedestrian access to the adjoining Gateway and Aurora developments.
“We thank everyone involved in the project, including residents for taking the time to provide their feedback.
Forgotten e-waste: finding new lives for old tech at Christmas
This Christmas, Pittwater Council and Planet Ark and are asking residents to think about how many old, unused tablets and mobiles they have lying around the house that could be recycled.
With Christmas a week away, the festive season is in full swing as is the tradition of giving and receiving gifts.
Technology gifts—smartphones, tablets and PCs—are more popular than ever before and with that we have to ask: ‘Where do the old gizmos go?’
While opening a new gadget might satisfy the Christmas wish list and provide a short-term high, it comes with a hefty environmental impact.
This Christmas, Pittwater Council and Planet Ark and are asking residents to think about how many old, unused tablets and mobiles they have lying around the house that could be recycled.
Mayor Jacqueline Townsend asked residents to be mindful of the impacts on the environment this Christmas.
“If you or a family member receive an electronic gift, please make sure you re-home or recycle the old gadget”, she said.
Planet Ark’s ‘The 12 DOs of Christmas’ has some great tips on making environmentally–friendly choices and holding an eco Christmas.
With mobile devices becoming increasingly popular, it is important to look at ways of making sure the non-renewable resources that go into making them are kept in use, by recycling them through government-certified recycling programs.
“We are constantly refreshing our technology, especially at this time of year,” says Planet Ark Spokesperson Rebecca Gilling.
“Many of the materials and components found in these gadgets are rare and can be harmful to the environment if sent to landfill, so it’s important to recycle them responsibly.”
Drop off and collection points for all these items, along with the 12 DOs of Christmas action sheet, are available on recyclingnearyou.com.au, a comprehensive household recycling directory that lists local options under a dedicated Pittwater page.
Batteries are another electronic item prevalent at Christmas, as they are used to power new toys, cameras and gadgets. Buying rechargeable batteries and chargers can be a great way to lessen the impact of single-use batteries.
For more information, visit planet Ark’s RecyclingNearYou.com.auwebsite or call 1300 733 712
New Years Eve fireworks over Pittwater
Celebrate your New Year in Pittwater, with great vantage points at Pittwater’s many foreshore reserves and venues.
Pittwater Council is pleased to once again be involved in the New Year’s Eve celebrations in Pittwater with the fireworks event being held on 31 December.
The fireworks event has been organised by the Newport Arms, The Royal Motor Yacht Club, The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club and Pittwater Council with displays at 9pm and midnight.
General Manager Mark Ferguson invites families to take advantage of the many foreshore parks and reserves.
“Bring along your picnic blanket and refreshments and enjoy the family-fun celebrations.
“Having a stunning fireworks display locally is a great opportunity for our local families to enjoy New Year festivities without having to travel into the city to watch them on Sydney Harbour.
“Both the 9pm and midnight displays will be visible free-of-charge from anywhere in Pittwater,” Mr Ferguson said.
Mr Ferguson reminded local residents and visitors that there was an alcohol prohibited zone in place at Rowland Reserve, Bayview from 6am on 31 December until 6am on 1 January 2015.
Local residents attending the celebrations either on land or on the water in the vicinity of Rowland Reserve also need to be aware of the 150m firework exclusion zone in place (with no people or vessels permitted in this area). Visitors are to be guided by signage in the area on the night.
The fireworks display at 9pm will last approximately 10-15 minutes and the display at 12 midnight will continue for around 20 minutes.
Both displays will be set off from the vicinity of Rowland Reserve, Bayview.
Is Your Pool Safe?
As swimming pool laws have changed it’s time to ask yourself: ‘Is my pool fence safe?’
The Royal Life Saving Society research reveals the majority of drowning deaths in young children are related to problems with child safety barriers.
It’s hard to believe that over the past decade, 60 children have drowned in backyard swimming pools; 70 children have neurological damage as a result of immersion, and 1000 children have been admitted to a hospital as a result of immersion.
With so many Pittwater homes with swimming pools, it’s vital they are safely enclosed from wandering children.
From April 29, 2015 all properties with a swimming pool or spa that are sold or leased must have a valid swimming pool certificate of compliance. To obtain yours, contact Pittwater Council or an accredited certifier. There are checklists for pool owners at swimmingpoolregister.nsw.gov.au orwww.bepoolsafe.com.au
Palm 2 Palms Charity Ride
The Palm to Palms Charity Ride is the brainchild of five guys from Newport Surf Club on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Tom Kellaway, Alex Brown, Lachy Brook, James Brook and Tom Howes set out with a plan to do something a little bit different. They wanted to raise money to support their surf club and to assist in helping the club manage the increasing costs of protecting Australia’s Beaches.
They saw an opportunity to not only help their surf club but also to help other charities too, but also create an event that could bring people from all walks of life together to do something totally different……
Get 100 people to ride from North Palm Beach Surf Club at the foot of Barrenjoey headland at the mouth of the Hawkesbury to the North of Sydney down the coast passing every surf club in Sydney all the way to Burning Palms Surf Club, just to the North of Wollongong, the last surf club in Sydney. An ambitious ride of 130 km’s, passing 36 surf clubs all to coincide with the final day of surf patrols for the 2014/2015 patrol season.
And so the Palm to Palms Charity Ride was born. The fundraising target was set……. $100,000. Each rider to pay an entry fee of $100 for the ride, and upon entry, set out and fundraise a further $900 to help us reach our goal.
On April 26th, at North Palm Beach Surf Club, the journey begins…..Get on board and help us support our local community…… See you on the bike!
1000 Ladies
This year The Layne Beachley Aim for the Stars Foundation received just over 1,000 applications for scholarships from a range of talented girls and women across Australia. We have been overwhelmed by the number of passionate, committed and dedicated females courageous enough to ask for some financial support and mentoring to achieve their goals. These applications are being reviewed by the Foundations Board and the successful recipients will be announced on both our website and social media by Friday 30th January 2015. We look forward to introducing these girls and women to you soon.
Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 21/12/2014: click on Logo.
To contact Julian: editor@scotlandisland.org.au
Pittwater Council Meeting 15 December - 1596 and 1598 Pittwater Road, Mona Vale
Common sense prevailed tonight at Pittwater Council’s meeting when it was decided that funding for a Mona Vale skate park should not come about by the sale of community land on Pittwater Road.
It was unfortunate and extremely disappointing that at least one councillor and one speaker for the sale sought to divide community opinion by suggesting that this debate was an us and them scenario. I have no doubt that any application for funding not backed up by a business case would fail. Council must prepare one regardless of whether it seeks grants funding or a loan.
The three speakers against the sale of 1596 and 1598 Pittwater Road, Mona Vale, made it abundantly clear that they supported the construction of a skate park at Mona Vale. Their main concern was that public green space should not be sold off to fund the skate park and that Kitchener Park must be improved for wider community use as a local hub.
I pray that the community can now come together to support Pittwater Council and ensure that there are no further delays in regard to building a decent and much needed skate park for local youth.
You may have seen me quite animated and vocal at statements by some Councillors in the meeting tonight. I am a lifetime resident of Pittwater having grown up in Mona Vale and Bayview. My mother’s family came to Mona Vale in 1927 having purchased the Austin General Store across the street from the Mona Vale Memorial Hall. They ran the general store and later newsagency until 1967. My grandfather James Thompson Savage was Warringah Councillor. I live and breathe Mona Vale and get very upset when I see the wrong thing being done by Council or Councillors making incorrect statements of fact. Here are some local facts.
We lost the Memorial Hall to Pittwater Council and with it the stage, all so that Council could hold its meetings there. This hall was the venue for local youth dances in the late 1960s and 1970s. I even ran a few as member of the Mona Vale Catholic Youth Organisation (CYO). Now its use is restricted and very much limited. There is no other large hall in the area apart from the Pittwater RSL auditorium. Council has let youth down by not offering a non-alcohol dance venue.
Reference was made to the fact that Council has sold other public land for housing and Winnererremy Bay was cited as an example. Prior to the resumption and development of land in Bayview/Mona Vale for the Pacific Paradise complex in the 1960s part of the site in Mona Vale contained houses. They were mainly situated on the site which Council sold for the current housing estate in Winnererremy Bay. There was very little opposition from locals to the housing because a once disused site next door was to be developed for green open space.
Mona Vale Village Park was once much larger and included a full size Rugby League field. Note that Mona Vale Junior Rugby League Club does not have a local field and was forced out of the park many years ago to now play at Newport Oval. So much for catering for local youth. At the top North Eastern corner of Mona Vale Park was a playground with swings and see-saw. The park is now much smaller and the original tennis courts were replaced by a carpark.
Turning to Newport Rugby Union, I should point out that juniors do play at Porters Reserve, Newport but only on Sundays for home matches. They also play home matches at Newport Oval down the road. While there may not be enough room for the number of playing teams the majority of games played away are in fact ‘away games’ not just in Warringah and Manly but these days even further afield as the competition has become broader and for some ages Sydney wide.
Nobody appears to recall that the current skate ramp in Kitchener Park once contained the local netball courts. My sisters played and trained there. So the second highest participation sport in the Northern Beaches does not have any field in Mona Vale and only has a poorly maintained sites at Boondah at Warriewood and Dunbar Park at Avalon plus that disgusting section of Newport Beach car park made available in Winter. So much for catering for local youth whose playing numbers are far higher than, I am sure, skaters. I was very disappointed with one speaker for the land sale who bragged that at least skaters would not have to pay fees or wear uniforms. This paints them as anti-establishment and against organised sporting competitions. Not a good image to pitch. He was representing a much smaller sporting group than many of our other local organised sports. This does not mean that I oppose the skate park. I previously wrote some years back supporting its construction. We must put everything in perspective.
Mark Horton, Mona Vale
CHRISTMAS GREETING TO THE COMMUNITY
Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Committee and volunteers wish you and your families a Merry Christmas, a safe and happy holiday and all the very best for the New Year
We take this opportunity to thank you for your support this year. It is because of your efforts that the Auxiliary is able to contribute substantial funds to the purchase of medical equipment for Mona Vale Hospital.
We look forward to serving together our hospital in 2015.
The Avalon Beach RSL sub-Branch maintains as an objective its commitment to engage with the Community, particularly Cadets, Schools, Youth Groups, Sporting and Community Organisations, especially through Commemorative Services (ANZAC, VP and Remembrance Days), the annual Avalon Tattoo, the Australia My Country Schools competition and Legacy, Veterans and dependants support.
It is an honour and privilege to be actively involved with our local community.
The sub-Branch thanks all organisations who have worked with and supported it during 2014 and wishes the Pittwater Community a
Very Merry Christmas
And
A Happy, Prosperous and Successful 2015
The executive committee of the Avalon Beach Historical Societywould like to wish all those who participated in its activities this year, all the very best for Christmas and a very healthy New Year in 2015. A great year was enjoyed by many with some excellent guest speakers accompanied by some great ‘stills' on the big screen, along with ‘moving’ footage in some cases.
If you have an interest in local history you are welcome to visit our office at 15 Bowling Green Lane to see some of our excellent photos on display and if you join up you will receive newsletters notifying you of our four meetings annually at the Avalon Beach Bowling Club.
Thanks to Pittwater Online News for the excellent coverage of historical items and Profiles of our elder locals.
NBI would like to thank all of our families, staff, volunteers, sponsors and supporters for making 2014 another great year. NBI believes wholeheartedly that people with disabilities should enjoy individual choice, new opportunities, stretched boundaries and connected communities. We support families right across the Northern Beaches by providing awesome respite, recreation and support services through our passionate and dedicated team. NBI is a local, community-based grass roots organisation that relies on the support of the community to enable us to support as many families as possible.
We wish everyone in Pittwater and across the Northern Beaches a wonderful Christmas and a healthy and prosperous 2015!
Peninsula Music Club would like to thank those who attended our concerts during 2014 and wish all a Happy Christmas and prosperous New Year.
Our 2015 Concert Program of Tango Paradiso, Musical Mozaika, Starry Futures and Gershwin & Me shall appear in this magazine in January.
We encourage all Pittwater residents to become members and enjoy the wonderful music we bring to you in 2015.
Janice Tuynman, President and Musical Director Peninsula Music Club
Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year
To all Members & Their Families as Well as Our Many Sponsors & Supporters
Newport Surf Life Saving Club would like to wish all our members, their families, and our great Sponsors and Supporters, a Very Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year.
Thank you to our band of loyal volunteers who are there each weekend and Public holiday to protect our beaches, and the best of luck for the upcoming competition to all those Newport competitors who are training hard for major events to maintain our wonderful success of the previous season.
Thank you also to all our hard working officials who work day in, day out at carnivals to ensure we have the required official/competitors ratio.
Swimmers at Newport Beach this festive season will as usual have the benefit of well-trained lifesavers who are continually honing their rescue and resuscitation skills to ensure the safety of everyone. Visitors to the beach can enhance their safety over the season by ensuring they swim between the flags and following the instructions of patrol members.
Newport Surf Club is very fortunate to have such a wonderful band of members who work on the IRBs, barbecues, setting up for carnivals, running events, examining & testing lifesavers and generally being there when needed.
We take this opportunity to salute all of these members and their families for their dedication. Newport is a family club and it is lovely to see parents getting involved at Nippers and other club activities at an increasing level.
Why not join us as a member or as Friend of Newport and be part of the Newport Surf Club family?
Merry Christmas to you all
Sandy Menzies, President
DoggieRescue has this year celebrated its 11,000th adoption and invited our supporters, donors and volunteers as a big thank you for all their hard work. We have shared some pictures to give you a flavour of what a happy day it was and give you an appreciation of the huge people power that enables us to keep on rescuing so many from the pounds.
We have come a long way in our 18 year journey and I just want to say thanks to all these people who have helped get DoggieRescue to where it is today. 11,000 rescued dogs is something to be proud of. Your contribution has been invaluable and every animal who has been helped has been a result of your care.
Have a peaceful Christmas and a safe and happy festive season with your pets. If you have room in your hearts for another furry friend to foster or adopt we can save another life! One dog fostered, means another dog we can save.
If you can’t have a pet, come and walk some of our shelter dogs or buy a calendar or two to help us save more lives.100% proceeds goes to the dogs and cats!
Southern Cross Wildlife Care - Critters of the Month - December 2014
PITTWATER FRIENDS OF SOIBADA CHRISTMAS MESSAGE
Christmas can mean different things to different people. Timor Leste is a Christian country and the most important religious festival of the year is celebrated in a beautifully traditional manner. The Portuguese brought Catholicism to Timor hundreds of years ago where it melded with the animist beliefs of the local people. The battle for independence from Indonesia served to strengthen their faith as churches and religious leaders were regarded as havens of safety. (Sadly this did not always prove to be correct as several massacres were conducted by the Indonesians and the Militia in churches and religious sanctuaries.)
Pittwater’s sister village of Soibada was the location of the Jesuits’ first church, college and school – the Christian heritage is very evident there. It is humbling to think that while the majority of us here on the Northern Beaches celebrate Christmas with abundance and luxury there are people living in poverty, only an hour’s flight from Darwin, who are praying for us. Our friends in Soibada pray for our safety (especially in regard to recent horrible events), they pray that we will continue to strengthen the ties of love and friendship that link our two communities, they prayed for our HSC students doing their exams.
They have no gifts to offer us – but their prayers and thoughts– and this can have so much more meaning than material goods.
What a wonderful year 2014 has been for the friendship between Pittwater and Soibada Communities.
Although the projects have developed at an amazing pace it has been a time of several highs and lows. It is certainly a rollercoaster ride! When something doesn’t quite work out as planned it tends to morph into something better – something more suitable! What we often perceived to be disasters initially have ended in a much more positive way. The last fortnight was very much like that! We received sizable donations towards the Soibada Education Centre and Guesthouse from the RSL War Veterans and from Pittwater Rotary. In October we saw the foundations and excavation work on this building that our donations from the July visit had made possible.
The funding for the preschool development that I mentioned in my Ted X talk earlier this year did not go ahead. However, an opportunity for fundraising through a local Pittwater organisation is planned for mid next year. There are many positives to this change. Pittwater Friends of Soibada will now be able to work more autonomously with the village leaders in development of the preschool. It will be tied in with several other Pittwater projects in the village. We have two highly skilled early childhood teachers as project managers. There will be greater opportunities for volunteers from Pittwater to assist with training local preschool staff. Funding through our community will further strengthen the ties between us. The total cost of the preschool build is $25,000 US. Further details about the preschool project can be found in the proposal below.
It must be remembered that none of this would be possible without the support and interest of so many of you on the northern beaches. The PFOS team and the people in Soibada really appreciate your efforts.
We bear witness to the change effected by the Pittwater Community every time we visit Soibada. There has been more development there in the last year than I have ever seen before. Much of this is due to your generosity! We are lucky to have such a great group of volunteers determined to make the world a better place! Now that’s the spirit of Christmas.
Merry Christmas to you all from Pittwater Friends of Soibada!
TedX Pittwater Talk link www.youtube.com/watch?v=f0v74BMEnA0
Airnorth Article linkissuu.com/edgeinflight/docs/airnorth_december/30
Council - Christmas - New Years
Pittwater Council’s last meeting of the year will be held on Monday 15 December, with meetings resuming Monday 2 February 2015. The Development Unit will begin meetings at the end of January 2015.
Our offices will be closed from 1pm on Christmas Eve, Wednesday 24 December and will re-open for normal hours from Monday 29 to Wednesday 31 December. Council offices will also be closed on Thursday 1 and Friday 2 January 2015 returning to usual operating hours on Monday 5 January. Outside our opening hours you can contact Council on the out-of-hours service by calling 9970 1111.
Pittwater ocean swims
Ocean swimmers, young and old are in training for the Pittwater Ocean Swim series which kicks off on Sunday 14 December at Bilgola with a 1.5km swim. The remaining swims run on Sundays throughout January 2015; Newport on 4 January, Avalon on 11 January, Mona Vale on 18 January, finishing up with the Palm Beach to Whale Beach ‘Big Swim’ on Sunday 25 January.
Swimmers who compete in three of the swims will go into a draw for a trip for two to Byron Bay (including air fares and three night’s accommodation) to compete in the Byron Bay swim. Council staff will be at the ocean swims manning container recycling bins at the start and finish lines; preventing the plastic water bottles ending up in landfill.
Embrace the walk of shame - don’t drive the morning after a big night!
'Hungover? You’re Over’ is a new northern beaches drink driving awareness campaign which puts the focus on the issue of driving the morning after a ‘big night.’ It’s a time many people are not aware that they might still be over the legal driving limit.
The campaign is targeting those who have no idea that their blood alcohol level is likely to still be high the ‘morning after’ - so it’s critical people do not get behind the wheel too soon after indulging in alcoholic drinks.
Alcohol can remain in your system long after the last drink. More than 15,000 drivers blew over the legal driving limit between the hours of 5am and 1pm over the past five years. (NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research).
The joint campaign is an initiative of Pittwater Council, Manly Council, Warringah Council, Northern Sydney Local Health District & Northern Beaches Liquor Accord.
People joke about the ‘walk of shame’ where the morning after a big night a person might be walking home wearing the same clothes they’d worn the night before. It’s time to embrace the walk of shame as a logical alternative for getting behind the wheel, where you are risking your life – and the lives of others.
“One line we want people to take note of is ‘Good Morning RBT, Goodbye Licence’. That’s the reality of being over the limit the morning after the big night,” said Rob McConnell, President of the Northern Beaches Liquor Accord.
Councils are inviting local cafes to support the ‘Hungover? You’re Over’ campaign by displaying promotional material. For more information call Michelle Carter on 9970 1196.
Christmas Decoration Winners - Avalon Palm Beach Business Chamber Inc.
Well It Was A Close Run Competition between Jenny's Painted Pots & Freckles For Kids but Sophia's Face Book Savvy won out in the end. So the Winners of our 2 x $1000 Vouchers for the Christmas Decorating Competition are Sophia Berry for posting the Photo with the most likes and Sarah Spear from Jenny's Painted Pots for the most liked Christmas Decorations.
Articles This Week
OMA Christmas Card for Animals Australia
CLICK.CARE.SHARE. Help the OMA (Outdoor Media Association) spread the Christmas spirit and raise funds for the Animals Australia.
For every Christmas message received the OMA will donate $1 to the Animals Australia. Create your own to help the OMA reach their goal of $2500. At: omachristmas.com/index.php
The Outdoor Media Association (OMA) has launched OPEN2, the second edition in a collection of books featuring a variety of standout Out-of-Home (OOH) campaigns from home and abroad. More than just a book of images, OPEN2 also features opinions and experiences about advertising, crafted by a league of industry leaders.
"OPEN2 continues the conversation we started with our first book OPEN in 2012," said Charmaine Moldrich, OMA CEO. "It presents the endless creative opportunities we know Outdoor offers while providing the reader with creative and strategic insights from some of the leaders in the industry."
Featuring four (4) chapters: Humour me; Sell me something; Tell me a story; and Interact with me, OPEN2represents how OOH is increasingly becoming reflective of our culture and society.
OPEN2 also illustrates how OOH is part of our cityscape, our commute, our weekend and our shopping and holiday experiences. How OOH cannot be switched off, ignored or fast forwarded. How OOH is 'the original tweet', an undisrupted media channel and the ultimate creative stage. Big, bold, cheeky, simple, clever and controversial, OOH allows brands to be unique, contextually relevant and targeted while reaching mass audiences.
Check out the e-book of OPEN2. at:http://www.oma.org.au/media2/open2
Early entry extended for Club Marine Pittwater to Coffs race
The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club announced today they have extended the closing date for the first round of Club Marine Pittwater to Coffs Yacht Race entries by a weekto Friday December 12, 2014. After the cut-off a late fee will apply to owners who wish to be part of the New Year coastal classic.
Organising committee member Robert McClelland says the annual race to Coffs Harbour is a true port-to-port ocean race that is within reach of club racers. “It's a difficult race to win and a beautiful course to sail, in and out of all the headlands north of Pittwater. There is plenty to challenge crews and in particular navigators in terms of coastal navigation and localised weather patterns, plus the East Coast Current.”
Doug Coulter is bringing a new boat to the start line on January 2, 2015 on behalf of Lake Macquarie Yacht Club. Imported from England in July and a sistership to Celestial, Coulter’s Rogers 46 called Shakti was owned by a German consortium and completed many transatlantic races including the Rolex Fastnet race.
“I took charge of the boat at the end of July and since then we’ve spent time getting it seaworthy to the required standards,” said Coulter. “We’ve done one race from Newcastle and the rest of our sailing has been on Lake Macquarie.
“I’m getting a bit long in the tooth for the Sydney Hobart race and I have nothing to prove. The majority of the aft crew for the Coffs race are very experienced, probably with 60 to 70 Hobarts between us. With a bit of luck we might get a running race north to Coffs in which case the boat will be very slippery. Of our 12-13 crew we are lucky to have 5 or 6 good steerers.”
Coulter has at least eight Pittwater to Coffs races under his sailing belt including a PHS podium win in 1998 with his former Sayer 45 called Frantic.
A simplified entry process is making life easier for owners and boat managers. Entry is open to eligible monohulls, both fully crewed and shorthanded, and multihulls. View the current starting line-up here.
Finish partner Coffs Harbour Yacht club is working on a terrific program of activities once the fleet arrives including a crew tug o’war and dinghy races on Sunday January 4 prior to the Mayoral reception for skippers and officials that evening.
The RPAYC’s program now focuses on the 226nm Category 2 Club Marine Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race starting at 1pm on Friday January 2 from a line north of Barrenjoey Headland. A single non-pointscore fun pursuit race around the Solitary Islands off the Coffs Coast on January 5 replaces the previous four race regatta.
“Weary crews will be treated to a great welcome at the Coffs finish with a cool beer and hot BBQ followed by a fun program of entertainment and ongoing hospitality at Coffs Harbour Yacht Club so get online to enter and we'll see you at the start!” enthuses McClelland.
Enter here by Friday December 12.
The course benchmark sits at 18hr 29min 14sec set in 2003 by Bob Oatley/Mark Richards with Wild Oats IX. In January Team Australia set a multihull record of 17hrs 3min 5sec and Sean Langman and his crew are keen to beat that time this year.
Club Marine, Australia’s largest provider of pleasure craft insurance, is proud to be the naming rights sponsor of the 2015 Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race.
Event website www.pittwatertocoffs.com.au/
Council - Christmas - New Years
Pittwater Council’s last meeting of the year will be held on Monday 15 December, with meetings resuming Monday 2 February 2015. The Development Unit will begin meetings at the end of January 2015.
Our offices will be closed from 1pm on Christmas Eve, Wednesday 24 December and will re-open for normal hours from Monday 29 to Wednesday 31 December. Council offices will also be closed on Thursday 1 and Friday 2 January 2015 returning to usual operating hours on Monday 5 January. Outside our opening hours you can contact Council on the out-of-hours service by calling 9970 1111.
Pittwater ocean swims
Ocean swimmers, young and old are in training for the Pittwater Ocean Swim series which kicks off on Sunday 14 December at Bilgola with a 1.5km swim. The remaining swims run on Sundays throughout January 2015; Newport on 4 January, Avalon on 11 January, Mona Vale on 18 January, finishing up with the Palm Beach to Whale Beach ‘Big Swim’ on Sunday 25 January.
Swimmers who compete in three of the swims will go into a draw for a trip for two to Byron Bay (including air fares and three night’s accommodation) to compete in the Byron Bay swim. Council staff will be at the ocean swims manning container recycling bins at the start and finish lines; preventing the plastic water bottles ending up in landfill.
Embrace the walk of shame - don’t drive the morning after a big night!
11 Dec 2014
'Hungover? You’re Over’ is a new northern beaches drink driving awareness campaign which puts the focus on the issue of driving the morning after a ‘big night.’ It’s a time many people are not aware that they might still be over the legal driving limit.
The campaign is targeting those who have no idea that their blood alcohol level is likely to still be high the ‘morning after’ - so it’s critical people do not get behind the wheel too soon after indulging in alcoholic drinks.
Alcohol can remain in your system long after the last drink. More than 15,000 drivers blew over the legal driving limit between the hours of 5am and 1pm over the past five years. (NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research).
The joint campaign is an initiative of Pittwater Council, Manly Council, Warringah Council, Northern Sydney Local Health District & Northern Beaches Liquor Accord.
People joke about the ‘walk of shame’ where the morning after a big night a person might be walking home wearing the same clothes they’d worn the night before. It’s time to embrace the walk of shame as a logical alternative for getting behind the wheel, where you are risking your life – and the lives of others.
“One line we want people to take note of is ‘Good Morning RBT, Goodbye Licence’. That’s the reality of being over the limit the morning after the big night,” said Rob McConnell, President of the Northern Beaches Liquor Accord.
Councils are inviting local cafes to support the ‘Hungover? You’re Over’ campaign by displaying promotional material. For more information call Michelle Carter on 9970 1196.
McGrath Ambassador joins Pittwater on Australia Day
11 Dec 2014
The NSW Australia Day Council has announced McGrath Foundation Ambassador and Director, Tracy Bevan as Pittwater’s Australia Day Ambassador for 2015.
Tracy Bevan was instrumental in setting up the McGrath Foundation in 2003 following her best friend Jane McGrath's diagnosis and experience with breast cancer.
Tracy remains one of the driving forces behind the McGrath Foundation and is dedicated to increasing breast awareness in young women whilst raising much-needed funds to place McGrath Breast Care Nurses in communities right across Australia.
In her current role as Foundation Ambassador and Director on the McGrath Foundation Board, Tracy spends a great deal of her time travelling around the country speaking at different events to raise awareness about the vital role that the McGrath Foundation plays whilst encouraging all women to be breast aware.
Tracy has lived in Australia since 1994, when she relocated from England and married cricketing legend Michael Bevan.
Pittwater Mayor Jacqueline Townsend said the Australia Day event, which is made possible with the efforts of the Pittwater Australia Day Organising Committee, is a great opportunity to enjoy the essence of Australia.
“Our Breakfast by the Beach brings us together to recognise our Australia Day heroes, with the announcement of the Australia Day Award Winners, welcome new citizens at our Australia Day citizenship service and enjoy spending time with our mates,” added Cr Townsend.
Tracy Bevan will be a keynote speaker at Pittwater’s popular Breakfast by the Beach event at Newport’s Bert Payne Reserve on Sunday 26 January 2015 between 7.30 and 11.30am.
Tracy will also take part in Council’s Citizenship Ceremony from 8.00am.
The line-up of entertainment for Australia Day includes the Sun Up bush band, soloist Russell Pearce, a jumping castle and face painting for the kids and volleyball for the young and young at heart.
Northern Beaches Hospital Stage 2 EIS Open for Comment
The Stage 2 for the Northern Beaches Hospital Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is now on public exhibition with the Department Planning and Environment until Friday 19 December 2014.
The Stage 1 application, which was approved by the NSW Government in June this year, sought approval for a concept proposal for the hospital and for biodiversity management work, which included clearing the site and preparation activities.
The Stage 2 EIS has been prepared to address environmental assessment requirements relating to the bulk excavation, construction and operation of the hospital.
In addition, Health Infrastructure will be holding two information sessions:
• 1-3pm Saturday 13 December at Forestville Senior Citizens Centre
• 5-7pm Wednesday 17 December at Forestville Senior Citizens Centre
Copies of the EIS are also available at:
• planning.nsw.gov.au/northernbeacheshospital
• Department of Planning and Environment: Information Centre, 23-33 Bridge Street, Sydney
• Warringah Council: Civic Centre, 725 Pittwater Road, Dee Why
• Dee Why Library: 725 Pittwater Road, Dee Why
• Belrose Library: Glenrose Place, Belrose
• Forestville Library: 6 Darley Street, Forestville
• Warringah Mall Library: Shop 650, 2nd Floor, Warringah Mall, 145 Old Pittwater Road, Brookvale.
LEGO AT THE LIBRARY
Local children will have the chance to join a club specialising in one of the most enduring playthings of childhood. Mona Vale Library has started a Lego club on the first Sunday of each month from 2pm to 4pm. Next is January 4th 2015. The club is open to children aged between seven and twelve years of age, with younger children welcome with parental supervision. If you are interested in attending a Lego at the Library session contact the library on 9970 1622 or book in person at the library,
New Season for Sailability Pittwater
Sailability Pittwater is a volunteer organisation which provides sailing for people with a disability. Our main recreational sailing activities are at Rowland Reserve, Bayview, and we run competitive sailing for people with a disability out of RPAYC Newport.
We are currently looking for new volunteers for our Saturday morning program at Rowland Reserve and Tuesdays at RPA. Visit our website for more information atwww.sailability.org/au/pittwater or call John on 99825656 / 0409391065
Articles This Week
Toys 'n' Tucker Christmas Appeal
4 December 2014
Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes is encouraging local residents, businesses, community groups and schools to support Anglicare’s Toys ‘n’ Tucker Christmas appeal.
Toys ‘n’ Tucker is part of Anglicare’s annual Christmas campaign where donations of non-perishable foods and new toys are collected and packed into hampers for families who would otherwise go without.
Donations are being received at the Pittwater electorate office in Mona Vale, located at 1725 Pittwater Road, until Monday 15 December.
“I’m delighted to be supporting this appeal and helping with the collection of donations”, Rob Stokes said today.
“Our community has been extremely generous over previous years and it would be great to see this repeated.
“Christmas is a time of joy and celebration– but for many it’s the cause of great financial difficulty and stress.
"Toys ‘n' Tucker aims to provide assistance to hundreds of families who would otherwise go without over Christmas.
"I encourage everyone to dig deep and make a contribution to this worthy appeal", Rob Stokes said.
PFOS Information Evening - Soibada, Timor Leste (East Timor)
Do you want to know more about Pittwater Community’s sister village? Do you want to get involved?
When: 8 December 2014 at 7.30pm
Where: Avalon Recreation Centre
Pittwater Friends of Soibada Inc (PFOS) is a registered charity that is partnered with Pittwater Council and community groups, schools, churches of all denominations and Rotary Clubs. Volunteers have been facilitating sustainable development projects in Soibada since 2010 when Pittwater Council signed a Friendship Agreement with the people of Soibada, and their local government. This relationship centres on empowering the people. Our goal is to facilitate the change that comes from within the Soibada community. There is a lot of initiative in the village and vast improvements have been made over the last few years. There are some fantastic proactive and forward thinking leaders in Soibada. We must enable the people to help themselves and restore the dignity that has been stolen from them during years of oppression. We work with NGOs already based in Timor Leste and staffed by Timorese people. Our initial focus is on education, sanitation, health and small business development.
• Please come and hear about the latest projects.
• Find out what volunteers from our community have been doing over there.
• See how you can get involved – we need your help.
• We need people of varied skills.
With your support we will change the future for the children of Soibada and Timor Leste by helping them to help themselves.
Tamara Sloper Harding
Chairperson Pittwater Friends of Soibada
New CABPRA President pleas for better infrastructure for walking, cycling and public transport
Thursday, 4 December 2014
Newly elected Clareville and Bilgola Plateau Residents’ Association (CABPRA) President, David Owen calls not just for more money, but for better management, on badly needed walking, cycling and public transport infrastructure in the Pittwater area.
“A survey CABPRA has just conducted shows our residents desperately want better and safer active transport infrastructure. And they want it now,” said Mr Owen, who was elected as CABPRA President earlier this week at the AGM.
Residents were surveyed on what issues were of the most importance to them. Keeping and enhancing the natural beauty of the area came out top but it was very closely followed by making the area walkable, and then safer bike-riding infrastructure and better public transport.
“This very much backs up what residents have been telling us and what CABPRA priorities are,” explained Mr Owen.
“Our major concern is that Pittwater Council and the State Government are ill equipped to manage active transport. This is mainly because it hasn’t been a focus in the past in Pittwater, therefore there is little or no expertise to manage it now.” he added.
CABPRA representatives are working with Pittwater Council and have talked with State Government Pittwater Minister, Rob Stokes to help address these issues.
“However things are not happening quickly or good enough for our members, putting their safety and lifestyle at risk. It is imperative that Pittwater Council finds the necessary expertise immediately and the State Government should be supporting it,” Mr Owen said.
“This is the kind of thing the NSW State Government should be funding to ensure Pittwater Council is Fit for the Future, rather than funding for environmentally destructive car-parks.” he added.
David Owen replaces John Waring, CABPRA’s previous President of more than 18 years and Pittwater Council’s Winner – 20+ Years of Volunteering in Pittwater.
Photo of CABPRA President, David Owen
Early entry extended for Club Marine Pittwater to Coffs race
5th December 2014
The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club announced today they have extended the closing date for the first round of Club Marine Pittwater to Coffs Yacht Race entries by a weekto Friday December 12, 2014. After the cut-off a late fee will apply to owners who wish to be part of the New Year coastal classic.
Organising committee member Robert McClelland says the annual race to Coffs Harbour is a true port-to-port ocean race that is within reach of club racers. “It's a difficult race to win and a beautiful course to sail, in and out of all the headlands north of Pittwater. There is plenty to challenge crews and in particular navigators in terms of coastal navigation and localised weather patterns, plus the East Coast Current.”
Doug Coulter is bringing a new boat to the start line on January 2, 2015 on behalf of Lake Macquarie Yacht Club. Imported from England in July and a sistership to Celestial, Coulter’s Rogers 46 called Shakti was owned by a German consortium and completed many transatlantic races including the Rolex Fastnet race.
“I took charge of the boat at the end of July and since then we’ve spent time getting it seaworthy to the required standards,” said Coulter. “We’ve done one race from Newcastle and the rest of our sailing has been on Lake Macquarie.
“I’m getting a bit long in the tooth for the Sydney Hobart race and I have nothing to prove. The majority of the aft crew for the Coffs race are very experienced, probably with 60 to 70 Hobarts between us. With a bit of luck we might get a running race north to Coffs in which case the boat will be very slippery. Of our 12-13 crew we are lucky to have 5 or 6 good steerers.”
Coulter has at least eight Pittwater to Coffs races under his sailing belt including a PHS podium win in 1998 with his former Sayer 45 called Frantic.
A simplified entry process is making life easier for owners and boat managers. Entry is open to eligible monohulls, both fully crewed and shorthanded, and multihulls. View the current starting line-up here.
Finish partner Coffs Harbour Yacht club is working on a terrific program of activities once the fleet arrives including a crew tug o’war and dinghy races on Sunday January 4 prior to the Mayoral reception for skippers and officials that evening.
The RPAYC’s program now focuses on the 226nm Category 2 Club Marine Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race starting at 1pm on Friday January 2 from a line north of Barrenjoey Headland. A single non-pointscore fun pursuit race around the Solitary Islands off the Coffs Coast on January 5 replaces the previous four race regatta.
“Weary crews will be treated to a great welcome at the Coffs finish with a cool beer and hot BBQ followed by a fun program of entertainment and ongoing hospitality at Coffs Harbour Yacht Club so get online to enter and we'll see you at the start!” enthuses McClelland.
Enter here by Friday December 12.
The course benchmark sits at 18hr 29min 14sec set in 2003 by Bob Oatley/Mark Richards with Wild Oats IX. In January Team Australia set a multihull record of 17hrs 3min 5sec and Sean Langman and his crew are keen to beat that time this year.
Club Marine, Australia’s largest provider of pleasure craft insurance, is proud to be the naming rights sponsor of the 2015 Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race.
Event website www.pittwatertocoffs.com.au/
Combined Car And Boat Licences Now Available
2 December 2014
Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today said Pittwater residents will be among the State’s biggest beneficiaries from a landmark change allowing a joint NSW car and boat licence.
The new combined licence is now available for mixed licence holders once their vehicle licence is up for renewal.
All conditions for licence holders will remain the same, however only one licence with one expiry date will ever need to be renewed thereafter.
There are approximately 103,000 boat licence holders in the Pittwater, Hawkesbury River and Brisbane Water region. This represents around 19% of all boating licences in NSW.
“This is a basic but convenient change that will have real benefits for our community,” Rob Stokes said today.
“Pittwater has a huge number of dual licence holders carrying around separate licences for different modes of transport.
“Combining the licences together will eliminate unnecessary duplication and help reduce paperwork.
“Further changes are also being considered to help make boat licensing more practical and straightforward.
“Unfortunately it’s an area that’s long-overdue for reform and is causing frustration.
“Information on the additional licence changes under consideration is available by visiting www.transport.nsw.gov.au/mmc/review-nsw-boat-driver-licensing
“I encourage all local boaters to share their ideas and opinions as part of this review,” Rob Stokes said.
Avalon Palm Beach Business Chamber Inc. is currently running a great competition. The community member who likes and shares their facebook page and gets the most likes for the photo they post to there of their favourite Christmas decorations from any of our member businesses will also receive a $1000 voucher redeemable for goods and services from chamber members.
Winners will be announced at our Late Night Christmas Shopping event Thursday 18/12/14. Come along and hear the Carol Singers, See Santa and more!
See our Facebook page for more details and get snapping!
Avalon Palm Beach Business Chamber Inc. also have a current great deal on membership- $60.00 instead of $130- you can find out more about all Avalon Palm Beach Business Chamber Inc. in this Issue's Profile of the Week.
Pittwater Mens Probus Club
Tuesday 9th December 2014 - Presidents Day: John Harston
The end of the year is traditional President's surprise presentation. This year one clue we might have is that wine will be involved.
Make sure you come and join the President on his special presentation day.
Ladies and Visitors welcome.
Probus Christmas lunch Tuesday 16 December
You must pay at the Dec 9th meeting to secure your place. $35 per person
More details at: probus.pittwater.org.au
THE DOUG NOLAN STORY
A navigator on the Catalinas in WWII
As told to Pam Bayfield
Doug Nolan's story is one of dedication to duty, persistence, luck and most of all love. Doug wanted to be a RAAF pilot at the beginning of WW11 but when he didn't pass the test he opted to be a navigator instead. With over 2000 flying hours to his credit Doug played a big part in helping keep our convoys safe from enemy attack in the Avro Anson aircraft and then helped win the war in the Pacific with all the dangerous mine laying missions he was sent on, into enemy harbours in the Black CATS or Catalinas, the planes that could land on water. He went on mission after mission for long periods of time, never once allowing himself to sleep as there was only one navigator in the CATS.
He relates some of his close calls and says luck was on his side many a time. The love between Doug and Lorraine shines through and being sent to Bundaberg instead of overseas meant he could see his beloved on his leave passes. The letters they wrote to each other kept his spirits up and hope alive for his survival until the war ended. To have four brothers enlist and have them all survive is a miracle in itself.
After the war, Doug joined Qantas and he tells of some historic flights he went on as navigator. This worthy story enables wonderful men like Doug to share their memories of war time.
Young men went off to fight; we are forever in their debt.
The book launch was held at the War Vets in the beautiful Lone Pine Lookout in the new Gallipoli Building. Over 150 people attended and lots of books were sold. Doug's daughter Judith came all the way from England as a surprise. His other children Lawrie and Peter and their wives were in attendance along with many of his grandchildren. Bob Cleworth, a writer of books about Catalinas, launched the book for Doug. Ben Cook, a fellow navigator from his Qantas days spoke of his days with that airline. Bill Fox related a wonderful coincidence about three veterans finding out 30 years later how their lives crossed at the end of the war. Richard Udy read his poem Catalina Argonauts and he also wrote the preface for the book. Robyn McWilliam was the emcee for the launch and was Pam's editor. This is Pam's 10th book, a great achievement.
The book is available at Dymocks at the Mall and Humphries at Manly and also from Pam Bayfield on her website www.pambayfield.com.au
The Big Sing – Christmas Dates
The Big Sing have a few dates coming up. One is the Palm Beach Picnic Carols on the 17th Dec from about 6pm up near the Boat House this year as opposed to last year by the ferry wharf. Then on the 18th Dec we'll be roaming the streets of Av at the late night shopping event put on by the Chamber of Commerce as they've asked us to be carollers between 6 and 8pm! We feel very privileged indeed.
Sam Shaw will also be singing at Carols In The Park, Mona Vale again this year.
Bushcare Dates - December 2014
Bushcare at W
arriewood - The Warriewood bushcare group managed by Pittwater Council needs more volunteers on 4th Wednesday morning of the month – Can you help? Please contact Mary Johnsen at 9999 2020.
Sun December 7
Avalon Dunes 8:30-11:30am
W’wood Wetlands 9-12pm
Wed December 10
Avalon Golf Links 3-5pm
Fri December 12
Bilgola Beach 8-11am
Sat December 13
Mona Vale Dunes 8:30-11:30am
Coopers Pt 10-1pm
Woodlands Res 9-12pm
Wesley St, Elanora 8:30-11:30am
Sun December 14
Bangalley Head 9-12pm
Thu December 18
Mona Vale Dunes 8:30-11:30am
Sat December 20
Toongari Res 8-11am
Old Wharf Res 8-11am 
Nth Palm Beach 9-12pm
Pathilda Res 9-12pm
Irrawong Res 1-4pm
Sun December 21
Angophora Res 8:30-11:30am
Crescent Res 9-12pm
Elanora Rd 9-12pm
Wed December 24
W’wood Beach - TBA
Sat December 27
Pindari Res - TBA
Nth Newport - TBA
Careel Creek - TBA
Kywong Res - TBA
Sun December 28
Bungan Beach - TBA
Winn Bay - TBA
Catherine Park - TBA
Kundibah Res - TBA
Pittwater Council's COOEE Newsletter November - December 2014
Buy Tickets at: carolsbythesea.com.au
Avalon Beach Surf Life Saving Club with the support of sponsors and the business community proudly presents Carols by the Sea at Avalon Beach on the 20th December.
The event will be from 4.30pm, there will be a food fair, entertainment and the Carols commences at 7pm and finishes at 9.30pm.
Pittwater Council and the Avalon Palm Beach Business Chamber are sponsoring fireworks as well!
We invite you to bring your Family and Friends and Neighbours to join the Pittwater community to celebrate the Spirit of Christmas.
Southern Cross Wildlife Care - Critters of the Month - December 2014
Click on logo above to visit their website.
FUND RAISING STALLS FOR MONA VALE HOSPITAL AUXILIARY FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 2014
Friday, December 12th: Stall Mona Vale Hospital foyer – baking, knitting, sewing, craft. 9am to 3pm
Saturday, December 13th:Sausage Sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen. 8am to 4pm
Monday 15th to Monday 22nd December: Gift wrapping, Pittwater Place, Mona Vale – 9am to 3pm.
Northern Beaches Hospital Stage 2 EIS Open for Comment
The Stage 2 for the Northern Beaches Hospital Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is now on public exhibition with the Department Planning and Environment until Friday 19 December 2014.
The Stage 1 application, which was approved by the NSW Government in June this year, sought approval for a concept proposal for the hospital and for biodiversity management work, which included clearing the site and preparation activities.
The Stage 2 EIS has been prepared to address environmental assessment requirements relating to the bulk excavation, construction and operation of the hospital.
In addition, Health Infrastructure will be holding two information sessions:
• 1-3pm Saturday 13 December at Forestville Senior Citizens Centre
• 5-7pm Wednesday 17 December at Forestville Senior Citizens Centre
Copies of the EIS are also available at:
• planning.nsw.gov.au/northernbeacheshospital
• Department of Planning and Environment: Information Centre, 23-33 Bridge Street, Sydney
• Warringah Council: Civic Centre, 725 Pittwater Road, Dee Why
• Dee Why Library: 725 Pittwater Road, Dee Why
• Belrose Library: Glenrose Place, Belrose
• Forestville Library: 6 Darley Street, Forestville
• Warringah Mall Library: Shop 650, 2nd Floor, Warringah Mall, 145 Old Pittwater Road, Brookvale.
Council - Christmas - New Years
Pittwater Council’s last meeting of the year will be held on Monday 15 December, with meetings resuming Monday 2 February 2015. The Development Unit will begin meetings at the end of January 2015.
Our offices will be closed from 1pm on Christmas Eve, Wednesday 24 December and will re-open for normal hours from Monday 29 to Wednesday 31 December. Council offices will also be closed on Thursday 1 and Friday 2 January 2015 returning to usual operating hours on Monday 5 January. Outside our opening hours you can contact Council on the out-of-hours service by calling 9970 1111.
Pittwater ocean swims
Ocean swimmers, young and old are in training for the Pittwater Ocean Swim series which kicks off on Sunday 14 December at Bilgola with a 1.5km swim. The remaining swims run on Sundays throughout January 2015; Newport on 4 January, Avalon on 11 January, Mona Vale on 18 January, finishing up with the Palm Beach to Whale Beach ‘Big Swim’ on Sunday 25 January.
Swimmers who compete in three of the swims will go into a draw for a trip for two to Byron Bay (including air fares and three night’s accommodation) to compete in the Byron Bay swim. Council staff will be at the ocean swims manning container recycling bins at the start and finish lines; preventing the plastic water bottles ending up in landfill.
Fair deal for NSW public libraries
05 Dec 2014 - Mona vale Library participated in a Day of Action on Friday 5 December 2014 to highlight community concern about the threatened future of public libraries throughout NSW—a result of declining funding from the NSW State Government.
On this day the library removed its ‘Quick Picks’ and ‘Runaround Collections’ from public display, highlighting the real impact of less funding which will affect a library’s ability to purchase in-demand titles.
The Day of Action is an important strategy in the ongoing NSW Public Libraries Association’s Library Funding Campaign, which was launched in April 2014.
Councillor Julie Hegarty—also Vice President Metro NSW Public Libraries—said this lack of funding won’t just lead to fewer copies of popular books and longer waiting lists; it will lead to a reduction in staff, services or library hours.
“NSW libraries receive the lowest state funding of any Australian State, and this is not a sustainable position to be in for the future,” said Cr Hegarty.
The NSW government provides the lowest per capita rate of library funding of all states in Australia at just seven cents in the dollar. This amount has decreased from 23 cents in 1980, leaving the local government sector to carry the burden.
Since 1980, state funding has increased from $1.67 per capita to $3.63 per capita – a multiplier of 2.2. During the same period, local government has increased its share from $5.43 per capita to $47.23 per capita – a multiplier of 8.7.
Sadly, local government can no longer afford to meet the ongoing cost-shifting in library funding from the state government, resulting in cuts to collections, services, opening hours and staff hours in many libraries across the state. Without urgent action by the state government, this deterioration will continue.
“Libraries evoke something special in people!! Everyone has a fond memory from their childhood in the local library.”
Today libraries play a vital role in the provision of social networks they are not just somewhere we borrow books from."
The NSW public library network needs an initial funding increase of $3.5m to survive, with indexation to follow. This equates to less than one cent per person per day. Do you think that the future of your public library is worth that?
Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park receives tourism award
04 Dec 2014
Pittwater’s Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park at North Narrabeen has been awarded a Bronze award in the 2014 NSW Tourism Awards.
The park took out the award in the Tourism & Caravan Park category at a ceremony on Thursday 27 November held at Dockside Pavilion, Darling Harbour.
The award is sponsored by the Destination NSW and the Tourism Industry Division of the NSW Business Chamber (Formerly Tourism Industry Council NSW).
Managed on the Council’s behalf by tourism operators APTM, Mayor Townsend said she was thrilled the park had again received recognition.
“Lakeside Holiday Park is one of Pittwater landmarks and one that represents a significant portion of tourism in the area” she said.
“It’s a successful business as well as a sustainability role model—the park’s landscaped gardens feature drought-resistant native plants and the modern ‘eco-lodge cabin’ provides sustainable accommodation options for visitors,” she added.
General Manager Mark Ferguson said Council would continue to promote sustainability and improve facilities at Lakeside in the coming year.
“We’re very pleased to see the park being recognised for its contributions to NSW tourism in the last year.”
Lakeside park manager Brett Hunt said he was delighted that the park’s staff had received recognition for their hard work.
“Our team has a strong focus on customer satisfaction and are committed to delivering memorable holiday experiences,” said Mr Hunt.
“We have combined this fantastic location with modern amenities, great family facilities including a water playground, and first-class hospitality. Lifelong memories are made at Lakeside and we are grateful to have been recognised for that.”
For more information on the award visithttp://nswtourismawards.com/2014-Winners
Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 7/12/2014: click on Logo.
To contact Julian: editor@scotlandisland.org.au
Entries Open for 2015 Aussies- C/-SLSA
Entries have now officially opened for next year’s Australian Surf Life Saving Championships. And it’s a special one too with The Aussies celebrating 100 years since the very first Australian Surf Life Saving Championships were held on Bondi Beach in March, 1915.
The Aussies 2015 return to the Gold Coast from April 11 to 19 with the picturesque North Kirra Beach playing host to Surf Life Saving’s biggest annual event.
More than 7000 surf lifesavers representing 311 clubs nationally will compete over nine days in the surf and on the sand. The North Kirra, Bilinga and Tugun Surf Life Saving clubs will share the hosting duties across the 2km stretch of coastline.
“It’s the largest event of its kind in the world. No other sporting event in Australia boasts the number of competitors that The Aussies attract,” Surf Life Saving Australia Sport Manager Nathan Hight said.
“To put it in context, almost twice as many athletes compete at The Aussies compared to the Commonwealth Games, so it’s a massive event and a true celebration of the best of our lifesaving traditions, culture and sport.”
Tourism Events Queensland is again on board as the Major Event Partner, continuing its long-standing association with Surf Life Saving Australia that began in 2009.
To register your nomination for this year’s Aussies, click here
As an added bonus for early entrants, there is a fantastic prize up for grabs. You can win a $3000 credit towards your Aussies 2015 experience if you register your nomination here by January 26, 2015.
The Aussies 2015 schedule is:
April 11-12 - Youth Championships
April 13 – 14 – Masters Championships
April 15-19 – Open Championships
Articles This Week
Dark Star Rises Early at Blackmores Pittwater Regatta (final races today 30.11.2014) by Lisa Ratcliff
Further Changes To Bushfire Vegetation Laws - Code 10/50 Effective Immediately - from Offices of Rob Stokes,MP for Pittwater and Stuart Ayres MP Minister for Police and Emergency Services
Sailability Crystal Bay Thank You Morning for Supporters, Sponsors and Volunteers
Australian Farr 40 Renaissance by Lisa Ratcliff - December 6-7 One Design Trophy at RPAYC
Uncovering The History of West Head - new signage unveuiled this week and announcement of new works to improve access to soldier's tracks
Artspot 2015- Figure and Form Artists by Cindy Goode Milman
Park Bench Philosopher: The Man Who Shore A Million Sheep by Warwick Dalzell
Building A Better Future For Pittwater Clubs and Community - from Pittwater RSL and Office of Rob Stokes
INAUGURAL SYDNEY HARBOUR & COAST WALK - DAY 7 - MIDDLE HEAD TO CREMORNE POINT by John Illingsworth
Sail Sydney Entries Close In On 300 by Lisa Ratcliff
Aquatics: RPAYC's Milly Bennett Skippers the First All Female Team to Victory - HARKEN 2014 Youth Match Racing
Pictures: Spring Becomes Summer 2014
DIY Hints: Late Spring Deck Maintenance - Now is the best time to do some deck care – an annual task, cleaning then restaining or resealing your deck woods now will protect them against high Summer’s hot sun and prevent wood rot and deterioration. As an added incentive JBH – Mitre 10 are currently running a competition which will add a great new BBQ or 45L esky to your decking area. Our tips for Deck Maintenance;
Artist of the Month: December 2014 - Jill Ferrall - I work in Encaustic or hot wax painting. A method developed in Ancient Greece. This sensuous medium lends itself to transparent layering as a way of seeing, and then seeing again.
Profile: December 2014 - Pittwater Clubs and Organisations: Maritime Model Museum at Mona Vale Did you know that some of the most historic maritime models are on display at Mona Vale?
History: December 2014 - Pittwater Matriarchs: Maria Louisa Therry (1819 - 1886) - a mother of eight children who became a landlady at Manly and then in Paddington after the death of James Therry, of Mona Vale Farm, at gold diggings in QLD - known for being a 'lady'.
Scotland Islanders: What would you keep the same?
Northern Beaches Hospital Stage 2 EIS Open for Comment
The Stage 2 for the Northern Beaches Hospital Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is now on public exhibition with the Department Planning and Environment until Friday 19 December 2014.
The Stage 1 application, which was approved by the NSW Government in June this year, sought approval for a concept proposal for the hospital and for biodiversity management work, which included clearing the site and preparation activities.
The Stage 2 EIS has been prepared to address environmental assessment requirements relating to the bulk excavation, construction and operation of the hospital.
In addition, Health Infrastructure will be holding two information sessions:
• 1-3pm Saturday 13 December at Forestville Senior Citizens Centre
• 5-7pm Wednesday 17 December at Forestville Senior Citizens Centre
Copies of the EIS are also available at:
• planning.nsw.gov.au/northernbeacheshospital
• Department of Planning and Environment: Information Centre, 23-33 Bridge Street, Sydney
• Warringah Council: Civic Centre, 725 Pittwater Road, Dee Why
• Dee Why Library: 725 Pittwater Road, Dee Why
• Belrose Library: Glenrose Place, Belrose
• Forestville Library: 6 Darley Street, Forestville
• Warringah Mall Library: Shop 650, 2nd Floor, Warringah Mall, 145 Old Pittwater Road, Brookvale.
Christmas Lights Display
Michael Grey invites you to his 2014 Christmas lights display synchronised to music at 10 Cambage Court Davidson. You are invited to walk up the garden path and view the winter wonderland train village in the lounge window and then walk around to the backyard to view the backyard display and two further window displays.
2014: Opening times!
29th November to the 11th December will be 8pm till 10:30pm
12th – 27th December 7:30pm- 11:00 pm
28th December – 3rd January 8:00pm- 10:00 pm
*above times are confirmed unless the Weather is adverse
Christmas Carols
Son Mystique - 5 and 6 December
Highly Strung – 12th December
Son Mystique - 13 and 16 December
Starfish Vocal Studio – 17 December
Troupe Viva - 18 December
ARIA – 19 December
Natalie Joy Cooper – (Former Carols in the Domain) and Brooke Garvey's (Preformed at Universal Studios and Disney Land - Los Angeles) - 20 December
Northern Beaches Chorus – 22 December
Aurora Australis – 23 December
Warringah Brass Band - (Winning Band 2014 NSW Brass Band Contest) – 24 December
You may support the light display (through the merchandise stand onsite or via the charity collection box):
• SIDS and Kids NSW and Victoria– Providing bereavement support for families who experience the tragic death of a child under six.
• Humpty Dumpty Foundation - Humpty purchases essential and often life-saving medical equipment for Neonatal Units (Newborn Care) and Paediatric Wards (toddlers and children to 16 years) in hospitals and health service centers across Australia.
• Cure Brain Cancer Foundation – Many minds, one purpose
I would also like to extend a huge thanks to major display sponsor Christmas World who have stores in Pittwater Road Brookvale, Cnr. Mona Vale Rd and Forest way, Terrey Hills and 82 McEvoy Street Alexandria.
For more information on professional family photos with the lights, Santa, Carolling and more please visit our websitewww.cambagecourtchristmaslights.com
Marine Rescue NSW - New General Director
29 Novemer, 2014 - Patricia Fayers has become the first woman to be elected to the Marine Rescue NSW Board of Directors.
Mrs Fayers, a member and former Unit Commander of Marine Rescue Central Coast, has been elected as a General Director of the organisation, replacing retiring foundation Director Mike Stringer.
The results of the 2014 elections were announced at the MRNSW Annual General Meeting, held at the State Headquarters, at Cronulla, this morning. See: http://bit.ly/1FElTHa
Snake rips in for NSW Parks and Wildlife - Thu 27th November
Boat Stolen from Warriewood CAN YOU ASSIST WITH THIS THEFT?
Between 17:00 on Wednesday 26 November and 10:30 on Thursday 27 November a 1986 grey homemade boat trailer and a cream 12 foot clinker fibreglass dinghy were stolen from Boondah Road, Warriewood.
Any information regarding the theft please contact Northern Beaches Police on 9971 3399 or Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000.
WILD RABBIT CONTROL
From 17 November to 5 December Pindone poison baits will be placed at parks, ovals, and golf courses throughout Pittwater to control wild rabbits. Signs will be displayed at all affected areas; please supervise children and keep pets away from signposted areas during this time. More details atpittwater.nsw.gov.au/rabbitcontrol
Council - Christmas - New Years
Pittwater Council’s last meeting of the year will be held on Monday 15 December, with meetings resuming Monday 2 February 2015. The Development Unit will begin meetings at the end of January 2015.
Our offices will be closed from 1pm on Christmas Eve, Wednesday 24 December and will re-open for normal hours from Monday 29 to Wednesday 31 December. Council offices will also be closed on Thursday 1 and Friday 2 January 2015 returning to usual operating hours on Monday 5 January. Outside our opening hours you can contact Council on the out-of-hours service by calling 9970 1111.
Pittwater ocean swims
Ocean swimmers, young and old are in training for the Pittwater Ocean Swim series which kicks off on Sunday 14 December at Bilgola with a 1.5km swim. The remaining swims run on Sundays throughout January 2015; Newport on 4 January, Avalon on 11 January, Mona Vale on 18 January, finishing up with the Palm Beach to Whale Beach ‘Big Swim’ on Sunday 25 January.
Swimmers who compete in three of the swims will go into a draw for a trip for two to Byron Bay (including air fares and three night’s accommodation) to compete in the Byron Bay swim. Council staff will be at the ocean swims manning container recycling bins at the start and finish lines; preventing the plastic water bottles ending up in landfill.
New rules under 10/50 vegetation code welcomed by Council
28 Nov 2014 - This week the NSW Rural Fire Services (RFS) announced, with immediate effect, a reduction in the entitlement area under the10/50 Vegetation Clearing Code: Category one vegetation is reduced to 100 metres and category two vegetation to 30 metres, down from 350 metres and 150 metres, respectively.
Previously, there were 12,960 Pittwater properties included in the entitlement area but with this week’s changes to the code—which reflect the bushfire prone land mapping—there’s now 6,760 homes affected.
Heavy penalties apply to residents who clear vegetation without authorisation. The easiest way to work out if you're covered by the entitlement area is checking the RFS website, which carries the latest information on areas covered by the code.
“We welcome the formal review of the 10/50 Code, and interim changes to the entitlement area, announced by the RSF this week. The change offers greater protection of our vegetation, especially threatened species, whilst the code is being further refined,” said Mayor Jacqueline Townsend.
“However, we would still prefer the previous system, where a holistic approach was taken; involving the RFS assessing individual properties and actual benefits of vegetation removal, and other issues such as building and garden maintenance,” she added.
Pittwater would like to see a return to the RFS assessing each property on an individual basis and then issuing of a hazard reduction certificate that would override the council’s tree and bushland preservation requirements and other provisions.
“The change is a positive sign, and one that has come about as the result of a sincere commitment to preserving our natural environment from deep within the community, across Pittwater and further,” said Mayor Jacqueline Townsend.
“We will continue to lobby the Baird Government for permanent changes to the code to remove the risk of indirect tree loss”.
The RFS, in partnership with the Department of Planning and Environment, is reviewing the scheme due to abuse of the fuel reduction provisions for other purposes.
The RFS received more than 1800 submission. Pittwater’s submission can be viewed at our website, by visiting the agenda for the Council meeting scheduled for 3 December.
www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare/1050-vegetation-clearing/tool
Eramboo/Enliven artist-in-residence chosen: Harriet Birks
28 Nov 2014 - Eramboo Artist Environment, in partnership with Enliven Pittwater, has announced Palm Beach artist Harriet Birks has been awarded a three-month residency at the beautiful Eramboo Artist Environment.
It’s a unique opportunity to develop her art practice in the supportive and creative environment of Eramboo – a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Harriet’s three month residency begins in January 2015. She will be able to totally engulf herself in the creative process, as well as tap into the professional support and networks provided at Eramboo.
Eramboo’s artistic director Susan Milne said the residency program was a career accelerator for a talented local artist wanting to personally invest and make a significant leap in their career.
“It provides them with space to create work, opportunities to connect with other artists and to engage in critical discourse,” said Ms Milne.
“Harriet has a dynamic arts practise, which combines film, animation and highly detailed drawing. Her proposal for the residency is to draw on these different disciplines to create a body of work. We’re excited to see what she produces.”
35 year old Harriet said she is excited about the upcoming residency and is hopeful she will produce the best work of her career to date.
Harriet will also have the opportunity to show work in one of Pittwater’s village centres. Pittwater Mayor Jacqui Townsend said she was again thrilled that Council can give a local artist the chance to develop technical skills, creativity and exhibit completed work in one of our village centres.
“With so much talent in Pittwater, this program is a great way for Council to support our local artists. By exhibiting the artist’s work in a public place we are helping them form a connection between themselves, their work and the community,” said Mayor Townsend.
For more information about the Enliven Pittwater program visitwww.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/enliven
Pittwater businesses, are you flood ready?
Pittwater Council and the Avalon Beach Chamber of Commerce are asking local businesses to fill in a questionnaire regarding flood readiness. Pittwater Council is carrying out a Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan to identify possible flood mitigation and management options.
The study will identify floodplain management activities to improve flood planning including setting design flood levels for development controls and investigating possible mitigation options.
Pittwater Council’s Catchment Management and Climate Change Manager, Jennifer Pang said Pittwater Council was working closely with the Avalon Chamber of Commerce to engage businesses as much as possible in the process.
“The study not only helps us understand what needs to be carried out in order to mitigate and manage risk of flooding, but will also enable us to learn how many businesses are already managing their flood risk.
“We’re inviting businesses to participate in the survey so we can gather ideas about how Council can better assist in flood preparedness,” added Ms Pang.
Ms Pang said Council wanted as many local businesses as possible to contribute to the study, which covers the suburbs of Avalon Beach, Bilgola Beach, Bilgola Plateau, Clareville, Palm Beach and Whale Beach.
The study of the northern peninsula area has been made possible with assistance from the NSW Government and undertaken by consultants engaged through NSW Public Works.
Business can participate in the questionnaire until February 2015 via the following website: surveymonkey.com/s/Avalon-PalmBeachFloodRiskBusiness
The Avalon to Palm Beach Flood Risk Management Study and Plan is anticipated to be finalised by March 2016.
Avalon Craft Cottage
Christmas Sale in Avalon
To all our wonderfully supportive customers………Christmas is coming, all too fast, and so we come to our final show for the year….. and its a beauty!
The Craft Cottage members are delighted to be back at the Avalon Recreation Centre again with our big Christmas Show….. for three days only, Thursday 4th, Friday 5th and Saturday 6th December from 9am to 5pm each day.
As always, a wondrous display of handcrafted gift items… something for all the family… plus beautiful handmade Christmas cards for you to pop in the mail, or give to those ‘special’ friends for Christmas . And just in time for you to decorate your home for the big day, there is a special Christmas display table full of colourful kiddies dresses & tee shirts, decorations for the tree, colourful bunting, and lots of little stocking fillers.
So…. do come along, say Hello to the members, do your Christmas shopping … and maybe have a cup of coffee & a biscuit or two at the refreshments table. Pop a coin in the donations box, and help up to raise funds for the Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary.
Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc. Speaker Chris Hopton
Many thanks to all who attended our "Empowering Women" dinner on November 20th. Very many thanks to our guest speaker Chris Hopton for her address focusing on empowering tips and to Lorna Scott for her talk highlighting the facts on violence to women. The ZClub girls from Mackellar made a wonderful and interesting contribution to the evening. The evening included a shoe display showing the many and varied situations of women subject to violence.
VAKAS FAREWELL AT PITTWATER
By Pittwater Pathways -Published on 28 Nov 2014
A fleet of Pacific nation vakas sailed to Sydney, part of the International World Parks Congress 2014. These men and women plead for a halt to the destruction of ocean environments and decisive international action on climate change.
$1.4 million gift celebrates an astronomer's life at Sydney University
26 November 2014 - "We are morning and evening sky watchers. We live right on the sea front and see the most superb skies with all the constellations. We have wonderful views of the moon over the sea and every sunrise," says Penny Hunstead.
Penny and Dick Hunstead met on Newport Beach. They still live there and have been watching its changing skies together for over 47 years. That's when Dick, also known as Professor Richard Hunstead of the University of Sydney, is not sky-watching professionally.
For nearly 50 years, just slightly longer than his marriage, Professor Hunstead has been researching astronomy and teaching physics to students at the university.
"I was lucky to join the university just at the time radio astronomy was an up-and-coming science, which offered a different way of viewing the cosmos. It was a thrill during my PhD to work with the Mills Cross radio telescope, then one of the newest instruments to change the face of the discipline."
Professor Hunstead went on to make several important discoveries and has published over 200 articles, with quasars, black holes, galaxy formation and evolution just some of his areas of interest.
For his contribution and dedication, especially to his students, Penny Hunstead decided that any money they gave to the university should be in Dick's name.
The $1.4 million Dick Hunstead Fund for Astrophysics will support the Sydney Institute for Astronomy (SIfA). The Institute, based in the School of Physics, is one of the most diverse astrophysics groupings within Australia, spanning optical, radio, infrared, X-ray, theoretical and computational astrophysics.
"We'd previously given small amounts of $500 or $1000 to the university, but this was a chance to give this crucial institute the support it deserves. The money will help current students and encourage more to take up study in this area," said Professor Hunstead.
There has been a substantial growth in astrophysics internationally, driven largely by the developments of new observational facilities.
SIfA's most valuable instrument is the Molonglo Observatory Synthesis Telescope, a forerunner of the international Square Kilometre Array project.
"It is crucial that the institute positions itself to make the most of opportunities. As part of lifting its profile I want prominent astronomers such as Martin Rees, Emeritus Professor of Cosmology and Astrophysics at Cambridge, to visit."
Whenever Dick takes students out to Siding Spring Observatory they are transfixed, astronomers and non-astronomers alike, by the beauty of its night sky.
"That wonder and fascination is what I still feel for astronomy. The field is on the cusp of a new era of discoveries across the whole electromagnetic spectrum. But of course the most exciting discoveries are the ones we cannot yet name or even imagine."
Dick and Penny share many interests, including a love of native plants (Penny is a trained botanist) and a shared life-long commitment to philanthropy, including volunteering.
A favourite saying of Penny's is one of Mahatma Gandhi's: 'The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.'
This gift celebrates Professor Hunstead's service to the University and the couple's shared philosophy as embodied in Gandhi's quote.
Gifts to the University contribute to INSPIRED - the campaign to support the University of Sydney which aims to raise $600 million from 50,000 donors to fund the pursuit of ideas that will shape the world in which we live.
Mona Vale Road Upgrades
Photographed Tuesday - by A J Guesdon.
$2M FOR ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND LEARNING
Rob Stokes MP, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Heritage, Minister for the Central Coast, Assistant Minister for Planning
MEDIA RELEASE - Friday 28 November 2014
Environment Minister Rob Stokes today announced 122 grants worth nearly $2.4 million to build environmental knowledge in our schools and communities, and for environmental research across NSW.
Mr Stokes said the NSW Government awarded 50 Food Gardens in Schools grants worth $3,500 each to assist in students’ environmental education.
“These projects provide a practical way for young people to learn about land management, waste re-use, water conservation and other environmental lessons,” Mr Stokes said.
“The NSW Government has also allocated a further 46 grants of $2,500 each for Eco Schools projects such as rainwater harvesting and planting native flora to mitigate traffic pollution.
“A total of $1,048,218 was awarded in 18 in Environmental Education Projects grants, funding government initiatives and community organisation projects.
“And finally, eight Research Program grants totalling more than $1 million have also been awarded to provide knowledge about native species, their habitat, the management of pest animals, forecasting air quality, reef health and coastal management.
“These grants help our young people and others across our community to learn about our natural environment, and support scientists in their quest for knowledge to benefit us all.
“I encourage educators, members of the community and researchers to apply for future rounds of Environmental Trust grants.”
The next round of Research Program grants will open in January, followed by Education and Eco Schools Program grants in March.
The NSW Government has awarded 134 grants totalling $35.2 million through the Environmental Trust’s contestable grants programs so far this financial year.
View this round’s recipients and read more about these programs: www.environment.nsw.gov.au/grants
APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR HERITAGE FUNDING
Rob Stokes MP, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Heritage, Minister for the Central Coast, Assistant Minister for Planning
MEDIA RELEASE - Friday 28 November 2014
Heritage Minister Rob Stokes today announced applications were now open for the NSW Heritage Grants program, making $6.5 million available for heritage and conservation over the next two years.
Mr Stokes said the funding will enable local communities throughout NSW to protect and preserve their rich cultural and architectural heritage.
“Heritage grants help local communities preserve tangible reminders of our past and conserve them for future generations,” Mr Stokes said.
“This program provides practical support to communities all over the State wanting to conserve and document their local heritage.”
“The NSW Government is committed to maintaining vibrant rural communities, and funding heritage projects throughout NSW is one way we can achieve this.”
The 2015/16 and 2016/17 program will provide:
$550,000 for Aboriginal heritage places;
$1,009,749 for community, youth and seniors heritage projects;
$2,420,000 for State Heritage Register-listed places, including $2.2 million for major works projects; and
$2,356,000 for local heritage places.
“The very foundation of local communities is built on their collective and shared stories, their buildings and their heritage and this funding helps to support and protect this for tomorrow,” Mr Stokes said.
To find out more about the NSW Heritage Grants program and to apply for grants visit www.environment.nsw.gov.au/Heritage/funding
Applications are open until January 16.
Palm Beach Sailing Club Annual Beware of the Bullets Regatta on Pittwater November 21 - 22.
video by Linda Renouf
Results from PBSC Bullets 22-23 November 2014
Maricat Cat Rigged
1st Darcy Wilson
2nd Mick Colecliffe
3rd Mark Colecliffe
Maricat Super Sloop
1st Rob Fowler
2nd Warren Pfeffer
3rd Adrian Heap
Maricat Sloop
1st David Young / Nicola Young
F18
1st Richard Brewin / Andrew Williams
2nd Lucy Nissen / Dean Nissen
3rd Brett White / Sam Wood
Hobie 16 Open
1st Rod Waterhouse / Kerry Waterhouse
2nd Anthony Duchatel / Evelyn Curtis
3rd Upu Kila / Upu Kila Jnr
Hobie 16 Youth
1st Lachlan White / Ethan White
2nd Shaun Connor / Sophie Renouf
3rd Xavier Kempton / Sarah Parker
Hobie 16 Masters
1st Andrew Nelson / Alicia Tan & Maria Nelson
2nd Michael Henman / Regina Renfree
Hobie 16 Grand Masters
1st Rod Waterhouse / Kerry Waterhouse
2nd Anthony Duchatel / Evelyn Curtis
3rd Upu Kila / Upu Kila Jnr
Weta
1st Peter Graham
2nd Geoff Waldon
3rd Peter DuRoss
Misc
1st Darren Schmidt / Barbara Klampfer
2nd Ash Johnson / B McNeil
Sponsored by Sailing Scene, Bigfoot Canvas & Bags, Just Multihulls and Andrew J Nelson, Accountant. See you next year!
The Big Sing – Christmas Dates
The Big Sing have a few dates coming up. One is the Palm Beach Picnic Carols on the 17th Dec from about 6pm up near the Boat House this year as opposed to last year by the ferry wharf. Then on the 18th Dec we'll be roaming the streets of Av at the late night shopping event put on by the Chamber of Commerce as they've asked us to be carollers between 6 and 8pm! We feel very privileged indeed.
Sam Shaw will also be singing at Carols In The Park, Mona Vale again this year.
ABC CUTS ENDS 57 YEARS OF RUGBY COVERAGE
Throughout the 2014 season they provided some of the most exciting coverage of Shute Shield rugby seen in years. Their broadcast vans were a reliable and almost permanent fixture through each and every season and many came to know and enjoy the knowledgeable commentary of "Aunties" voices of the game. But the days of enjoying the Shute Shield on free-to-air television at 3pm on a Saturday are over.
Following the Government announcement of funding cuts to the ABC, the broadcaster has announced that it will no longer provide coverage of the Sydney Rugby Union's Shute Shield competition. In a letter to the Union, the Head of TV Sports and Events, Justin Holdforth thanked the Sydney Rugby Union and New South Wales Rugby Union for the long partnership enjoyed by all parties since 1957.
"We are grateful for your collaboration over the years. Our thanks goes to every one of your staff, past and present who has assisted in making our broadcasts possible. We understand that your members may be disappointed by the outcome of these funding cuts," Mr Holdforth said.
Regional telecasts of the WAFL, SAFL and VFL will also be withdrawn along with the NTFL, the Women's National Basketball and Women's W-league football.
In a letter to SRU Clubs yesterday NSWRU Executive Director Bruce Worboys said, "This is the end of a 57 year relationship and I must say how disappointed I am to see the only free-to-air live Rugby on television allowed to disappear. New South Wales Rugby Union and Sydney Rugby Union met with high ranking government officials, with Clubs also making representation to local politicians all to no avail - it came down to dollars in the end."
The Saturday afternoon broadcast has a strong following in both metropolitan and Regional New South Wales and a lot of people will be denied any live rugby on free-to-air television. "Whilst our preferred broadcaster was the ABC we have had preliminary discussions with other networks and are now calling for expressions of interest from all parties who support Club Rugby on television," Mr Worboys said.
Interested broadcasters are invited to submit an expression of interest by email to Bworboys@nswrugby.com.au
(information sourced from official SRU press release)
Breeze with your Spritzer?
Avalon Beach SLSC
What an afternoon at Avalon Beach. Imagine how nice it will be at 4pm Sunday. Why not join us for a drink in the deck of the new clubhouse. We would love you to be our guests and enjoy the view over a chilled white wine or a cold beer.
And check out the new seating in the northern corner of our Club Lounge. You will have to be early to get this prime position. Thanks to Robert Hopton for getting these from a business contact.
Entries Open for 2015 Aussies - C/-SLSA
Entries have now officially opened for next year’s Australian Surf Life Saving Championships. And it’s a special one too with The Aussies celebrating 100 years since the very first Australian Surf Life Saving Championships were held on Bondi Beach in March, 1915.
The Aussies 2015 return to the Gold Coast from April 11 to 19 with the picturesque North Kirra Beach playing host to Surf Life Saving’s biggest annual event.
More than 7000 surf lifesavers representing 311 clubs nationally will compete over nine days in the surf and on the sand. The North Kirra, Bilinga and Tugun Surf Life Saving clubs will share the hosting duties across the 2km stretch of coastline.
“It’s the largest event of its kind in the world. No other sporting event in Australia boasts the number of competitors that The Aussies attract,” Surf Life Saving Australia Sport Manager Nathan Hight said.
“To put it in context, almost twice as many athletes compete at The Aussies compared to the Commonwealth Games, so it’s a massive event and a true celebration of the best of our lifesaving traditions, culture and sport.”
Tourism Events Queensland is again on board as the Major Event Partner, continuing its long-standing association with Surf Life Saving Australia that began in 2009.
To register your nomination for this year’s Aussies, click here
As an added bonus for early entrants, there is a fantastic prize up for grabs. You can win a $3000 credit towards your Aussies 2015 experience if you register your nomination here by January 26, 2015.
The Aussies 2015 schedule is:
April 11-12 - Youth Championships
April 13 – 14 – Masters Championships
April 15-19 – Open Championships
1200sqm Subdivision Control Review
Pittwater Council is reviewing the minimum lot size requirements and subdivision control in our planning documents.
Currently there is inconsistency between the requirements that must be met to subdivide or develop properties identified as environmentally sensitive lots for housing. The inconsistency exists between the Local Environment Plan (LEP) and the Development Control Plan (DCP).
With greater legal weight, the LEP minimum lot size requirements generally override the subdivision control in the DCP
Options under consideration
Managing the subdivision and development of environmentally sensitive land is important to protect the character and uniqueness of our natural and built environment. To enable Council to enforce consistent planning controls, two options are being considered:
• Option 1 – Amend the Pittwater LEP 2014 to introduce a 1200sqm minimum lot size for 958 properties identified as environmentally sensitive (1200sqm Subdivision Control Review – Affected Properties Map)
• Option 2 – Amend the DCP to remove the 1200sqm subdivision control and maintain the existing minimum lots size requirements that currently exist in the LEP of either 700sqm or 550sqm.
Each of the options provides greater clarity about where the subdivision of environmentally sensitive land can occur in Pittwater and where it cannot. Council has released a discussion paper that examines the three options in detail:
• Download the 1200sqm Subdivision Control Review discussion paper (see link below)
Your Say
You can have your say on the options under consideration in the 1200sqm Subdivision Control Review. Comments received now will be considered by Council before changes to our planning documents are formally exhibited early next year.
Submissions must be received by Council by 6 December 2014 and may be made:
• Using the online form
• By email
• In writing to: The General Manager, PO Box 882 Mona Vale NSW 1660
Closing date - 6 December 2014
Please note that all submissions will be treated as public documents and may be made available on request, on Council’s website and/or reproduced in future Council reports.
• Your say - submissions in response to discussion paper must be received by 6 December
• Council decision
• Public exhibition of draft planning amendment and formal submissions
• State Government approval - planning amendments become lawSee all relevant documents HERE
Bushcare Dates - December 2014
Bushcare at Warriewood - The Warriewood bushcare group managed by Pittwater Council needs more volunteers on 4th Wednesday morning of the month – Can you help? Please contact Mary Johnsen at 9999 2020.
Mon December 1
Rocky Point 9-12pm
Browns Bay 9-12pm
Fri December 5
Norma Park 9-12pm
Sat December 6
Algona Res 9-12pm
Plateau Park 8:30-11:30am
Elizabeth Park 9-12pm
Sun December 7
Avalon Dunes 8:30-11:30am
W’wood Wetlands 9-12pm
Wed December 10
Avalon Golf Links 3-5pm
Fri December 12
Bilgola Beach 8-11am
Sat December 13
Mona Vale Dunes 8:30-11:30am
Coopers Pt 10-1pm
Woodlands Res 9-12pm
Wesley St, Elanora 8:30-11:30am
Sun December 14
Bangalley Head 9-12pm
Thu December 18
Mona Vale Dunes 8:30-11:30am
Sat December 20
Toongari Res 8-11am
Old Wharf Res 8-11am
Nth Palm Beach 9-12pm
Pathilda Res 9-12pm
Irrawong Res 1-4pm
Sun December 21
Angophora Res 8:30-11:30am
Crescent Res 9-12pm
Elanora Rd 9-12pm
Wed December 24
W’wood Beach - TBA
Sat December 27
Pindari Res - TBA
Nth Newport - TBA
Careel Creek - TBA
Kywong Res - TBA
Sun December 28
Bungan Beach - TBA
Winn Bay - TBA
Catherine Park - TBA
Kundibah Res - TBA
Pittwater Council's COOEE Newsletter November - December 2014
Buy Tickets at: carolsbythesea.com.au
Avalon Beach Surf Life Saving Club with the support of sponsors and the business community proudly presents Carols by the Sea at Avalon Beach on the 20th December.
The event will be from 4.30pm, there will be a food fair, entertainment and the Carols commences at 7pm and finishes at 9.30pm.
We invite you to bring your Family and Friends and Neighbours to join the Pittwater community to celebrate the Spirit of Christmas.
Southern Cross Wildlife Care - Critter of the Month - November 2014
Click on logo above to visit their website.
FUND RAISING STALLS FOR MONA VALE HOSPITAL AUXILIARY FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 2014
December 6th: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft
Friday, December 12th: Stall Mona Vale Hospital foyer – baking, knitting, sewing, craft. 9am to 3pm
Saturday, December 13th: Sausage Sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen. 8am to 4pm
Monday 15th to Monday 22nd December: Gift wrapping, Pittwater Place, Mona Vale – 9am to 3pm.
Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 1/12/2014: click on Logo.
To contact Julian: editor@scotlandisland.org.au
Seeking Pittwater's Local Heroes
Nominations are now open for Pittwater’s 2015 NSW Local Citizen of the Year Awards to be announced at next year’s Australia Day celebrations.
Residents are encouraged to nominate outstanding citizens who have contributed to their community in one of three categories: Pittwater Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year and Sportsperson of the Year.
Pittwater Mayor Jacqui Townsend applauded the many volunteers who give their time generously for the benefit of others.
“These people are often considered experts in their fields which cover bushcare, aged care, lifesaving, emergency services, coastal patrol and youth and community services to name just a few,” she said.
“It is a great opportunity to recognise residents who work tirelessly behind the scenes making a significant contribution to their community.”
“This is our opportunity to acknowledge their contribution and to say thank you,” added Mayor Townsend.
Winners will be announced at an Australia Day Awards Reception and at celebrations at Bert Payne Reserve, Newport on 26 January 2015.
Nomination forms for the Awards can be completed online atwww.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/australia_day_awards Printed copies are available from the Council’s customer service centres and libraries at Avalon and Mona Vale.
Entries for the Awards close on Friday 5 December 2014.Nominations can be mailed to: Community Relations Team, Pittwater Council, PO Box 882 Mona Vale, NSW 1660 or emailed to Pittwater_council@pittwater.nsw.gov.au.
Enquiries relating to the Awards or Pittwater’s Australia Day event can be directed to the Community Relations Team on 9970 1172.
Federal Government Media Releases this week:
2014 Crime Prevention Award winners announced
SNIPPET: The Australian Crime and Violence Prevention Awards (ACVPA) are now in their 21st year and they play a vital role in highlighting effective, community-based initiatives to prevent crime or violence before it is committed. Today's award winners are playing a key role in keeping our community engaged and our streets safer. The awards are sponsored by the heads of Australian Governments and the Law, Crime and Community Safety Council, and are managed by the Australian Institute of Criminology.
Screen Australia supports remarkable stories inspired by Aussie events, books and icons
SNIPPET: Funding for audience-engaging features of any genre. , written by and ( Laid , Wonderland ), will be produced by Matchbox Pictures' ( Maximum Choppage ) and ( Maximum Choppage ) for SBS. A bold new comedy to be directed by award-winning ( The Sapphires , Septembers of Shiraz ), is based on true events and written by and ( Saved ).
SNIPPET: Dr Phoebe Williams has been named as the inaugural Sir John Monash Anzac Centenary Scholar at a ceremony in Sydney tonight. For further information on the Anzac Centenary Programme and the Anzac Centenary Public Fund please visit the Anzac Centenary website www.anzaccentenary.gov.au.
Defence Abuse Response Taskforce report
SNIPPET: The Government has received the final report of the out-going Chair of the Defence Abuse Response Taskforce (DART), the Honourable Len Roberts-Smith RFD QC, and his report on Defence Abuse at the Australian Defence Force Academy. The Attorney-General and Minister for Defence have appointed the current Deputy Chair of the Taskforce, Mr Robert Cornall AO to lead the Taskforce and accelerate its work. In response to Mr Roberts-Smith's recommendations regarding the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA), the Minister for Defence has also directed the Department of Defence to engage the Sex Discrimination Commissioner to work with him to examine the issues raised in the report on Defence Abuse at ADFA.
Better Restart access for job seekers with disability and employers
SNIPPET: Job seekers with disability and their prospective employers will soon be better able to sign up to the successful Restart wage subsidy for mature-age workers, the Australian Government announced today. The change we're announcing today allows job seekers and employers to apply for the Restart programme through the employment service providers with whom they have already built up strong links. Restart which was announced in the 2014-15 Budget and is worth $524.8 million over four years provides $10,000 to employers that hire and retain job seekers aged 50 and older who have been in receipt of income support for six months or more.
2014 National Disability Awards recipients announced
SNIPPET: Ten outstanding individuals and organisations received a 2014 National Disability Award at a gala event held at Parliament House last night. These recipients are working hard to break down barriers for people with disability, Senator Fifield said. The National Disability Awards are a major part of celebrations marking the International Day of People with Disability on 3 December each year.
Sports betting on the rise - Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS)
SNIPPET: Australian sports betting has grown substantially during the last decade and is a significant contributor to rates of problem gambling especially among young men according to a discussion paper released today by the Australian Institute of Family Studies. The Institutes Australian Gambling Research Centre Manager, Dr Anna Thomas said that 1 in 7 Australian adults gambles on sports, the only area of gambling activity to have grown in recent years. The sports betting discussion paper was released today by the Australian Gambling Research Centre to coincide with the launch of the Centres new website along with three other discussion papers the impact of gambling on families Indigenous Australians and gambling and interactive gambling.
Important reminder for students and their parents - Department of Human Services
SNIPPET: Wednesday, 26 November 2014. If you are receiving Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY Living Allowance as a dependant student, now is the time to ask your parents to update their details with Centrelink. Department of Human Services General Manager Hank Jongen today reminded eligible students about the annual reassessment of their parents' income and family assets.
International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
SNIPPET: Today as we mark International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and White Ribbon Day, the Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Women, Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash, called for all Australians to focus on the devastating impacts of violence against women. While Australia has been heralded internationally as a leader on dealing with violence against women, the level of domestic violence in our society is endemic,' Minister Cash said. Taking a stand as a community and working together at every level is vital if we are to ensure there is a serious decline in domestic violence incidents,' Minister Cash said.
President reports on CB v Commonwealth of Australia (DIBP) [2014]
SNIPPET: The President of the Australian Human Rights Commission, Professor Gillian Triggs, has found that the Commonwealth's failure to assess on an individual basis whether Mr CB could be placed in a less restrictive form of detention than closed immigration detention amounts to an arbitrary interference with his family contrary to articles 17(1) and 23(1) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Professor Triggs also found that the Commonwealth's failure to assess on an individual basis whether Mr CB could be placed in a less restrictive form of detention in a way that was consistent with the best interests of his child amounts to a breach of article 3 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The President found that once the Commonwealth received an adverse security assessment from ASIO in relation to the potential grant of a visa to Mr CB, it failed to assess whether he could be placed in a less restrictive form of detention in light of his individual circumstances.
Equality, Capacity and Disability in Commonwealth Laws: ALRC review
SNIPPET: The Australian Law Reform Commission's Final Report Equality, Capacity and Disability in Commonwealth Laws (ALRC Report 124), was tabled in Parliament today. The ALRC has also recommended a new Commonwealth decision-making model that will encourage the adoption of supported decision-making at a national level. The Report and Summary Report are available from the ALRC website in a range of formats, including as an ebook.
Ambassador for People Smuggling Issues
SNIPPET: Today we announce the appointment of Mr Andrew Goledzinowski AM as Australia's next Ambassador for People Smuggling Issues. The Ambassador for People Smuggling Issues plays an important role in promoting effective and practical international cooperation to counter people smuggling in support of Operation Sovereign Borders (OSB). Mr Goledzinowski will work closely with the OSB Joint Agency Task Force to ensure that international elements of OSB are effectively coordinated across government. Mr Goledzinowski is a senior career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. He is currently Assistant Secretary of the Pakistan, Afghanistan and Central Asia Branch. Overseas Mr Goledzinowski has served as Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, with earlier postings in Wellington, Pretoria, Port Vila, Geneva UN and Baghdad. He has also held senior positions with the United Nations and World Bank. In Canberra Mr Goledzinowski has previously
40% of Australians smoke, drink too much alcohol or use illicit drugs (AIHW)
Christmas Tree to support the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal | Prime Minister of Australia
SNIPPET: The Prime Minister's Christmas Tree will again support the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal.. Right up until Christmas Eve, visitors and guests to the Prime Minister's office will be encouraged to bring a gift to place under the tree and help provide a happier Christmas for thousands of Australian children and families. Over six million gifts have been donated since the Kmart Wishing Tree was established 27 years ago.
SNIPPET: The Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Nigel Scullion, said today more time would be taken to assess funding applications received under the Government's $4.8 billion Indigenous Advancement Strategy (IAS). The Minister said there had been an overwhelming response to the first grant funding round and his Department had requested more time to ensure the assessment process produced the best long-term results for Indigenous Australians and the seamless delivery of services, particularly those provided by smaller Indigenous organisations. I believe we have a once in a generation opportunity to change the way government, services providers and communities can work together to make a long-term difference to lives of Indigenous families and children, Minister Scullion said.
PFOS Information Evening - Soibada, Timor Leste (East Timor)
Do you want to know more about Pittwater Community’s sister village? Do you want to get involved?
When: 8 December 2014 at 7.30pm
Where: Avalon Recreation Centre
Pittwater Friends of Soibada Inc (PFOS) is a registered charity that is partnered with Pittwater Council and community groups, schools, churches of all denominations and Rotary Clubs. Volunteers have been facilitating sustainable development projects in Soibada since 2010 when Pittwater Council signed a Friendship Agreement with the people of Soibada, and their local government. This relationship centres on empowering the people. Our goal is to facilitate the change that comes from within the Soibada community. There is a lot of initiative in the village and vast improvements have been made over the last few years. There are some fantastic proactive and forward thinking leaders in Soibada. We must enable the people to help themselves and restore the dignity that has been stolen from them during years of oppression. We work with NGOs already based in Timor Leste and staffed by Timorese people. Our initial focus is on education, sanitation, health and small business development.
• Please come and hear about the latest projects.
• Find out what volunteers from our community have been doing over there.
• See how you can get involved – we need your help.
• We need people of varied skills.
With your support we will change the future for the children of Soibada and Timor Leste by helping them to help themselves.
Tamara Sloper Harding
Chairperson Pittwater Friends of Soibada
CLEANING UP BOAT TRAILER DUMPING GROUNDS
Minister for Roads and Freight Duncan Gay today announced new funding and parking measures for boat trailers in NSW, which would increase the availability of off street parking and remove abandoned boat trailers from busy suburban streets.
Mr Gay said the NSW Liberals & Nationals Government was committed to cleaning up the issue of trailer dumping and remove pressure on residential roads.
“For too long communities living near the water and in coastal areas have played host to boat trailer dumping grounds and it’s just not on,” Mr Gay said.
“Currently, there is no limit on the time boat trailers can park on streets and we have a situation where trailers are being abandoned for months and even years, robbing people of valuable car parks.
“To help relocate boat trailers, the NSW Government is investing $5 million to build dedicated off street boat trailer parking facilities, particularly in metropolitan Sydney and we’re calling on councils and other businesses to register their interest.
“We’re also introducing a three month parking limit on local streets, this means boat trailers left in the same place longer than three months will be impounded. Fines will also be issued for unregistered boat trailers left on the street.
“This change will stop the perpetual boat trailer parking offenders and strike a balance between parking a trailer for a reasonable amount of time and improving short term parking for local residents,” Mr Gay said.
Local MPs from some of Sydney’s busiest harbourside suburbs, John Sidoti (Drummoyne) and Gabrielle Upton (Vaucluse) said the changes would support growth in the boating sector and deliver benefits to the residents of these communities.
“The interest among the community to get involved in boating is increasing, with boat ownership growing by the thousands every year,” Mr Sidoti said.
“We need a clear plan in place to manage the current and increasing demand in boat trailer parking and this proposal is an important step in the right direction. Page 2 of 2
“You just have to walk down the local streets of Drummoyne to get a sense of the vast number of boat trailers that are simply discarded and sit in the street growing cobwebs,” he said.
“It is pleasing to see these views were reflected in the community feedback provided to the NSW Government Boat Trailer Working Group and action is being taken,” Ms Upton said.
“Local communities will be glad to see a greater parking turnover, providing increased local car parks,” she said.
Details for registering interest in dedicated off street boating facilities is available on the NSW Government e-tendering websitewww.tenders.nsw.gov.au
Avalon Palm Beach Business Chamber Inc. Update: Chamber name change and Christmas Competition
We are now officially AVALON PALM BEACH BUSINESS CHAMBER INC.
This is not an amalgamation as we have always represented businesses from Bilgola to Palm Beach. We thought the name change would better indicate the area we support.
The chamber officially registered its name change on 29/10/14 and we are gradually updating our website and Facebook pages.
Bruce Goold –one of our fabulous local artists is working on a new logo for us. Our website is being updated. We are looking at it being something iconic similar to Carmel Chamber USA and Berry NSW so will have lots of info re local area and attractions as well as servicing our business members.
The chamber has 71 financial members at present and we are keen to encourage all local business owners to join. You may not have time for meetings but there is strength in numbers and we can better serve your interests the larger the voice we have.
The chamber represents all business owners who have an identifiable presence in the 2107-2108 postcodes. This could be a home based business, artist, tradesperson, retailer, professional up to corporations.
The chamber has a local Networking Event on the first Wednesday evening of March, June, September, December.
Our Christmas Networking Event is on Wednesday 3/12/14 at The Mill Avalon and we have a great menu and first 2 drinks for $25 PER PERSON.
Community Group representatives are also welcome to attend.
Our formal meetings are on the 3rd Tuesday –July AGM, February & October.
Our volunteer Management committee and subcommittee details are on our website:www.avalonpalmbeachbusinesschamber.com.au.
New members can join under the member tab by submitting an online application and pay via Pay Pal or other methods. As part of our Christmas Program we are offering a member discount for new members who sign up before 18/12/14. The member subscription to 30/6/15 will be $60 instead of $130.00.
New members will be able to participate in our Christmas Decorating Competition which starts on 1/12/14. Member businesses are asked to decorate their business premises from 1/12/14. This could be your retail store, home office, studio, truck, café or professional offices.
The community will be asked to like and share our Chamber of Commerce Facebook page and post a photo of their favourite businesses’ Christmas decorations.
The community member who posts the photo that receives the most likes will receive a $1000.00 voucher redeemable for goods and services from any combination of our Chamber Members. The chamber member who receives the most likes for their Christmas decorations will also receive a $1000 voucher redeemable for goods and services from our members.
This could be a night at Jonah’s, an outfit from Peaches or Catts, some Homewares from Rust, web design by Intervision, some legal advice from Stuart Latham or Avalon Law or any member combination desired. The winners will be announced at our late night shopping event in Avalon Village on Thursday 18/12/14.
We will have carol singers, Santa, children’s prizes and hopefully some Christmas specials from participating members for gifts, food or services. Santa will also be in Avalon on Saturday morning 20/12/14 to promote Carols by The Sea 4.30pm at Avalon Beach SLC.
This will be a nice lead up to Artspot 3/1-11/1/158 and Polo by The Sea 10/1/15.
Our committee will be getting on with Place Management and Events for next year. As well as negotiating with Pittwater Council for improved services in the area. The Avalon Street Art Project’s first event at Avalon Market Day was a great success and they have several more locations waiting to be enhanced.
We are also looking at our Winter Festival on the solstice weekend 20-21/6/15.
Ros Marsh
President
Avalon Palm Beach Business Chamber Inc.
Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment Bill 2014
The NSW Parliament has passed the Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment Bill 2014.
Last November, two comprehensive Planning Bills were extensively debated, but not passed by the NSW Parliament. Recently, some minor provisions of these earlier Bills were passed by the NSW Parliament as the Environmental Planning and Assessment
Amendment Act 2014. The new planning laws focus on improving enforcement processes, as well as enabling the NSW ePlanning portal to be delivered.
The Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment Act 2014 introduces:
• Greater penalties against planning breaches
• Enforcement powers that enable council to investigate illegal works
• Powers to deliver the NSW Portal – ePlanning services across the state.
A three-tiered enforcement system has been adopted that follows a similar system, set up under the Protection of Environment Operations Act and constitutes:
• Tier 1: Serious and deliberate breaches of the planning legislation
• Tier 2: Unintentional breaches that cause harm to the environment
• Tier 3: Procedural/Administrative breaches –such as using false and misleading information to support a development application.
The Act strengthens the enforcement powers of councils to enter property and investigate certain activities such as illegal boarding houses and student housing.
It also enables the NSW Government to obtain information from council to support the NSW Portal by requiring information to be provided in a common or compatible format to the Department of Planning and Environment.
An amendment was supported by Parliament that requires users of the NSW Portal, to be able to be alerted of changes.
More information on the Act is available online
Family Energy Rebate
Applications are now open for the 2014-2015 Family Energy Rebate.
The application submission deadline is Midnight 16 June 2015.
The Family Energy Rebate (FER) helps NSW family households with dependant children to pay their electricity bills.
In 2014-2015 the Family Energy Rebate gives eligible households a $150 credit on their electricity bill.
If you live in a residential community (caravan or mobile home park), the 2014-2015 Family Energy Rebate is $165.
Find out more at: www.resourcesandenergy.nsw.gov.au/energy-consumers/financial-assistance/rebates/family-energy-rebate
NSW Government Asks You To Have Your Say
Review of NSW boat driver licensing
The Maritime Management Centre of Transport for NSW is carrying out a review of boat driver licensing in NSW and is seeking your comments.
The aims of the review include to:
Examine options to streamline the licensing system
Reduce red tape for the boating community
Achieve greater alignment between vessel licensing and registration requirements
Where appropriate, achieve greater harmonisation with the road driver licensing system
The review considers:
When a licence is required.
The classification and duration of licences.
The process for obtaining a licence and licence fees.
Waterway management matters are outside the scope of this review.
The Discussion Paper provides an overview of the current boat driver licensing system, considers licensing requirements in other jurisdictions, outlines proposals for change and seeks feedback on those proposals.
How can you have your say:
The discussion paper can be downloaded from the Transport for NSW website. Comments can be submitted by email tomaritime@transport.nsw.gov.au.
This consultation ends on 19 December 2014.
Mining Policy Amendment
The NSW Gas Plan was announced on 13 November 2014.
Under the Gas Plan it is proposed that the assessment of gas exploration activity move to the Office of Coal Seam Gas within the Division of Resources and Energy, which already has expertise in gas exploration assessment.
Proposals for gas exploration activity will continue to be subject to a rigorous assessment process.
Why are we doing it?
The change is a result of recommendations made by the NSW Chief Scientist following a review of CSG activities in NSW.
This means the Department of Planning and Environment would no longer assess gas exploration activities, but would continue to assess all gas production proposals.
How are we doing it?
The changes would be implemented via an amendment to State Environmental Planning Policy (Mining, Petroleum Production and Extractive Industries) 2007.
How can you have your say?
You can view the proposals and have your say online at:www.planning.nsw.gov.au/proposals
Exhibition Date: Nov. 18 - Dec. 2, 2014
Land Acquisition & Mitigation Amendment
We are inviting feedback on planning changes to State Environmental Planning Policy (Mining, Petroleum Production, and Extractive Industries) 2007 (known as the Mining SEPP).
The planning changes will require decision-making bodies to consider the Voluntary Land Acquisition and Mitigation Policy for State significant mining, petroleum and extractive industry projects.
This policy provides guidance on measures to reduce the impact of noise and dust on adjoining properties from proposed new mining activities, including voluntary negotiations on the acquisition of land.
The policy will only apply to new and existing applications.
Why are we doing it?
The Government has maintained long-standing processes for dealing with the impacts of mining activities on adjoining landowners and these processes have now been formalised in a Policy.
How can you have your say?
You can view the planning proposals and make a submission online at:www.planning.nsw.gov.au/proposals
Exhibition Date: Nov. 18 - Dec. 2, 2014
Pet of the Week
To meet all dogs at call DoggieRescue on 9486 3133 or emailmonika@DoggieRescue.com. Visit www.DoggieRescue.com to see all our dogs. www.facebook.com/doggierescue
LEGO AT THE LIBRARY
Local children will have the chance to join a club specialising in one of the most enduring playthings of childhood. Mona Vale Library has started a Lego club on the first Sunday of each month from 2pm to 4pm. Next is December 7th 2014. The club is open to children aged between seven and twelve years of age, with younger children welcome with parental supervision. If you are interested in attending a Lego at the Library session contact the library on 9970 1622 or book in person at the library,
New Season for Sailability Pittwater
Sailability Pittwater is a volunteer organisation which provides sailing for people with a disability. Our main recreational sailing activities are at Rowland Reserve, Bayview, and we run competitive sailing for people with a disability out of RPAYC Newport.
We are currently looking for new volunteers for our Saturday morning program at Rowland Reserve and Tuesdays at RPA. Visit our website for more information atwww.sailability.org/au/pittwater or call John on 99825656 / 0409391065