Pittwater Online News

Front Page Issue 173 

Bayview's Team Windcraft Offers Amazing Grace - A Hanse 345 to Support Sailors With DisABILITIES- you could win this over 250k yacht for a mere 100 dollars! - on display and tickets for sale at this year's Sydney Boat Show, or purchase online - this company is what community and Pittwater is all about!

Australia My Country Awards 2014 - Four Pittwater Schools have a combined 378 entries in the Avalon Beach RSL Sub-Branch sponsored competition this year

Mayors Welcome Major Frenchs Forest Road Upgrades and Encourage the Community to Find Out More - Community Information session this Monday 28 July 3- 6pm at the Mona Vale Memorial Hall 

A Kind of Victory: Captain Charles Cox and His Australian Cavalrymen by Craig Wilcox - former Narrabeen resident and Military Historian releases new National Library of Australia book on a little known chapter in the Light Horse Regiment - Craig will be a guest on NB Radio this Friday, August 1st during David Harris' 12-1 timeslot, A Good Book or Two - our interview may whet your appetite for more

From Beneath the Floorboards at Hyde Park Barracks - Pittwater's Rob Stoke's, Heritage Minister for NSW, has met with descendants at Sydney's Living Museum's Female Immigration Depot 1848 – 1886 Exhibition which opened this week

Collector's Corner: His Masters Voice, Old 78’s and Australia’s Love of Music: Among the curious objects that collect here are some very heavy and quite thick records that once required a beautiful old gramophone for their playing. Going through these, and marvelling at some in this ‘record collection’, prompted a small investigation into Australia’s love of music and when these Australian made editions first began to be produced here

DIY Hints: Winter Draughts Fix; draughts can drive up your power bills from between 5-30%!, so it’s worth spending a few hours attending to these chinks in your warm Winter armour for good health as well as extra dollars for Summer holidays

Pictures: Birds At Our Window: The Bush Turkey we saw as a chick has returned as a beautiful full grown lady - traditionally a symbol of abundance, this hen is among a growing flock that perch, and chirp

Profile of the Week: July 2014 - Community Groups and Clubs Peninsula Music Club is a Music Club for lovers of fine music this wonderful club has been bringing music to live for to people in Pittwater since 1960

History: July- August 2014 - Pittwater Patriarchs: Bungaree was Flamboyant by Neil Evers; On 31 January 2015 it will be the 200 years anniversary since the establishment of Bungaree's Farm at George’s Heights, Mosman. This was the first land grant by colonial authorities to an Aboriginal person in Australia. For more information on various events from December 2014 to February 2015, please go to the link below.events.mosman.nsw.gov.au/events/988/bungaree‐the‐first‐australian

Artist of the Month:  July 2014 -  John Stephen Ayliffe - John has published three books prior to the icons: a celebration of Sydney's far northern beaches project. Blind Man's Bluff is the story of a blind man who took on the world, My Brother's Eyes : The True Story Of Surviving 16 Years In A Destructive Cult was co-written with his brother, David, and The Priest's Woman: And Other Real Life Stories. In March 2014 icons: a celebration of Sydney's far northern beaches by John Stephen Ayliffe with Terri Ayliffe was released through the support of Jonah's Restaurant, Whale Beach. 

With double page spreads of beautiful pictures intertwined with historical notes, this is a must for every Pittwater home and a great gift for visitors to ‘God’s Country’; Pittwater! Copies of the book are available to guests of Jonah’s, Whale Beach. We share a sample here this month.

Work to Start on Palm Beach Wharf

Pittwater Council will begin works to upgrade Palm Beach Wharf within the coming weeks. Councillors approved the appointment of engineer construction company Clement Marine Pty Ltd at Monday’s Council meeting, accepting their $1.85 million tender.

The wharf upgrade will take approximately five months to build and completion is expected before Christmas this year.

The upgrade is being undertaken as a result of a long term plan to improve the safety and accessibility at the wharf.

General Manager Mark Ferguson said Council conducted a thorough assessment of tender applicants based on strict evaluation criteria including health and safety compliance, environmental sustainability, social equity, financial competitiveness, to name a few.

“We are delighted to report Council has appointed a marine specialist engineer contractor to carry out the necessary works to upgrade Palm Beach Wharf,” he said.

Mr Ferguson says during the construction period no disruption to ferry services is expected although pedestrian congestion on the wharf may increase at times.

“Council will work closely with the contractor and do its best to minimise disruptions to users of the wharf,” said Mr Ferguson.

“We are committed to increasing the integrity of the wharf whilst planning for future sea level rise, with our primary focus remaining on the safety of passengers, and their boarding efficiency and accessibility.

“With state government funding and the green light to start works, we are able to deliver solutions to issues that are close to the hearts of locals and commuters - pedestrian congestion at the wharf and limitations around recreational boating in the area,” Mr Ferguson said.

Earlier this year, during the planning phase, the project was open to a healthy discussion among ferry operators, residents, engineers, the local community and Council. This community consultation and collaboration helped facilitate the final design.

For more information on the wharf upgrade visit :www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/palmbeachwharf

 Children Need School Uniforms - Kenya Care Wear 

Milami Primary School has 40 children in need of new school uniform. These are the kids who cannot afford any school fees either. A uniform costs about $A45 including sweater. 

If anyone can help, please message us. 

Thank you, Brenda Allsop

 Manly Council Crowned NSW’s Most Sustainable City

Mayor of Manly Jean Hay AM and NSW Environment Minister The Hon Rob Stokes MP

July 23, 2014 - Manly Council has won the NSW Overall Sustainable Council award as part of Keep NSW Beautiful’s Sustainable Cities awards, in recognition of their progressive efforts to create a holistic and comprehensive vision of environmental, economic and social sustainability in their LGA.

The Sustainable Cities awards recognise outstanding achievements for the environment and sustainability in urban communities.

Manly Council also won the Community Actions and Partnerships Award for the Friends of Cabbage Tree Bay Volunteer Group, and were Highly Commended in the Environmental Education Award category for our Getting Started with Sustainability program.

Keep NSW Beautiful said renewable energy, clean transport, and incentives for recycling and composting were features which made Manly Council’s entry the standout as well as engaging community participation across broad demographics.

The ‘Manly Sustainability Strategy, For Today and Future Generations’ is a holistic approach to integrate sustainability into Manly’s lifestyle, involving residents and tourists in keeping Manly pristine from the moment they step off the ferry through education, infrastructure and behaviour change initiatives.

“The strategy’s primary purpose is to integrate the social, economic and environmental considerations of sustainability and direct council’s initiatives to enable the people of Manly to live and work in harmony with their environment,” said Mayor of Manly Jean Hay AM.

Manly Council will now represent NSW in the Australian Sustainable Cities Awards to be held later in the year.

Congratulations to Manly Council for your commitment in delivering these programs which protect the local environment now and into the future.

For more information visit Keep NSW Beautiful.

 It’s Local. It's 50' - Survey

Six northern Sydney Councils, Ku ring gai, Lane Cove, Pittwater, North Sydney, Warringah, and Willoughby, are running a local road speed awareness campaign called ‘It’s Local. It's 50'.

This campaign was launched on the 16 June 2014 and will run across the northern beaches and north shore regions.

Please provide some feedback regardng the ‘It’s Local. IT’s 50’ Campaign by completing the online survey at www.surveymonkey.com/s/its_local_its_50

 Naming of the "Jack Gale Training Centre”

A large crowd braved inclement weather on Sunday 20 July, 2014 to attend the turning of the first sod for the new RPAYC training centre development and the official naming of the building. Jack and Joan Gale, sons Geoff and Rob and other members of the Gale family were in also attendance.

Newly elected Commodore Ian Audsley officiated for the ceremony, as Jack Gale turned the first sod of earth and unveiled a plaque officially naming the new training centre, “The Jack Gale Training Centre”, recognising Jack’s service and contribution to the Club, over nearly 60 years. Long standing member, Peter Kennett spoke at length, highlighting the many and varied contributions of not only Jack, but also his wife Joan and sons, Geoff and Rob have made to the RPAYC.

The shovel used for the turning of the first sod will be used as a perpetual trophy for participation in Centreboard racing. The inaugural winner for 2013-2014 is, Paul Hawke.

The Jack Gale Training Centre development is expected to commence in September 2014, with a scheduled completion date of January 2015. Once finished it will become the Centre for Excellence for all of the Club’s training activities, as a Yachting Australia Discover Sailing Centre.

Above: Jack and Joan Gale. Picture by Brendan Rourke.

 Celebrating NSW councils this Local Government Week 2014 

Councils across NSW are gearing up for Local Government Week 2014, which kicks off Monday 4 August until Sunday 10 August 2014, and Local Government NSW is encouraging communities to get involved.

President of Local Government NSW, Cr Keith Rhoades AFSM said that councils are always striving to provide services that are beneficial for their individual communities, so it's important for residents to know the expertise that their council has to offer.

"From land management, sustainability, council-owned and managed local water utilities, child care centres, sports fields, roads, citizenship ceremonies to food safety checks and pet registration - Local Government and its many functions are embedded in people's lives, whether they realise it or not," said Cr Rhoades.

"Local Government Week provides the perfect opportunity to promote the importance of councils to residents, ratepayers, businesses - the whole community.

"Goulburn Mulwaree Council will be running a 'Councillors on the Couch' initiative at the local shopping centre on 7 and 8 August. This is a great opportunity for residents to access their local councillors and ask them questions.

"North Sydney Council will be launching their Home Front exhibition (6 August) at the Heritage Centre which explores the impact of the First World War upon North Sydney using original photographs, objects and documents with Brad Manera, CEO of Anzac Memorial, as guest speaker.

"Dinner Under the Stars is one of the highlights of Walgett Shire Council's Local Government Week activities. Guests can enjoy a bush-style dinner beside the campfire in Walgett Showground with an astronomer to help locals get a better look at the stars, along with family entertainment and marshmallows for toasting.

"Bathurst Regional Council is taking the opportunity to educate local students on their council facilities, services provided and the role that they play in the community by holding a Council Open Day on 5 August.

"Similar to last year, Queanbeyan City Council will be hosting a string of community-focused events including a youth centre drop-in evening, an open morning at Queanbeyan Family Day Care, careers presentations and information talks about Queanbeyan City Council, open days at the local museum and Mt Jerrabomberra, launch of the Queanbeyan Book Club, an internet class for seniors and the official launch of Queanbeyan Council's Regional Art Awards Exhibition.

"For Local Government Week, Griffith City Council will be thanking their local volunteers for their hard work with an annual morning tea on 4 August at the Griffith Regional Theatre, followed by a free movie screening of Las Vegas. On 5 August they will be hosting a morning tea for their Seniors Club and providing reduced-rate animal microchipping at the Griffith Dog Pound on 6-7 August," said Cr Rhoades.

The highlight for Local Government Week 2014 is the Awards evening held at Parliament House, Sydney on 7 August, which recognises councils' unique and innovative community projects.

Awards to be presented include LGNSW's RH Dougherty Awards and Local Government-specific awards sponsored by the Heart Foundation and the Office of Communities.

For more information about Local Government Week, contact your local council or visit www.lgnsw.org.au/events-training/local-government-week

 Avalon Beach SLSC New Clubhouse Nearly Complete - Buy A Brick and Contribute to Your Community

Getting close now. Once we are in we need to fit out the building. So far the Surf Club has contributed $400,000 in cash, raised another $400,000 from grants and managed to get a lot of materials etc in kind. 

It’s not too late to help us by buying a brick or helping us purchase some furniture or racking for our gear. Go to the secure Surf Life Saving Australia payment gateway at the following link

Select Avalon Beach SLSC then you can make your donation by credit card. All donations are tax deductible. We thank everyone for their generosity. Picture Courtesy Avalon Beach SLSC

Dog Training a Must for All Dog Owners 

Council has recently investigated a fatal dog attack, resulting in the death of a young dog, which occurred at the Rowland Reserve unleashed exercise area. The event has highlighted the importance of educating our community that owning a dog provides many benefits however dog ownership comes with great responsibility, not only for the care of the dog itself but for the safety of the greater community with which the dog may interact.

Pittwater Council General Manager Mark Ferguson says Council deals with concerns from residents regarding the issue of responsible pet ownership on a regular basis.

“Our advice to dog owners  is to be consistent with training as it plays an important part in the development of a well behaved dog and of increases the joy in owning a pet,” says Mr Ferguson

In order to assist in managing responsible dog ownership, Council has an active education and enforcement program which includes regular dog training workshops and information evenings teaching dog park etiquette, how to manage dogs in off leash parks, animal behaviour and training. Additionally Council Rangers undertake regular patrols to manage compliance with the Companion Animals Act (1998) and to assist in providing community safety. 

“It’s essential that dog owners have effective control of their dogs both on and off the lead.

Dogs should be leashed at all times in public areas except for when they are in a designated off lead area,” Mr Ferguson said.

Council has a number of education events for dog owners scheduled for the remainder of 2014 including:

21 September: Dog Day by the Bay 2014

Annual festive event Rowland Reserve for dog owners and their pets.

12 October: Pop-up education tent at Rowland Reserve, Bayview

Free advice on dog park etiquette and controlling your animal in off leash dog parks with animal behaviourist Dr Joanne Righetti. Council rangers will also be available to check dogs have been micro-chipped and that details are up to date.

23 November: Pop-up education tent at Rowland Reserve, Bayview. 

Free advice on dog park etiquette and controlling your animal in off leash dog parks with elite dog trainer Steve Austin. Council rangers will also be available to check dogs have been micro-chipped and that details are up to date

For more information on upcoming events along with other information on responsible dog ownership visitwww.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/companion_animals

Council Conducts Survey of Residents

Pittwater Council is about to reach out to residents with two separate surveys – a biennial survey measuring residents’ satisfaction with a range of services and then a new survey capturing feedback relating to Council’s latest community strategic plan Pittwater 2025.

Research company Micromex will conduct the two independent surveys during late July and August on behalf of Council. A total random sample of 800 residents – 400 per survey – will be contacted by phone and asked to take part in one of the 15 minute surveys.

General Manager Mark Ferguson said both surveys would provide valuable feedback from residents on a range of issues.

“Our main aim with the surveys is to measure residents’ satisfaction with service delivery and the level of communication from the Council, as well as gain valuable feedback on the latest community strategic plan,” he said.

He said residents would be asked about their level of satisfaction with services such as garbage collection, recreational facilities and the state of local roads, among others.

They will also be asked how they prefer to receive communication and news. Council currently sends out a monthly e-newsletter each month via its website and direct to subscribers. It also uses its website and social media such as Facebook and Twitter to communicate with residents.

Mr Ferguson said the Council also wanted to benchmark the success of achieving the goals of Pittwater 2025, the Council’s strategic planning document from now until 2025.

Data from the survey would be analysed and the results reported back to Council by October. He also said that by conducting surveys every two years Council was able to measure its progress and impact across a number of areas.

“Being committed to delivering a high level of customer service, we’ll conduct similar customer satisfaction survey every two years, continually assessing our customer satisfaction levels,” he said.

For more information about the surveys visitwww.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/community_survey

'Yellow Brick Road' Extension at Avalon 

 Public consultation on new principles for the application of ‘omics’-based tests

Summary media release information -  21 July 2014

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) has released Principles for the translation of ‘omics’-based tests from discovery to health care for public consultation.

The document offers a new framework to guide the development and application of ‘omics’-based tests, focusing on genomic testing. ‘Omics’ is a general term that covers transcriptomics, metabolomics, epigenomics and proteomics. 

NHMRC CEO Professor Warwick Anderson commented on the timeliness and necessity of this new guide.

‘Omics’-based technologies have the capacity to deliver more effective and better targeted treatments and improve screening for genetic disorders,’ Professor Anderson said.

‘Over the last six years, we have seen the cost of sequencing the human genome go from around $10 million to a few thousand dollars, spawning the commercialisation of genetic testing,’ he said. ‘This is an area that is continuing to evolve and grow, with other ‘omics’-based testing also on the rise. It is timely for Australia to agree to adopt principles to protect interests of consumers and to ensure research integrity.

‘The promise is great, but it is important to introduce these technologies into health care in an orderly, evidence-based, ethical manner.’

The principles cover the passage of ‘omics’-based discoveries from the research setting through to clinical care. The document was developed by the NHMRC’s Human Genetics Advisory Committee in consultation with stakeholders including researchers, clinicians, bioinformaticians, ethicists and consumers.

Public consultation on Principles for the translation of ‘omics’-based tests from discovery to health care is now open and will close on 16 September.

Further information: consultations.nhmrc.gov.au/

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 23/7/2014: click on Logo. 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

 2014 MANLY COMMUNITY JERSEY AUCTION - C/- Manly Sea Eagles

Our 2014 Community Jersey features our famous Sea Eagle emblazoned across the chest of all the players and will hopefully add a little more intimidation to the Wests Tigers players when we proudly wear them in our Round 18 Friday night clash at Brookvale Oval. United Resource Management proudly sits front and centre on the jersey and have been a proud partner of the Sea Eagles and their work in the community for more than a decade.

We are auctioning off each of the starting 17 player-issue un-worn individually signed jerseys where each jersey purchased will help continue to support the work that the Sea Eagles do in the community each year that helps bring smiles to thousands of kids, parents, schools, support service, members and fans.

Happy bidding!

At: store.seaeagles.com.au/auctions/

 Queen Elizabeth Photobombs Hockeyroo Girls – July 24th, 2014

The Hockeyroos have had a Royal surprise following their first win in Glasgow. The Hockeyroos did well in the first game of their Commonwealth Games campaign with a comfortable 4-0 win over Malaysia.

The team wore black arm bands during the match, to honour victims of the MH17 disaster.

Player Jayde Taylor later tweeted a picture which apparently showed the Queen in the background.

“Ahhh.. The Queen photo-bombed our selfie!!” the tweet read.

 Northern Beaches Chorus - Join our August new member program!

Open Night on August 11 - visit our rehearsal, see what we’re about and be voice-placed in one of our four harmony parts – Lead, Tenor, Baritone and Bass.

If you’re keen to join in, you’ll take away a short song to prepare for the four week introductory program.

August 18 – September 8 - is the four week introductory program, which costs $50. Guest coach in Showmanship Education, Lynne Smith from Los Angeles visits in Week 3 – not to be missed!

After successful completion of the introductory program, singers will be invited to audition for Chorus membership.

What could you achieve through your singing talent?

Members who joined last year’s New Member program have:

* performed in two major concerts and high profile events

* did lots of Christmas carolling

* attended a coaching retreat with international educators

* made the finals of Sydney Eisteddfod

* won a medal at a national chorus contest

* made new friends!

Over the past year’s our longer term members have travelled extensively within Australia to perform and some have attended education events and competitions in the USA. Many have taken up opportunities to develop skills in choreography, music direction, arranging, costuming and other stagecraft.

On the immediate horizon, we are competing in a national chorus contest in Hobart, Tasmania next May. Join the program and you too could be travelling south with a fun bunch of female singers!

Some members also choose to sing in quartets and ensembles and one of ours,Sista! Quartet consistently places in the top 5 nationally and regularly performs at venues around Sydney. We also have members involved in Sweet Adelines at a regional level.

Give Anne a call today – 0477 211 609. We look forward to welcoming you!

Find out more here: http://northernbeacheschorus.com.au/august-14-new-member-program/

Southern Cross Wildlife Care - Critter of the Month - July 2014 

Basil the Bandicoot

                                      

Bandicoots have been getting a lot of bad press lately. They have been blamed for the spread of ticks and the spread of salmonella. They are always getting criticised for leaving holes in people’s precious lawns. But did you know, that bandicoots do a lot of good things:

1. By digging holes in your lawn, they are aerating it;

2. By foraging in your lawn, they are eating up all the curl grubs, insect larvae and other lawn-munching pests;

3. They gobble up Funnel-web spiders with relish!

                           

The myth that bandicoots spread ticks is simply not true. They have a relatively small home range compared to other introduced animals such as foxes and feral cats. Foxes and cats wander much further and are more likely to spread ticks than the bandicoots which stay close to their nests. The reason people associate bandicoots with ticks could be because humans tend to pick up ticks most easily in long grass or thick scrub - which happens to be the type of habitat favoured by bandicoots.

Allow us to introduce you to Basil, the long-nosed bandicoot. Such a dear little chap. We’re not entirely sure how Basil got himself into trouble, but he came to us from another vet who’d ascertained that he had a broken jaw and had taken the trouble to wire it for him. 

Basil would be requiring daily high doses of antibiotics and - being a bandicoot - this was not going to be easy for his carer. As such, we decided to put Basil under anaesthetic and put in a cannula through which his antibiotics and daily fluids could be administered, without the need for painful injections etc. 

At the beginning, Basil wouldn’t eat with his wired jaw and he had to be given lots of subcutaneous fluids. Luckily, he soon regained his appetite and began gobbling anything in his path!

                                         

Basil’s jaw remained wired for 3 weeks. He would make a loud “chuff chuff” sound every time we flushed his cannula - expressing his displeasure at being pestered during his naps. We also noticed that Basil had a very loud snore!

                                         

When it was time to remove the wire from his jaw, he was taken back to Dr Howard Ralph for a general anaesthetic.  The wiring was taken out and he had his cannula removed.

This photo shows Basil having a post-operative cuddle with Dr Ralph.

                                         

Bandicoots tend to only live for 2-4 years in the wild. They are territorial and usually solitary. The female stays in a fairly small area to forage and mate, but males have a bigger territory and mark and defend their territory quite actively. 

Bandicoots breed several times during the year. Females can give birth to as many as five babies, but usually only one or two survive. Their gestation period is only 11 days - the shortest of any marsupial. The young are born as tiny ‘pinkies’. They travel through a cord attached to their mother's womb to reach the pouch. Here they drink milk from the mother and grow until they are large enough to leave the pouch. At about three months they can begin to live independently.

Bandicoot pouches face backwards, to stop dirt entering the pouch when the mother digs.

We think bandic! oots are wondrous little creatures, going about their business at night - guzzling insects and their larvae and ridding us of venomous spiders. If you have one in your backyard, enjoy the benefits they bring and appreciate the fact that such a darling wild animal has chosen your garden as his/her sanctuary.

Basil will soon be on his way back to his original home where he will resume his job as chief insect-muncher :)

Good luck, little man!

By Lynleigh Greig

Southern Cross Wildlife Care

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

FUND RAISING STALLS FOR MONA VALE HOSPITAL AUXILIARY FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 2014 

August 2nd: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft

August 2nd: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen, 8am to 4pm 

August 15th:  Stall, Mona Vale hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft, books

August 29th: Stall, Centro Warriewood.  Knitting, sewing and craft. 9am to 3pm.

September 5th: Stall, ANZ Bank, Avalon Parade,Avalon, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft

September 6th: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft

September 13th: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen, 8am to 4pm                       

September 19th: Stall, Mona Vale hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft

September 23rd: Fashion parade Newport Bowling Club,Palm Ave, Newport.  Morning tea 10.30am.  No bookings, all welcome. $10.

October 4th: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing, craft

October 11th: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen, 8am to 4pm                       

October 17th: Stall, Mona Vale hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft

October 24: Stall, Centro Warriewood.  Knitting, sewing and craft. 9am to 3pm.

November 1st: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft

November 8th: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen, 8am to 4pm                       

November 21st: Stall, Mona Vale hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft

November 28th:  Stall, Centro Warriewood.  Knitting, sewing and craft. 9am to 3pm.

December 6th: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft

Bushcare Dates - July - August 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.

Sun July 20 
Angophora Res 8:30-11:30am 
Crescent Res 9-12pm 
Elanora Road 9-12pm

Sat July 26 
Pindari Res 8-11am 
Nth Newport Beach 8:30-11:30am 
Careel Creek 8:30-11:30am 
Kywong Res 8:30-11:30am 
Native Plant Giveaway 
- Centro Warriewood
Sun July 27 
Bungan Beach 8-11am 
Winn Bay 9-12pm 
National Tree Day 
Planting Day at Lakeside Holiday Park 9-12pm

    
Fri August 8 
Bilgola Beach 8-11am     

 Have your say on our National Landcare Programme

Joint media release - 20 July 2014

The Australian Government will hit the road in August to talk to Australian communities about getting involved in the National Landcare Programme.

Minister for the Environment, Greg Hunt, and Minister for Agriculture, Barnaby Joyce, said from 4 August, community information sessions would be held in capital cities and regional centres across the country telling people about the opportunities on offer in the National Landcare Programme and how to get involved in local projects.

Minister Hunt said the information sessions would be held in every capital city as well as ten regional centres, so that farmers, environmental groups, local Landcare bodies and natural resource management organisations could have a say about how the National Landcare Programme could benefit their local area.

“We’re keen to get as many views as we can so a consultation survey will also be available online for all Australians to have their say on the National Landcare Programme,” Minister Hunt said.

“We want to work with regional natural resource management organisations, Landcare groups, community organisations and individuals to deliver simple, local and long-term solutions to environmental challenges.”

Minister Joyce said the online consultation would make it easier for those in regional and remote Australia to have their voices heard.

“The Government is committed to empowering local communities to undertake projects with long-term benefits, based on local and regional priorities.”

“The consultation survey is a great opportunity for communities to help shape the programme in their region and I encourage people to participate in this process,” Minister Joyce said.

The Government will also shortly announce details of funding for future small projects and a one-off grants programme to coincide with the 25th anniversary of Landcare.

Information on the consultation survey and community sessions is available on www.nrm.gov.au

 Sydney International Boat Show - Welcome & How Easy It Is To Get Around in 2014 

There is a change on the horizon and the 47th Sydney International Boat Show will be like no other. While the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre undergoes a major upgrade over the next three years, the Sydney International Boat Show will move its undercover exhibits to the interim facility that has been specially built at the historic working port known as Glebe Island.

The new Sydney Exhibition Centre @ Glebe Island is a fully functioning exhibition facility designed to accommodate world class exhibitions.

The spectacular Cockle Bay Marina, always a show highlight, remains on its traditional site in Darling Harbour.

Free Workshop on Growing Your Exports

Small to medium-sized businesses on the Northern Beaches are invited to learn how to grow their exports with a free workshop at Bayview Golf Club, Mona Vale on Friday 1 August.

Collaborating with Pittwater Council, the workshop will be presented by NSW Trade & Investment and the Australian Institute of Export, Aspect Legal, and Aeronaut Automation.

The event is the first in a new state-wide program targeting potential and new exporters across all product and service areas.

Economic Development Coordinator for Pittwater Council, Paul William-Smith said the workshop is intended to inspire and inform on a host of exporting issues, including export planning, resourcing for export, marketing assistance and visiting your target market.

Mr William-Smith said the workshop is suited to all SME’s including home-based businesses that are looking to start exporting or to expand their market overseas.

A director with Aspect Legal, Joanna Oakey will discuss export-related IP issues and solutions, with John Clark from Aeronaut Automation sharing his success as a local exporter.

This session provides the perfect opportunity to pitch your export-related questions to the experts, network with like-minded businesses and discover how to start or grow your export business,” added Mr William-Smith.

The event which runs from 8.30am to 2.30pm includes a delicious lunch at Bayview Golf Club.

For further information and to register visitwww.businessinpittwater.com.au or call Paul William-Smith on 9970 1187 or email paul_williamsmith@pittwater.nsw.gov.au 

 Anzac Centenary Arts and Culture Fund Public Grants Program 

Senator the Hon George Brandis QC, Minister for the Arts and Senator the Hon Michael Ronaldson, Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Centenary of ANZAC 

Applications are now open for the Australian Government's $2 million Anzac Centenary Arts and Culture Fund Public Grants Program.

The Minister for the Arts, Senator the Hon George Brandis QC and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Centenary of ANZAC, Senator the Hon Michael Ronaldson said that the creative projects funded through this program will commemorate the Centenary of the First World War and the service and sacrifice of Australians in all war efforts.

"The Anzac Centenary Arts and Culture Fund Public Grants Program will enhance our understanding of the Anzac legacy by assisting artists in the development, production, presentation, exhibition or performance of arts and culture projects," Senator Brandis said.

"Communities, individuals, organisations and artists from across the nation have an opportunity to create high quality arts and cultural activities that will form part of the most significant period of commemoration in our nation's history.

"Throughout history, it is the artist with their unique vision and interpretation of the human condition who has captured the spirit and substance of momentous events and daily ritual which, in turn, help inform our thinking and understanding of the past.

"I'm sure that the observations and reflections of Australian artists, about such a significant time in our nation's history, will create a memorable and enduring legacy for the benefit of all Australians."

Senator Ronaldson said the grants will enable the use of creativity by Australian communities, cultural institutions and individuals to explore the Anzac Centenary in a range of ways. Grants of up to $100,000 for national, state and territory cultural institutions and $50,000 for artists, organisations and community groups are available for a wide range of arts and culture projects.

"Artists are encouraged to explore any aspect of Australia's military history including Australian involvement in any war or through peacekeeping efforts," Senator Ronaldson said.

"The Centenary of Anzac will mark a Century of Service, encompassing all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations in which Australians have been involved. It will be the most significant period of commemoration in our nation's history and the Abbott Government is committed to providing opportunities for all Australians to participate"

Applicants are encouraged to read the guidelines atwww.arts.gov.au/anzac before applying.

Applications close at 5.00pm AEST on Wednesday 10 September 2014.

James G Somerville Memorial Service - A Celebration of A Munificent Life - Charting the Persistent and Long Way of the Somerville Trek

Reflections by George Repin: MURANO

To The Lighthouse by Robyn McWilliam

Day Two of racing for the RPAYC Mid Winter One Design Regatta by T.Spithill/B.Rourke Media

Aquatics: Port Jackson Pleasure Fleets No: 11 and 12: Clubs, Flags and the Advantages of Sailing; This is the final two articles written ‘By Lanyard’ – following this, in Issue 174, we will run an article on who this author is and their association with early sailing writing and literary circles in Australia. After that we shall run pages on the boatbuilders mentioned throughout these articles and the boats themselves – not to the extent of The Bona – Classic Wooden Yacht – but somewhere near it in some cases, while others will be left for fuller pages in the future. Shortly after this we begin our pages on the many Pittwater wooden yachts, yawls and the like, which are still sailing here - as so many of the vessels that have been mentioned throughout this series did.

Pictures: A Stroll with David James OAM Through Warriewood's Wetlands

DIY Hints:  Make Your Own Trestle Table: You could use leftover decking boards in making this versatile classic. If you don’t have leftover decking you can buy new wood and make something beautiful, strong, durable and portable for use as a pop up table outside when barbecue season arrives, as a classic desk for those who need more elbow room or as a potting table for the garden. 

Profile of the Week: July 2014 - Community Groups and Clubs Community Care (Northern Beaches) Part of what we do is bring you information on local services and those who provide them. This week we focus on a great local organisation that has been dedicated to residents for 20 years this year.

History: Avalon Beach Clubhouses: The Second and Third Clubhouses, built by community hands, funded by brilliant ideas Miss Peninsula and let's stop Stomping now - the amazing people who made renovations become realities and a few shark stories - men jumping on sharks, men chasing sharks back out to sea, men pulling sharks up on the beach and selling 'look at' peeks - all to keep a great and growing club just that - great and growing!

Last week! We commence a run of Pittwater Patriarchs next Issue 

Artist of the Month:  July 2014 -  John Stephen Ayliffe - John has published three books prior to the icons: a celebration of Sydney's far northern beaches project. Blind Man's Bluff is the story of a blind man who took on the world, My Brother's Eyes : The True Story Of Surviving 16 Years In A Destructive Cult was co-written with his brother, David, and The Priest's Woman: And Other Real Life Stories. In March 2014 icons: a celebration of Sydney's far northern beaches by John Stephen Ayliffe with Terri Ayliffe was released through the support of Jonah's Restaurant, Whale Beach. 

With double page spreads of beautiful pictures intertwined with historical notes, this is a must for every Pittwater home and a great gift for visitors to ‘God’s Country’; Pittwater! Copies of the book are available to guests of Jonah’s, Whale Beach. We share a sample here this month.

 Avalon Beach SLSC New Clubhouse Nearly Complete - Buy A Brick and Contribute to Your Community

Getting close now. Once we are in we need to fit out the building. So far the Surf Club has contributed $400,000 in cash, raised another $400,000 from grants and managed to get a lot of materials etc in kind. 

It’s not too late to help us by buying a brick or helping us purchase some furniture or racking for our gear. Go to the secure Surf Life Saving Australia payment gateway at the following link

Select Avalon Beach SLSC then you can make your donation by credit card. All donations are tax deductible. We thank everyone for their generosity. Picture Courtesy Avalon Beach SLSC

Dog Training a Must for All Dog Owners- 18 Jul 2014

Council has recently investigated a fatal dog attack, resulting in the death of a young dog, which occurred at the Rowland Reserve unleashed exercise area. The event has highlighted the importance of educating our community that owning a dog provides many benefits however dog ownership comes with great responsibility, not only for the care of the dog itself but for the safety of the greater community with which the dog may interact.

Pittwater Council General Manager Mark Ferguson says Council deals with concerns from residents regarding the issue of responsible pet ownership on a regular basis.

“Our advice to dog owners  is to be consistent with training as it plays an important part in the development of a well behaved dog and of increases the joy in owning a pet,” says Mr Ferguson

In order to assist in managing responsible dog ownership, Council has an active education and enforcement program which includes regular dog training workshops and information evenings teaching dog park etiquette, how to manage dogs in off leash parks, animal behaviour and training. Additionally Council Rangers undertake regular patrols to manage compliance with the Companion Animals Act (1998) and to assist in providing community safety. 

“It’s essential that dog owners have effective control of their dogs both on and off the lead.

Dogs should be leashed at all times in public areas except for when they are in a designated off lead area,” Mr Ferguson said.

Council has a number of education events for dog owners scheduled for the remainder of 2014 including:

12 October: Pop-up education tent at Rowland Reserve, Bayview

Free advice on dog park etiquette and controlling your animal in off leash dog parks with dog expert Steve Austin. Council rangers will also be available to check dogs have been micro-chipped and that details are up to date.

21 September: Dog Day by the Bay 2014

Annual festive event Rowland Reserve for dog owners and their pets.

22 October: Training workshop

A free workshop with Dr Joann Righetti to learn about training your dog, addressing behavioural problem such as barking, aggression and separation anxiety as well as keeping her healthy.

For more information on upcoming events along with other information on responsible dog ownership visitwww.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/companion_animals

 Mail Thieves About- C/- Northern Beaches LAC - NSW Police Force

SECURE YOUR MAIL BOXES THIEVES ARE ACTIVE

There have been a number of reports of mail theft within the command recently. These thefts have been in the Dee Why and Newport areas. This problem can be reduced or minimized by following these tips:

* Make sure your home mailbox is in good condition. Mail that is exposed can be damaged by bad weather and is visible to thieves.

Promptly collect your mail after it is delivered.

* Ensure that your mailbox is locked and secure at all times when not in use.

* Do not leave spare keys to your letterbox unsecured. Ensure that they are locked away in a cupboard/cabinet.

* Purchase a locked mailbox or convert your unlocked box to the lockable type. Make sure the mail slot is large enough for the postman to insert the mail.

* If you don't have a mail box you can arrange for your mail to be delivered to a Post Office box for a small fee.

* Promptly contact the senders if you do not receive credit cards, checks, or other valuable mail.

* Notify the post office and mailers if you change your address.

* When going on vacation, have the post office hold your mail or have a trusted friend or neighbor pick up your mail after delivery.

* Be observant of activities on your street, the postal vehicle, residential mailboxes, and collection boxes.

* If you see suspicious persons or suspicious activity around your letterbox contact police immediately.

Please ensure that all mail theft is reported to police.

 MPs and Mayors from Northern Beaches and Mosman Talk Priorities at Biannual SHOROC Leaders Forum

July 16, 2014 - Record transport and health funding for the SHOROC region was a hot topic of discussion at the meeting of NSW Members of Parliament and Mayors from Sydney’s Northern Beaches and North Shore.

The Hon Jillian Skinner MP, The Hon Brad Hazzard MP, The Hon Rob Stokes MP and Mr Jonathan O’Dea MP met with the SHOROC Board of Mayors and General Managers from Manly, Mosman, Pittwater and Warringah councils.

SHOROC President and Pittwater Mayor Jacqueline Townsend said “we have achieved much together over recent years through collaboration and these regular meetings enable us to address the big issues for our region as a united group. “

“The NSW Government recently announced $633 million Northern Beaches Transport Action Plan and today we discussed how the councils will work closely with the NSW Government to implement the Bus Rapid Transit system and major road works,” said Mayor Townsend.

“A key priority we all agreed is advocating to maintain our vital social infrastructure and services such as youth homelessness services, support for sufferers of domestic violence, and youth employment and education services.

“The partnership we have built with our local MPs is achieving great results for this region and I congratulate our local MPs and in particular NSW Premier The Hon Mike Baird MP for finally delivering a plan that will address our major transport choke points.

“It’s also great to see work progressing at a rapid rate on the new health system including the Northern Beaches and Mona Vale hospitals. 

Boosting the local economy and attracting business investment to provide more local jobs and improve job containment is an area discussed the group will be focussing on in the coming year.

“These forums are invaluable for us as a region. Together we can make this fantastic area even stronger for the future,” said Mayor Townsend.

 (L-R) Rik Hart GM Warringah Council, Mark Ferguson GM Pittwater Council, Cr Jacqueline Townsend Mayor Pittwater, Cr Peter Abelson Mayor Mosman, Cr Michael Regan Mayor Warringah, Veronica Lee GM Mosman, Cr Jean Hay AM Mayor Manly, Henry Wong GM Manly Council

Southern Cross Wildlife Care - Critter of the Month - July 2014 

Basil the Bandicoot

                                      

Bandicoots have been getting a lot of bad press lately. They have been blamed for the spread of ticks and the spread of salmonella. They are always getting criticised for leaving holes in people’s precious lawns. But did you know, that bandicoots do a lot of good things:

1. By digging holes in your lawn, they are aerating it;

2. By foraging in your lawn, they are eating up all the curl grubs, insect larvae and other lawn-munching pests;

3. They gobble up Funnel-web spiders with relish!

                           

The myth that bandicoots spread ticks is simply not true. They have a relatively small home range compared to other introduced animals such as foxes and feral cats. Foxes and cats wander much further and are more likely to spread ticks than the bandicoots which stay close to their nests. The reason people associate bandicoots with ticks could be because humans tend to pick up ticks most easily in long grass or thick scrub - which happens to be the type of habitat favoured by bandicoots.

Allow us to introduce you to Basil, the long-nosed bandicoot. Such a dear little chap. We’re not entirely sure how Basil got himself into trouble, but he came to us from another vet who’d ascertained that he had a broken jaw and had taken the trouble to wire it for him. 

Basil would be requiring daily high doses of antibiotics and - being a bandicoot - this was not going to be easy for his carer. As such, we decided to put Basil under anaesthetic and put in a cannula through which his antibiotics and daily fluids could be administered, without the need for painful injections etc. 

At the beginning, Basil wouldn’t eat with his wired jaw and he had to be given lots of subcutaneous fluids. Luckily, he soon regained his appetite and began gobbling anything in his path!

                                         

Basil’s jaw remained wired for 3 weeks. He would make a loud “chuff chuff” sound every time we flushed his cannula - expressing his displeasure at being pestered during his naps. We also noticed that Basil had a very loud snore!

                                         

When it was time to remove the wire from his jaw, he was taken back to Dr Howard Ralph for a general anaesthetic.  The wiring was taken out and he had his cannula removed.

This photo shows Basil having a post-operative cuddle with Dr Ralph.

                                         

Bandicoots tend to only live for 2-4 years in the wild. They are territorial and usually solitary. The female stays in a fairly small area to forage and mate, but males have a bigger territory and mark and defend their territory quite actively. 

Bandicoots breed several times during the year. Females can give birth to as many as five babies, but usually only one or two survive. Their gestation period is only 11 days - the shortest of any marsupial. The young are born as tiny ‘pinkies’. They travel through a cord attached to their mother's womb to reach the pouch. Here they drink milk from the mother and grow until they are large enough to leave the pouch. At about three months they can begin to live independently.

Bandicoot pouches face backwards, to stop dirt entering the pouch when the mother digs.

We think bandic! oots are wondrous little creatures, going about their business at night - guzzling insects and their larvae and ridding us of venomous spiders. If you have one in your backyard, enjoy the benefits they bring and appreciate the fact that such a darling wild animal has chosen your garden as his/her sanctuary.

Basil will soon be on his way back to his original home where he will resume his job as chief insect-muncher :)

Good luck, little man!

By Lynleigh Greig

Southern Cross Wildlife Care

 Creative Leisure Celebrates 90 Years

Calling all past participants in any Creative Leisure Movementactivities, to celebrate the 90th Anniversary of its formation.

Originally known as the Children’s Library & Craft Movement, later called the Creative Leisure Movement, this organisation was founded in Surry Hills in1924 by two sisters Elsie Rivett and Mary (Rivett) Mathieson. It catered for children with after school activities, holiday programmes and travelling libraries. In the Northern Beaches area there were five libraries: - Balgowlah, Manly, Harbord, Narrabeen and Terrey Hills. These activities expanded to include preschoolers and adults.

From 1971 programmes and activities were developed on the Northern Beaches under the leadership of the tireless Nan Bosler catering for the needs of all ages and abilities. With Nan at the helm, the organisation pioneered children’s toy libraries, playgroups, after-school care, international dance camps, film groups, adult learning & leisure classes and the War Veterans Creative Leisure Movement. These activities evolved to include disabled adult programmes, learning difficulty support groups, the Kookaburra Playgroup, holiday fun programmes and Interchange. Many of these activities are now run independently, while others are provided by organisations such as the local councils.

When the parent organisation of the Creative Leisure Movement closed down in March, 1996, the Northern Beaches region incorporated as Northern Beaches Creative Leisure & Learning Inc continuing the same aims-

• To provide a range of learning & leisure activities for all ages and levels of ability; with particular 

emphasis on adult education, activities for the aged and people with special needs.

• To promote activities and programmes to meet the needs of the community.

• To adapt to meet the changing needs of the community.

Today, NBCLL seeks to provide activities which encourage the constructive use of leisure hours & promote the 

enjoyment of lifelong learning.

To register your interest in celebrating this 90 year milestone on Sunday 19th October, please phone Maureen 9913 1474 ormanresa123@optusnet.com.au

 Stephanie Galloway-Brown's Portrait of John Ogden

Portrait of John Ogden. A talented photographer, cinematographer & writer of the Saltwater People books, Land Without People & many others, who lost an eye in a surfing accident & has a face that tells a story. Painted in encaustic wax & oil, a really challenging medium to control but has a textural quality and translucency I love to work with…

Details of workshops are on our Events page and at Here

 People wanted for healthy eating and exercise trial to prevent type-2 diabetes - 16 July 2014

Sydney University is calling out for Sydneysiders to join a research study assessing the effects of healthy eating and exercise on the risk of type-2 diabetes.

The healthy eating and exercise trial will assess two different diet and exercise programs among people aged 25 to 70 years who are overweight or obese.

The trial is part of an effort to slow the rise of a disease affecting 1.5 million Australians that will soon become the nation's leading cause of death and illness.

Sometimes called the "silent killer", type-2 diabetes raises the risk of going blind, losing a limb, kidney failure and dying of a heart attack.

Those at greatest risk are people carrying too much weight who aren't getting enough regular physical activity. High blood pressure, family history, some ethnic backgrounds, and increasing age are other leading risk factors for type-2 diabetes.

"The latest research tells us that type-2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed through intensive lifestyle programs resulting in weight loss," says one of the study's co-investigators, Associate Professor Amanda Salis.

"However, many people who lose weight through intensive lifestyle changes tend to regain weight, which elevates their risk for diabetes and other diseases.

"We want to pinpoint the best way to maintain weight loss and keep diabetes at bay among people who are at risk of the disease."

The trial is part of a global study involving people in six European countries as well as Australia, Canada and New Zealand. A total of 2,500 participants are being recruited worldwide.

More information:

The trial is targeting people aged 25 to 70 years who are overweight. People wishing to join the trial should go towww.preview.ning.com/sydney

The research is an initiative of Sydney University's Charles Perkins Centre.

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 13/7/2014: click on Logo. 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

 Woody Point Yacht Club - 1st Two Island Race - July 13th, 2014

Yes it is time again to challenge the waters around Scotland and Lion Island. What a great Day on the Water. Thanks to ALL attending the first Race. Boat of the Day: "Dragon Lady".

Photo courtesy WPYC.

 Kenya Care Wear Update – July 2014

New home for one of our Milami Boys at ABC-Childrens-Aid-Kenya where he will get the food, bed, medical care and education he needs in a safe nurturing environment. 

The facilities may not look great to you but the testimonies of lives changed here are fantastic. And that’s what its all about isn’t it?Thanks to an Aussie sponsor for financing this move.

 NRMA Helping People Awards Open

The NRMA Helping People Awards are now in their 8th year. We are proud to continue our recognition and support of volunteers who give tirelessly to their local communities.

The awards are an opportunity to nominate unsung heroes from all walks of life in NSW/ACT. Winners will each receive a $5,000 donation towards the charity they volunteer for and a well-deserved holiday for two from NRMA Travel up to value of $2500*. Winners are announced in September.

See more here

 PM Abbott on Brookvale Oval by Manly Warrigah Sea Eagles - published Wed 16th July, 2014 

Find out More at:www.cubbacubba.net.au

Spring Concert brings celebrated singer Peter Cousens to the Northern Beaches- 14 July 2014

The Rotary Club of Pittwater is proud to be bringing the internationally-acclaimed Australian vocalist Peter Cousens to the peninsula, performing with the Northern Beaches

Orchestra (NBO) in the Northern Beaches Spring Concert.

This year's event, on Wednesday 17 September, is the fifth annual concert presented by Pittwater Rotary in partnership with United Cinemas and will again be held in the Grand Theatre at United Cinemas, 4 Vuko Place, Warriewood.

Peter Cousens and the NBO have created an exciting musical program called Love Changes Everything, an evening of beautiful hits from musical theatre. The program includes familiar songs from The Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables, Man of La Mancha, Carousel, West Side Story, The Boy from Oz and many other hit shows.

Mr Cousens, a former resident of Terrey Hills who spent his youth surfing at Whale Beach, is delighted to be singing with the Northern Beaches Orchestra. "There are great local talents that are wonderfully expressed in community initiatives like the NBO," he said.

The multi-talented Mr Cousens is the only Australian to play the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera in London's West End. And whilst he may be best known as the leading man of musical theatre, he recently embarked on his debut directorial role for a Hollywood motion picture, Freedom (www.themoviefreedom.com). Freedom stars Oscar-winning actor Cuba Gooding Jnr in a hauntingly beautiful and inspirational depiction of hope and faith as a family struggles to escape a life of southern slavery.

"We are excited to showcase the amazing local talents of the Northern Beaches Orchestra again this year," said Pittwater Rotary President Roger Digby. "And we are especially pleasedto be able to bring a star of such international prominence as Peter Cousens to sing in theNorthern Beaches."

Concert proceeds will go to the Palliative Care Centre at Mona Vale Hospital and other local projects of Pittwater Rotary.

The event has attracted an impressive group of sponsors, including Pittwater RSL Club, Lifestyle Financial Services, Johnson Brothers Mitre 10, the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Style Communications and the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club.

Ticket prices are: regular seats $45 (concession $40), and deluxe seats $55. Tickets are on sale at www.rotarypittwater.com and at the Warriewood Cinema box office (9913 2800 or in person).

Pittwater Rotary is expecting a sell-out concert again this year, so everyone is encouraged to buy tickets early. For more information call Pittwater Rotary on 8005 0711.

It’s a great opportunity to enjoy a memorable evening of fine music featuring talented local musicians and an Australian superstar, while helping to support the work of Rotary in the Northern Beaches.

About Peter Cousens

Peter Cousens (petercousens.com) is an actor, singer, producer, director, teacher and film director. In addition to playing the Phantom of the Opera, he has starred alongside Russell Crowe in Blood Brothers, the late Richard Harris in Camelot and has played major roles in musicals throughout Australia, New Zealand and England.

His other musical theatre roles include Tony in West Side Story; Chris in Miss Saigon; Nanki Poo in The Mikado; Motel in Fiddler on the Roof; Marius in Les Misérables; and Ravenal in Hal Prince's Show Boat.

Peter tours extensively around Australia with his own one man show, A Life on Earth, and works regularly in concert, performing in Australia's major performing arts venues and with symphony orchestras. He has recorded five albums.

About the Northern Beaches Orchestra

The Northern Beaches Youth Orchestra was formed in 2008 to give young local musicians a chance to excel and to enhance our community cultural life. In 2011 the group spun off the Northern Beaches Orchestra, an auditioned orchestra which now features members of all ages. (nbo.org.au).

Founded with support from local councils, the orchestra is now fully self-funded, through corporate and community sponsorship, ticket sales and paid performances. The future success of the orchestra rests on the generosity of the community, its businesses and its individuals.

 Working towards rollout of 20 Million Trees 

Media release, The Hon. Greg Hunt MP, Minister for the Environment

Work towards the commencement of the 20 Million Trees Programme is continuing to progress and the Government is now seeking feedback from organisations who may wish to be involved in the rollout. 

The 20 Millions Trees Programme is a key Coalition election commitment and will see large-scale revegetation projects delivered across the country. 

Projects will include re-establishing green corridors and urban forests, increasing and improving habitat to support our threatened species, and creating greener spaces to improve the liveability of our cities and towns. 

The Australian Government has committed $50 million over four years to the 20 Million Trees Programme with funding to commence from 2014-15. It's an important part of the National Landcare Programme and will deliver real environmental benefits in local communities. 

20 Million Trees will be implemented through a combination of competitive grants to land managers and local community groups, and a tender process for larger-scale Service Providers. 

The Government is now inviting submissions from interested parties on how best to deliver large-scale tree planting in a way that best utilises industry expertise, knowledge and capacity to achieve environmental conservation outcomes and community engagement. 

Suitable Service Providers are encouraged to take this opportunity to make a difference to the environment by helping the Government to reach its target of planting 20 million trees by 2020. 

Submissions received through this Request for Information process will inform a subsequent Request for Tender (RFT) process that will invite potential delivery partners to apply to become a 20 Million Tree Service Provider. 

There will be opportunity for the community to be involved in consultation for the 20 Million Trees Programme as part of wider consultation for the National Landcare Programme in the coming months. 

For more information on 20 Million Trees, visitwww.environment.gov.au/land/20-million-trees 

For more information on how to make a submission, visitwww.tenders.gov.au 

What is the 20 Million Trees Programme?

The Australian Government will work with the community to plant 20 million trees by 2020, to re-establish green corridors and urban forests.

The Programme has four strategic objectives:

20 million trees – 20 million trees and associated understorey planted by 2020.

Environmental conservation – support local environmental outcomes by improving the extent, connectivity and condition of native vegetation that supports native species (including threatened species and threatened ecological communities)

Community engagement – work cooperatively with the community

Carbon reduction – contribute to Australia reducing its greenhouse gas emissions.

The 20 Million Trees Programme is part of the National Landcare Programme(link is external), and will complement and align with other Australian Government environmental initiatives, such as the Green Army and the work of the Threatened Species Commissioner.

The Australian Government has committed $50 million over four years to the 20 Million Trees Programme, with funding to commence from 2014-15. The programme will involve competitive grants, delivered by individuals and organisations, and larger-scale plantings, delivered by national service providers.

How do I get involved?

Competitive Grants

Round One of the 20 Million Trees Programme will invite community groups, landholders and other land managers to apply for grant funding to establish native tree plantings in urban, peri-urban and regional environments across Australia. More information about how to apply for funding under the 20 Million Trees Programme Round One will be released in the coming months.

National Service Provider

The Programme will also involve larger-scale revegetation delivered by one or more service providers contracted by the Australian Government.

A Request for Information on the national service provider component is now open and will close on 31 July 2014.

Please refer to the AusTender website  for the coversheet and Request for Information document.

Further information

Please email 20milliontrees@environment.gov.au

 Proposed 10/50 rule to improve bush fire protection

The NSW Parliament has recently passed laws for the NSW Rural Fire Service to prepare a DRAFT 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Code of Practice.  This Code of Practice sets out the proposed framework and provides guidance for owners of land in a designated 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Entitlement Area to:

Clear trees on their property within 10 metres of a home , without seeking approval; and

Clear underlying vegetation such as shrubs (but not trees) on their property within 50 metres of a home, without seeking approval

The DRAFT 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Code of Practice has now been released for public exhibition until 21 July 2014.

A series of frequently asked questions has been published to provide additional information and can be accessed via the link below.

Any feedback on the DRAFT 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Code of Practice can be submitted by email to10.50@rfs.nsw.gov.au or by post to the Manager Community Planning, Locked Bag 17, Granville NSW 2142.

At the close of the exhibition period the laws will be gazetted to come in to effect, but until then all existing restrictions apply.

Once the draft Code of Practice has been finalised an online tool will be provided that will enable you to search for your property to find out if you live in a 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Entitlement Area.

See more at: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/dsp_more_info_latest.cfm?CON_ID=21732

 Sydney International Boat Show - Welcome & How Easy It Is To Get Around in 2014 

There is a change on the horizon and the 47th Sydney International Boat Show will be like no other. While the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre undergoes a major upgrade over the next three years, the Sydney International Boat Show will move its undercover exhibits to the interim facility that has been specially built at the historic working port known as Glebe Island.

The new Sydney Exhibition Centre @ Glebe Island is a fully functioning exhibition facility designed to accommodate world class exhibitions.

The spectacular Cockle Bay Marina, always a show highlight, remains on its traditional site in Darling Harbour.

 Independent Director – Surf Life Saving Australia

Surf Life Saving exists to save lives, create great Australians and build better communities. As one of Australia's most respected organisations and world leader in lifesaving, coastal public safety, rescue and education services we embody and inspire a truly positive and uniquely Australian attitude to life through our members and clubs.

We are looking for a highly experienced professional with demonstrated experience within finance, risk management and corporate governance to join the SLSA Board. The SLSA Board meets six times a year.

This independent director position will require suitable skills and experiences to be able to advise the SLSA board on matters of financial strategy, financial statements, financial systems integrity, governance and business risk ensuring the board can fulfil its fiduciary and stewardship obligations. 

Skills and experiences for consideration for the appointment of this independent director position are;

Finance, business, commercial, risk management or management, preferably with knowledge of the Corporations Act and Not-for-Profit compliance in the areas of corporate governance and directors’ duties and responsibilities

Experience of advising boards on financial, risk and compliance and ability to establish and maintain associated processes and internal control systems.

Have the ability to contribute to the Finance, Audit and Compliance Committee

Be able to demonstrate a major achievement or contributions in previous roles

Understanding of the strategic planning process

Previous experience as a Director of a company or organisation

Experience in or exposure to surf life saving is not a requirement for this position, however the successful candidate must be prepared to gain an understanding and knowledge of the role and activities and business of SLSA.

The term of this position is 2 years. While this position is not remunerated, expenses incurred in carrying out the duties associated with this position will be reimbursed.

Applications, including a resume and a response to the above skills and experiences required close at 5:00pm on Friday 25 July 2014. 

Applications addressing the skills and experience outlined above and resume should be addressed confidentially to:

SLSA Nominations Committee

Surf Life Saving Australia

nmongan@slsa.asn.au

Sports Development Officer – Surf Life Saving New South Wales

This is an exciting opportunity for an individual to further develop their skills in sports management working for an iconic Australian organisation. The right applicant will be able to demonstrate they can provide support to the Sports Manager ensuring effective implementation of development programs for surf sports athletes and coaches throughout NSW.

Surf Life Saving NSW is the state’s peak water safety and rescue organisation and one of the largest volunteer movements in the country. We support more than 76,000 members in 129 clubs to serve the community through the provision of beach patrol services, coastal emergency response, training and education, sports and member development.

Duties:

Coordinate Talented Athlete, High Performance and various athlete development programs

Coordinate all NSW and NSW Country representative teams

Assist with the logistics of surf sports events across NSW

Essential Experience Required

Previous administration skills

An understanding of current athlete development, grass roots programs and high performance principles

Project management experience

Flexible attitude to work as regular weekend work required

Understanding of Surf Life Saving competition and experience in a similar role is an advantage.

Location: Surf Life Saving NSW Headquarters – Belrose

Position: Full time

Closing date for applications: 25 July 2014

Download the position description. 

How to Apply

Explore our website www.surflifesaving.com.au

Send through a current copy of your resume and cover letter (no more than 3 pages)

Review the position description and include a written response to each item of the selection criteria (no more than 3 pages)

For further information on this role please contact Human Resources on (02) 9471 8017. Applications should be sent toemployment@surflifesaving.com.au. Successful candidates will be contacted for interviews following the closing date.

 Australian scientists reaching for the stars at Mount Stromlo - 15 July 2014

Australian scientists have snared two world-leading contracts to make astronomical instruments which will further consolidate Australia’s reputation for global innovation, Minister for Industry Ian Macfarlane said today.

The Australian National University’s Advanced Instrumentation and Technology Centre at Mount Stromlo has been contracted to design one of the first instruments for the Giant Magellan Telescope (GMT), a super-giant earth-based telescope being built in Chile that is set to revolutionise our view and understanding of the universe.

And EOS Space Systems, with technical support from the centre, has been selected for a commercial $6.4 million contract from the Korean Astronomy and Space Science Institute for a laser ranging telescope to track space junk.

Launching the Mount Stromlo centre’s second stage, Mr Macfarlane said both contracts demonstrated that Australian astronomy was flying high in global terms.

“The centre is directly involved in design and development of the GMT, which will collect more light than any telescope ever, at the best resolution ever,” Mr Macfarlane said.

“Thanks to the adaptive optics system being developed in Australia the GMT will have a resolution 10 times better than the Hubble Space Telescope, by actively correcting for the blurring caused by the atmosphere.

“This will help find answers to questions about such cosmic mysteries as the formation of galaxies, dark matter and dark energy.

“Australia’s first contribution to the GMT is the GMT Integral Field Spectrometer, which will be used to study physical phenomena like the environment around the black hole at the centre of our galaxy and around the planets orbiting nearby stars.”

Mr Macfarlane said work done by EOS Space Systems using the centre’s facilities and adaptive optics expertise contributed to it winning its Korean contract.

“Ensuring that space assets used for earth observations, communications and position, navigation and timing are kept safe among the ever-growing clutter of space debris is a concern for all countries,” Mr Macfarlane said.

“The centre combined its expertise in adaptive optics with the EOS Laser Ranging Facility to develop a system that tracks much smaller pieces of debris, leading to this new contract.”

Mr Macfarlane said he was impressed with the dedication to commercialisation and collaboration between researchers and private firms at the Mount Stromlo facilities.

“The number of signs here showing the presence of private industry partners acknowledges the opportunities for the centre to diversify and expand Australia’s advanced technological capabilities to include the space industry,” Mr Macfarlane said.

“This centre demonstrates that Australia is determined to continue to engage with world-leading technologies and support niche manufacturing.”

_______________________________

To find out more, See:www.pittwateronlinenews.com/newresearchtooltoseekmilkywayorigins.php

Top: Angel Star Trails - aat picture, by Angel Lopez-Sanchez, 2014.

Free Workshop on Growing Your Exports

Small to medium-sized businesses on the Northern Beaches are invited to learn how to grow their exports with a free workshop at Bayview Golf Club, Mona Vale on Friday 1 August.

Collaborating with Pittwater Council, the workshop will be presented by NSW Trade & Investment and the Australian Institute of Export, Aspect Legal, and Aeronaut Automation.

The event is the first in a new state-wide program targeting potential and new exporters across all product and service areas.

Economic Development Coordinator for Pittwater Council, Paul William-Smith said the workshop is intended to inspire and inform on a host of exporting issues, including export planning, resourcing for export, marketing assistance and visiting your target market.

Mr William-Smith said the workshop is suited to all SME’s including home-based businesses that are looking to start exporting or to expand their market overseas.

A director with Aspect Legal, Joanna Oakey will discuss export-related IP issues and solutions, with John Clark from Aeronaut Automation sharing his success as a local exporter.

This session provides the perfect opportunity to pitch your export-related questions to the experts, network with like-minded businesses and discover how to start or grow your export business,” added Mr William-Smith.

The event which runs from 8.30am to 2.30pm includes a delicious lunch at Bayview Golf Club.

For further information and to register visit www.businessinpittwater.com.au or call Paul William-Smith on 9970 1187 or email paul_williamsmith@pittwater.nsw.gov.au 

Dog Day by the Bay 2014

Dog Day by the Bay 2014  will be held at Rowland Reserve, Bayview on Sunday 21 September 2014 between 10am and 3pm. 

Highlights of the day include demonstrations and education sessions by dog expert and elite dog trainer Steve Austin. Steve will provide owners with tips on dealing with aggressive pets, behavioural problems, excessive barking and the importance of training. Steve will also bring his dogs on the day so you can see them in action and hear all about his exciting work training detection dogs around the world.

Pet Problems Solved with Dr Jo Righetti - Thunder...Lighting and even just being alone when we go off to work can make dogs suffer a range of serious anxiety problems. It can be VERY frightening for them! Dr Jo Righetti will be available to help solve your pet’s anxiety problems on the day. Dr Jo is an animal behaviourist with a background in zoology, a PhD in animal behaviour and 15 years business experience helping people and pets.

The popular MCs Brian and Kaye from Essential Pet will also keep us entertained throughout the day.

This year in kids’ corner we are excited to have Dr Crunch from Crocodile Encounters. Kids can touch and learn about reptiles and Dr Crunch can provide advice on what to do if your pet brings wildlife home.

Dog Day by the Bay runs from 10am to 3pm and other activities include agility demonstrations, education talks, children’s activities in the kids’ corner and lots of competitions to enter and win great prizes including the very popular Canine Fancy Dress Parade kicking off proceedings at 10am.

If you would like to lodge an on-line application form to attend as a stallholder please follow this link. Please note applications close Friday 22 August 2014.

If you are a food vendor please contact the education team on to 9970 1194 or email ECEducation_Team@pittwater.nsw.gov.au to discuss your application before submitting an application form

 Anzac Centenary Arts and Culture Fund Public Grants Program 

Senator the Hon George Brandis QC, Minister for the Arts and Senator the Hon Michael Ronaldson, Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Centenary of ANZAC 

Applications are now open for the Australian Government's $2 million Anzac Centenary Arts and Culture Fund Public Grants Program.

The Minister for the Arts, Senator the Hon George Brandis QC and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Centenary of ANZAC, Senator the Hon Michael Ronaldson said that the creative projects funded through this program will commemorate the Centenary of the First World War and the service and sacrifice of Australians in all war efforts.

"The Anzac Centenary Arts and Culture Fund Public Grants Program will enhance our understanding of the Anzac legacy by assisting artists in the development, production, presentation, exhibition or performance of arts and culture projects," Senator Brandis said.

"Communities, individuals, organisations and artists from across the nation have an opportunity to create high quality arts and cultural activities that will form part of the most significant period of commemoration in our nation's history.

"Throughout history, it is the artist with their unique vision and interpretation of the human condition who has captured the spirit and substance of momentous events and daily ritual which, in turn, help inform our thinking and understanding of the past.

"I'm sure that the observations and reflections of Australian artists, about such a significant time in our nation's history, will create a memorable and enduring legacy for the benefit of all Australians."

Senator Ronaldson said the grants will enable the use of creativity by Australian communities, cultural institutions and individuals to explore the Anzac Centenary in a range of ways. Grants of up to $100,000 for national, state and territory cultural institutions and $50,000 for artists, organisations and community groups are available for a wide range of arts and culture projects.

"Artists are encouraged to explore any aspect of Australia's military history including Australian involvement in any war or through peacekeeping efforts," Senator Ronaldson said.

"The Centenary of Anzac will mark a Century of Service, encompassing all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations in which Australians have been involved. It will be the most significant period of commemoration in our nation's history and the Abbott Government is committed to providing opportunities for all Australians to participate"

Applicants are encouraged to read the guidelines atwww.arts.gov.au/anzac before applying.

Applications close at 5.00pm AEST on Wednesday 10 September 2014.

FUND RAISING STALLS FOR MONA VALE HOSPITAL AUXILIARY FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 2014 

August 2nd: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft

August 2nd: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen, 8am to 4pm August 15th:  Stall, Mona Vale hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft, books

September 5th: Stall, ANZ Bank, Avalon Parade,Avalon, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft

September 6th: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft

September 13th: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen, 8am to 4pm                       

September 19th: Stall, Mona Vale hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft

October 4th: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing, craft

October 11th: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen, 8am to 4pm                       

October 17th: Stall, Mona Vale hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft

November 1st: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft

November 8th: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen, 8am to 4pm                       

November 21st: Stall, Mona Vale hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft

December 6th: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft

 How reliable are SEIFA indexes?

At every five-yearly census, the Australian Bureau of Statistics recalculates the SEIFA (Socio-economic Indexes for Areas) indexes and also recalibrates the borders and sizes of the geographic areas from which these SEIFA measurements are derived. NCVER reports vocational education and training (VET) participation rates at least annually, and the question that arises is how well the SEIFA indexes perform over the interim years. The authors find that there is little distortion in the measurement of participation in the intervening periods.

Measuring VET participation by socioeconomic status: an examination of the robustness of ABS SEIFA measures over time

Tom Karmel, Patrick Lim

www.ncver.edu.au/publications/2721.html

Latest statistical releases

Australian vocational education and training statistics: Students and courses 2013

The annual national snapshot of enrolments and training activity in publicly funded training shows there was an overall decline of 3.4% in student numbers compared with 2012. Fewer young people (aged 15 to 24 years) enrolled in training last year compared with the previous year, down from 820 700 in 2012 to 778 900 in 2013.At provider level, student enrolments declined in 2013 in comparison to 2012 at TAFE and other government providers (down 5.4%) and other registered providers (down 2.4%), but increased at adult and community education providers (up 14.9%). 

www.ncver.edu.au/publications/2740.html

 Plastic Free July - it's as easy as this!

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

The NSW Government Gazette 

The New South Wales Government Gazette is the official channel for the circulation of Proclamations, Regulations, Government Notices, Private Legal Advertisements andther matters required to be published in the Government Gazette under the Statutes of New South Wales Government.

The NSW Government Gazette contains:

New South Wales Legislation, Notices (public and official announcements), and Official Government Notices from the New South Wales Government and Local Government Agencies, Cities and Shires. The NSW Government Gazette is available online on the N.S.W. Government website from 2pm each Friday.

Articles This Week

Front Page Issue  171 

First day of racing for the RPAYC Mid Winter One Design Regatta by Tommy Spithill - Brendan Rourke Media

Avalon Active Seniors Art Show 2014

Enliven Pittwater's 1st Anniversary

Avalon Craft Cottage – Back to Avalon show - July 2014 (Raffle for Mona Vale Hospital Auxiliary Winner) by Maureen Darcy Smith

The Talent Development Project (TDP) by Jenny Walsh; Creator, Northern Beaches Youth Bands (NBYB) - for young adults

Aquatics: Landing Practice Incidents on HMS Ravager – Framed Photographs Picture

Pictures: A Stroll with David James OAM Through Warriewood's Wetlands

DIY Hints:  Make Your Own Trestle Table: You could use leftover decking boards in making this versatile classic. If you don’t have leftover decking you can buy new wood and make something beautiful, strong, durable and portable for use as a pop up table outside when barbecue season arrives, as a classic desk for those who need more elbow room or as a potting table for the garden. 

Profile of the Week: July 2014 - Community Groups and Clubs Royal Motor Yacht Club – Multihull Division - This year is the 21st Anniversary of the Multihull Division. To celebrate Alan Brand has helped us put together a celebratory insight into these magnificent fliers and what the RMYC Multihull Division does.

History: Avalon Beach Clubhouses: The Second and Third Clubhouses, built by community hands, funded by brilliant ideas Miss Peninsula and let's stop Stomping now - the amazing people who made renovations become realities and a few shark stories - men jumping on sharks, men chasing sharks back out to sea, men pulling sharks up on the beach and selling 'look at' peeks - all to keep a great and growing club just that - great and growing!

Artist of the Month:  July 2014 -  John Stephen Ayliffe - John has published three books prior to the icons: a celebration of Sydney's far northern beaches project. Blind Man's Bluff is the story of a blind man who took on the world, My Brother's Eyes : The True Story Of Surviving 16 Years In A Destructive Cult was co-written with his brother, David, and The Priest's Woman: And Other Real Life Stories. In March 2014 icons: a celebration of Sydney's far northern beaches by John Stephen Ayliffe with Terri Ayliffe was released through the support of Jonah's Restaurant, Whale Beach. 

With double page spreads of beautiful pictures intertwined with historical notes, this is a must for every Pittwater home and a great gift for visitors to ‘God’s Country’; Pittwater! Copies of the book are available to guests of Jonah’s, Whale Beach. We share a sample here this month.

Back To School - Please Observe Speed Limits in School Zone Times 

Schools go back this week - hope everyone had a great few weeks off. 

Last week we came across this item from the NRMA in support of Pittwater Council's proposal as contained therein - and held it over as there ws just too much already crammed into this page last Issue and people may have five minutes to spare this coming week:

SCHOOL ZONE SAFETY: NRMA to champion Pittwater Council’s initiative to ban large objects in school zones

A call from Pittwater Council to ban large objects being parked in school zones has received broad support on our interactive advocacy hub Speak Out and will become the second grassroots campaign the NRMA has championed since the site was launched last month.

Pittwater Council were concerned that trucks, caravans and motorhomes, together with objects like mobile billboards and boat trailers, were making it difficult for drivers to see clearly and made it dangerous for children and their parents to cross the road safely.

After the council submitted their suggestion through Speak Out, we surveyed almost 740 drivers on the issue and found that almost three-quarters believed that these objects were a safety hazard that impaired the driver’s vision.

READ MORE: Pittwater Council’s Speak Out submission.

Trucks parking in school zones was the major concern of drivers with 50% of respondents saying they cause reduced visibility, while caravans and motorhomes (21%), boat trailers (12%) and mobile billboards (11%) were also a concern.

Speak Out enables individuals and community groups to organise and mobilise around issues they want the NRMA to fight on their behalf. Others can then vote on whether they support the campaign or disagree with it.

Almost 84% of those who read Pittwater Council’s suggestion supported the campaign.

NRMA President Kyle Loades said there was overwhelming support for the Pittwater Council initiative on Speak Out and that the NRMA would take up the fight on behalf of the community.

“Large objects parked in school zones are a safety risk because it makes it harder for drivers to see children as they walk along footpaths or cross the street,” he said.

“If the large vehicles or objects are parked at the entrance points of the school zone they can also impair the view of the school zone sign – this could result in drivers not realising they are entering a school zone and creating a further safety risk for children.

“The NRMA survey shows drivers are concerned about this issue and when we put Pittwater Council’s initiative on our grassroots hub, Speak Out, it generated broad public support.”

Pittwater Mayor Jacqui Townsend welcomed NRMA’s support for their initiative and called for safety measures to be rolled out across the country.

“Safety in schools zones needs to be top of mind for communities across Australia. We are very pleased our initiative to ban the parking of large vehicles has the support of the NRMA and motorists nation-wide,” she said.

“Ultimately, we want to see national legislation that bans the parking of oversize vehicles in schools zones during school zone times which operate from 8am to 9.30am in the morning and 2.30pm and 4pm in the afternoon on school days.”

Have your say: Do you think large objects such as trucks, caravans, motorhomes and advertising trailers should be banned in school zones?

See: www.mynrmacommunity.com/motoring/2014/07/03/speak-out-large-objects-in-school-zones-a-safety-hazard/

Image courtesy NRMA

 EPIRB PRODUCT SAFETY RECALL

If you own a GME Accusat EPIRB model MT400, MT401 or MT403 then please click on the link below to check whether your beacon is subject to this recall notice.

www.recalls.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/1061215

Please share this with anyone you know who might have an affected beacon.

A properly registered, GPS encoded, 406 Mhz distress beacon is still your best chance of being rescued in an emergency.

 Hazard Reduction Burn C/- Ingleside Rural Fire Brigade

‎Ingleside‬ with assistance from Beacon Hill & Tumbledown Dick Rural Fire Brigades successfully conducted a Hazard Reduction Burn at the corner of Cicada Glen & Chilterns Rds in Ingleside on Saturday July 12th, 2014. This burn will provide asset protection to properties to the East. 

Thanks to the 30 volunteers from the ‪NSWRFS‬ that assisted.

 Josh McKnight wins Italian Moth Championships

Tuesday, 08 July 2014 

Josh McKnight sailing under RPAYC burgee has just won the Open Italian national moth champion on Lake Garda Italy with 7 x 1st places out of 9 races.

This was against a strong fleet of 34 competitors. 

For more details go to www.foilingweek.com/for-sailors/results/

Congratulations Josh!

Josh McKnight - AJG Pic.

NBI Respite, Recreation, Support

Do you remember when we asked you to take pictures of Dick Smith products in your pantry and send them to Dick Smith Foundation. Well thanks to you and your pictures we received a donation of $10,000 from Dick and on Tuesday we were presented with a cheque by the great man himself. 

A Current Affair covered the event, we didn't get much airtime but if you look closely at the 43 second mark you might catch a glimpse of Trish and Kathy who accepted the cheque... HERE 

 Congratulations to John Brogden AM

The National Board of the Australian Institute of Company Directors has announced that John Brogden AM MAICD has been appointed as our new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director.

John, who will take up the role early next year, succeeds John Colvin FAICD after his six outstanding years at the helm of our Institute.

The responsibility of appointing the next leader of Company Directors has demanded and received the most rigorous and professional recruitment process.

It has produced an exceptional result in John Brogden, who brings a wealth and diversity of experience as an executive, director and chairman in the commercial and the not-for-profit sectors, and as an outstanding business leader.

We are very pleased that he has agreed to join us to lead the Institute into the next phase of its growth.

In appointing John we will, I am sure, build on the success achieved by John Colvin, whose leadership has produced six years of continuous growth against every key measure to the considerable benefit of our members and, through you, our society.

I would like to thank board members for their important role in choosing our next CEO, and particularly Elizabeth Proust AO FAICD and Anne O'Donnell FAICD, who have led the selection process with great wisdom and dedication.

John has told me that he is excited to have the opportunity to lead one of Australia's leading business organisations.

He believes that the quality of governance and the leadership of company directors and boards continue to be critical to development of Australia's economy and society and that the Institute has a vital role to play in ensuring quality laws, principles and practices, as well as public and stakeholder awareness of good governance.

John Brogden has had an outstanding career as a political, business and community leader, and as a contributor to the wider Australian society.

He is currently the CEO of the Financial Services Council (FSC), which represents Australia's retail and wholesale funds management businesses, superannuation funds, life insurers, financial advisory networks, trustee companies and public trustees.

John was previously CEO of health insurer Manchester Unity, which he successfully merged with HCF in 2008. From 2006 to 2009, he was the Chairman of Abacus Australian Mutuals, the body representing Australia's credit unions and building societies.

John is the currently Chairman of Lifeline Australia, UrbanGrowth NSW, Furlough House Retirement Village and The Broken Bay Institute. He is a Director of NIA Limited (health.com.au) and a member of the NAB Advisory Council for Corporate Responsibility.

He is also the Patron of Kookaburra Kids, Sailability Pittwater, Bilgola Surf Lifesaving Club and Avalon Beach Surf Lifesaving Club.

From 1996 to 2005 John was the Member for Pittwater in the NSW Parliament. In 2002, at the age of 33, he became Leader of the Opposition - the youngest person ever to hold the role and to lead a major political party in Australia.

He holds a Master of Public Affairs from the University of Sydney.

John is a Member of the Order of Australia (AM), recognising his significant service to the community through representational roles with social welfare organisations, particularly Lifeline, to the business and financial sectors and to the Parliament of New South Wales.

We are fortunate to have secured a leader of John's experience and standing and I am sure you will make him feel welcome once he arrives.

Michael Smith FAICD

Chairman

Australian Red Cross Mobile Blood Service – Avalon

July 14th to 16th - 9am - 2pm

Roll up your sleeves and give blood at Avalon. Please bring photo I.D. with you, have a good sized breakfast or lunch and have 3 or 4 glasses of water or juice in the hours before you donate. Call 13 95 96 or visit www.donateblood.com.au for more information.

 Growing Your Export Workshop

1st Aug 2014 - 8:30am - 2:30pm

First in the program of workshops at Bayview Golf Club. NSW Trade & Investment has developed a program to boost the capability of new and existing exporters. We welcome and encourage participation by you and your colleagues in these events. The Bayview Golf Club Workshop is one of the first in the program.

The 4 Export Modules will cover:

Module 1: Export Planning

Module 2: Resourcing for Export

Module 3: Export Marketing

Module 4: Visiting the Target Market

Also – a local "Case Study of a successful exporter" and Joanna Oakey from Aspect Legal

Who should attend? Businesses looking to develop a growth plan to extend beyond the domestic market Potential exporters and new Exporters Existing exporters that would like a refresher or like to attend to learn about markets, IP issues etc

At: Bayview Golf Club

Contact: Paul William-Smith Phone: 9970 1187

Register Online 

 Invite to Meeting Sunday 20/7/14 4pm-6pm - People interested in Forming Co-op to lease Clubhouse for Arts/Cultural Centre & Teahouse & Art /Ceramic Workshops 

Avalon Beach Arts and Cultural Precinct Group‏

Lorrie Morgan PCA Inc., Linda Haigh Pittwater Artist Trail and I (Ros Marsh) recently met with Council to discuss the possibility for Community Leasing of Avalon Golf Clubhouse for an Arts/ Cultural Centre. Council is interested in our ideas but wants us to submit a tender & plan for usage. 

The space available on the upper level has disabled parking/toilets and easy access to the building. A wheelchair friendly pathway would need to be constructed to access the lower level which is suitable for workshops. 

The space entails a fully equipped commercial kitchen. A bar/foyer area which may be shared with the golfers.  A lounge and dining space for Exhibitions/meetings talks etc café/retail outlet for  Art/Craft.

The front & side of the building is subject to Heritage orders but the dining area is a recent addition and Council is open to proposals for an extension at the rear.

The lower level has a large cold store, a store room suitable for clay/equipment storage, a work space with large sinks etc & concrete floors which would be ideal for a glazing area or paint craft clean up. On the other side is a locker room with toilets and shower which could be converted to another art workroom. 

At the rear is a concrete slab with steel mesh enclosure & 3 phase power connected which would be ideal for ceramics workshop/kiln area. 

To the North of the Building is a grassed area which would be superb for an outdoor café-tearoom.

There is also a heritage listed enclosed Gazebo which is deteriorating but with the Assistance of a Heritage Architect could be restored for functional use.

The company who has the Management Lease for the Golf Course is very community minded and Council thinks they may be open to accommodating shared spaces around the building which would benefit the art and golf users.

There is potential for a community garden as long as the planting is not something that would seed onto the Golf Greens. 

Council will want some return on the building. As well as money  that may include the Group providing materials, professional consultants & trades & undertaking labour for  repairs & maintenance & /or improvements to of the building. 

The lease would have to be between Pittwater Council & a Legal entity-either a NFP Incorporated Association or Co-operative.

If we had 100 people willing to commit say $400 p.a & volunteer a number of days p.a set up to run the space I think it could be a viable option.

The first 12 months would give an opportunity to develop business plans and establish a café/garden, the exhibition space, sales outlet, the workshop areas & course programs that would need to be run on a commercially viable basis with paid staff but feeding back into a NFP and hopefully returning funds for further infrastructure development and  expansion of Arts/Cultural Programs.

We could also look at residency programs, sponsorship  & Grants available over this period. 

If you are interested in committing to the co-op or have ideas for how it could succeed please join us on Sunday 20/7/14 at the Avalon Recreation Centre from 4pm -6pm.

I have booked the large exhibition space on the ground floor in anticipation of having a large turn out!!!!

Hope to see you there.

Please RSVP to Ros Marsh ASAP before 17/7/14

Email: cockatoocastle@bigpond.com

 Working towards rollout of 20 Million Trees 

Media release, 4 July 2014, The Hon. Greg Hunt MP, Minister for the Environment

Work towards the commencement of the 20 Million Trees Programme is continuing to progress and the Government is now seeking feedback from organisations who may wish to be involved in the rollout. 

The 20 Millions Trees Programme is a key Coalition election commitment and will see large-scale revegetation projects delivered across the country. 

Projects will include re-establishing green corridors and urban forests, increasing and improving habitat to support our threatened species, and creating greener spaces to improve the liveability of our cities and towns. 

The Australian Government has committed $50 million over four years to the 20 Million Trees Programme with funding to commence from 2014-15. It's an important part of the National Landcare Programme and will deliver real environmental benefits in local communities. 

20 Million Trees will be implemented through a combination of competitive grants to land managers and local community groups, and a tender process for larger-scale Service Providers. 

The Government is now inviting submissions from interested parties on how best to deliver large-scale tree planting in a way that best utilises industry expertise, knowledge and capacity to achieve environmental conservation outcomes and community engagement. 

Suitable Service Providers are encouraged to take this opportunity to make a difference to the environment by helping the Government to reach its target of planting 20 million trees by 2020. 

Submissions received through this Request for Information process will inform a subsequent Request for Tender (RFT) process that will invite potential delivery partners to apply to become a 20 Million Tree Service Provider. 

There will be opportunity for the community to be involved in consultation for the 20 Million Trees Programme as part of wider consultation for the National Landcare Programme in the coming months. 

For more information on 20 Million Trees, visitwww.environment.gov.au/land/20-million-trees 

For more information on how to make a submission, visitwww.tenders.gov.au 

What is the 20 Million Trees Programme?

The Australian Government will work with the community to plant 20 million trees by 2020, to re-establish green corridors and urban forests.

The Programme has four strategic objectives:

20 million trees – 20 million trees and associated understorey planted by 2020.

Environmental conservation – support local environmental outcomes by improving the extent, connectivity and condition of native vegetation that supports native species (including threatened species and threatened ecological communities)

Community engagement – work cooperatively with the community

Carbon reduction – contribute to Australia reducing its greenhouse gas emissions.

The 20 Million Trees Programme is part of the National Landcare Programme(link is external), and will complement and align with other Australian Government environmental initiatives, such as the Green Army and the work of the Threatened Species Commissioner.

The Australian Government has committed $50 million over four years to the 20 Million Trees Programme, with funding to commence from 2014-15. The programme will involve competitive grants, delivered by individuals and organisations, and larger-scale plantings, delivered by national service providers.

How do I get involved?

Competitive Grants

Round One of the 20 Million Trees Programme will invite community groups, landholders and other land managers to apply for grant funding to establish native tree plantings in urban, peri-urban and regional environments across Australia. More information about how to apply for funding under the 20 Million Trees Programme Round One will be released in the coming months.

National Service Provider

The Programme will also involve larger-scale revegetation delivered by one or more service providers contracted by the Australian Government.

A Request for Information on the national service provider component is now open and will close on 31 July 2014.

Please refer to the AusTender website  for the coversheet and Request for Information document.

Further information

Please email 20milliontrees@environment.gov.au

 Humph Hall – Update on Pozible Crowd-funding campaign

Thank you so much to all of you who have contributed so generously to the 'Help Humph Hall' Pozible Crowd-funding campaign to raise money to help towards the cost of the additional fire safety requirements which have to be met before Humph Hall is allowed to open its doors to you - the public - once again.

The campaign has raised $14,430 so far - which is getting close to covering the total cost.  

Most of the work has already been done including the treatment of the chairs, the installation of an integrated smoke alarm system and the installation of additional emergency lights and exit signs. All that remains is the new fire exit door which will be completed early next week enabling us to go ahead with Ann & Charlie Heymann's harp workshop & concert on Saturday 19th July.

But, please remember that by far the best way of showing your support for what Gial & I are doing with our home, is by attending the wonderful events that we have here.

N.B. If your contribution entitles you to a certificate, free CD/DVD and/or Humph Hall T Shirt don't forget to collect it/them next time you come here.

Ann & Charlie Heymann (US) A workshop & concert presented by two renowned US musicians

Ann & Charlie Heymann are visiting Australia as part of the 12th World Harp Congress taking place in Sydney later this month.

Ann is the world's foremost performer on the wire-strung traditional Irish/Scotish harp that disappeared 200 years ago.  Charlie sings lilting songs in Gaelic & English and plays traditional instruments including cittern, bodhran, button accordion & bones.

Ann & Charlie have been researching the Gaelic Harp and its traditions for over 30 years and have toured throughout the Western world teaching, lecturing and performing alongside such notables as Allan Macdonald, Altan & The Chieftains.

Their visit to Humph Hall offers the chance for you to learn about ancient traditions, meet the instruments & bathe in the music.

Coming up at Humph Hall 

Rachel Collis & band - 7pm, Friday 8th August

Martin Pearson - 3pm, Sunday 24th Aug

humphhall.org

 Sydney International Boat Show - Welcome & How Easy It Is To Get Around in 2014 

There is a change on the horizon and the 47th Sydney International Boat Show will be like no other. While the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre undergoes a major upgrade over the next three years, the Sydney International Boat Show will move its undercover exhibits to the interim facility that has been specially built at the historic working port known as Glebe Island.

The new Sydney Exhibition Centre @ Glebe Island is a fully functioning exhibition facility designed to accommodate world class exhibitions.

The spectacular Cockle Bay Marina, always a show highlight, remains on its traditional site in Darling Harbour.

 Life Interrupted: Personal Diaries from World War One - Free exhibition in State Library of NSW Galleries - 5 July - 21 September 2014

They were teachers, farmers, clerks and architects. Some were still at school. They came from cities, regional towns and the bush. From August 1914 Australian men and women kissed their loved ones goodbye and enlisted in a war they knew little about.

With pride, they went to war with just a few months of battle training under their belts. Some would not return home; those who did were changed forever. view ww1.sl.nsw.gov.au/events/life-interrupted-personal-diaries-world-war-i

 Independent Director – Surf Life Saving Australia

Surf Life Saving exists to save lives, create great Australians and build better communities. As one of Australia's most respected organisations and world leader in lifesaving, coastal public safety, rescue and education services we embody and inspire a truly positive and uniquely Australian attitude to life through our members and clubs.

We are looking for a highly experienced professional with demonstrated experience within finance, risk management and corporate governance to join the SLSA Board. The SLSA Board meets six times a year.

This independent director position will require suitable skills and experiences to be able to advise the SLSA board on matters of financial strategy, financial statements, financial systems integrity, governance and business risk ensuring the board can fulfil its fiduciary and stewardship obligations. 

Skills and experiences for consideration for the appointment of this independent director position are;

Finance, business, commercial, risk management or management, preferably with knowledge of the Corporations Act and Not-for-Profit compliance in the areas of corporate governance and directors’ duties and responsibilities

Experience of advising boards on financial, risk and compliance and ability to establish and maintain associated processes and internal control systems.

Have the ability to contribute to the Finance, Audit and Compliance Committee

Be able to demonstrate a major achievement or contributions in previous roles

Understanding of the strategic planning process

Previous experience as a Director of a company or organisation

Experience in or exposure to surf life saving is not a requirement for this position, however the successful candidate must be prepared to gain an understanding and knowledge of the role and activities and business of SLSA.

The term of this position is 2 years. While this position is not remunerated, expenses incurred in carrying out the duties associated with this position will be reimbursed.

Applications, including a resume and a response to the above skills and experiences required close at 5:00pm on Friday 25 July 2014. 

Applications addressing the skills and experience outlined above and resume should be addressed confidentially to:

SLSA Nominations Committee

Surf Life Saving Australia

nmongan@slsa.asn.au

Sports Development Officer – Surf Life Saving New South Wales

This is an exciting opportunity for an individual to further develop their skills in sports management working for an iconic Australian organisation. The right applicant will be able to demonstrate they can provide support to the Sports Manager ensuring effective implementation of development programs for surf sports athletes and coaches throughout NSW.

Surf Life Saving NSW is the state’s peak water safety and rescue organisation and one of the largest volunteer movements in the country. We support more than 76,000 members in 129 clubs to serve the community through the provision of beach patrol services, coastal emergency response, training and education, sports and member development.

Duties:

Coordinate Talented Athlete, High Performance and various athlete development programs

Coordinate all NSW and NSW Country representative teams

Assist with the logistics of surf sports events across NSW

Essential Experience Required

Previous administration skills

An understanding of current athlete development, grass roots programs and high performance principles

Project management experience

Flexible attitude to work as regular weekend work required

Understanding of Surf Life Saving competition and experience in a similar role is an advantage.

Location: Surf Life Saving NSW Headquarters – Belrose

Position: Full time

Closing date for applications: 25 July 2014

Download the position description. 

How to Apply

Explore our website www.surflifesaving.com.au

Send through a current copy of your resume and cover letter (no more than 3 pages)

Review the position description and include a written response to each item of the selection criteria (no more than 3 pages)

For further information on this role please contact Human Resources on (02) 9471 8017. Applications should be sent toemployment@surflifesaving.com.au. Successful candidates will be contacted for interviews following the closing date.

Pittwater Plans to Deliver 

Pittwater Council is set to deliver a wide range of services for the 2014-2018 period, following the adoption of its Delivery Program and Budget at the Extraordinary Meeting held on 30 June 2014.

Broadly speaking, the four-year plan aims to maintain and improve roads, footpaths, drainage, public buildings and other community facilities such as wharves and sportsfields.

Pittwater Council’s General Manager Mark Ferguson said the budget results for 2014-2015 reflected an operating surplus of $2,061,290 and a collective works budget on Council’s assets of $31 million.

Mr Ferguson said Pittwater’s unique landscape provides us with a broad diversity of assets and infrastructure to maintain and build.

“This is identified in the highlights of this year’s budget, which are listed below.” Mr Ferguson added.

$5.3 million for a road and bridge at Macpherson Street, Warriewood

Approximately $2.4 million for streetscape maintenance

$2.2 million on building improvements

Over $1.85 million for a comprehensive upgrade of Palm Beach wharf and upgrades to other public wharves

$1.7 million for drainage works

$1.1 million for bushland protection

Approximately $1 million for coastal and flood protection

$1.2 million for footpaths with a heightened emphasis on connectivity between village centres and public transport

Commercial Centre maintenance and improvements of $921,000 including Elanora Heights Shopping Centre

Reserve maintenance and improvements of $2.57 million including the new amenities at the Sector 8 playground in Warriewood.

Mayor, Jacqui Townsend acknowledged the significant contribution from the Pittwater community during the exhibition process of the Delivery Program.

“During the 28 day exhibition period we received 55 submissions, 19 of which were via Social Media.

“During the revision process Council were able to consider these submissions and make some relevant changes to the Draft Program, which were a direct result from community input and feedback.

You can view the adopted Delivery Program and Budget together with the Fees & Charges for the 2014-2015 period.

$1 Million Grant Funds New Household Vegetation Bins 

Pittwater Council has received grant funding of over $1 million from the NSW Environmental Trust for improvements to mainland household vegetation collection services, due to start in late 2014.

The grant will enable Council to deliver 240 litre lime green lidded vegetation bins to each mainland household for use with the vegetation collection services. One bin will be supplied to each single domestic dwelling. Multi-unit dwellings will be supplied bins depending on the space available and demand.

Mayor Jacqui Townsend said the grant will enable Pittwater Council to deliver a regular and reliable garden waste initiative that will significantly benefit the Pittwater community.

“The new system will provide home dwellers with a more regular and more streamlined garden waste service, suited to the needs of individuals.

“Each home will receive one bin free of charge and residents wanting a second bin will have the option to buy one or use an existing lime green lidded bin. Council also understands that some residents don’t want nor need a vegetation bin and will be able to opt out,” says Mayor Townsend.

“For mainland Pittwater households, the new collection service will bring about more frequent kerbside services – from eight times a year to a fortnightly service. The new bins will also significantly improve the amenity of Pittwater streetscapes.”

“It’s great for the people of Pittwater and the environment,” she said. “The new bigger bins mean residents are less likely to put garden waste in general garbage bins, reducing the likelihood of organic waste becoming landfill.”

New vegetation bins and the fortnightly kerbside service will be rolled out by late 2014 with exact start dates to be confirmed. Once underway, no bundles, crates or other containers of vegetation will be collected, only what is contained in the lime green lidded bins.

Residents who currently have the 240 litre vegetation bin with lime green lids may continue to use them. For those who are using other types of 240 litre wheelie bins will have the option to swap the lid free of charge. Up to two 240 litre vegetation bins are allowed per collection from each property.

General Manager Mark Ferguson said Council is collaborating closely with the Council’s waste contractor United Resource Management to manufacture new bins and design a new waste collection zoning system that best caters for the community.

An information pack and new waste calendar will be delivered to residents with the bin roll out.

The introduction of the bin only based service aligns with the NSW Environment Protection Authority’s (EPA) preferred resource recovery practices and proposed regional waste solutions.

Pittwater Council acknowledges that this Local Government Organics Collection Service Grant Program project was supported by the Environmental Trust as part of the NSW EPA’s Waste Less, Recycle More initiative, funded from the waste levy.

Only vegetation waste is allowed to be presented in the 240L lime green lidded bin. Council encourages the continued use of home compost bins and worm farms to reuse and recycle food organic waste.

Dog Day by the Bay 2014

Dog Day by the Bay 2014  will be held at Rowland Reserve, Bayview on Sunday 21 September 2014 between 10am and 3pm. 

Highlights of the day include demonstrations and education sessions by dog expert and elite dog trainer Steve Austin. Steve will provide owners with tips on dealing with aggressive pets, behavioural problems, excessive barking and the importance of training. Steve will also bring his dogs on the day so you can see them in action and hear all about his exciting work training detection dogs around the world.

Pet Problems Solved with Dr Jo Righetti - Thunder...Lighting and even just being alone when we go off to work can make dogs suffer a range of serious anxiety problems. It can be VERY frightening for them! Dr Jo Righetti will be available to help solve your pet’s anxiety problems on the day. Dr Jo is an animal behaviourist with a background in zoology, a PhD in animal behaviour and 15 years business experience helping people and pets.

The popular MCs Brian and Kaye from Essential Pet will also keep us entertained throughout the day.

This year in kids’ corner we are excited to have Dr Crunch from Crocodile Encounters. Kids can touch and learn about reptiles and Dr Crunch can provide advice on what to do if your pet brings wildlife home.

Dog Day by the Bay runs from 10am to 3pm and other activities include agility demonstrations, education talks, children’s activities in the kids’ corner and lots of competitions to enter and win great prizes including the very popular Canine Fancy Dress Parade kicking off proceedings at 10am.

If you would like to lodge an on-line application form to attend as a stallholder please follow this link. Please note applications close Friday 22 August 2014.

If you are a food vendor please contact the education team on to 9970 1194 or email ECEducation_Team@pittwater.nsw.gov.au to discuss your application before submitting an application form

 Anzac Centenary Arts and Culture Fund Public Grants Program 

Senator the Hon George Brandis QC, Minister for the Arts and Senator the Hon Michael Ronaldson, Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Centenary of ANZAC 

Applications are now open for the Australian Government's $2 million Anzac Centenary Arts and Culture Fund Public Grants Program.

The Minister for the Arts, Senator the Hon George Brandis QC and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Centenary of ANZAC, Senator the Hon Michael Ronaldson said that the creative projects funded through this program will commemorate the Centenary of the First World War and the service and sacrifice of Australians in all war efforts.

"The Anzac Centenary Arts and Culture Fund Public Grants Program will enhance our understanding of the Anzac legacy by assisting artists in the development, production, presentation, exhibition or performance of arts and culture projects," Senator Brandis said.

"Communities, individuals, organisations and artists from across the nation have an opportunity to create high quality arts and cultural activities that will form part of the most significant period of commemoration in our nation's history.

"Throughout history, it is the artist with their unique vision and interpretation of the human condition who has captured the spirit and substance of momentous events and daily ritual which, in turn, help inform our thinking and understanding of the past.

"I'm sure that the observations and reflections of Australian artists, about such a significant time in our nation's history, will create a memorable and enduring legacy for the benefit of all Australians."

Senator Ronaldson said the grants will enable the use of creativity by Australian communities, cultural institutions and individuals to explore the Anzac Centenary in a range of ways. Grants of up to $100,000 for national, state and territory cultural institutions and $50,000 for artists, organisations and community groups are available for a wide range of arts and culture projects.

"Artists are encouraged to explore any aspect of Australia's military history including Australian involvement in any war or through peacekeeping efforts," Senator Ronaldson said.

"The Centenary of Anzac will mark a Century of Service, encompassing all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations in which Australians have been involved. It will be the most significant period of commemoration in our nation's history and the Abbott Government is committed to providing opportunities for all Australians to participate"

Applicants are encouraged to read the guidelines atwww.arts.gov.au/anzac before applying.

Applications close at 5.00pm AEST on Wednesday 10 September 2014.

Art Competition Opens to Celebrate Return of Imag_ne 

Pittwater’s popular IMAG_NE sculpture has returned as a permanent fixture outside Mona Vale Library on Thursday 19 June 2014. 

Council’s Place Manager Melinda Hewitt said Emma Anna’s sculpture was intended to be a temporary initiative but due to its popularity, Council decided to commission it as a permanent piece.

Ms Hewitt said the sculpture was installed as part of the Pittwater Enliven program which seeks to improve the vibrancy of local streets and public spaces.

“IMAG_NE is composed of large wordplay letters that spell out the word ‘imagine’, although the second ‘I’ is missing. This absence operates as a blank canvass, inviting the audience to physically engage with the work in order to complete the word,” said Ms Hewitt.

To celebrate the return of the sculpture to Pittwater, local school students are being invited to be part of an ‘Imagine’ art competition.

Students should submit artworks that respond to the theme of ‘imagine’, with prizes awarded across three categories:

• Individual (Primary)

• Individual (Secondary)

• Group/School

Each of the winning categories will receive a $100 book voucher at Berkelouw books.

Participants need to submit their work electronically by 18 July 2014, with digital records of drawings, paintings and sculptures encouraged, along with photographs and digital illustrations.

A selection panel will create a shortlist of works which will be printed and exhibited at Mona Vale Library from 11 to 24 August.

For more details on the art competition visitwww.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/enliven/whatson or call Zoe Johnson on 9970 1171 or email zoe_johnson@pittwater.nsw.gov.au

 Australian Sailing Youth Team ready to race at ISAF Youth Sailing World Championship in Portugal (12 - 18 July 2014)

Cora Zillich, Friday, 11 July 2014

The 2014 ISAF Youth Sailing World Championship will officially open tomorrow, Saturday, 12 July, in Tavira, Portugal.  Twelve young Australian sailors and three coaches contesting eight classes are part of the 370 sailors from a record 68 nations who will start racing out of Club Náutico de Tavira on Monday, 14 July 2014. 

Australia has a strong history at the ISAF Youth Sailing World Championships and with only two athletes returning from last year’s team, the 2014 Australian Sailing Youth Team is a young and new-look team representing five states. 

Team manager Brendan Todd says the team is ready to go:  “We have all arrived safely and the team is very excited to start racing on Monday.  We have used this week to familiarise ourselves with the venue, acclimatise and set-up the boats, which are supplied to us by the organisers and get some training sessions in before it all starts.”

About the team he adds:  “This year’s Youth Team is a young team, which will need time and experience to develop, but I believe we have selected promising young sailors who can follow in the footsteps of Australian Sailing’s current senior athletes.  Historically, many of those who compete in the ISAF World Youth Championships go on to participate in and succeed at Olympic and World Championship level as e.g. our Olympic Champions and former Youth World Champions Elise Rechichi and Nathan Outteridge have shown.  Their success is a great motivation for our young squad.”

Ten athletes will make their Youth Worlds debut for Australia in Portugal.  Tasmanian Jock Calvert is one of the returning athletes to the team and will be competing his second World Championship in the 293 windsurfing class.  Lara O’Brien from Queensland will be racing the female windsurfer event. 

“It’s cool to be part of the more experienced members.  Last year there were only two people who had not been to a Youth Worlds so this year it’s the opposite and I’m sure it will be fun and we’ll all learn a lot”, Jock Calvert said about being one of two returners to the team.

In the RS:X Boys fleet in Tavira only eight sailors return for their second ISAF Youth Worlds with many fresh young faces entering the mix. 

Having been part of the Australian Sailing Youth Team last year, seventeen-year-old Lachlan Gilmour (WA) is also one of the veterans on the team.  Gilmour will add his experience from last year’s World Championship to the team in the 420 class together with helm Emerson Carlberg (WA). 

“I’m very excited and happy to be part of this year’s Youth World’s team. 

I have been looking to go for a while and it’s fantastic to have the opportunity to be here this year”, said fifteen-year-old Carlberg about the opportunity to race at his first World Youth Championship.

In the 420 girls fleet another Western Australian crew with Nia Jerwood and Lisa Smith will represent Australia. 

Also part of the team in Portugal is 16-year old Laser Radial sailor Alistair Young (WA), while Victorian Anna Philip will race the female Laser Radial. 

New South Welshmen Jim Colley and Shaun Connor will be representing Australia in the 30-boat fleet of the 29er class, while Victorians Michelle Bursa and Chelsea Haynes will contest in the Hobie 16 multihull fleet, which has attracted sixteen teams, including several former medallists.

Three experienced coaches Brendan Todd (NSW), Belinda Stowell OAM (WA) and Larry Cargill (NSW) accompany the team.

FUND RAISING STALLS FOR MONA VALE HOSPITAL AUXILIARY FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 2014 

July 18th: Stall, Mona Vale hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft, books

August 2nd: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft

August 2nd: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen, 8am to 4pmAugust 15th:  Stall, Mona Vale hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft, books

September 5th: Stall, ANZ Bank, Avalon Parade,Avalon, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft

September 6th: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft

September 13th: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen, 8am to 4pm                       

September 19th: Stall, Mona Vale hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft

October 4th: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing, craft

October 11th: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen, 8am to 4pm                       

October 17th: Stall, Mona Vale hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft

November 1st: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft

November 8th: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen, 8am to 4pm                       

November 21st: Stall, Mona Vale hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft

December 6th: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft

Zonta Trivia Night Saturday 19 July 2014

“Sleuths and Spies”

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc are holding their annual fundraising Trivia evening in the Mona Vale Memorial Hall on Saturday 19 July 2014 at 7pm.  Members of the local community are invited. The theme of the evening is “Sleuths and Spies” with some of the questions reflecting this theme.  Guests are invited to dress with the theme in mind, decorate their table or just come along and enjoy the fun!

 All funds raised will support local and international projects of the Zonta Club of Northern Beaches.  The Club supports local women and girls in need through education support as well as specific needs support to women at local high schools, the Women’s Refuge and the Manly Women’s Shelter.  International projects include assembly of simple birthing kits for distribution in developing countries, and support to two schools in South Africa and Kenya.  The making of breast care cushions and their and distribution  to local hospitals is also a major activity.  These projects can only continue with effective fundraising events.

The volunteer Quiz Master team on the evening has been assisting on these evenings for several years and runs similar events across Sydney for various organisations.  They are always relaxed evenings of great fun with interesting prizes.  Everyone is very welcome. Cost is $15 per person.  Bookings are required with payment at the door.

To make a booking contact Chris on 0449 703 318 or email zontanb@gmail.com  Book for yourself, your friends, or a whole table of 10! All the details will be sent to you

 Plastic Free July - it's as easy as this!

The NSW Government Gazette 

The New South Wales Government Gazette is the official channel for the circulation of Proclamations, Regulations, Government Notices, Private Legal Advertisements andther matters required to be published in the Government Gazette under the Statutes of New South Wales Government.

The NSW Government Gazette contains:

New South Wales Legislation, Notices (public and official announcements), and Official Government Notices from the New South Wales Government and Local Government Agencies, Cities and Shires. The NSW Government Gazette is available online on the N.S.W. Government website from 2pm each Friday.

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

Members and supporters of the Pittwater Friends of Soibada departed Australia early this morning for the lovely village of Soibada to further projects they have recently published in this magazine.

We look forward to sharing an update with you on their prgress when they return - god luck to all involved!

 Pittwater YHA And Sustainability

YHA's Sustainable Hostel Fund is kicking into action at Pittwater YHA. Can you guess? And thanks to those who have contributed to the fund. 

Yes!; Pittwater YHA's first hot water heated by the sun. Next thing for the guests to try. 

Book now to join our September bush regeneration weekend. And stay for the birthday celebration on Sunday - Its YHA's 75th year in Australia!

Pittwater YHA

NAIDOC 2014

Neil Evers explains NAIDOC: Serving Country: Centenary & Beyond

Then Adam Cryer, Aboriginal Child Youth & Family – Community Facilitator, Hornsby Shire Council will show a Mini Short Film Festival: Spiritual Connections, Rainbow Serpent's Cave, Devil's Rock.

As part of the ‘Our Place’ Project, the three short films feature Aboriginal stories that are told by descendants of the Durag & Guringai people, and are associated with the Hornsby Shire. 

Monday July 14th at 7.30pm

Mona Vale Memorial Hall, 1606 Pittwater Rd, Mona Vale

All welcome - this is a Free night (Your Donations are welcome) including light supper

Hosted by ASG-MWP (Aboriginal Support Group – Manly Warringah Pittwater)  www.asgmwp.net

 Amazing Grace Christened

The yacht in the Amazing Grace Raffle was Christened today (12.7.2014) at Middle Harbour Yacht Club by Premier Mike Baird - fantastic to think that someone will win this yacht for $100!http://winahanseyacht.gofundraise.com.au/

 Cannes Reserve Resident Meeting

16th Jul 2014 - 5pm - 6pm

A meeting of Cannes Reserve residents is going to be held to provide an update on the current status of works within Cannes Reserve.

The meeting will be addressed by representatives of the Office of Environment and Heritage.

At: Room 4 (upstairs), Avalon Recreation Centre, 59 Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon

Contact: Jodi Harvey 9970 1366

 hc.r : actuality and reality

Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th July, 2014 - from 10am to 4pm.

Avalon Community Centre 59A Old Barrenjoey Rd, Avalon Beach 2107

Talks will be given on the human condition and reality from 11:30am to 12 and from 2:30 to 3:00pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

The human condition as a projected actuality will be demonstrated on interested individuals periodically throughout the exhibition. 

Artworks depict the projected actuality of the human condition and its relation with reality, the whole body alive in creation. They will be on display and for sale.

In text: hc.r; 'cornered settings to other side'

www.gendohcr.com/

Lynda Hills New Website

Our resident Astrologer, whose accuracy is astounding, has launched a new website this week - crammed with daily updates, readings you can have done and a dearth of information.

Please have a look. Lynda has also updated her page for the forthcoming fortnight - Congratulations Lynda - a Huge Project done very well indeed!

www.sabiansymbols.net

 Avalon Quilters Winners at Sydney Quilt Show

Congratulations to all entrants and winners at the Sydney Quilt Show, but, especially to four of our group who won prizes. Anne Perry, Carolyn Jones,Mal Bell, and Kate Thomas.

Pittwater Artists Out and About

Meredith Scott at Sydney Craft and Quilt Fair 2014

Pittwater lady Meredith Scott is the Guest Artist for the Craft and Quilt Fair and is exhibiting and touring Australian capitals over the next few months.

This week the Sydney show is on at Glebe Island Convention Centre 9 -13 July.

Meredith will be exhibiting a shell/mosaic art display and hopes that Pittwater visitors to this year's Sydney Craft and Quilt Fair will drop by and say hello! 

'A Celebration Of Life' at Eden Garden 

Ted Blackall (landscapes), Merrilyn Blackall (still lifes) and Silvia Tuccemei (sculptures) are part of the 'A Celebration Of Life' exibition that opened yesterday (Saturday 5th of July) at Eden Garden. Their works are placed so that are all loosely connected by a botanical theme that captures and celebrates our natural environment.

The exhibition runs until the end of July. Eden Gardens is at 307 Lane Cove Road (cnr Fontenoy Road), Macquarie Park - on the left as you drive towards Macquarie Shopping centre and Uni.

'Bench Light' by Ted Blackall

 Beryls Bash 2014 – Few Tickets Left for Club Palm Beach Event

There are still a few tickets available for Beryl’s Bash fundraiser atClub Palm Beach on July 28th. This is always a great evening with lots laughs, wonderful music and good food. Contact Beryl on 9974 4168 or Elyse on  0404 000 123

 New research project to understand sediment in Dee Why lagoon - 10/07/2014

Patricia Gadd analysing a sample on the Itrax core scanner.

The Greater Sydney Local Land Services has awarded Warringah Council more than $45,000 in grant funding to undertake a research project at Dee Why Lagoon and carry out bush regeneration in the Narrabeen Lagoon catchment.

Warringah Council Environment staff will be collaborating with experts from both the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) and UNSW Australia, who together will: 

Take core samples from the bed of Dee Why Lagoon;

Analyse those samples;

Identify the changes that have influenced the lagoon and, of those, which are natural and which are man-made; and

Determine resulting changes in sedimentation rates. 

Warringah Council Mayor, Michael Regan said, “The research will be used to shed light on past and current sedimentation rates in the lagoon and illustrate the impact catchment

development and stormwater have on the ecological condition of Warringah’s lagoons.” 

The project will form part of the five year Dee Why Lagoon Management plan, whereby permanent sediment markers will be installed in Dee Why lagoon for ongoing monitoring. 

“The results of the full project will show how effective our controls have been to date as well as areas that we can potentially improve on,” Mayor Regan said. 

Dr Catherine Chagué-Goff, an environmental geochemist at UNSW Australia and ANSTO, and Ms Patricia Gadd from ANSTO, will analyse data obtained with a tool called the ITRAX core scanner, which is located in ANSTO’s Institute for Environmental Research. 

ANSTO uses this tool and technique to take and analyse samples from all over the world – including wood, soil and lake sediments. 

Scientists using the ITRAX core scanner will generate a geochemical record which gives an understanding of changes in the sample’s chemical composition, which will be overlaid with radiometric and historical data to estimate the changes in sedimentation rates.

“Using ITRAX, we will be able to obtain extraordinarily high resolution information that can pinpoint specific environmental changes and associated variations in sedimentation rates,” Dr Chagué-Goff said. 

“This technology has improved significantly in recent years - where in the past we had to estimate results based on sub-sampling, now we are in a position to get far more specific and accurate information.” 

As part of the grant, more than six hectares of Oxford Creek in the Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment will undergo removal of noxious and aquatic weeds including the Bidens, Cotton Bush, Crofton, Ludwigia, Turkey Rhubarb, Morning Glory, Lantana, Privet, Bamboo, Wild tobacco, Tradescantia, Watsonia, Moth vine, Honeysuckle vine, Madeira vine, Cassia, Coral tree, Blackberry, Asparagus fern, Ginger lily, Pampas grass.

“Protecting our valuable catchments is crucial, and we will be planting 1,000 native shrubs at Oxford Creek, to enhance biodiversity, improve water quality and increase habitat for native animals in the Narrabeen Lagoon catchment,” said Mayor Regan. 

ANSTO and UNSW Australia have commenced core sampling and analysis, and the work is anticipated to take a few months.

See more at:  HERE

 Proposed 10/50 rule to improve bush fire protection

The NSW Parliament has recently passed laws for the NSW Rural Fire Service to prepare a DRAFT 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Code of Practice.  This Code of Practice sets out the proposed framework and provides guidance for owners of land in a designated 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Entitlement Area to:

Clear trees on their property within 10 metres of a home , without seeking approval; and

Clear underlying vegetation such as shrubs (but not trees) on their property within 50 metres of a home, without seeking approval

The DRAFT 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Code of Practice has now been released for public exhibition until 21 July 2014.

A series of frequently asked questions has been published to provide additional information and can be accessed via the link below.

Any feedback on the DRAFT 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Code of Practice can be submitted by email to10.50@rfs.nsw.gov.au or by post to the Manager Community Planning, Locked Bag 17, Granville NSW 2142.

At the close of the exhibition period the laws will be gazetted to come in to effect, but until then all existing restrictions apply.

Once the draft Code of Practice has been finalised an online tool will be provided that will enable you to search for your property to find out if you live in a 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Entitlement Area.

See more at: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/dsp_more_info_latest.cfm?CON_ID=21732

 Child Care Benefit increases TODAY for families Monday 7 July 2014- Media Release;  The Hon Sussan Ley MP, Assistant Minister for Education

The rate of Child Care Benefit families receive will increase from today, Assistant Minister for Education Sussan Ley announced this morning. 

The standard hourly rate of Child Care Benefit families receive will index by the CPI today, as flagged in the Abbott Government’s 2014-15 Budget. 

Ms Ley said this could see up to $264 extra[1] in Child Care Benefit alone for a low-income family with one child in full-time care this year. 

“The Abbott Government is committed to making child care more affordable, flexible and accessible,” Ms Ley said.

“This increase in Child Care Benefit is timely relief for families struggling with the cost of child care after fees skyrocketed 53 per cent during Labor’s six years in government.

“It will help take some of the pressure off working families as we continue to tackle the larger issue of making child care more affordable, flexible and accessible through our Productivity Commission Inquiry.

“This increase in Child Care Benefit is good news for families and bad news for Labor’s ‘misinformation’ campaign.”

Ms Ley said the Abbott Government was increasing overall spending on child care fee assistance to $28.5 billion over the next four years for around a million families.

“We’re also working closely with the states and territories to cut unnecessary and excessive child care red tape to reduce the burden on fees for parents and services alike.”

The Productivity Commission Inquiry’s draft report is due this month, with the final report due in October.

[1] The standard hourly rate of the means-tested Child Care Benefit will rise by the CPI from $3.99 per hour to $4.10 per hour from Monday, July 7 2014. Families earning under $42,997 receive the full rate of Child Care Benefit, while families earning above that amount receive a partial rate that lessens as their income increases. A low-income family eligible for the full rate of Child Care Benefit with one child in care 50 hours per week, 48 weeks per year could receive up to $264 extra CCB in 2014-15, depending on their circumstances.

 VITAL PIECE OF FIRE-FIGHTING HISTORY ACHIEVES STATE  HERITAGE LISTING  

Rob Stokes MP, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Heritage, Minister for the Central Coast, Assistant Minister for Planning , MEDIA RELEASE Wednesday, July 9 

The Number 470 Fire Bell – a treasured piece of NSW’s fire-fighting history –will be listed on the State Heritage Register.  

Heritage Minister Rob Stokes said the bell signified the first attempt to install a centralised fire alarm system in Sydney and in the state. 

“The 470 Bell, which was installed in Bathurst Street, Sydney in 1860, was the largest fire bell in the state at that time and served the metropolitan area for more than a decade,” Mr Stokes said.  

“Four times the size of normal fire bells for the period, the bell was manufactured in Scotland by the Gorbals Brass and Bell Foundry, Glasgow, and imported by Thomas Bown, one of NSW’s first professional fire-fighters.”  

Before 1884, when the Metropolitan Fire Brigade was established under the Fire Brigades Act, protection from fire in Sydney was provided by a group of independent, often volunteer fire brigades.  

Volunteers responded to their brigade’s small local fire bells in case of fire, but often these small bells could not be heard by all fire-fighters, making response to the threat of fires inefficient and unreliable at times.  

A huge step towards solving this problem was taken in 1860 when the Insurance Companies Fire Brigade installed a large 26-inch turret bell, known as the 470 Fire Bell, at its station in Sydney’s Bathurst Street. 

Thomas Bown and his nephew Charles Bown are credited as being founding figures in the evolution of fire-fighting services in NSW.  

Thomas established and led the Insurance Companies Fire Brigade from 1851 to 1867 and Charles was the second Superintendent of the Insurance Companies Brigade, Chairman of the Fire Brigades Board and later of the Fire Commissioners Board. 

Left: Thomas Bown

“The bell’s usefulness as a centralised fire alarm came to an end with the advances in telecommunications during the 1880s,” Mr Stokes said.  

“After the establishment of the Royal Telephone Exchange in 1881 and the Post Master General’s exchange the following year, metropolitan fires were increasingly reported via telephone and the 470 Fire Bell ceased being used in Sydney by 1884. 

MP for Bathurst Mr Paul Toole said the bell found a new lease of life when it was bought by the Bathurst Fire Brigade Board in 1887.  

“The bell found a new home at the Bathurst Fire Station and was used for many decades remaining in situ in its tower in 1963 when the original Bathurst Fire Station was demolished.  

“The bell is held in high esteem by our local fire-fighters and amongst crews across NSW, who regard it as an important part of their history and heritage. 

“The bell has played a central role in the history of fire fighting in the Bathurst area and I commend the efforts of all our firefighters and the commitment they have shown to the bell’s recovery, restoration and reinstatement at Bathurst Fire Station,” Mr Toole said. 

“The NSW Government is committed to conserving, revitalising and caring for places of heritage significance,” Mr Stokes said.

___________________________

The Number 470 Fire Bell is an unpolished, 26 inch (66cm) Turret Bell of 350 lbs and 12 oz (159kg). It bears the inscription; 'John C. Wilson, Glasgow; 1855'. The bell is installed in the remnant original Bathurst fire bell tower. The bell and tower were restored in 2010 by the Bathurst Fire Brigade volunteers.

Learn more here 

 Australian Taxation OfficeTax Scam Warning

Australians should be on the lookout for a nasty phone scam this tax time. The scam intimidates people into paying a fake tax debt over the phone and threatens arrest if they don’t comply. If people receive a call from the ATO and are concerned about providing their personal information over the phone, they should ask for the caller’s name and phone them back through the ATO’s switchboard on 13 28 69. If people think they may have fallen victim to a phone scam, contact the ATO on 1800 060 062 (8.00am–6.00pm, Monday to Friday).

See more at: www.ato.gov.au/Media-centre/Media-releases/Malicious-phone-scam-targets-taxpayers/

 Applications Open For Community Building Partnership Program

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes is encouraging community and sporting groups to apply for funds under the NSW Government’s 2014 Community Building Partnership Program.

The NSW Government has allocated $200,000 to the Pittwater community as part of this highly successful program which provides financial assistance to projects that will deliver lasting and wide-reaching benefits to the community. 

Local projects that have recently benefited from this program include the construction of Mona Vale Hospital’s new Palliative Care Unit and rehabilitation garden, Avalon Beach Surf Club’s major renovations, Narrabeen Sport High School’s new synthetic sports field and Pittwater High School’s new security fencing. 

“This program has supported a huge number of projects throughout our community,” Rob Stokes said today. 

“Pittwater is really fortunate to have a diversity of community groups and associations that could all benefit from an injection of funds. 

“Projects seeking moderate contributions and supported by leveraged funds have been particularly successful in recent years. 

“There are many local sporting and community groups that might not have any other avenues to attract funds and I would especially encourage these groups to consider applying. 

“Applications for the program are now open and will be accepted until Friday 18 July 2014.

“Further details and information on how to apply is available by visiting the program’s websitewww.communitybuildingpartnership.nsw.gov.au .

“I encourage all eligible groups to explore this opportunity and submit their applications,” Rob Stokes said.

 Nominations open for Australian Search and Rescue Award 

Nominations are open for the annual Australian Search and Rescue Award to recognise Australians who have demonstrated an outstanding contribution to search and rescue.  

The Australian Search and Rescue Award has been presented since 1996 by the National Search and Rescue Council, which is made up of representatives from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), Australian Defence Force and state and territory police services.  

This year’s award winner will be announced in October.  

Last year’s winners were Sergeant David Cooper, Officer in Charge at the Lorne Police Station, and Nicholas Costello. Both men assisted in the rescue and recovery of a 12 year old boy who was swept out to sea at St George River, near Lorne, on 9 March, 2013.  

Three crew members of the Victorian Police helicopter were also commended at last year’s awards for their role in rescuing a Russian solo sailor in rough seas approximately 110 nautical miles south east of Mallacoota in April 2013.  

The award is open to individuals or organisations and may relate to a particular event or a sustained contribution to search and rescue over a period of time.  

Any person or organisation can nominate candidates for the award. The National Search and Rescue Council encourages nominations for all types of search and rescue incidents and members of the public are encouraged to submit nominations for anyone from their community that fits the award criteria. 

Nomination forms are available on the National Search and Rescue Council website at natsar.amsa.gov.au/SAR_Award 

Nominations close on Thursday, 31 July 2014. More information on the Australian Search and Rescue Award is also available on the website.  

 Equestrian events enshrined by Australia Post 

 09 July 2014

Australia Post is setting the pace with a new equestrian focused stamp issue featuring the equestrian activities of dressage, cross-country and showjumping, polocrosse and pony club on five domestic base-rate (70c) stamps.

Australia Post Philatelic Manager Michael Zsolt said, "Many Australians enjoy horses through pony clubs, competition and leisure, and these form the focus of this stamp issue."

"We trust collectors and especially equine enthusiasts will jump at the opportunity to collect these equestrian-themed stamps and the associated products."

"Today equestrian disciplines such as dressage, showjumping and eventing are practised at local, state and national levels, and are also represented at the Olympic Games. They showcase very different sets of skills and ability in both the rider and horse and polocrosse is also played at both national and international levels, with the World Cup held every two years," he added.

There are five English riding style events featured in the equestrian stamp issue including:

Dressage - In competition, the rider puts the horse through a predetermined series of movements (or "figures"), performed in a rectangular arena. Dressage requires a high level of control, discipline and precision in both horse and rider.

Cross-country - Eventing combines the disciplines of dressage, cross-country and showjumping. The cross-country component tests the endurance of both horse and rider.

Showjumping - Performed either indoors or out, the horse is put through a tight course of brightly coloured temporary obstacles that it must clear against the clock.

Polocrosse - This sport originated in Australia in 1939, and today there are around 4,000 Australian players and 135 clubs. Polocrosse is a fast-paced team sport that combines speed, strategy, tactics and toughness.

Pony club - Australia has approximately 980 active clubs across all states and territories, which together have around 50,000 members.

Phil Ellett from Creative Ethos designed the stamps which use photographs by Bronwen Healy (dressage) and Julie Wilson (cross-country, showjumping, polocrosse, and pony club).

The products associated with this stamp issue are a first day cover, stamp pack, set of five maxicards, five booklets of 10 x 70c self-adhesive stamps, a roll of 200 x 70c self-adhesive stamps and a booklet collection.

The Equestrian Events stamp issue is available from 15 July 2014 at participating Australia Post retail outlets, via mail order on 1800 331 794 and online at auspost.com.au/stamps while stocks last.

 2014 Mosman Art Prize - call for entries!

Now in its 67th year, the Mosman Art Prize is one of the oldest and most prestigious municipally funded visual art prizes in Australia. It is an annual, acquisitive award for painting sponsored by Mosman Municipal Council. The winner of the first Mosman Art Prize, judged by Lloyd Rees in 1947, was Margaret Olley. Subsequent Prize winners include many prominent artists such as Grace Cossington Smith, Weaver Hawkins, Nancy Borlase, Anthony Galbraith, Elisabeth Cummings, Janet Dawson, Jenny Sages and Tim Johnson. The 2011 Mosman Art Prize was won by Kerry Lester. Past adjudicators of the Prize have also included prominent figures in the Australian art world such as Margaret Preston, John Olsen, Tim Storrier, Edmund Capon and Margaret Olley.

While Mosman Council sponsors the major prize of $30,000 (acquisitive), the Commendation Prize of $5,000 (non-acquisitive) is sponsored by Henry Bucks of Mosman, other sponsors include the Fourth Village Providore Young Emerging Artists’ Award (under 35 years) $2,000 and the Mosman Art Society Viewers’ Choice Award for $1,000. The Mosman Art Gallery is indebted to these sponsors for their generous support and commitment to the Mosman Art Prize.

In addition to the major prize of $30,000, Mosman Council sponsors the Allan Gamble Memorial Art Prize. An accomplished architect and artist, and Mosman Councillor for 24 years, Allan Gamble was the founder of the Mosman Art Prize. Valued at $3,000 (non-acquisitive), the prize will be awarded to the best painting which explores the theme of ‘the built environment’.

$30,000 first prize - over $40,000 in total prize money.

Receipting day for this year's prize is Monday 14 July.

For details go to mosmanartgallery.org.au/exhibitions/2014-mosman-art-prize

 The future of vehicle registration in NSW

The NSW Government has released a public Discussion Paper proposing major changes to light vehicle registration to improve road safety, environmental outcomes and customer convenience.

The ‘Vehicle Registration Initiatives’ Discussion Paperproposes registration changes including:

Incentives to encourage the uptake of safer and greener vehicles

Flexible payment options for continuous pay by the month registration to increase the flexibility and affordability of registration

Other incentives to purchase safer motorcycles

Broad improvements to the fairness of caravan and light trailer charges.

Changes to stamp duty and CTP insurance are also proposed to further encourage the uptake of safer and greener vehicles through pricing incentives.

The reforms are intended to provide the basis for a modern, flexible and sustainable registration system.

The NSW Government is committed to thorough consultation about the proposals, and encouraged members of the public and stakeholders to provide feedback on the options described the Discussion Paper.

Feedback closes on 24 July 2014.

The Discussion Paper and further information is available on theTfNSW Community Engagement website.

Moorings Review Issues Paper 

The Maritime Management Centre (MMC) within Transport for NSW has produced a report covering a range of issues and possible reform options for boat moorings in NSW.

The MMC is seeking feedback on the report including:

the number of moored boats allowed in a particular area

how boat owners should be maintaining a mooring

modernising the regulatory and policy framework

improving priority waiting lists.

Moorings Review Issues Paper (pdf 896KB).

Email your comments to mmc@transport.nsw.gov.au.

The closing date for feedback is 5:00pm Friday, 1 August 2014. See this page for Moorings Review Issues Paper  document. 

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 13/7/2014: click on Logo. 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

DoggieRescue.com

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 

Southern Cross Wildlife Care - Critter of the Month - July 2014 

                                      

Bandicoots have been getting a lot of bad press lately. They have been blamed for the spread of ticks and the spread of salmonella. They are always getting criticised for leaving holes in people’s precious lawns. But did you know, that bandicoots do a lot of good things:

1. By digging holes in your lawn, they are aerating it;

2. By foraging in your lawn, they are eating up all the curl grubs, insect larvae and other lawn-munching pests;

3. They gobble up Funnel-web spiders with relish!

                           

The myth that bandicoots spread ticks is simply not true. They have a relatively small home range compared to other introduced animals such as foxes and feral cats. Foxes and cats wander much further and are more likely to spread ticks than the bandicoots which stay close to their nests. The reason people associate bandicoots with ticks could be because humans tend to pick up ticks most easily in long grass or thick scrub - which happens to be the type of habitat favoured by bandicoots.

Allow us to introduce you to Basil, the long-nosed bandicoot. Such a dear little chap. We’re not entirely sure how Basil got himself into trouble, but he came to us from another vet who’d ascertained that he had a broken jaw and had taken the trouble to wire it for him. 

Basil would be requiring daily high doses of antibiotics and - being a bandicoot - this was not going to be easy for his carer. As such, we decided to put Basil under anaesthetic and put in a cannula through which his antibiotics and daily fluids could be administered, without the need for painful injections etc. 

At the beginning, Basil wouldn’t eat with his wired jaw and he had to be given lots of subcutaneous fluids. Luckily, he soon regained his appetite and began gobbling anything in his path!

                                         

Basil’s jaw remained wired for 3 weeks. He would make a loud “chuff chuff” sound every time we flushed his cannula - expressing his displeasure at being pestered during his naps. We also noticed that Basil had a very loud snore!

                                         

When it was time to remove the wire from his jaw, he was taken back to Dr Howard Ralph for a general anaesthetic.  The wiring was taken out and he had his cannula removed.

This photo shows Basil having a post-operative cuddle with Dr Ralph.

                                         

Bandicoots tend to only live for 2-4 years in the wild. They are territorial and usually solitary. The female stays in a fairly small area to forage and mate, but males have a bigger territory and mark and defend their territory quite actively. 

Bandicoots breed several times during the year. Females can give birth to as many as five babies, but usually only one or two survive. Their gestation period is only 11 days - the shortest of any marsupial. The young are born as tiny ‘pinkies’. They travel through a cord attached to their mother's womb to reach the pouch. Here they drink milk from the mother and grow until they are large enough to leave the pouch. At about three months they can begin to live independently.

Bandicoot pouches face backwards, to stop dirt entering the pouch when the mother digs.

We think bandic! oots are wondrous little creatures, going about their business at night - guzzling insects and their larvae and ridding us of venomous spiders. If you have one in your backyard, enjoy the benefits they bring and appreciate the fact that such a darling wild animal has chosen your garden as his/her sanctuary.

Basil will soon be on his way back to his original home where he will resume his job as chief insect-muncher :)

Good luck, little man!

By Lynleigh Greig

Southern Cross Wildlife Care

Bushcare Dates - July 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.

Sun July 13 

Bangalley Head 9-12pm 
Catherine Park 10-12:30pm 
Bilarong Reserve Field Day 9-12pm

Thu July 17 
Mona Vale Dunes 8:30-11:30am

Sat July 19 
Toongari Res 8-11am 
Old Wharf Res 8-11am 
Nth Palm Beach 9-12pm 
Pathilda Res 9-12pm 
Irrawong Res 1-4pm

Sun July 20 
Angophora Res 8:30-11:30am 
Crescent Res 9-12pm 
Elanora Road 9-12pm

Sat July 26 
Pindari Res 8-11am 
Nth Newport Beach 8:30-11:30am 
Careel Creek 8:30-11:30am 
Kywong Res 8:30-11:30am 
Native Plant Giveaway 
- Centro Warriewood
Sun July 27 
Bungan Beach 8-11am 
Winn Bay 9-12pm 
National Tree Day 
Planting Day at Lakeside Holiday Park 9-12pm

Plant a Tree for National Tree Day!

National Tree Day will be spread out across two fabulous days for Pittwater residents, beginning with a native plant giveaway – the best way to celebrate is by bringing a tree home with you!

Come along to Centro Warriewood (at the community room near Centre Management) on Saturday 26 July, 10am-2pm to pick up a free native plant.

Then, on Sunday 27 July, 9am-12pm you can take part in the biggest community tree planting and nature care event, at Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park, North Narrabeen.

It’s a great way for Pittwater residents to help out by planting and caring for native trees and shrubs – as well as improving the environment in which they live.

National Tree Day started in 1996 and since then more than 2.8 million people have planted 20 million seedlings.

Contact Council’s Bushcare Officer for further details: 99701367 orbushcare@pittwater.nsw.gov.au

For further information on bushcare and/or to confirm if your group is working please contact Pittwater Council's Bushcare Officer. Bushcare is a great way to help your local bushland and make new friends! Bushcare Officer: Helena Dewis 9970 1367

Pittwater Council's COOEE Newsletter July - 2014

 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 August 3rd 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, 1 Park Street, Mona Vale.

Click on logo above to visit their website.

Federal Government Media Releases this week:

NexGen Complete Knee Solution MIS stemmed tibial component (various sizes)

SNIPPET: Consumers and health professionals are advised that Zimmer, in consultation with the TGA, has issued a hazard alert regarding its NexGen Complete Knee Solution MIS total knee procedure stemmed tibial component (various sizes). Zimmer has written to surgeons who may have received or implanted NexGen Complete Knee Solution MIS total knee procedure stemmed tibial components, providing further information about the above issue.

$35 million to advance Type 1 juvenile diabetes research

SNIPPET: Minister for Education, Christopher Pyne MP and Minister for Health, Peter Dutton MP have today announced the Australian Government's approval of $35 million to advance research in the critical area of diabetes. This funding will allow the development of a national collaborative research network and research programme that will work towards finding a cure for Type 1 juvenile diabetes. This initiative will build Australia's capacity in Type 1 juvenile diabetes research and position our researchers for national and international collaboration, delivery, adoption and investment, Mr Pyne said.

$225 Million Next Stage of Great Western Highway Opens to Traffic

SNIPPET: NSW Minister for Roads and Freight. Minister Gay said the NSW Coalition's historic investments to fast track upgrades of the Great Western Highway would result in a four-lane divided road all the way from Emu Plains to Katoomba. For more information on the completed Woodford to Hazelbrook section of the Great Western Highway upgrade visit: www.rms.nsw.gov.au.

Senator Ryan welcomes Y20 youth employment focus 

SNIPPET: Senator the Hon Scott Ryan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Education, has commended the Y20 Planning Group on their work to date and their focus on youth employment. I would like to thank the Y20 Planning Group on its work coordinating the Y20 Summit to this point, Senator Ryan said. Through their thoughtful proposals to the G20 Sherpas, the Y20 Planning Group has shown that the Y20 Summit will be about enhancing opportunity for young people, Senator Ryan said.

NFSA launches online exhibition, featuring the world of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert // National Film and Sound Archive, Australia

SNIPPET: The National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA ) has launched its first online exhibition, Priscilla: 20 Years Young , to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Australian road movie The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. Showcasing a selection of the film's documents and artefacts preserved in the NFSA national audiovisual collection, the exhibition provides an insight into the world of Priscilla , and uncovers fascinating facts about its production. In this online exhibition, audiences will be able to:.

Indigenous service honoured : Department of Defence

SNIPPET: The contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have served their country was acknowledged at a ceremony at the Australian War Memorial today as part of NAIDOC Week. This year's theme provides an opportunity to reflect on the service of all Indigenous Australians, not only those that have served in the ADF and its forebear organisations, but those Indigenous members of the Australian Public Service who have also served as part of the wider Defence organisation, VADM Griggs said. I am enormously proud of being part of an ADF and a broader Defence team that is genuinely proud of the contributions that Indigenous Australians make and have made to our security.

Fallen Commando returns home : Department of Defence

SNIPPET: Lance Corporal Todd Chidgey was returned home to his family and comrades today at a solemn ceremony at Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base Richmond in Sydney. Lance Corporal Chidgey was held in high regard by his unit and his mates. Lance Corporal Todd Chidgey was loyal, diligent and committed to the service of his country, his mates and his family., Brigadier McDaniel said.

Australia's Heron mission in Afghanistan extended : Department of Defence

SNIPPET: The Royal Australian Air Force's Heron Remotely Piloted Aircraft mission in Afghanistan has been extended to the end of 2014 following a request from the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF). Operated from Kandahar Airfield in southern Afghanistan, Australia's three unarmed Heron Remotely Piloted Aircraft provide real-time situational awareness of the battlefield. Australia's Heron detachment has played an integral role in supporting the ISAF mission in Afghanistan and ISAF's request to Australia is testament to the capability's strong reputation.

A Chinese puzzle molecule - ANSTO

SNIPPET: Single-crystal neutron diffraction from our Laue diffractometer KOALA has again featured on the front cover of the prestigious chemistry journal Angewandte Chemie. 

Nation's Sheep CRC wins $15 million grant to develop further world leading farm practices

SNIPPET: Australia's sheep industry's drive to improve productivity through take up of cutting-edge technologies like genome sequencing, has been given a major boost with the Cooperative Research Centre for Sheep Industry Innovation embarking on a new five-year, industry-driven program. Sheep CRC Chief Executive Officer James Rowe said the CRC Program, with its industry-driven focus and medium-to-long term funding was achieving great things for the sheep industry. The 38organisations participating in the Sheep CRC highly value the CRC framework as it provides them with direct input into the research, avoids duplication, and producesthe outcomes their businesses require, Professor Rowe said.

Dream Shield tips for Aboriginal inventors, designers and business owners | IP Australia

SNIPPET: In recognition of NAIDOC Week we have updated the IP Australia Dream Shield booklet and video. Also featured in the Dream Shield video is Roopa Pemmaraju, a Melbourne based fashion designer and one of several official licensees. See the revised Dream Shield booklet and video on IP Australia's YouTube channel.

NCA to Investigate West Tuggeranong

SNIPPET: Senator for the Australian Capital Territory. Jamie Briggs MP, today asked the National Capital Authority (NCA) to investigate the potential for urban development of West Tuggeranong in Canberra. The NCA will also develop a business case to support any detailed investigations required to determine the potential for urban development in the West Murrumbidgee area.

Australian students score well in PISA financial literacy test but more to be done: ASIC

SNIPPET: Log in / Sign up. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has welcomed the results of the first international study of students' financial literacy but says there is more to be done to prepare young Australians for the challenges of financial decision-making beyond school. Some of the study findings relating to Australian students' performance include: 16% of Australian students performed at the top level of proficiency (level 5), compared with 10% of students across the OECD 10% of Australian students were low performers in financial literacy (level 1) Male and female students scored at the same level in financial literacy on average Some 11% of the variation in student performance in financial literacy is associated with socioeconomic status, about the same as the OECD average Students in metropolitan schools performed significantly better than students with similar socioeconomic status who attend schools in rural areas 82% of students have a bank account and 73% earn

Mildura lock and weir works start next week | Murray-Darling Basin Authority

SNIPPET: Holiday makers and the community around Mildura are reminded that Lock 11 is expected to close next Tuesday, 15 July and the Mildura weir pool will drop to very low levels the following week to allow for maintenance work at the weir. The Mildura weir pool will start to be drawn down in the week commencing 21 July and it is likely to remain low until mid-August while work is underway, Mr Dreverman said. The weir pool will be raised back to full supply level by mid-August and the lock reopened, once the weir is reinstated.

Greater safety risks for Indigenous kids (AIHW)

SNIPPET: AIHW Board AIHW senior staff Annual report Capability statement Collaboration Customer care charter FOI - freedom of information Indexed list of files Conferences & events Organisation chart Presentations Privacy of data Public consultation Strategic Directions 2011-2014 Tenders . Male health Mental health Mothers & babies National health priority areas Overweight & obesity Palliative care Population health Prisoner health Risk factors Rural health Safety & quality of health care Veterans' health Workforce Youth health & wellbeing Youth justice. Health Health prevention Indigenous Australians Injury.

Early drawings reveal their secrets under x-ray examination - ANSTO

SNIPPET: Some of Australia's earliest scientific drawings are finally giving up their secrets under the watchful eyes of Australian Synchrotron scientists and conservators from the State Library of New South Wales (SLNSW). 

National homelessness agreement on track

SNIPPET: Minister for Social Services Kevin Andrews has announced that only South Australia and Tasmania are yet to sign the 2014-15 National Partnership Agreement on Homelessness (NPAH) that provides up to $115 million in Federal funding for homelessness initiatives. The NPAH will ensure homelessness programs can continue for at least another year including many focused on women and children experiencing domestic and family violence, he said. This one-year extension of the NPAH will enable the Government to re-assess Commonwealth housing and homelessness policy with the object of doing things more efficiently.

HMAS Parramatta visits Port Villa : Department of Defence

SNIPPET: Royal Australian Navy frigate HMAS Parramatta has departed Port Vila, Vanuatu, after a successful visit to strengthen relationships and security cooperation with the Pacific Island nation. Parramatta is conducting a four week South West Pacific deployment, undertaking maritime surveillance patrols as part of Operation Solania. Royal Australian Navy vessels have taken part in this enduring Australian Defence Force operation since 2009, providing intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance support to the Pacific Islands Countries, CMDR Cannell said.

Likelihood of hospitalised injury rises with older age (AIHW)

SNIPPET: AIHW Board AIHW senior staff Annual report Capability statement Collaboration Customer care charter FOI - freedom of information Indexed list of files Conferences & events Organisation chart Presentations Privacy of data Public consultation Strategic Directions 2011-2014 Tenders . Male health Mental health Mothers & babies National health priority areas Overweight & obesity Palliative care Population health Prisoner health Risk factors Rural health Safety & quality of health care Veterans' health Workforce Youth health & wellbeing Youth justice. Health Health prevention Indigenous Australians Injury.

Radical overhaul to ban synthetic drugs

SNIPPET: Under new legislation to be introduced to Federal Parliament, all psychoactive substances such as synthetic drugs will be prohibited unless importers can prove they have a legitimate use. There's nothing synthetic about the damage these drugs cause. The new legislation will target psychoactive drugs marketed as 'legal' alternatives to illicit drugs like ecstasy, LSD or cannabis.

Adelaide Class Frigate maintenance contract signed

SNIPPET: Minister for Defence David Johnston today announced that Thales Australia Ltd has been awarded the Navy's Adelaide Class guided missile frigate's (FFG) Group Maintenance Contract. Senator Johnston said the contract will be for an initial period of four and half years with the potential for contract extensions to an anticipated value of $130 million. Senator Johnston said the design of the contract will provide both industry and Navy with greater certainty and stability in the repair and maintenance of the guided missile frigates.

International ships to join the Albany convoy

SNIPPET: PDF version (117 KB ) | Back to Media Releases & Speeches entry page. Michael Ronaldson today confirmed international ships from Japan and New Zealand will join Royal Australian Navy vessels in the Albany Convoy Commemorative Event in October. 'Five vessels from the Royal Australian Navy will lead the international ships to represent the departure of troops from Albany, 100 years since the first convoy left for the First World War,' Senator Ronaldson said.

$371,000 for youth arts projects - Ministry for the Arts

SNIPPET: Thursday 10 July 2014. Arts Minister Senator George Brandis has announced that five arts and cultural organisations which support and nurture talented young Australians have received funding to continue their great work. With funding of $60,000 youth opera company Pacific Opera will launch a pilot training program in 2015 that will equip young opera singers to pursue a professional opera career.

Anzac Centenary Arts and Culture Fund - Ministry for the Arts

SNIPPET: Thursday 10 July 2014. Applications are now open for the Australian Government's $2 million Anzac Centenary Arts and Culture Fund Public Grants Program. 'The Anzac Centenary Arts and Culture Fund Public Grants Program will enhance our understanding of the Anzac legacy by assisting artists in the development, production, presentation, exhibition or performance of arts and culture projects,' Senator Brandis said.

Unemployment rises Axe the tax

SNIPPET: Minister for Employment Senator Eric Abetz said an increase in the unemployment rate today demonstrates the need to abolish the carbon and mining taxes and progress the Government's Economic Action Strategy. Senator Abetz said getting rid of the carbon tax - gets rid of a $9 billion a year hit on the Australian economy it eases cost pressures on average by $550 a year for households. Getting rid of the tax is essential to rebooting the economy and promoting jobs growth, Senator Abetz said.

New exhibition showcases Enterprising Australians | Questacon - The National Science and Technology Centre

SNIPPET: A new exhibition launched today at the Questacon Technology Learning Centre showcases some of Australias finest innovations and inventions and the people behind them. The exhibition was conceptualised, designed, developed and constructed at the Questacon Technology Learning Centre and is designed to travel to other venues. Programs Shell Questacon Science Circus Q2U Travelling Exhibitions Hire Earth Quest Fascinating Science Imagination Factory Mathamazing Measure Island Our Water Perception Deception Science on the Move About Accessibility Annual Review Awards Contracts Customer Service Charter Environment Legal Freedom of Information Information Publication Scheme Media Centre Partners Questacon Technology Services Staff Management.

Front Page Issue  170 TEDxPittwater 2014(plus John Illingsworth's Great Video Presentation), New Short-Stay Unit For Mona Vale Hospital Opened, Ingleside and West Pittwater Rural Fire Services Mid-Winter Training, Winter Wattle Is Blooming

Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Awards of Excellence 2014

Reflections by George Repin: PLUMES AND PEARLSHELLS

Aquatics: Port Jackson Pleasure Fleets – 9 &  10: Small Fry, 16, 18 and 20 Footers and the Revolution of Luxurious Auxiliary Motor Yachts

C-130 - RAAF 50 Years Celebratory Hercules Doing Laps Over Pittwater - Family Day - for boys and girls of all ages!

Pictures: Bangalley Headland Self Guided Walk (School Holidays Activities that require no dollars)...and a few Incidentally(s) of the week

Profile of the Week: July 2014 - Community Groups and Clubs Woolly Wednesdays Community Knitting Group at Mona Vale Library provides a place to meet and share and learn all about knitting - FREE!

History: Avalon Beach Clubhouses: The Second and Third Clubhouses, built by community hands, funded by brilliant ideas Miss Peninsula and let's stop Stomping now - the amazing people who made renovations become realities and a few shark stories - men jumping on sharks, men chasing sharks back out to sea, men pulling sharks up on the beach and selling 'look at' peeks - all to keep a great and growing club just that - great and growing!

Artist of the Month:  July 2014 -  John Stephen Ayliffe - John has published three books prior to the icons: a celebration of Sydney's far northern beaches project. Blind Man's Bluff is the story of a blind man who took on the world, My Brother's Eyes : The True Story Of Surviving 16 Years In A Destructive Cult was co-written with his brother, David, and The Priest's Woman: And Other Real Life Stories. In March 2014 icons: a celebration of Sydney's far northern beaches by John Stephen Ayliffe with Terri Ayliffe was released through the support of Jonah's Restaurant, Whale Beach. 

With double page spreads of beautiful pictures intertwined with historical notes, this is a must for every Pittwater home and a great gift for visitors to ‘God’s Country’; Pittwater! Copies of the book are available to guests of Jonah’s, Whale Beach. We share a sample here this month.

 Invite to Meeting Sunday 20/7/14 4pm-6pm - People interested in Forming Co-op to lease Clubhouse for Arts/Cultural Centre & Teahouse & Art /Ceramic Workshops 

Avalon Beach Arts and Cultural Precinct Group‏

Lorrie Morgan PCA Inc., Linda Haigh Pittwater Artist Trail and I (Ros Marsh) recently met with Council to discuss the possibility for Community Leasing of Avalon Golf Clubhouse for an Arts/ Cultural Centre. Council is interested in our ideas but wants us to submit a tender & plan for usage. 

The space available on the upper level has disabled parking/toilets and easy access to the building. A wheelchair friendly pathway would need to be constructed to access the lower level which is suitable for workshops. 

The space entails a fully equipped commercial kitchen. A bar/foyer area which may be shared with the golfers.  A lounge and dining space for Exhibitions/meetings talks etc café/retail outlet for  Art/Craft.

The front & side of the building is subject to Heritage orders but the dining area is a recent addition and Council is open to proposals for an extension at the rear.

The lower level has a large cold store, a store room suitable for clay/equipment storage, a work space with large sinks etc & concrete floors which would be ideal for a glazing area or paint craft clean up. On the other side is a locker room with toilets and shower which could be converted to another art workroom. 

At the rear is a concrete slab with steel mesh enclosure & 3 phase power connected which would be ideal for ceramics workshop/kiln area. 

To the North of the Building is a grassed area which would be superb for an outdoor café-tearoom.

There is also a heritage listed enclosed Gazebo which is deteriorating but with the Assistance of a Heritage Architect could be restored for functional use.

The company who has the Management Lease for the Golf Course is very community minded and Council thinks they may be open to accommodating shared spaces around the building which would benefit the art and golf users.

There is potential for a community garden as long as the planting is not something that would seed onto the Golf Greens. 

Council will want some return on the building. As well as money  that may include the Group providing materials, professional consultants & trades & undertaking labour for  repairs & maintenance & /or improvements to of the building. 

The lease would have to be between Pittwater Council & a Legal entity-either a NFP Incorporated Association or Co-operative.

If we had 100 people willing to commit say $400 p.a & volunteer a number of days p.a set up to run the space I think it could be a viable option.

The first 12 months would give an opportunity to develop business plans and establish a café/garden, the exhibition space, sales outlet, the workshop areas & course programs that would need to be run on a commercially viable basis with paid staff but feeding back into a NFP and hopefully returning funds for further infrastructure development and  expansion of Arts/Cultural Programs.

We could also look at residency programs, sponsorship  & Grants available over this period. 

If you are interested in committing to the co-op or have ideas for how it could succeed please join us on Sunday 20/7/14 at the Avalon Recreation Centre from 4pm -6pm.

I have booked the large exhibition space on the ground floor in anticipation of having a large turn out!!!!

Hope to see you there.

Please RSVP to Ros Marsh ASAP before 17/7/14

Email: cockatoocastle@bigpond.com

 NAIDOC WEEK 2014: 6-13 JULY

NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee. Its origins can be traced to the emergence of Aboriginal groups in the 1920′s which sought to increase awareness in the wider community of the status and treatment of Indigenous Australians.

NAIDOC Week is held in the first full week of July. It is a time to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and an opportunity to recognise the contributions that Indigenous Australians make to our country and our society.

Sunday 13th July  - 'Oxford Falls Triangle Walk' 

Free Event: 10am -1pm. A walk were you will see Aboriginal carvings. So don’t forget your camera. Starting and ending at 27 Morgan Rd, Belrose. Booking details: Conny Harris 02 9451-3231 or  0432 643 295 

Monday 14th July - NAIDOC Information Night 

Theme: Serving Country: Centenary & Beyond. 

Free Event: 7.30pm – 9.30pm.  All welcome - this is a free night including light supper. Mona Vale Memorial Hall 1606 Pittwater Rd, Mona Vale

www.naidoc.org.au/

 Reduced WorkCover Premiums For Pittwater Businesses  - 4 July 2014

Member for Pittwater Rob Stokes today said local businesses are sharing the benefits of a welcome reduction in WorkCover premiums throughout NSW.  

Following reforms introduced by the NSW Liberal Government to help reverse the scheme's massive deficit, reductions in premiums averaging 18.76% have been passed on to Pittwater businesses over the past 12 months. 

Returning stability to the WorkCover scheme has also helped support jobs and enable faster payments for injured works and greater support for those suffering severe injuries. 

"The success and growth of local businesses is vital for our community," Rob Stokes said today. 

"Reforming the WorkCover scheme has helped reduce financial pressures and allowed more funds to be reinvested into job creation. 

"It was in nobody's interest to see premiums rising and the scheme falling deeper into debt. 

"Rescuing the WorkCover scheme has provided benefits for both employees and employers and enabled a safety net to remain in place for injured workers. 

"Local businesses need to be supported wherever possible and this successful reform has been a key part of the NSW Governments ongoing efforts," Rob Stokes said.

Avalon Beach - New SLSC from Bangalley Headland

AJG Pic - 4.7.2014

Winners Announced at 2014 Local Business Awards - 04 Jul 2014

Winners of the 2014 Northern Beaches Local Business Awards were announced at a gala presentation this week at Dee Why RSL.

Pittwater Deputy Mayor Kylie Ferguson said the awards evening showcased a broad range of outstanding businesses across the Northern Beaches, with winners selected across 32 categories ranging from fast food to fashion to professional services.

The Business of the Year was named as Peninsula Personnel Recruitment Services, Dee Why and the Business Person of the Year was awarded to Peter Ramshaw of Forestway Optometry.

There were five businesses in Pittwater that came out on top in their category including:

• Mona Vale Quality Butchers, Mona Vale

• What’s Cooking, Centro Warriewood

• Craig’s Manchester Outlet, Mona Vale

• Andrew Blake Real Estate, Avalon

• Corella Fine Foods, Warriewood.

Cr Ferguson said local businesses play an important role in building a strong local community and create vital employment opportunities along with a thriving local economy.

“I congratulate all the winners and also thank all members of the community that participated in the voting process,” she added.

For details of all award winners visitwww.thebusinessawards.com.au

Pittwater Plans to Deliver - 02 Jul 2014

Pittwater Council is set to deliver a wide range of services for the 2014-2018 period, following the adoption of its Delivery Program and Budget at the Extraordinary Meeting held on 30 June 2014.

Broadly speaking, the four-year plan aims to maintain and improve roads, footpaths, drainage, public buildings and other community facilities such as wharves and sportsfields.

Pittwater Council’s General Manager Mark Ferguson said the budget results for 2014-2015 reflected an operating surplus of $2,061,290 and a collective works budget on Council’s assets of $31 million.

Mr Ferguson said Pittwater’s unique landscape provides us with a broad diversity of assets and infrastructure to maintain and build.

“This is identified in the highlights of this year’s budget, which are listed below.” Mr Ferguson added.

$5.3 million for a road and bridge at Macpherson Street, Warriewood

Approximately $2.4 million for streetscape maintenance

$2.2 million on building improvements

Over $1.85 million for a comprehensive upgrade of Palm Beach wharf and upgrades to other public wharves

$1.7 million for drainage works

$1.1 million for bushland protection

Approximately $1 million for coastal and flood protection

$1.2 million for footpaths with a heightened emphasis on connectivity between village centres and public transport

Commercial Centre maintenance and improvements of $921,000 including Elanora Heights Shopping Centre

Reserve maintenance and improvements of $2.57 million including the new amenities at the Sector 8 playground in Warriewood.

Mayor, Jacqui Townsend acknowledged the significant contribution from the Pittwater community during the exhibition process of the Delivery Program.

“During the 28 day exhibition period we received 55 submissions, 19 of which were via Social Media.

“During the revision process Council were able to consider these submissions and make some relevant changes to the Draft Program, which were a direct result from community input and feedback.

You can view the adopted Delivery Program and Budget together with the Fees & Charges for the 2014-2015 period.

Pittwater Council and the RATS (Warringah Rugby Club) sign landmark deal - 03 Jul 2014

Pittwater Council and Warringah Rugby Club (the RATS) are pleased to announce details of a new licencing agreement for the management of Pittwater Rugby Park.

Pittwater Mayor Jacqui Townsend said as well as being great for all involved, this agreement is a model example of Council and local clubs working positively together.

“We are thrilled to have reached such a landmark agreement with Warringah Rugby Club; one that will significantly benefit Pittwater residents,” says Mayor Townsend.

Thanks to a successful collaboration, Council has agreed to provide Warringah Rugby Club more flexibility in the raising of funds for the club – this means the club will be able to sell their own food/drinks and collect parking and gate fees.

“It’s wonderful to see that by running match days, the club is raising funds as well as giving members and other community volunteers more opportunities to become involved,” Mayor Townsend said.

Club memberships have skyrocketed to well over 700 since the new arrangements came into place.

Warringah Rugby Club President Phil Parsons said the club is at the beginning of a new era.

“There is a great energy and sense of unification within the club at the moment – we’re one big happy team,” Mr Parsons said.

“Council has done a great job of looking after us in setting up the arrangement; they remained focused on what’s best for the community, every step of the way,” Mr Parsons added.

The new agreement also means the use of the main field is only authorised for nominated game days; allowing Council to hire the grounds out to the public when it’s not in use by Warringah Rugby Club.

$1 Million Grant Funds New Household Vegetation Bins - 03 Jul 2014

Pittwater Council has received grant funding of over $1 million from the NSW Environmental Trust for improvements to mainland household vegetation collection services, due to start in late 2014.

The grant will enable Council to deliver 240 litre lime green lidded vegetation bins to each mainland household for use with the vegetation collection services. One bin will be supplied to each single domestic dwelling. Multi-unit dwellings will be supplied bins depending on the space available and demand.

Mayor Jacqui Townsend said the grant will enable Pittwater Council to deliver a regular and reliable garden waste initiative that will significantly benefit the Pittwater community.

“The new system will provide home dwellers with a more regular and more streamlined garden waste service, suited to the needs of individuals.

“Each home will receive one bin free of charge and residents wanting a second bin will have the option to buy one or use an existing lime green lidded bin. Council also understands that some residents don’t want nor need a vegetation bin and will be able to opt out,” says Mayor Townsend.

“For mainland Pittwater households, the new collection service will bring about more frequent kerbside services – from eight times a year to a fortnightly service. The new bins will also significantly improve the amenity of Pittwater streetscapes.”

“It’s great for the people of Pittwater and the environment,” she said. “The new bigger bins mean residents are less likely to put garden waste in general garbage bins, reducing the likelihood of organic waste becoming landfill.”

New vegetation bins and the fortnightly kerbside service will be rolled out by late 2014 with exact start dates to be confirmed. Once underway, no bundles, crates or other containers of vegetation will be collected, only what is contained in the lime green lidded bins.

Residents who currently have the 240 litre vegetation bin with lime green lids may continue to use them. For those who are using other types of 240 litre wheelie bins will have the option to swap the lid free of charge. Up to two 240 litre vegetation bins are allowed per collection from each property.

General Manager Mark Ferguson said Council is collaborating closely with the Council’s waste contractor United Resource Management to manufacture new bins and design a new waste collection zoning system that best caters for the community.

An information pack and new waste calendar will be delivered to residents with the bin roll out.

The introduction of the bin only based service aligns with the NSW Environment Protection Authority’s (EPA) preferred resource recovery practices and proposed regional waste solutions.

Pittwater Council acknowledges that this Local Government Organics Collection Service Grant Program project was supported by the Environmental Trust as part of the NSW EPA’s Waste Less, Recycle More initiative, funded from the waste levy.

Only vegetation waste is allowed to be presented in the 240L lime green lidded bin. Council encourages the continued use of home compost bins and worm farms to reuse and recycle food organic waste.

The Pittwater LEP 2014 is in effect on 27 June 2014

The Pittwater LEP 2014 is the primary planning document guiding land use and development through zoning and planning standards. The Pittwater LEP 2014 replaces the Pittwater LEP 1993.Amendment 1 to the Pittwater LEP 2014 is also in effect on 27 June 2014. Amendment 1 applies to 120 and 122 Mona Vale and rezones 122 Mona Vale Road to an environmental protection zone.  

To view the Pittwater LEP 2014 (written instrument and maps), click on Documents and Maps link below.  

For the name of the new zone for your property, click on the Property Enquiry Tool. 

If you have any further questions, please call 9970 1111

See more at www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/yoursay/completed/lep

Dog Day by the Bay 2014

Dog Day by the Bay 2014  will be held at Rowland Reserve, Bayview on Sunday 21 September 2014 between 10am and 3pm. 

Highlights of the day include demonstrations and education sessions by dog expert and elite dog trainer Steve Austin. Steve will provide owners with tips on dealing with aggressive pets, behavioural problems, excessive barking and the importance of training. Steve will also bring his dogs on the day so you can see them in action and hear all about his exciting work training detection dogs around the world.

Pet Problems Solved with Dr Jo Righetti - Thunder...Lighting and even just being alone when we go off to work can make dogs suffer a range of serious anxiety problems. It can be VERY frightening for them! Dr Jo Righetti will be available to help solve your pet’s anxiety problems on the day. Dr Jo is an animal behaviourist with a background in zoology, a PhD in animal behaviour and 15 years business experience helping people and pets.

The popular MCs Brian and Kaye from Essential Pet will also keep us entertained throughout the day.

This year in kids’ corner we are excited to have Dr Crunch from Crocodile Encounters. Kids can touch and learn about reptiles and Dr Crunch can provide advice on what to do if your pet brings wildlife home.

Dog Day by the Bay runs from 10am to 3pm and other activities include agility demonstrations, education talks, children’s activities in the kids’ corner and lots of competitions to enter and win great prizes including the very popular Canine Fancy Dress Parade kicking off proceedings at 10am.

If you would like to lodge an on-line application form to attend as a stallholder please follow this link. Please note applications close Friday 22 August 2014.

If you are a food vendor please contact the education team on to 9970 1194 or email ECEducation_Team@pittwater.nsw.gov.au to discuss your application before submitting an application form

 Bundock & Curtis "BOAT" Christening - Published on Jul 3, 2014

"BOAT" christening on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea at La Grande Motte.

Northern Beaches Mums Market Update 

I would just like to do an update of our Easter Market and Fund Raiser held on Sunday, 6th April at Avalon Recreation Centre: 

Unfortunately we couldn’t have picked a worse day for the weather so is such a good job that our Markets are held indoors, otherwise it would have been a wash out and all of our efforts for  organising it and promoting the silent auction would have been wasted. So, we didn’t have as many people come through the door as we would have liked due to the weather (in all honesty if I wasn’t  organising it, then I’m sure I would have voted for a pj’s and movie day not wanting to venture out  the door!). But still we did have a busy influx of people in the morning then just a steady stream of  people dodging the downpours on and off as the day went on. The stall holders still did a good  trade, the sausage sizzlers kept on sizzling under a leaky gazebo until they were all gone, the Easter bunny and Dora the Explorer made guest appearances giving out chocolate eggs and all the kids had a great time being entertained by a fairy and getting their faces painted! 

A big focus of this market was raising funds for Ruby O’Brian (Rallying for Ruby) and we were worried with the bad weather that we wouldn’t raise as much money as we were hoping. We had set ourselves a target of $1500-$2000 with more being a bonus. Amazinglywe have raised over $6500!!This money will help with ongoing medical treatment for Ruby as well as allowing her parents to take the time off work so that they can be by their daughter’s side through this very difficult time for them all. 

A few weeks ago Ruby had an MRI to see if her treatment is being successful; the result day was going to be one of the hardest days of waiting for the O’Brian’s since Ruby was initially diagnosed with her aggressive malignant brain tumour back in December. Thankfully it was a day of tears of joy as the MRI showed that Ruby had no signs of tumour regrowth and no evidence of cancerous cells or tumours in her brain or spine. Although she is not cured and still has a long way to go, at least the torture that Ruby has gone through so far has been worthwhile and she will hopefully soon be a normal healthy toddler once again. Ruby and her family have now moved in with her grandparents whilst she undergoes 6 weeks of Radiotherapy treatment. They are really enjoying their time there, getting lots more fresh air and being a bit more like a ‘normal’ family after spending over 4 months in hospital. Ruby has had 4 rounds of chemotherapy with nasty side effects and numerous trips into ICU with extremely high heart rate and temperatures. There is still only a 20% survival rate with Ruby’s rare cancer, but so far she is in that 20%. She is a little fighter but please still keep praying for her. 

If you wish to make any donations to the ‘Rallying for Ruby’ fund please head over to:  www.gofundme.com/Ruby-OBrien 

If you would like to see updates of Ruby’s progress then please head over to her Facebook page:www.facebook.com/RallyingforRuby 

The Northern Beaches Mums Market will be holding another indoor market on Sunday 5th October and Sunday 7th  December, please head over to our Facebook page to get updates of the great local  stalls we will have and some really exciting kids entertainment that we have lined up to keep them entertained whilst you shop and support local mums in business:  www.facebook.com/NBMumsMarket 

Please email me with any enquiries: karen@karennewallphotography.com

Karen Newell - Northern Beaches Mums Markets

 Planning Approval Received for the Northern Beaches Hospital

Planning approval for the Northern Beaches Hospital concept proposal has been received, with work due to commence on 30 June 2014. 

Planning approval is a major milestone in the hospital project, which demonstrates the largest investment in health infrastructure on the Northern Beaches for decades. In addition to more complex health services, when the hospital opens in 2018 it will provide more public beds and operating theatres than are currently available in total at Manly and Mona Vale Hospitals.   

The conditions of approval for the first stage of works on the hospital site include: 

Finalising and implementing a biodiversity offset package that has been endorsed by the Office of Environment and Heritage

Retaining existing vegetation along the site’s eastern boundary

Providing a detailed construction management plan in close consultation with the Forest High School to limit any noise and traffic impacts.

Every effort will be made to ensure that disruption for site neighbours will be kept to a minimum.

Further updates will be made available as the project progresses. If you have questions about these works please emailnorthernbeaches.enquiries@hinfra.health.nsw.gov.au or telephone 9978 5410. See more HERE

 Start the journey back to good mental health by DVA Australia - Published on 3 Jul 2014

Are you an Australian veteran? DVA will pay for treatment from a GP, a psychologist, a psychiatrist and hospital if you need it. 

Start the journey back to good health.

Contact DVA on 133 254 to discuss your circumstances. 

In Pittwater Avalon Sub-Branch President spoke of the Veterans' Centre Sydney Northern Beaches (Facebook Page) in aninterview we ran last year. 

Currently the Veterans Centre Sydney Northern Beaches is based in the RSL Life Care Centre at Collaroy Plateau but are hoping to have an additional two offices in the new Community Care section at Mona Vale Hospital in the future. 

The aim of the centre is to improve Pension & Welfare services to Veterans, Past & Present Members of the ADF & Peace Keepers, and their Dependants. People are encouraged to participate, obtain assistance from the VCSNB and attend courses. 

Interested people should contact the VCSNB on 9979 1362. Commodore Graham Sloper (Rtd), president of the RSL District Council for the Northern Beaches, stated that the Northern Beaches Veterans’ Centre (NBVC) would operate independently of the RSL and other ex-service organisations.

Drainage Maintenance 

 Pittwater Ruby Union and League Junior Clubs in Fiji and New Zealand

Lads from Avalon Bulldogs and Newport Breakers Junior clubs are currently in Fiji with their dads while Avalon Bulldogs JRFLC U15 team are in New Zealand.

Newport Junior Rugby Union are active supporters of an orphanage in Fiji. Through the orphanage last year they created an affiliation with a remote mountain village school which has taken on two of the older boys from the orphanage. Angus James and the current U14 team Fiji tourists this year are building fences around the village school. Last year they installed water tanks and running water. Whilst there last year some of the boys met Lepani, he had problems with his knees and the tour committee provided funding to have his knees investigated. 

A couple of weeks ago Lepani was admitted to hospital with a serious knee infection. Fiji Kids who manages the two orphans NJRU have placed in the village school took action to have Lepani treated in hospital. It was a two week stay and he should be back in the village this week. The local orthopaedic assessment is that they do not have the capability to treat Lepani's knees in Fiji. 

The club have two orthopaedic specialists in Australia examining Lepani's medical history and x-rays, with a view to bringing him to Australia for urgent medical attention. Fiji Kids is coordinating this, but they have run dry of funds as they paid for all of Lepani's medical costs in Fiji. Angus and the U14 Fiji tour committee has donated $2,000 to Fiji Kids last week, which we are extremely grateful for. We are distributing this story within our Newport JRU family to seek assistance for Lepani to receive the assistance he needs. 

Donations can be made on the website linkwww.fijikids.org/donate.php and put Lepani as the description. 

Thanks - NJRU Committee

_____________________

Mums and dads of all these children at both clubs would like to pass on their thanks to all who bought wine, chocolates, attended dinners and other events so these young men could have an experience they shall never forget.

______________________

The Avalon Bulldog's JRFLC U15 team, which has been touring NZ this week, defeated the Northcote Tigers on July 1st and are also playing a match against the Ngongotaha Chiefs who brought The Haka To Hitchcock towards the end of last season. These boys were the Grand Final 2013 winners with a score of 16-0 last August and are ably supported by Gaven Sheehan, their coach. 

U15 - Avalon Bulldogs - AJG pic.

 Lifeguard Supervisor (Pittwater)

The ALS is currently seeking a self-motivated, well presented Lifeguard Supervisor with exceptional Surf Lifesaving and Lifeguarding knowledge to work during a 12 month period in the Pittwater area.

The ideal candidate will have a professional manner, strong organisational and administrative skills and the proven ability to work well under pressure.

The Australian Lifeguard Service (ALS) NSW is a subsidiary of Surf Lifesaving NSW (SLSNSW), providing professional Lifeguard services to Local Government Associations (LGA), private entities, sporting organisations and community groups. The Australian Lifeguard Service is the largest provider of professional lifeguards in Australia.

Primary responsibilities

Recruit, motivate and manage lifeguard staff;

Ensure a strong relationship with our local stakeholders;

Deliver on the outcomes of the service contract;

Ensure a strong, positive image within the local community.

Essential skills required

Pass the ALS fitness and emergency care requirements at any given time;

Experience and technical knowledge of Lifeguarding or similar public safety roles;

Developed interpersonal skills to work with a range of internal and external stakeholders;

People management skills;

Relevant Awards and an understanding of Surf Life Saving procedures, practices and policies;

Competent data entry skills;

Reporting to the Southern NSW Lifeguard Coordinator, your excellent communication skills will assist you in working closely with lifeguards, local government, land managers and local surf lifesaving clubs. Previous experience working in a leadership role is an advantage.

Location: Pittwater location - Sydney

Position: 12 month contract position

Closing date for applications: 11th July 2014

How to apply:

Explore our website; Send through a current copy of your resume and cover letter (no more than 3 pages). Review the position description and include a written response to the selection criteria including responses to each point (no more than 3 pages)

For further information on this role please contact Brent Manieri on (02) 9471 8029. Applications should be sent toinfo@australianlifeguards.com.au. Successful candidates will be contacted for interviews following the closing date.

See: www.surflifesaving.com.au/get-involved/work-for-us/lifeguard-supervisor-pittwater

 Freshwater Beach Southern Right Whale by Saltmotion / Joel Coleman - Published on Jun 29, 2014

Swimming with a Southern Right Whale at Freshwater Beach in Sydney.  Video by Joel Coleman: www.saltmotion.com 

Art Competition Opens to Celebrate Return of Imag_ne 

Pittwater’s popular IMAG_NE sculpture has returned as a permanent fixture outside Mona Vale Library on Thursday 19 June 2014. 

Council’s Place Manager Melinda Hewitt said Emma Anna’s sculpture was intended to be a temporary initiative but due to its popularity, Council decided to commission it as a permanent piece.

Ms Hewitt said the sculpture was installed as part of the Pittwater Enliven program which seeks to improve the vibrancy of local streets and public spaces.

“IMAG_NE is composed of large wordplay letters that spell out the word ‘imagine’, although the second ‘I’ is missing. This absence operates as a blank canvass, inviting the audience to physically engage with the work in order to complete the word,” said Ms Hewitt.

To celebrate the return of the sculpture to Pittwater, local school students are being invited to be part of an ‘Imagine’ art competition.

Students should submit artworks that respond to the theme of ‘imagine’, with prizes awarded across three categories:

• Individual (Primary)

• Individual (Secondary)

• Group/School

Each of the winning categories will receive a $100 book voucher at Berkelouw books.

Participants need to submit their work electronically by 18 July 2014, with digital records of drawings, paintings and sculptures encouraged, along with photographs and digital illustrations.

A selection panel will create a shortlist of works which will be printed and exhibited at Mona Vale Library from 11 to 24 August.

For more details on the art competition visitwww.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/enliven/whatson or call Zoe Johnson on 9970 1171 or email zoe_johnson@pittwater.nsw.gov.au

 Have Your Say on the Herring Road Urban Activation Precinct 

Your Say on the Herring Road Urban Activation Precinct

Description: The Herring Road Urban Activation Precinct proposal will deliver much needed new housing and jobs near good public transport links at Macquarie Park, in Sydney's north-west. It will transform Herring Road into a vibrant area, with a mix of residential, retail, commercial, educational and community buildings. This video shows potential development by 2031.

Visit www.planning.nsw.gov.au/herringroad for more about the precinct.

Zonta Trivia Night Saturday 19 July 2014

“Sleuths and Spies”

Zonta Club of Northern Beaches Inc are holding their annual fundraising Trivia evening in the Mona Vale Memorial Hall on Saturday 19 July 2014 at 7pm.  Members of the local community are invited. The theme of the evening is “Sleuths and Spies” with some of the questions reflecting this theme.  Guests are invited to dress with the theme in mind, decorate their table or just come along and enjoy the fun!

 All funds raised will support local and international projects of the Zonta Club of Northern Beaches.  The Club supports local women and girls in need through education support as well as specific needs support to women at local high schools, the Women’s Refuge and the Manly Women’s Shelter.  International projects include assembly of simple birthing kits for distribution in developing countries, and support to two schools in South Africa and Kenya.  The making of breast care cushions and their and distribution  to local hospitals is also a major activity.  These projects can only continue with effective fundraising events.

The volunteer Quiz Master team on the evening has been assisting on these evenings for several years and runs similar events across Sydney for various organisations.  They are always relaxed evenings of great fun with interesting prizes.  Everyone is very welcome. Cost is $15 per person.  Bookings are required with payment at the door.

To make a booking contact Chris on 0449 703 318 or email zontanb@gmail.com  Book for yourself, your friends, or a whole table of 10! All the details will be sent to you

 Pittwater Offshore Newsletter Update 1/7/2014: click on Logo. 

To contact Julian:  editor@scotlandisland.org.au

 Drink walkers do it because their friends think it's OK

July 1, 2014 – Friends may be the key to stopping their mates drink walking, a risky behaviour that kills on average two Australians every week, a new study has found.

Researcher Dr Ioni Lewis, from QUT's Centre for Accident Research & Road Safety -- Queensland (CARRS-Q), said in a survey of young people aged 17 to 25, friends were the strongest influence on their intentions to drink walk.

"Drink walking, or walking while intoxicated in a public place, is linked to increased risk of injury and fatality," Dr Lewis said.

In a survey, published in Transportation Research, more than 50 per cent of participants said they had walked while intoxicated in the previous six months together with evidence that some young people intended to drink walk in the future.

"The study found that the risks associated with drink walking were seen to be less dangerous than drink driving, however, research shows that in Australia on average 100 alcohol-affected pedestrians are killed each year," Dr Lewis said.

"That equates to more than 5 per cent of all road crash fatalities."

Dr Lewis said the study looked at friends, parents and peers and found friends could significantly influence a young person's decision to drink walk.

"Drink walking may occur, for instance, when young people start drinking at home before heading out to pubs or clubs, or when they're walking between licensed venues," she said.

"We now know that when young people who perceive their friends approve of drink walking and believe their friends engage in drink walking, that these young people are more likely to drink walk in the next six months."

She said the study also identified young males as being most at risk, because they considered drink walking to be a low-risk activity.

"If we can turn around the perception of young people that drink walking is not a low-risk activity and it is dangerous, then we may be able to reduce the injuries and fatalities."

Dr Lewis said the next step, which was currently under way in another study, was to design and test safety messages aimed at discouraging drink walking among young people.

The study is looking for 18-25 year olds willing to provide their responses to some anti-drink walking advertising concepts via an online survey.

Survey: http://survey.qut.edu.au/f/180604/3f20/

Billy Gannon, Lisa Rosta, Maria Reeve, Melissa K. Hyde, Ioni Lewis. Does it matter whether friends, parents, or peers drink walk? Identifying which normative influences predict young pedestrian’s decisions to walk while intoxicated.Transportation Research Part F: Traffic Psychology and Behaviour, 2014; 22: 12 DOI: 10.1016/j.trf.2013.10.007

 Anzac Centenary Arts and Culture Fund Public Grants Program 

Senator the Hon George Brandis QC, Minister for the Arts and Senator the Hon Michael Ronaldson, Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Centenary of ANZAC - 3 July 2014

Applications are now open for the Australian Government's $2 million Anzac Centenary Arts and Culture Fund Public Grants Program.

The Minister for the Arts, Senator the Hon George Brandis QC and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Centenary of ANZAC, Senator the Hon Michael Ronaldson said that the creative projects funded through this program will commemorate the Centenary of the First World War and the service and sacrifice of Australians in all war efforts.

"The Anzac Centenary Arts and Culture Fund Public Grants Program will enhance our understanding of the Anzac legacy by assisting artists in the development, production, presentation, exhibition or performance of arts and culture projects," Senator Brandis said.

"Communities, individuals, organisations and artists from across the nation have an opportunity to create high quality arts and cultural activities that will form part of the most significant period of commemoration in our nation's history.

"Throughout history, it is the artist with their unique vision and interpretation of the human condition who has captured the spirit and substance of momentous events and daily ritual which, in turn, help inform our thinking and understanding of the past.

"I'm sure that the observations and reflections of Australian artists, about such a significant time in our nation's history, will create a memorable and enduring legacy for the benefit of all Australians."

Senator Ronaldson said the grants will enable the use of creativity by Australian communities, cultural institutions and individuals to explore the Anzac Centenary in a range of ways. Grants of up to $100,000 for national, state and territory cultural institutions and $50,000 for artists, organisations and community groups are available for a wide range of arts and culture projects.

"Artists are encouraged to explore any aspect of Australia's military history including Australian involvement in any war or through peacekeeping efforts," Senator Ronaldson said.

"The Centenary of Anzac will mark a Century of Service, encompassing all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations in which Australians have been involved. It will be the most significant period of commemoration in our nation's history and the Abbott Government is committed to providing opportunities for all Australians to participate"

Applicants are encouraged to read the guidelines atwww.arts.gov.au/anzac before applying.

Applications close at 5.00pm AEST on Wednesday 10 September 2014.

 Plastic Free July - it's as easy as this!

 New approach to help job seekers do the right thing- Sunday 29 June 2014, Media Release

The Hon Luke Hartsuyker MP, Assistant Minister for Employment

New rules to ensure job seekers are doing all they can to find a job were announced today by the Assistant Minister for Employment Luke Hartsuyker.

The changes will ensure more job seekers attend their appointments with their employment services provider so they receive the support they need to find and keep a job.

"The Australian Government wants to see more job seekers in work, rather than drifting into a life of welfare dependency. It is important job seekers are actively working with their employment services provider to achieve this goal,”  Mr Hartsuyker said.

"Job seekers are currently required to attend regular appointments with providers to discuss their progress in finding a job.

"Unfortunately, too many job seekers are failing to meet this requirement. More than 1.2 million appointments were missed in the March quarter of 2014 alone. In over 60 per cent of cases, the provider concluded the job seeker did not have a valid reason for not showing up.

"These figures show that some job seekers are not taking their responsibilities seriously and are abusing the system. This wastes taxpayers’ money and creates more red tape and administration for employment services providers.

"The Australian Government believes that where a job seeker fails to attend an appointment with their provider, without giving prior notice of a valid reason, the job seeker must demonstrate they are genuine in their efforts to look for work in order to continue to receive income support.

"The new rules, which will be phased in over the next six months, will ensure job seekers are actively prompted and supported to re-engage quickly. The changes will minimise the risk of future episodes of non-compliance and financial penalties.”

From 1 July 2014, new streamlined reporting arrangements for providers to the Department of Human Services will ensure that job seekers who fail to attend an appointment will be re-connected with their employment services providers more efficiently.

From 15 September 2014, employment services providers will be able to arrange re-connection appointments directly with job seekers.

From 1 January 2015, if a job seeker does not attend an appointment (without giving prior notice of a valid reason) their income support payment can remain suspended until they actually attend an appointment with their employment services provider.

These new rules will deliver stronger incentives for job seekers to either meet with their employment services providers or give prior notice of their inability to attend an appointment.

Changes are also being introduced to tighten the reasonable excuse rules, to ensure that job seekers are more accountable for meeting their participation requirements.

An excuse will be accepted as reasonable only when the circumstances in question were outside of the job seeker’s control (or exceptional and unforeseen), and directly prevent a person from meeting their requirements.

These changes will ensure that job seekers are doing the right thing and maximise their chances of finding and keeping a job. This will also result in a substantial reduction in red tape and double handling by employment services providers and the Department of Human Services.

FUND RAISING STALLS FOR MONA VALE HOSPITAL AUXILIARY FOR THE FIRST HALF OF 2014 

July 12th: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen, 8am to 4pm

July 18th: Stall, Mona Vale hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft, books

August 2nd: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft

August 2nd: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen, 8am to 4pmAugust 15th:  Stall, Mona Vale hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft, books

September 5th: Stall, ANZ Bank, Avalon Parade,Avalon, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft

September 6th: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft

September 13th: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen, 8am to 4pm                       

September 19th: Stall, Mona Vale hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft

October 4th: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing, craft

October 11th: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen, 8am to 4pm                       

October 17th: Stall, Mona Vale hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft

November 1st: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft

November 8th: Sausage sizzle, Bunnings Narrabeen, 8am to 4pm                       

November 21st: Stall, Mona Vale hospital foyer, 9am to 3pm: Baking, knitting, sewing, craft

December 6th: Stall, Pittwater Place, 9am to 3pm: Knitting, sewing and craft

Mona Vale Library Calling for WW1 Photos and Memorabilia for Exhibition

If you have a collection of WW1 photographs and/or memorabilia, then Mona Vale Library would love to hear from you!

The library is putting together a special exhibition, due to be opened in September, to commemorate 100 years since the start of the First World War during History Week. 

Library staff are looking for any photos or memorabilia from those years that relate to Pittwater residents and the Pittwater area.

Library Manager Cathy Howie said there’s no need to hand over your precious items for good – the staff will simply borrow them (and take great care of your historical items) or copy and return them to you.

So perhaps it’s time to see what historical treasures are tucked away at home – or perhaps people can ask parents and grandparents if they have photos that can be shared with others.

For more information call Sharelle Ravenscroft on 9970 1600.

 First stage of Central Coast Highway Bridge at West Gosford completed - 1 July 2014

Minister for Roads and Freight Duncan Gay was joined by Minister for the Central Coast Rob Stokes and Member for Gosford Chris Holstein today to inspect the first completed stage of the new bridge over Grieve Close at West Gosford on the Central Coast Highway.

Minister Gay said the completed work was part of the NSW Government’s $170 million Central Coast Highway intersection upgrade.

“More than 55,000 vehicles a day travel along the Central Coast Highway at West Gosford and the bridge is being built in three stages so the road can remain open causing minimal impact to motorists,” Minister Gay said.

“When completed, the new bridge will be about 23.5 metres long, 30 metres wide and include 14 precast and pretensioned concrete ‘Super T’ girders each weighing 33 tonnes.

Rob Stokes said motorists got the first look at the new bridge when westbound traffic was moved onto the completed section.

”Now that traffic has been diverted onto the new section of the bridge, work has now started on the second stage,” Rob Stokes said.

“The bridge is expected to be finished in late 2014, weather permitting.”

Mr Holstein said the Central Coast Highway intersection upgrade at West Gosford involved widening and realigning Brisbane Water Drive and Manns Road to form a single intersection with traffic lights.

“The upgrade is expected to improve traffic flow, travel times and safety for all road users while better catering for future traffic growth,” Mr Holstein said.”

“The $170 million upgrade is part of the NSW Government’s commitment to deliver safe, efficient and high quality services and infrastructure to the community and businesses of the Central Coast,” Minister Gay said

“Major work started in November 2013 and is expected to be completed in late 2016, weather permitting.”

 Awards to celebrate our brilliant local business women  

The Minister for Small Business, the Hon Bruce Billson, and the Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Women, Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash are encouraging the community to celebrate brilliant local businesswomen by nominating them for the 2014 Telstra Business Women’s Awards.

Minister Billson said the awards recognise the important role women play - from the small business sector through to the corporate world.

“Communities around Australia are filled with vibrant, hardworking and innovative women who have worked hard to build livelihoods, support communities and promote women in the workforce,” Minister Billson said.

“As the longest-running state/territory and national awards program for businesswomen, the Telstra Business Women’s Awards provide a great opportunity to showcase inspirational business women across the nation.

“Women operate almost a third of businesses in Australia across all industries and many do this while also raising children and running a household.

“We all have a role to play to ensure that Australia is economically strong, and our workforce is innovative, productive and above all, full of opportunities for all Australians.

“I encourage the community to get behind our local businesswomen by nominating them for the 2014 Telstra Business Women’s Awards,” Minister Billson said.

Minister Cash said the Awards recognise businesswomen whose passion, creativity, leadership and success make a positive impact on our community and subsequently inspire other women to reach their own goals.

“Twenty years ago the Telstra Business Women’s Awards encouraged women to break through the glass ceiling; today they play an important role in encouraging diversity in business in Australia,” Minister Cash said.

“Increasing women’s workforce participation doesn’t just improve gender equity - lifting the women’s workforce participation is critical to broader improvements in society as a whole - such as greater economic prosperity, health, and early childhood development.

“Harnessing the economic potential of women should be a top priority and Australian businesses will benefit immensely from diversity within their organisations,” Minister Cash said.

Winners and finalists across Australia will share in a total prize pool of more than $650,000.

The Awards have three qualifying categories for business owners, employees in the private and corporate sector and employees in community and government agencies. Entrants can also be considered for two specialist categories for innovation and young business women.

Nominations can be made at telstrabusinesswomensawards.comor by calling 1800 817 536.

Entries close on 14 July and winners of the 2014 Telstra Victorian Business Women’s Awards will be named at a gala dinner on 21 October.